On Nov. 24–25, 2014, Equine Canada’s Chief Executive Officer, Eva Havaris led a productive, two-day national strategic workshop in partnership with P/TSO equestrian organization representatives. The group focused its discussions around clearly identifying challenges and opportunities to building a stronger Canadian equestrian community and defining a collaborative approach to delivering meaningful member programs and services.

“These were excellent two days – valuable and inspiring,” said Richard Mongeau, Executive Director of the Federation equestre du Quebec. “This workshop has created a context by which the PTSO and NSO partners will undoubtedly work collaboratively and successfully together.”

Several important topics were on the agenda including membership, technical development programming and current gaps, equestrian participation, the Canadian Interprovincial Equestrian Championships and competition participation initiatives, membership and marketing.

“I’m excited about the future of our partnership,” added Heather Myrer, Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Equestrian Federation. “The enthusiasm amongst this group of colleagues is infectious. We feel energised and are ready to move forward collectively to get the job done.”

“I am glad I was able to come, and I did think we were being heard,” said Geri Sweet, President of the Manitoba Horse Council. “It was positive and I think forward looking. As one of the old timers, it was good to see some new directions being suggested, and the acknowledgement that sometimes mistakes are made and we need to close the door on them and move forward. I still believe in this organization… warts and all.”