The renowned RCMP Musical Ride will be returning to Cochrane this fall for two performances at the Cochrane and District Agricultural Society.
The Mounties and their black horses will be in Cochrane from Sept. 4 - 8, with shows slated for 1:30 p.m. Sept. 6 and 7. The event is hosted by the Cochrane Posse.
This year’s tour is another busy one for the police and their four-legged partners — they’ll be stopping in more than 40 communities nationwide. This is the third trip to Cochrane for the mounted troop, who graced the arena of the Ag Society in 2003 and 2010.
“It was a bit of a surprise to be selected as a host community this time around,” said Rob Cameron, chair of the organizing committee. “Usually, there is a seven-year wait between visits from the ride. This is a feather in Cochrane’s cap.”
Running for about 40 minutes, each performance features a troop of 32 riders and their steeds weaving intricately across the arena, executing cavalry drills and precise patterns — all choreographed to music. One of the highlights of the show is the ‘charge,’ when riders lower their lances and urge their horses into a gallop.
Gates will open at 11 a.m. on both performance days, said Cameron. Prior to the main event, a pre-show displaying a variety of local talent will keep spectators entertained.
In addition, the barns will be open to the public Sept. 4-7 from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m., giving Cochranites a chance for an up-close-and-personal glimpse at the horses, and the opportunity to chat with the Mounties.
Cameron said he is expecting each performance to draw a crowd of more than 1,500 to the Ag Society.
One hundred per cent of the profit will be distributed to local non-profit organizations. The 2010 RCMP Musical Ride helped the Posse raise roughly $20,000 for the community.
Tickets can be purchased at Tony’s Work and Western Wear, the Nan Boothby Memorial Library, M&M Meat Shop and Cochrane Home Treasures. Reserved seating can be purchased for $20, and general admission can be bought for $15 (adults) or $13 (seniors and youth). Kids under five years old get in for free.
For more details, contact [email protected].
