Photos by: Emilie Dee
On the sunny evening of August 1st, enthusiastic crowds filled the stands at the Mohawk, along the railings and everywhere that it was possible to have a view of the racetrack. Hundreds of spectators had come from Milton and beyond, far and wide, to experience ‘the world renowned RCMP troop of 32 Mounties and their horses perform at Mohawk Racetrack in celebration of Canada’s 150th.’ (Quoting from the press release from Woodbine Entertainment) ‘The Musical Ride was developed in 1876 by early members of the North-West Mounted Police to display their riding abilities and entertain local communities…The show provides the public with an opportunity to experience the heritage and traditions of the RCMP and raise funds for local charities across Canada.’
Before the RCMP Ride, doors opened at 5:00pm and the eager crowds had time to find their seats, have some food and meet their friends. All ages were there, some with cumbersome strollers, walkers, sticks and wheelchairs. All, latecomers too, eventually found the best places to be, where they tried not to block the view for the many in the stands behind them.
In the pre-show harness racing, bets were laid and won. Many of the spectators who seldom view horse races were fascinated by the experience and needed help figuring out the result boards. In one of the final races before the Ride, the crowd exuberantly cheered on #1 but though it valiantly did its best it finished a distant last.
Finally, the ‘Mounties’ appeared to tumultuous applause, led by three on horseback who made a dignified entrance and paraded along the track. Then the troop of 32 scarlet coated ‘Mounties’ on their beautiful black horses performed ‘a variety of figures and drills choreographed to music’.
At the beginning and ending of their Ride, the ‘Mounties’ marched past and saluted the guest of honour, popular Olympic Athlete Travis Gerrits who was born and raised in the Milton area.
In the news release, Travis said: “The Musical Ride is a moment of pride for me and for all of us as Canadians. The Ride allows us to celebrate what it is to be Canadian, and what better time than our 150th? I’m honoured to have the opportunity to take the salute and to be considered.”
The spectacle of the uniformed riders and their mounts was beautiful to see. The skill of the RCMP and the agility of their horses were breathtaking. The audience’s loud applause was constant and heart felt. All the formations were skilfully performed, including the impressive ‘Sabre Wave’ dating from 1868 which involved flourishing sabres so that they could defend themselves on all sides from attack, and the ‘Dome’ which was once featured on the Canadian $50 bill.
Proceeds from this event will go to support Destination Campbellville Association, a not for profit group.
For more information visit: www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/even/en/t/2/e and www.travisgerrits.com
