Equine Canada (EC) was pleased to honour some of Canada’s best and brightest equestrians and supporters at the prestigious EC Annual Awards Gala at the Crowne Plaza Gatineau-Ottawa in Gatineau, QC, on Friday, March 27. Held in conjunction with the EC Annual Convention, March 25-29, the national awards gala celebrates outstanding achievements within the equestrian community.

“We’re delighted to be able to recognize this phenomenal group of individuals, organizations and horses,” said EC President, Al Patterson. “This year’s recipients are true ambassadors of the sport, both here at home and abroad. Congratulations to all of the 2014 winners and thank you for your service and dedication.” 

The following award recipients were recognized for their outstanding dedication, talent and enthusiasm in support of equestrianism in Canada. 

National Awards

• 2014 Volunteer of the Year: Dr. Mary Bell of Puslinch, Ontario
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Mary Anne Laframboise of Ottawa, Ontario
• Equestrian of the Year: Lauren Barwick of Aldergrove, BC
• Junior Equestrian of the Year: Natalie Alves of Mission, BC
• Canadian Breeder of the Year: Charlotte Schickendanz of Markham, Ontario
• Canadian Bred Horse of the Year: Intimidate, 2009 Standardbred gelding owned by Barrows and Determination Stable, Westmount, QC.
• Boehringer Ingleheim Equine Canada Health and Welfare Award: Galahad-Association Quebecoise de protection des chevaux

Photo: Intimidate, driven by Sylvain Filion, was named the Canadian Bred Horse of the Year for 2014. Photo Credit: New Image Media

For full information on the National Awards receipients, CLICK HERE  

Coaching Awards

• EC/NCCP Competitive Coach of the Year: Roberta Byng-Morris
• EC/NCCP Community Coach of the Year: Katelynn Marshall
• EC/NCCP Coach Developer Award for Program Delivery: Danielle Yaghijdan
• EC/NCCP Coach Developer Award for Program Development: Mary-Clare McLaren

Photo: Certified Competition Coach Specialist in Dressage, Roberta Byng-Morris, was named EC/NCCP Competitive Coach of the Year for 2014. Photo courtesy of Equine Canada

For full information on the Coaching Awards recipients, CLICK HERE

Breed Sport Awards

• Welsh Pony of the Year: Barkway Topaz
• Morgan Horse of the Year: HSH Smooth Operator
• Arabian Horse of the Year: Sur Teddy's Magna +++//
• Half Arabian Horse of the Year: Sweet and Saucy

Photo: 2001 Section B mare, Barkway Topaz, was named Welsh Pony of the Year for 2014. Photo courtesy of Equine Canada

For full information on the Breed Sport Award recipients, CLICK HERE

Main Photo: This is the second time Lauren Barwick has been named Equestrian of the Year, having first earned the distinction in 2004. Barwick was the only Canadian to medal at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy France in 2014. Photo Credit: Phillip MacCallum/©Canadian Paralympic Committee