The East/West Chapter of the Alberta Carriage Driving Association held a Triple Drive Competition June 15–16 at the Vermilion Agricultural Society’s fairgrounds.
The competition takes its name from the three equine driving challenges comprising the event. First, carriage drivers and their horses complete a dressage pattern, following a series of prescribed gaits and figures to demonstrate the horse’s obedience, flexibility, and harmony with the driver, as well as the driver’s skill in guiding the horse through a sequence of precise movements.
Next, the horses and their drivers navigate through a timed course, maneuvering through a series of balls placed on top of cones spaced just inches wider than the carriage’s wheels. This event demonstrates the driver’s precision, control, and skill as well as the horse’s responsiveness and agility.
In the last challenge, a timed derby event, horses and their drivers must deftly maneuver through a series of obstacles, which may include gates, bridges, cones, barrels, quick turns, and other obstructions that require quick thinking and adaptability from both the driver and the horse.
There are different levels of competition suitable for all skill and experience levels of horse and driver.
The East/West Chapter is one of the driving chapters under the umbrella of the Alberta Carriage Driving Association (ACDA). They are a non-profit organization that services northeastern Alberta and northwestern Saskatchewan, hence the name East/West.
The Chapter was formed on March 20th, 1988 in Lloydminster and has always strived to provide a friendly, welcoming, and encouraging atmosphere for competitors and volunteers alike. Their focus is on safety, education, and fun for all no matter your level of experience. They welcome drivers of every age along with their equine partners of any breed, size, and experience. Bring your singles, pairs, four-in-hand, minis, roping-horse-turned-carriage-horse, or high-stepping show-driving steed and get involved in the fun! Those who do not own horses themselves are warmly welcomed as volunteers to see what it’s all about and enjoy some time outside. Upcoming events include their August 17 Trail Drive (or Ride) on the Iron Horse Trail, and their Driving Fun Days on September 14 and 15, which include two rounds of Triple Drive Competition as well as ring classes and games throughout the weekend.
To learn more about carriage driving, visit www.albertadriving-acda.ca
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