Alberta Celebrates 2024 Champions of the Horse Industry

Announcing the 2024 Annual Provincial Award Winners

The horse community in Alberta is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Annual Provincial Awards, which honour the hard work, dedication, and exceptional contributions of individuals within the equestrian industry. This year’s winners, selected from an impressive number of nominations submitted by peers, exemplify the spirit of excellence and community that defines Alberta’s equestrian landscape.

The 2024 award winners are:

• Vantage Point Equestrian: Outstanding Stable/Facility
• Kavalia, owned by Jeanine van der Sluijs and Angelique Vick: Outstanding Horse
• Suzanne Le Gars: Outstanding Instructor/Coach
• Scott Billing: Outstanding Equine Support Personnel
• Brenda Henrikson: Outstanding Volunteer
• Karla O’Brien: Sportsmanship Excellence
• Jacey Rhinehart: Above & Beyond Excellence

“These awards are a testament to the incredible calibre of individuals in our equestrian community,” said Sonia Dantu, Executive Director for the Alberta Equestrian Federation. “The fact that the winners were chosen by their peers adds a special touch, reflecting the deep sense of community involvement and support within Alberta’s horse industry.”

The award winners will be celebrated at the Stride With Us 2025Stride With Us awards banquet and gala, held on April 25 at the Red Deer Resort and Casino, coinciding with this year’s Horse Expo. The Annual Provincial Awards are presented in partnership with Acera Insurance, underscoring their commitment to the equestrian community.

Join us as we recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of these remarkable individuals who continue to inspire and elevate equestrian sport and culture in Alberta.

Vantage Point Equestrian, Outstanding Stable/Facility

Vantage Point Equestrian is a standout facility in Alberta, exemplifying excellence in equestrian care, education, and community. With meticulously maintained stables, spacious paddocks, and a well-designed riding arena, it provides a safe and welcoming environment for riders of all levels. The experienced trainers and dedicated staff offer personalized attention to horses and riders, fostering skill development and confidence in a supportive atmosphere. Beyond its top-tier facilities, Vantage Point emphasizes horse welfare, rider education, and community building, promoting camaraderie and teamwork among equestrians. This holistic approach makes Vantage Point Equestrian a deserving nominee for the Outstanding Stable/Facility Award.

Kavalia, owned by Jeanine van der Sluijs and Angelique Vick, Outstanding Horse

Kavalia has been a cornerstone of Alberta's vaulting community for over two decades, touching countless lives with his calm, steady nature and unmatched ability to inspire confidence in vaulters of all ages and skill levels. Purchased by the van der Sluijs family in 2004, this Trakehner/Oldenburg cross transitioned from an untrained horse to a competitive vaulting star, winning numerous provincial and national titles. From the smallest vaulters, for whom he walked gently, to advanced competitors, Kavalia’s adaptability and talent shone in every performance. His remarkable career included appearances at major events like the Calgary Stampede, as well as countless smaller community performances and clinics. Beyond competitions, he was the heart of the Meadow Creek Vaulting Club, introducing hundreds—if not thousands—of children to the sport. Even after overcoming a major colic surgery in 2011, Kavalia returned to top form, earning National Champion titles in 2013 and 2014. Officially retiring in 2024 at age 27, he now enjoys a well-deserved rest while continuing to inspire the next generation of vaulting horses. Kavalia’s legacy as a teacher, competitor, and cherished equine partner makes him an exemplary choice for the AEF Outstanding Horse Award.

Suzanne Le Gars, Outstanding Instructor/Coach

Suzanne Le Gars is an exceptional coach who goes above and beyond to support her students, embodying dedication, knowledge, and passion for equestrian sports. She invests countless hours ensuring her riders are prepared, confident, and supported, whether by providing extra lessons, trailering horses to shows, or offering the perfect balance of encouragement and tough love. Suzanne fosters a positive and growth-oriented environment, teaching not only riding skills but also life lessons in determination, resilience, and hard work. She prioritizes the safety and well-being of both horses and riders, emphasizing goal setting and continuous learning. Her advocacy for her students, combined with her own commitment to ongoing improvement, makes her a truly inspiring coach. Suzanne’s unwavering dedication and profound impact on her students make her a deserving candidate for the Outstanding Coach/Instructor Award.

Scott Billing, Outstanding Equine Support Personnel

Scott is one of the hardest-working and most dedicated individuals in the hunter/jumper community, wearing many hats to ensure shows run smoothly. From building and setting rings to optimizing footing for all competitors, he is among the first to arrive and the last to leave, tirelessly striving for perfection for athletes and spectators. He works closely with course designers, manages course changes, mentors younger ring crew with patience and care, and quickly resolves any issues that arise. Whether harrowing rings, filling water trucks, or offering words of encouragement to competitors, Scott is always on the move yet never too busy to stop for a friendly chat. His expertise, kindness, and unwavering commitment make him an invaluable figure at Alberta’s venues, ensuring the success of countless events.

Brenda Henrikson, Outstanding volunteer

Brenda played a pivotal role in organizing the 2024 Western Canadian Endurance Championships, marking the first championship since COVID and meeting the rigorous EC-sanctioned criteria. Beyond coordinating this major event, she also served as ride manager, managing an array of responsibilities such as securing qualified veterinarians, arranging accommodations, recruiting volunteers, organizing food, preparing the venue, setting up vet check lanes, providing horse water, and clearing and marking trails. Riders from across Western Canada participated in the seamlessly executed event. A long-standing volunteer in the endurance community, Brenda has contributed her expertise as a Chef d'équipe and competitor, offering invaluable support to riders. Her exceptional organizational skills, calm demeanor, and dedication to high standards make her an exemplary leader and volunteer. Brenda’s tireless efforts deserve recognition for making Alberta proud and elevating the sport of endurance.

Molly Hamilton, Outstanding Athlete/Rider

Molly Hamilton is an exceptional young rider whose dedication, resilience, and passion for equestrianism make her a standout candidate for the Outstanding Athlete/Rider Award. She consistently demonstrates ambition and determination, setting challenging goals and working tirelessly to achieve them while turning setbacks into opportunities for growth. Molly’s commitment to her team is unmatched, as she fosters an inclusive and supportive environment, encourages teammates of all ages, and leads by example with kindness and patience. Her devotion to her horses is equally inspiring, as she invests countless hours in their care, ensuring their well-being and building a profound bond with them. At competitions and in daily practice, Molly exemplifies sportsmanship, focus, and integrity, representing her team and the sport with pride. Her remarkable leadership and unwavering commitment make her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Karla O'Brien, Sportsmanship Excellence

Karla O’Brien exemplifies the true spirit of sportsmanship through her dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her horses, teammates, and the equestrian community. Known for her positive attitude and respect for others, Karla uplifts her peers, whether offering guidance to newcomers, cheering on competitors, or supporting her barn family in times of need. Her deep love for animals shines through in her exceptional care for her horses, always prioritizing their well-being. Karla’s dedication to fair play, humility in victory, and grace in defeat make her a role model for younger riders and a cherished member of the equestrian world. Her success in disciplines ranging from miniature horse driving to hunter-jumper competitions is a testament to her hard work and passion. Karla’s character, sportsmanship, and leadership make her a deserving candidate for the 2024 AEF Sportsmanship Excellence Award.

Jacey Rhinehart, Above and Beyond Excellence

Jacey Rhinehart is a dedicated and selfless individual whose exceptional volunteerism and contributions to the equestrian community make her a deserving candidate for the AEF Above and Beyond Excellence Award. As a preschool teacher, farrier, and mother of three, Jacey balances her responsibilities with an unwavering commitment to youth development and equine welfare. Her tireless efforts as a leader and coach for the Rusty Spurs 4H Club and the Calgary Stampede Showriders, where she also serves as a committee member, demonstrate her passion for fostering growth, teamwork, and community among young riders. Jacey’s positive attitude, professionalism, and ability to connect with people of all ages make her an inspiring mentor who enriches the lives of those around her. Her dedication to strengthening the equestrian community and her lasting impact exemplify the spirit of this award, making her an outstanding candidate for recognition.