Wild Rose Competitions Offer More for 2024

*Updated July 10, 2024

The Alberta Equestrian Federation has made some significant updates to equestrian competition in Alberta. Wild Rose sanctioned horse shows will now offer more options for competitions, awards, and progression in the sport, along with enhanced priority on safety and horse welfare.

Changes include a provincial circuit pilot program for hunter/jumpers, increased rigor on safety protocols, coach certification requirements, and a provincial dressage awards program

Wild Rose Provincial Circuit

The provincial circuit pilot for hunter/jumpers will provide expanded opportunities while paying attention to affordability and accessibility. Tier 1 competitions will offer classes up to a height of 1.40 metres and prize money of up to $50,000. Tier 2 competitions will cap their prize money at $175,000.

Created in partnership with Jump Alberta, provincial circuits will culminate with year-end awards to celebrate top performers for achievements throughout the season. The previous five dollar Jump Alberta levy will now be replaced by an AEF levy of the same amount, which will go towards year-end awards as well as competition safety and welfare programs.

Safety and Horse Welfare

Several enhanced safety protocols will be implemented in the Wild Rose updates, including the mandatory presence of paramedics at provincial circuit competitions and individuals trained in first aid at all other Wild Rose sanctioned events. The requirement of Emergency Action Plans, Return to Sport guidelines, Biosecurity Protocols, and Equine Medication Control will also be compulsory to ensure the well-being of all participants, human and equine.

Coaching Certification Requirements

Starting January 1, 2025, coaches at Wild Rose Provincial Circuit competitions will be required to obtain certification to meet increased standards of safety and accountability. Coaches must have either an NCCP Certification or EC Coach License status and will be issued an AEF Coaching ID Badge to be displayed while on competition grounds. Temporary Coaching ID Badges will also be available for purchase on the AEF website and will be valid for the duration of one competition.

Coaches who participate in any Wild Rose sanctioned competitions other than provincial circuit will not require certification or license status.

Wild Rose Provincial Dressage Awards

This year AEF has introduced the Wild Rose Provincial Dressage Awards to recognize top performers in dressage tests at Wild Rose sanctioned events. Those interested can sign up online and enter their scores for each test throughout the show season. Categories cover dressage levels, para dressage, and western dressage as well as junior, amateur, and open status competition.

For more information on Wild Rose sanctioned competition and rules, visit the Wild Rose Organizing a Competitionwebpage, or contact competitions@albertaequestrian.com.