The RCMP Musical Ride returns to Ottawa this Thursday, bringing four nights of free family-fun before heading out on a cross-country tour that will help raise money for local charities. The performances run from Thursday to Sunday at the Musical Ride Centre on Sandridge Road. Gates open early each evening, with the main show beginning at 7 p.m. Before the iconic Musical Ride takes centre stage, spectators can enjoy a lineup of pre-show entertainment, including the Governor General’s Foot Guards Band, the Capital Cowgirls and pipe bands. The Ottawa performances will also support the Ottawa Food Bank. Behind the precision formations and famous charge are months of preparation. RCMP Musical Ride Chief Instructor Sgt. Derek Quilley says training started in February. “There’s 16 horse and riders, about half of them are new and have never been on the musical ride before,” he says. “And in fact, for some they’ve only ridden horses for a few months.” Riders spend months learning the intricate formations, that see horses walk, trot and canter, and closely cross-crossing, riding knee to knee, all while holding a large lance. The horses play an equally important role. The hand-picked Hanoverians are selected for their athletic ability and temperament, traits that allow them to perform in large crowds, music and constant movement. “Our four-legged friend here, they’re the ones who help us achieve this journey,” Quilley says. Among this year’s troop are several first-generation Canadians, including Corporal Armit Gill, Constable Jack Tan and Constable Keelian Chocoisne. For Gill, a lead rider who is saddled-up with Victoria, a horse with royal ties, the last gift to Canada from Queen Elizabeth, being part of this unit is more than a performance. “It just means so much to represent Canada,” says Gill. “Touring across Canada, meeting everybody in small towns, big towns, and representing the South Asian community as well, as a first generation Canadian, it means a lot because I even get comments saying ‘hey, I could see myself up there because of you.’” Following the Ottawa performances, the Musical Ride will travel throughout Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia, raising money for local charities and community organizations along the way. Quilley says the horses often help break down barriers between police and the public. “People may have never spoken to a police officer before, or they’re nervous to speak to a police officer,” he says. “But when you have a horse there to pat to break the ice, it’s amazing what kind of conversations you can have with the public at all these stops.” The performances are free to attend. Free parking is available on-site, and visitors can also reach the venue using OC Transpo Route 7. The Musical Ride Centre is located at 1 Sandridge Road.
