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RCMP Musical Ride<br />
Tuesday, July 17<br />
Sicamous is welcoming one of the most Canadian of events this summer, the<br />
RCMP Musical Ride.<br />
The RCMP Musical Ride is performed by a full troop of 32 riders and their<br />
horses. Their performance consists of intricate figures and drills choreographed to<br />
music. These movements demand the utmost control, timing and coordination.<br />
The Musical Ride performs in up to 50 communities across Canada between the<br />
months of May and October. They help raise thousands of dollars for local<br />
charities and non-profit organizations.<br />
The Musical Ride provides the opportunity to experience the heritage and<br />
traditions of the RCMP. The riders act as ambassadors of goodwill who promote<br />
the RCMP’s image throughout Canada and all over the world.<br />
A world-famous show, the Musical Ride has played an important role in the<br />
RCMP since 1873. From its inception in 1873, the North-West Mounted Police<br />
(NWMP) relied on skilled riders to carry our police duties across the Prairies.<br />
Patrolling the vast and sparsely inhabited area, NWMP members were frequently<br />
the only government officials new settlers would encounter and were essential to<br />
preventing prairie fires.<br />
To break the monotony of endless riding drills, members of the Force commonly<br />
competed amongst themselves and performed tricks on horseback. In 1876, some<br />
of these tricks and exercises were performed at Fort McLeod, AB. This is believed<br />
to be the first public performance of what would eventually evolve into the<br />
Musical Ride.<br />
Come out and enjoy the tradition when the troop<br />
stops in Sicamous to perform Tuesday, July 17 on<br />
the football field at Eagle River Secondary School.<br />
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