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Once again the Alberta horse industry travelled to Red Deer to take in the annual Horse Breeders & Owners Conference. The exhibit hall hosted over 60 sponsors, a record for the event, and 660 people were on-site for the socializing, seminars and networking opportunities afforded by this annual, mid-winter, equine educational event.

Friday night was the very popular “Open Barn” welcome reception hosted by the Horse Industry Association of Alberta. The sponsors had their first opportunity to speak with delegates, and delegates had the chance to catch up with old friends, make some new ones, and explore what’s new and exciting in the horse industry.

Saturday was a big day with eleven sessions and as many different presenters. Andy Anderson’s straight forward approach to horse training was a huge hit and Mike Scott was again among the favourites. Jim Babcock’s approach to marketing appealed to the business men and women in the crowd, and a large number of delegates related to Katrina van den Bosch’s story on what has kept her involved with horses.

Saturday night saw the presentation of the Alberta horse industry’s 9th Distinguished Service Award and this year the recipient was Doug Milligan. The room was packed, and all were inspired by Doug’s lifetime of commitment to the horse industry and his very humble acceptance speech. In addition to the award presentation, the evening offered a host bar, dessert buffet, and live entertainment, all compliments of event sponsor Horse Racing Alberta.

Rumours have it that a number of conference delegates, sponsors, staff and speakers were seen later that night in Billy Bob’s, but these reports are unconfirmed.

Sunday morning got off to an energetic start with Peggy Brown’s presentation on Centered Riding/Driving techniques and how to have the best chance at being able to ride and drive when we’re 90. She drew the attention of conference go-ers before even starting her session when she marched down the corridor of the hotel wearing her bone suit and a riding helmet. And, she did not disappoint, giving one of the most popular presentations of the weekend.

The other five sessions of the morning were also well received with Dr. Robert Tremblay delivering a surprisingly humorous presentation on influenza and April Clay appealing to riders of all ages and disciplines with her session on sport psychology for equestrians.

Wrapping up the day with the ever-important Fred Pearce Memorial Session dedicated to the welfare of the horse, Carolyn Stull presented her research on body condition scoring and how to restore the health of horses that have been neglected.

So another conference in the history books. The Horse Industry Association of Alberta thanks all who attended, all who sponsored the event and the 24 presenters who brought their knowledge and experience to Red Deer, Alberta. In the words of one satisfied delegate, “Another stimulating and educational overdose! I soaked up every word and every minute of the conference.”

The Horse Breeders and Owners Conference is an annual event organized by the Horse Industry Association of Alberta and sponsored by generous equine organizations and businesses. For more information visit www.albertahorseindustry.ca

Photos can be viewed on the HIAA web site at http://www.albertahorseindustry.ca/photos/