The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is renowned globally for its black Hanoverians bred for the iconic Musical Ride, but not every foal meets the criteria. Horse enthusiasts now have a chance to own a piece of Canadian heritage as the RCMP stables initiate their sixth annual horse auction through the Procurement Canada website.
At the auction, sixteen horses are available for bidding, starting at $5,000. Additionally, over 70 doses of horse semen for artificial insemination are up for auction. According to Sgt. Sarah Parent, an instructor with the Musical Ride, these horses are well-bred and personable.
Despite the end of mounted patrols, the RCMP has preserved its equestrian tradition through the Musical Ride, featuring mounted officers performing intricate cavalry drills to music. Since its inception in 1901 in Regina, the Musical Ride has become a significant part of Canadian culture.
Since 1960, the Musical Ride has been stationed in RCMP stables in Ottawa’s Rockcliffe Park, touring nationally and internationally. To provide horses suitable for the Ride, the RCMP has managed a breeding program since 1939, focusing on Hanoverians known for their calm demeanor, size, shape, and black coat.
Not all horses born at the RCMP breeding farm in Pakenham, Ont., meet the required standards for the Musical Ride. However, these horses excel in various equestrian disciplines. The RCMP highlighted the exceptional temperament, athleticism, and lineage of their Hanoverians in announcing the auction.
Among the horses available for sale are Vimy, a confident young filly, Bravo, a six-month-old stallion with remarkable movement, and Legal, an 11-year-old mare no longer fit for the Musical Ride due to previous surgeries. Despite not meeting Ride criteria, Legal is described as affectionate and intelligent, showing skill over fences.
The horses, including Legal, have received extensive training and are poised to excel in various equestrian activities. By owning an RCMP horse, individuals become part of a legacy dating back to 1876, as stated by the RCMP.
Bidding for the horses and frozen artificial insemination breeding doses will conclude on October 7 and 8. All proceeds from the auction will be reinvested into the RCMP’s horse breeding program.