The Canadian Cowgirls, who call Chatham-Kent home, perform all around North America.
And now they’re coming home.
On May 18, it will be a rare sight: the precision riding team showing off their skills to their neighbours, friends and family.
Terry Jenkins, owner of TJ Stables and lead for the Cowgirls, said it has been several years since the team put on a show before a hometown crowd.
“We did it a few years ago. It was a beautiful success,” she said, adding this year’s event is a fundraiser for the team. Admission is by donation.
“We’ve been riding together for 22 years. Some of our equipment is getting tired,” she said.
The Cowgirls updated much of their equipment and uniforms in 2013 when they rode in the Tournament of Roses Parade, Jenkins said. But that was a dozen years ago.
Jenkins said the Cowgirls have performed twice at the Calgary Stampede, at the Indy 500, the Kentucky Derby, before King Charles (then prince), and beyond.
“We’ve also been all over North America at various horse shows and events.”
Despite the widespread travel and high-profile venues, Jenkins said the team loves performing in small-town Canada whenever possible.
“Most of all, we love doing events in small communities where we can share our pride in Canada,” she said. “And we’ll be performing in a lot of communities in Ontario this year.”
That includes Thamesville. That community is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its Threshing Festival in June.
Two shows in Chatham-Kent in one year for the Cowgirls is special, Jenkins said.
“We rarely get the opportunity to perform in the Chatham area. To get the opportunity to perform here in our local communities, we’re very proud of that,” she said. “This year, we decided that it would be wonderful to invite our amazing sponsors and the public to come and see us ride. There’s lots of seating, or bring your lawn chairs.”
The May 18 show is all about red and white. And equine mastery.
“People can expect to see a patriotic opening and tribute to our flag,” Jenkins said. “The Canadian Cowgirls’ signature drill is called The Northern Lights. Closing the show will be a salute to all the provinces.”
On top of the performances, Jenkins said there will be activities for the children, even as part of the show.
Rider Kylee Nevills will showcase her trick-riding skills too.
As well, there will be a tribute to the Acceptional Riders therapeutic riding program.
“It will be inspirational,” she said.
The show starts at 2 p.m. at TJ Stables on Gregory Drive East, near Communication Road.
