by Jessie Gwynne
Over the weekend of August 12 and 13, 2006, the Cochrane Agricultural Arena hosted the 33rd annual All Breed Pony Show.
In past years, the show has been held at numerous locations across Alberta including Millarville, Thorsby, Okotoks, and Didsbury, but for the first time this year it was held in Cochrane.
Pat Clay, Sheila McLellan, and Dave and Grace Langford have organized, volunteered, and served on the judging committee since the show’s conception.
The Welsh Pony & Cob Society of Western Canada held the first ever All Breed Pony Show in Millarville in 1973. Since then, the hosting group has been The Welsh Pony & Cob Show of Alberta.
From that first show in 1973 the format has stayed the same, even with the changing of hosting groups. The show is based upon having a fun, family-oriented event for all to enjoy.
With this wonderful format continuing year after year it is no wonder that some of the exhibitors have shown with the All Breed Pony Show for numerous years with some families even showing fourth generation exhibitors.
Some of the trophies have even been named after the original members. For example, there is the Stewart Campbell Junior Welsh Champion trophy donated by Campbell’s granddaughter, Kathleen Alves of Kobur Welsh; the Stan Young Senior Welsh Champions trophy donated by Shelley Synder of Shell Crest Welsh; and the Bill Gow Supreme Show Champion trophy donated by Sheila McLellan of Kiltie Farm.
With all the generous support from long-time, loyal members, first time exhibitors, club volunteers, and numerous sponsors, the All Breed Pony Show will surely run for many more years to come.
