The RCMP Musical Ride includes 32 horses. (submitted photo/Royal Canadian Mounted Police)

By Derek Cornet

community event

RCMP Musical Ride could come to La Ronge in June

Feb 27, 2020 | 3:11 PM

The RCMP Musical Ride could be coming to La Ronge this spring if local committee members can find enough support to bring the equestrian show to town.

La Ronge Community Planner Avyn Koyl and Coun. Glen Watchel, who appeared as a member of the La Ronge Elks, made a presentation to Air Ronge council Wednesday requesting $8,300 for the event. Council was told a committee to bring the show was formed not long ago and they also requested a representative from Air Ronge to sit on the board as well.

“This event will give a lasting, positive impact for the tri-community and we wish nobody would miss attending due to the cost of a ticket,” Koyl said. “Also, encouraging a large attendance shows the community’s support for the event.”

In her presentation, Koyl said former La Ronge Staff Sgt. Kyle Watson approached the RCMP Musical Ride about coming to La Ronge. The event would feature a performance by a full troop of 32 riders and their horses, which will do intricate figures and drills choreographed to music. If the show is brought to La Ronge, the tentative date scheduled is June 2.

But, committee members for the event could have trouble meeting their financial obligation as Air Ronge council believed the request asked of them was too much. They ultimately approved $2,000 with the likelihood of in-kind donations and Deputy-Mayor Julie Baschuk agreed to join the committee.

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“I’m in support, but where I kind of get caught in this is there are a lot of big community events that happen that promote safety and community mindness, but the municipalities as the tri aren’t solely funding those,” she said. “Where do you draw the line where we are going to help make this a reality, but we have to deny sponsorship for another community event?”

Council also expressed concerns about not charging for admission, the cost of some of the budgeted items and the fact the village was asked to contribute the same amount as La Ronge and the Lac La Ronge Indian Band. The show has yet to be discussed by La Ronge council and it’s unknown if the band will approve funding as well.

The Musical Ride performs in up to 50 communities across Canada between the months of May and October every year. It provides the opportunity to experience the heritage and traditions of the RCMP and riders act as ambassadors of goodwill who promote the RCMP’s image throughout Canada.

The local committee has until the end of March to confirm their support for the event. The committee estimates it will cost $25,000 to host it.

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno