Bow Valley Equine Adaptive Team

Bandit brings wisdom, calm and quiet strength to our program. With his steady temperament and patient nature. He’s a trusted partner for riders and volunteers alike. Bandits years of experience make him perfect for the nervous rider or those just starting out. He may be one of our older herd members, but his presence continues to make a big impact every day.

Bo is an absolute gentleman! He takes special care of children. Now semi-retired, in his previous career Bo was a professionally trained cutting horse. Bo is a proud resident of Banff, Alberta.

Cowboy is a sensitive senior who recently gained his confidence. Cowboy takes his job very seriously. He loves nothing more than his daily snack and saying hello to children.

Sweet mare with a big heart and a gentle soul. Rescued from auction, she has found her forever home at Camp Chief Hector and in our program. She shines as a steady and reliable partner. Fern thrives best with a friend nearby, especially if they are black and white, her absolute favourites. Her strong bonds and sensitive nature make her extra attuned to her rider and surroundings. She has a beautiful smooth trot and a patient presence makes her a wonderful fit for both beginner and experienced riders.

Jericho is a retired ranch horse. He loves his new life! His least favourite things are cows. His new job is perfect because there are no cows. Jericho is a lively senior who loves trot around the arena.

Loki is a very relaxed horse. He has lived almost his entire life at Camp Chief Hector as a resident trickster. Loki has Cushings disease, we’re fortunate enough to fund his medications.

In his former career, Mackenzie was a trail and backcountry pack horse. He has now added Therapeutic riding to his resume! Mackenzie is a valued member of our crew.

Prairie is a sensitive boy. He is very cooperative. He’ll do whatever his rider requires in the arena or out on the trails.

A heart as big as a Rocky mountain. Originally found in a feedlot, he was given a second chance by a trainer who saw his potential. Under her, Robbie learned to jump and event, and gained experience in groundwork and performance. With his swell, rounded background and calm, willing personality, he’s now part of our therapeutic program helping participants gain confidence, connection and skills.

Fun Fact – his trainers work with horses for the CBC show Heartland! He’s got some star power in his background.

A gelding with a peaceful spirit and a heart of gold. Taiga is especially gentle with children and responds best to a gentle voice. His calm demeanor and smooth, steady movement make him a favourite for riders who need a little extra reassurance. Whether he is in the arena or on a quiet trail, he brings a sense of comfort and trust to everyone.

Kind-hearted, Wish lives up to his name! Steady, reliable, he puts the rider’s comfort first. He’s an incredibly comfortable ride, with a steady rocking walk, that puts everyone at ease. Wish is honest and expressive; he lets you know how he’s feeling. He always brings a calm and caring energy to every session.

With a broad range of knowledge, a warm and caring approach, and a smile that lights up every session, Tamara creates an environment where participants feel supported and inspired. She is a skilled instructor who teaches in a way that helps riders truly understand and remember what they’re learning.

We’re also excited to support Tamara as she continues her professional journey, preparing for her upcoming CanTRA exam when it’s next offered closer to home.

Paula has been a dedicated member of the BVEA board for nearly a decade, serving in various roles and currently as Chairperson. Her passion for therapeutic riding and horsemanship stems from personal experience—her daughter has participated in the program since the age of four. Witnessing the profound impact of equine-assisted activities inspired Paula to give back by volunteering.

With a background in program coordination, Paula previously worked as a school swim lesson programmer at SAIT, where she honed her organizational, people, and technology skills. Her leadership experience extends beyond the boardroom—she spent over a decade as a lifeguard and served as a Girl Guide leader for seven years.

Paula is excited to support the continued growth of BVEA, helping to expand programming and strengthen its volunteer base to benefit riders of all abilities!

Fun Facts:

• Does pineapple belong on pizza? YES!
• Cats or dogs? Hard to choose, but dog most days.
• When I was 5, I was pretty sure I’d be a farmer when I grew up.

president@bvea.ca

Reta’s connection to Bow Valley Equine Adaptive began when her daughter joined Rundle Riders at the age of four. The benefits of the program were evident almost immediately, inspiring Reta to get involved and support its mission.

A few years later, she joined the board as Secretary before transitioning into her current role as Treasurer. Reta remains dedicated to ensuring the program’s continued success, helping to provide riders with meaningful equine experiences.

Fun Facts:

• Pineapple should be a staple topping on ALL pizza!!
• I’m a dog person and somehow only have 1 dog but 3 cats! In all fairness, 1 cat truly thinks she is a dog.
• If I were a superhero, I’d be able to clean while sleeping!! When I was 5, I thought for sure I’d be a nurse when I grew up.
• If I were pasta, I’d be cannelloni because I’d have the biggest tummy to hold all the yummy foods!!

treasurer@bvea.ca

Nicole Barker joined the Bow Valley Equine Adaptive board in the spring of 2024. While not a Canmore resident, she enjoys the scenic drive from her home in Springbank, just outside of Calgary, to the camp.

Nicole has been working with children since she was 16, starting as a swimming instructor before becoming an elementary and preschool teacher. With her experience working with kids and her passion for helping others, she has greatly enjoyed her time on the board. She looks forward to volunteering with both participants and horses in the coming year.

Fun Facts:

• If I were a pasta noodle shape, I would be a bowtie shape, because they are fun to eat, and I like adventure and travel.
• My superpower would be flying, that way I could go anywhere in the world and explore.

Growing up with horses and having a background as a support worker, I have always been passionate about the positive impact of horses in fostering growth and healing. In 2020, this passion led me to begin volunteering with BVEA, where I am continually moved by the profound effects horses have on participants and the mutual transformation that occurs.

In 2023, I took on a more active role, joining the BVEA Board of Directors. As a board member, I am committed to supporting BVEA’s mission and helping guide the organization as it provides life-changing experiences for those involved.

Fun Facts: If I were a superhero, my superpower would be to heal anyone who is struggling physically, mentally and/or emotionally!