Performing for the hometown crowd made the Canadian Cowgirls even more proud to represent the flag.
The elite rodeo drill team held daily shows during the 2018 International Plowing Match in Pain Court. Since 2013, the team has been based right here in Chatham-Kent.
“It’s quite an honour for all our team members to be so close to home and show our pride in Chatham-Kent,” said Tania Duguay. Duguay has been a Cowgirl for the last five years, performing with her horse Cheeky.
The Canadian Cowgirls perform daring stunts and dangerous maneouvers, set to music, across North America at events like the Indianapolis 500 and the Tournament of Roses Parade.
“We show the patriotism of the flag,” said Cathy McKeever. “We show our Canadian unity and make everyone proud to be Canadian.” McKeever has been a Cowgirl for the last seven years, joining after battling back from cancer.
Some Cowgirls have been riding since they could walk, and some for less than ten years. The riders in the “stable” range from 14 years old to “grandma age.”
They’ve been commended for putting Chatham-Kent “on the map” by CK city council. Their performances at IPM 2018 had huge audiences and their trailer was packed between shows with children and adults alike wanting to meet each horse and rider.
There are no scheduled performance dates in the near future, but the team hopes to be heading to a showcase competition in Massachusetts this spring.
The Canadian Cowgirls were founded 16 years ago and travel across North America to perform. They’re based right here in Chatham-Kent. #ck #ckont #IPM2018 pic.twitter.com/ELj9rRhTgO
— Angelica Haggert (@AngelicaHaggert) September 19, 2018