RCMP Musical Ride: a community celebration with a charitable impact
By Alexandra Cotroneo
Human interest
The Ride performs in Metcalfe, Ontario on May 31, 2025.
Image by Patricia Vasylchuk, RCMP
September 18, 2025
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The RCMP Musical Ride performs throughout Canada every summer. It's a chance to showcase the amazing horses and riders in action, while emphasizing community spirit and Canadian pride. What many don't know, is that the tour also provides a valuable fundraising opportunity for the communities it visits.
On June 1, Shawville, Quebec, welcomed this Canadian tradition, drawing more than 2,000 people for an unforgettable day that raised more than $8,000 for the town. Organized in partnership with the Pontiac Agricultural Society, this marked the third time Shawville has hosted the world-renowned equestrian performance. Many of those who attended said the excitement was palpable from the start.
"When it was announced, the reaction from the community was absolutely incredible," says Mike Rusenstrom, a representative from the Pontiac Agricultural Society. "There was a real buzz around town; people were thrilled at the idea that the Musical Ride was returning."
A cause for horsing around
While the performance of the horse and riders on a grassy field won the hearts of spectators, it was the deeper purpose behind the day that left a lasting impact.
All proceeds raised went to the Pontiac Arena Fund, an initiative launched to support much-needed upgrades to the local grandstand and bleachers, which still contain original fittings from the 1960s. As well, many of the participating food vendors and local businesses onsite, generously donated a portion of their profits to the cause.
"This wasn't just about hosting a performance," says Rusenstrom. "It was about bringing the community together and giving back in a meaningful way." Dozens of members of the Agricultural Society and residents from across Shawville stepped up to make the day a success, making volunteers the backbone of the event. From coordinating parking to running concession stands, the level of local support demonstrated just how much the Musical Ride means to the community.
Rain or shine in Metcalfe
Just one day earlier, on May 31, the RCMP Musical Ride also visited Metcalfe, Ontario, marking the first visit since 2008. While the Ride has stopped in Metcalfe multiple times in the past, this return was long awaited and warmly welcomed.
"It was fabulous," said Cheryl Cooper, president of the Metcalfe Agricultural Society. "This was the first performance for a lot of the new horses and riders, which made it even more special."
Despite rainy weather, 2,000 people attended the event, flooding the grandstand and bleachers to standing-room-only capacity.The day wasn't without its surprises, however. Puddles on the performance grounds added an unexpected layer of challenge for riders and horses alike.
"It actually made the show even more entertaining," says Cooper. "It was extremely well received. We had the RCMP Pipes and Drums band playing, and even the RCMP dancers. It was a full community celebration."
The money raised at the event went to the Metcalfe Agricultural Society, which plans to build a new facility next year.
Spying local Legends
One of the most touching moments of the day came at the top of the show, when local physician of 55 years, Dr. Don Merrett, gave the salute to commence the festivities.
"He took the salute, and it was a very special moment," says Cooper.
Local hockey legend Larry Robinson also attended the event, further adding to the hometown pride.
The day wasn't just enjoyable for the community members who attend, but also the Musical Ride members who performed throughout the summer.
"Despite being still relatively new in my role, having the chance to tour with the Musical Ride family has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me," says Marie-Helene Bernier, Acting Assistant Officer in Charge of the Musical Ride. "I deeply appreciate the opportunity to meet members of different communities and feel the uplifting effect our presence has on spectators of all ages, who come out to enjoy and support our performances. It is deeply touching to observe the generosity of these communities, especially the significant charitable impact associated with our attendance."
A visit from the RCMP Musical Ride might only be for just a day, but its impact on small communities can last for years to come.
