2023 Inductees
Pat Michael
Hometown: Regina, Saskatchewan
Pat has been an integral part of the fabric of Dressage in Saskatchewan for decades and has contributed to every aspect of the sport discipline. She has been a competitor, coach, judge, show organizer, clinician, and volunteer.
Pat has competed at the highest levels of Dressage, representing Saskatchewan at the Dressage Nationals multiple years. She is an excellent coach and clinician of Dressage athletes, with students excelling in the sport. Pat was a team coach at the Saskatchewan Summer Games and the Canadian Inter-Provincial Championships.
Pat is an accomplished judge and until 2020, was Saskatchewan’s only accredited Equestrian Canada Dressage Judge. She has judged competitions across the Prairies and when Western Dressage became popular, she helped by becoming accredited in that discipline.
Let’s not forget Pat’s spirit of volunteerism. She has been on the Board of the Saskatchewan Horse Federation, the Saskatchewan Dressage Development Association, and the Regina District Dressage Association. She continues to share her dressage knowledge through clinics for Pony Club and Adult Amateurs and when an event is over, Pat is helping tear down and wipe the grit off the dressage ring.
Pat Michael is a true ambassador for Dressage in Saskatchewan!
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 22, 2024
C. Walter Hughes
Hometown: Preeceville, Saskatchewan
Walter Hughes was born in Tisdale, Saskatchewan in 1946. He remembers riding and driving with his father from a very early age and was working in Community Pastures by fifteen. He continued working with horses in various ways including Percheron and Quarter Horse breeding programs that produced several winners at the highest level such as the Grand Champion Mare at the Royal Winter Fair and a son of Prince Joe being All American Gelding.
Still, Walter remains humble, approachable and always willing to help anyone learn about horses, training, riding, or driving. His passion for horses, knowledge, experience, and down to earth approach has helped people across generations learn to appreciate and work with horses, build confidence, and be inspired.
Whether through his work at Fairview College, teaching and judging 4-H, service on various boards, organizing working horse field days, or providing personal instruction, Walter is an admirable ambassador for horses and the equine industry.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 22, 2024
Jack Shire
Hometown: Kelso, Saskatchewan
Jack Shire was always performing or taking family and friends for a wagon ride. Jack was involved with Kelso 4H club. He was a member of the Canadian Donkey and Mule Association and the Wheels and Saddles club in SE Saskatchewan. Jack rode across Saskatchewan twice – in the 1992 Ride for Canada 125 and in the Challenge ’94 Cross Canada Trail.
Jack trained animals his entire life. Jack’s career as a showman began as a young man and developed into a lifelong passion for working with and training horses, mules and his pride and joy, Tex.
He drove buffalo and oxen in the Calgary Stampede parade. Jack trained his long-horn steer, Tex, to turn with all four feet on a 14” square pedestal, balance a teeter totter, jump through a hoop, take a carrot from Jack’s mouth, ride under saddle, drive a cart and kneel and bow. Tex performed locally at Minot State Fair and in Golden and Salmon Arm B.C. Tex starred in a CBC production and in a movie produced in Winnipeg Mb.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 22, 2024
Marjory Shire
Hometown: Kelso, Saskatchewan
Marjory Shire was involved in the enhancement of the horse world. She was a leader for the Kelso Light Horse 4H club, a member of the Wheels and Saddles club, organizer of the Moosomin Therapeutic Riding program, a founding member of the Heritage Classic Horse show, and the Saskatchewan representative to the National Canadian Equestrian Recreational Riding Committee. Marjory helped organize the provincial and local Long Riders clubs and the Moose Mountain Long Riders and was an organizer of Ride Canada 125 in 1992.
Marj was invited to Ottawa for the July 1st celebration by the Canadian Equestrian Federation. On Feb 20, 1993, Marjory was awarded the SHF President’s award for outstanding achievement for her contribution to Ride Canada 125. In 1993 Marj assisted in recreating history by following the Boundary Commission Trail taken by the Mounties from Roche Percy to the Big Muddy Valley. In 1994 Marjory was involved in creating the Saskatchewan portion of a cross Canada Trail – Challenge ’94.
Marjory was quoted as saying, “My partner and mate of 35 years (Jack) has always been beside me in any of my endeavors and any recognition I receive is equally his”.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 22, 2024
Gilbert (Gib) & Georgina Robbins
Hometown: Laura, Saskatchewan
Gib Robbins was born on his father’s original homestead near Laura, Saskatchewan on April 25, 1911. On October 12, 1940, he married Georgina Skiriving and they raised a family of two sons and one daughter.
The Robbins bought a small farm of their own and in 1944 they purchased two Clydesdale mares from their brother-in-law, Jim Morris. These mares were Phyllis Footprint, along with her dam, Lady Dunduff. Two years later, they purchased another mare from Jim, Lady Strathore. They used a stallion by the name of Netherpride, grandson of Dunure Footprint, owned by Georgina’s father. Not only did the Robbins have good breeding horses, but they raised and sold some very good geldings. The Hallamore Clydesdales purchased Monarch, one of their best.
Gib was active in many other agriculture related areas as well. Those activities included announcing chuck wagon and chariot races for a number of years, as well as volunteering with the Saskatchewan Clydesdale Association, The Saskatchewan Horse Breeder’s Association and the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon. Gib passed away in 2000. He was 89.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 22, 2024
High Chaparral
Hometown: Maple Creek, Saskatchewan
This super star was born in 1983 on Mike Shapley’s ranch north of Maple Creek. Mike actually broke him to ride but didn’t have enough work to keep the high-lifed gelding occupied, so when the horse was four, Mike sold him to stock contractor Don Peterson for $1,000 plus a promise that if the grey went to the NFR, Peterson would spring for a trip.
That year, High Chaparral was voted the Canadian Cowboys Association Bareback horse of the Year and in 1988, he was chosen for the NFR, bringing home a plaque proclaiming him the second-best horse there. The Shapley’s, courtesy of Don Peterson, were in the stands.
High Chaparral went on to become a two-time world champion.
In 1997, the Maple Creek rodeo grounds were christened High Chaparral Arena in honor of their home-range hero. In 2003, High Chaparral was inducted into the Canadian Professional Rodeo Hall of Fame.
High Chaparral died December 22, 2007.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 22, 2024
2022 Inductees
Dr. Hugh G.G. Townsend, DVM, MSc
Hometown: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Originally from Calgary, Alberta, Hugh came to the University of Saskatchewan (USask) in 1969 to pursue veterinary studies at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM). He graduated in 1973 and practiced abroad before returning in 1977 to become the WCVM Equine Health Research Fund’s first research fellow. He joined the WCVM faculty in 1979.
During his distinguished career spanning four decades, Hugh improved horse health through several avenues. As a veterinarian, his expertise in infectious diseases and broad knowledge of equine health made him an invaluable resource for clients, colleagues and the equine industry. As a teacher, Hugh encouraged many students to pursue specialized training in equine health or to focus their research on horse health. His influence helped establish a large network of equine specialists across North America.
As a scientist, Hugh is a world-renowned expert on equine vaccines and their efficacy. He devoted most of his career to the development, evaluation and improvement of equine vaccines and performed seminal studies to demonstrate vaccine efficacy at both the WCVM and the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO). As an advocate, Hugh worked closely with the horse industry and helped raise millions of dollars supporting the WCVM Townsend Equine Health Research Fund — renamed in his honor in 2015.
Hugh’s many contributions to equine health and welfare continue to benefit the lives of horses in Western Canada and around the world.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 17, 2023.
Morton Seaman
Hometown: Choiceland, Saskatchewan
A horseman, a teamster, a hard worker, a jokester, and above all else, a great man. Just a few words to describe Morton Seaman from Choiceland, Saskatchewan.
Mort, as everyone knows him, was born in 1931. He spent the first six years of his life in the family’s log home in Semen’s, SK. After that time, Mort and his family moved to a farm 1 mile west of Garrick, Sk., which is where and when horses became a part of Morton’s daily life. At six years old, Mort received a gift from his uncle which forever changed his life – his first horse, Lady. At that time, Lady, who was a six-month-old Arabian/Percheron Cross filly, became the beginning of Mort’s life and love to work with horses.
Mort is a gifted horseman, that starts with his keen eye to pick out the best horses in the pen. His ability to read horse behaviours has allowed Mort to hold the lines for many exceptional teams. Mort would spend countless hours, ensuring his teams were broke to assist with his daily chores, and to clear and break many acres of untouched land. Since the 1950’s, Mort has been part of the Choiceland and area communities with his horses. Everyone knows Mort. Whether it was for the local parades, giving the school students sleigh rides though-out the winter and wagon rides in the spring, or just heading to the coffee shop, the community could always count on Mort to have a team of Percheron horses in town.
In the early 1980’s, Morton purchased his first team of Purebred Percheron mares. Since then, each summer, Mort would have a string of Percherons ready to show at many local fairs, and did so for over 30 years. “Morton Seaman & Family” made many appearances at Agribition where he received many honours, one of which being the Supreme Champion Stallion.
With his family, Mort and wife, Norma, raised their four children; Donna, Debbie, Joni and Darren surrounded by horses, and that tradition carries on to this day. Mort’s accomplishments in the horse industry could be summarized in different ways, but what set’s Mort apart from so many others is his commitment to his passion, sharing his work with friends and neighbours, and giving people the gift of horses. You will still find Mort in the barn, picking out the best horses, and shaking hands with old friends; and you better have your loonie ready to “match”, as he is always ready to flip to see who buys the coffee.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 17, 2023
2021 Inductees
Christopher Robin Hahn
Hometown: Regina, Saskatchewan
Robin was born in 1933 in Regina, SK. He attended school in Belle Plaine, Moose Jaw and at the University of Guelph. He also farmed near Belle Plaine for many years.
Robin competed internationally in show jumping, but his true passion was Three Day Eventing. He was the alternate rider for the 1956 Olympics in Stockholm, and represented Canada in both the 1967 Pan American Games in Winnipeg and the 1971 Pan American Games in Colombia. Robin was a members of Canada’s Three Day Eventing team that competed at the 1968 Mexico Olympics, the 1972 Munich Olympics and the 1976 Montreal Olympics. Additionally, he competed at the 1982 World Championships in Luhmuhlen, Germany.
Robin helped to create Canada’s equestrian coaching certification program. He was also a director of Canada’s Equestrian Federation, and an F.E.I. and Canadian Horse Show judge.
In 1980, he was inducted into the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his many accomplishments in sport.
In 1988, Robin and his partner, Kelly Law, bought an equestrian farm which they called Longhouse, in Lumby, B.C. For 31 years they trained, showed horses, and hosted events and clinics at Longhouse.
Robin had a remarkable understanding of horses and riders from Beginners to advanced levels. Those fortunate enough to be taught by him will always remember his calming voice, patient, positive approach and understanding of both horse and rider.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 18, 2022.
The Jewel Snipper
Owned by Whitby Farms & Shauna Getz of Lucky Lake, Saskatchewan
The Jewel Snipper was foaled in 1995 at Cowans Quarter Horses in Havre, Montana, and was purchased by Whitby Farms and Shauna Getz in 1996.
Snip was shown from 1998 to 2002, earning the titles of:
- Cardston Slide-In – Limited Open 3 Year Old: 5th
- Red Deer Supreme – Limited Open 3 Year Old: Top 10
- Harvest Gold Futurity: Reining Reserve Champion
- Saskatchewan Stakes & Futurity: NRHA Ltd Open Champion
- AQHA Performance Record of Merit
- AQHA World Show Qualifier: Senior Reining
- Canadian Nationals – Open Heeling: 4th
Snip Sired 374 offspring with earnings of $300,000+ in: NSBA, NHRA, SRCHA, CCA, CPRA, SBRA and STRA.
The Jewel Snipper was laid to rest in his pasture overlooking his mares on November 18, 2015.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 18, 2022
2020 Inductees
Lil Williamson
Hometown: Brandon, Manitoba
Lil was born in 1921 in Brandon, Manitoba. She fell in love with horses at a very young age and her passion for equestrian sport lasted her lifetime.
She and her husband moved to Regina in the 1950’s where they trained and showed horses on the fair circuits of Western Canada and the United States. Lil rode their horse, Bouncing Buster, to more than fifty jumper championships.
As a certified Equestrian Canada Judge and Steward, Lil was very busy. In 1976 she was a three day event jump Judge at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. She was a Steward at the International Spruce Meadows Championships officiating for all three shows each year from 1979 to 2003.
Lil shared her knowledge and time with numerous horse groups including the Saskatchewan Horse Federation and Equestrian Canada.
For her contributions to equestrian sport, Lil was inducted into the Saskatchewan Sport Hall of Fame as a builder in 1995. In 2004 she was presented with the SHF President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Lil was inducted into the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2007.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame March 13, 2021.
Bob Watson
Hometown: Wolseley, Saskatchewan
Bob’s first show was the Regina Winter Fair 1951, where he rode a fence jumper called Glengary, who would prove to be an outstanding competitor.
The Spring Circuit included Regina, Brandon, Saskatoon, Calgary. In 1955, Bob showed Glengary to 3 Championships and 1 Reserve Championship in the Jumper Division. He also exhibited Brown Jug in the Hunter and Jumper Divisions successfully.
Bob showed many horses in his 30-year career competing at the Western Canada Summer Games, where he rode Satan in Regina. Another horse he rode was called Gold Coin, who was a diverse athlete winning all 3 levels of the Open Dressage classes at Brandon. Bob later began heeling, riding Oakie in Sask. Team Roping events.
Bob volunteered much of his time as an Inspector for the Canadian Hunter Society (now the Canadian Sport Horse Assoc.), as a Chairman of the Sask. Light Horse Society, as a Sask. Representative and Judge for the Canadian Horse Shows Assoc., plus being a 4-H leader.
His wife, Norma, and children Kim, Alex and Scott have all competed successfully in equine events. It’s been a good ride.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame March 13, 2021.
2019 Inductees
Jean Bogner
Hometown: Wawota, Saskatchewan
Jean has always had a passion for horses. She was leader of a 4-H Light Horse Club for 15 years and has been a driving force for the Wheels and Saddles Driving and Riding Club since its inception in 1982. She was president of the Club for 27 years.
Jean is accomplished in English and Western, is a seasoned driver, having driven a four-horse hitch for field work. She has been teaching driving for many years and has some willing students to carry on her work. For 21 years she and Clarence hosted Trail Rides at their farm.
Jean willingly shares her time and knowledge. Her compassion for horses and people is obvious. Reaching 90 years has slowed her down but she still manages to help and inspire others. Jean maintains there is always more to learn about horses! She has been heard to say, ” Some of my best friends are horses”.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 14, 2020
Wayne Cozart
Hometown: Brownlee, Saskatchewan
Wayne Cozart’s true love was his wife and family, and his Percheron horses. He will be remembered by family and friends of all ages as a genuine cowboy that truly loved working with draft horses and youth.
He was instrumental in the success of many Saskatchewan horse shows, rodeos, 4H clinics and trail rides. From the big city shows to the small 4H achievement days Wayne was a constant fixture who inspired and influenced generations of horsemen.
Wayne is recognized for his endless volunteer hours, the quality Percheron horses he raised, trained and showed, and that unforgettable smile. Most of all he will be remembered for the fire he lit in up-and-coming drivers when he handed the lines over and let them experience the joy of driving those big black and grey horses.
He spent a lifetime dedicated to promoting and fostering the art of raising and driving Percheron horses in Saskatchewan.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 14, 2020
Harold French
Hometown: Delisle, Saskatchewan
Harold was a true horseman, dedicated to enhancing the ability of the horse in a six or eight-horse hitch or any work involving the horse. He became known for his abilities, and was often asked to show other people’s outfits, and did so nationally and internationally.
He drove teams in field work from age 13, pitching bundles, seeding and summer fallowing. He taught his sisters to drive four-horse outfits so they could haul the grain to town. In addition, Harold held his license to drive Standard Bred Horses, working as an exercise man in Dauphin Manitoba. He also respected the necessity of the horse in opening up the country in pioneer times, and taught many children at local fairs what horses meant to the province’s history.
May Harold’s love of horses and horse traditions be appreciated by future generations.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 14, 2020
Raymond Mitsuing
Hometown: Loon Lake, Saskatchewan
Raymond Mitsuing built a family chuckwagon Racing Team over 36 years, winning seven Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association Championships (CPCA), with many appearances at the Calgary Stampede where he retired at the end of the 2019 season to a standing ovation from his fans.
He has been a productive member of the Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association and finished among the Top Ten in the CPCA standings the last 12 years. He is also a 3-time winner of the CPCA Prairie Racing Series Championship Trailer. He holds numerous other Canadian and Americanvq championships, is known as a great mentor to others entering the sport, and is without question one of the legends in the sport of Chuckwagon racing.
Additionally, as a leader in his community, Ray was Chief of the Makwa Sahgaiechan First Nation for 16 years, and helped to build the Meadow Lake Tribal Council to what it is today. Ray holds a Senate seat on the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations Board (FSIN), serving as a Senator since 2017.
He was a strong voice for local economic development and has influenced many projects in the forestry industry. He created many relationships, within his community and beyond, in the agricultural community, whether buying and selling horses to build his team or purchasing oats, hay and straw to feed them.
Ray and his wife Josephine have raised four sons who are participants in the equine industry as drivers and out riders, following in their Father’s footsteps. They are Dean, Darren, Devin and Dale.
Ray’s merits should be celebrated and embraced as part of “reconciliation”.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 14, 2020
Elaine Partington
Hometown: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Elaine Beverly (Russell) Partington started riding on her parents’ farm as a young child. Her involvement in the horse world included Harness racing, Dressage, Hunter/Jumpers, Eventing and Western Riding. She turned that experience into a business, first on her home acreage, Tee Pee Acres, near Saskatoon, and then expanded into a partnership at Ebon Stables.
Elaine was strongly involved with the Saskatoon Pony Club, Saskatoon Riding Club, and the CWHBA. She helped to develop the Equestrian Coaching program at the Provincial and National levels, and was always willing to share what she knew with others. Elaine had a talent and passion for developing young riders—in the show ring but, more importantly she felt, in life skills as well.
She had an uncanny sense of how and when to use humour over tough love in her approach to coaching. She opened her heart and home to one and all, often taking in summer students. She taught what she knew and knew “it takes a village”. Her legacy lives on in the horse world and the generations of lives she touched.
Installed in the Saskatchewan Horse Federation Hall of Fame on March 14, 2020