Geriatric miniature horse competes at Calgary Stampede
32-year-old champ goes up against horses decades younger than him
The oldest horse competing at the Calgary Stampede may also be the smallest.
A miniature horse named Lil Chief, or Chief, recently celebrated his 32nd birthday — but that hasn't slowed him down.
For the 20th year in a row, he's competing in leadline and driving at the Stampede's Canadian National Miniature Horse Show against horses decades younger than him.
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Family affair
Initially, sisters Robin and Kim Locke showed Chief, but have since handed over the reins to the next generation of family members — Kim's two children, Jackson and Noa.
Along with his annual trek to the Calgary Stampede, the miniature competes at shows throughout North America and recently won several world champion titles.
"He's a very versatile horse, but his favourite event is probably obstacle driving, since the courses mimic historical trail rides," said Robin Locke.
Don't call them ponies
Miniature horses, also known as mini-horses, are not ponies.
A full grown miniature horse is smaller than an average pony, registering a height less than 86 centimetres from the withers — the ridge between the shoulder blades.
Retirement Plan
Though he's not ready to hang up his horseshoes yet, Chief has been carving out an additional career path.
"We're currently bringing him into nursing homes as a therapeutic animal, " said Robin. "It's been very rewarding to see him make people feel better."
Chief competes until 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 14 at the Northern Lights Arena and Agrium Western Event Centre at the Calgary Stampede.
With files from the Calgary Eyeopener