On January 25, 2017, Al Patterson of Millgrove, Ont. and Ross Millar of Mono, Ont. resigned from their positions as Directors on the Equestrian Canada (EC) Board.

Al Patterson has been involved with EC since its inception, and spent six years as President. An active volunteer within various non-profit organizations for over 25 years, he has been a valuable contributor to many different EC Committees over the years, involved in everything from recreation to breeds to industry. As one of four representative Directors on the EC Board from the previous Board model, Al was instrumental in creating and implementing new Bylaws for EC.

“Al Patterson has been a longstanding and valuable member of the EC Board and former President,” said Jorge Bernhard, EC President. “Al played a significant, key role guiding the Federation through the challenges of restructuring the former Equine Canada into our new structure, as mandated by the Canada Not-For-Profit Corporations Act. Leading this major and critical change for EC required knowledge, experience and firm determination, bringing many dissonant voices and interests into a new platform which would become our new Equestrian Canada.”

Bernhard continued, “Al, in all likelihood, is one of the most recognized faces of our industry and Federation. We will miss his presence and contribution.”

Ross Millar joined the EC Board in 2016, bringing his strong professional background in sports marketing and sales as the current owner and President of the Ross Millar Group (RMG), which produces a number of events, including the RAM Rodeo Tour. During his short tenure as an EC Director, Ross was also Chair of the Business Development Committee, providing insight toward EC’s marketing and sponsorship strategy.

“Ross brought a fresh perspective to our Board, and we will miss his contribution,” said Bernhard.

EC sincerely thanks Al and Ross for their invaluable contributions as members of EC’s Board of Directors.

(Equestrian Canada)