Trot Insider has received information regarding the Let’s Talk Horses program on Prince Edward Island, which is striving to bring people closer to horses and the sport of Standardbred racing.
Let’s Talk Horses’ mission statement, which was written in April, 2018, appears below.
We envision a program whereby individuals of all ages, genders, abilities, regardless of limitations or social challenges here in the City of Summerside and Prince County, can be guided on a journey towards a deeper relationship with horses, true knowledge of horsemanship, and love of the sport of harness racing.
Officials with Let’s Talk Horses have stated that inter-generational camaraderie creates healthy attitudes, looking outward rather than inward; and exposure to animals, especially horses, teaches invaluable life skills. They have stated that the program will offer exposure and education, which will benefit the individuals, the retired racehorses, the racing industry, and the community. This program has been designed to deliver the components to accomplish Let’s Talk Horses’ vision.
Officials behind the initiative have received the permission from the Prince County Horsemen’s Club and funding from the Prince Edward Island Government to proceed with the program. the program has approached Holland College President Andrew ‘Sandy’ MacDonald, PhD. for assistance. His response – because his family has a long history of involvement in harness racing, and because he has a lifelong dedication to education – has been to engage in the program. He has graciously and enthusiastically agreed to meet with stakeholders in the industry, province-wide.
The meeting will be held at UPEI in SDMB 320 at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 7. Main is behind MacLaughlan, there is parking out front and behind Steele that is very close. Come in the main door of Main Building and go up one flight. All of the general lots are free to park on campus for the summer. Lots A, B, D and E, as well the Bell Aliant Centre gated lot (across from FSDE) are also free for the summer (please note the meters are enforced all year round).