One of Canada's most recognized icons, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Musical Ride, performed to a full house at the grandstand at the Olds Exhibition Grounds at the end of July, 2010.

The RCMP Musical Ride represents a colourful Canadian tradition. The troop of 32 horses and riders will perform a variety of cavalry drills choreographed to music. Working through a unique medium, they support the RCMP community policing efforts throughout Canada.

The Musical Ride was developed in 1876 by early members of the North-West Mounted Police to display their riding ability and entertain the local community. It has evolved over the decades into a uniquely Canadian performance enjoyed by tens of thousands of spectators every year.

Members of the Musical Ride are first and foremost police officers. They all have at least two years experience in active police work before volunteering for duty with the Musical Ride. Surprisingly, most have no prior riding experience.

To find out when they are coming back to Alberta and the Olds Exhibition Grounds, call 403-556-3770, or send an e-mail to office@oldsagsociety.com for further information on the RCMP Musical Ride.