Royal patronage for Spruce Meadows

Spruce Meadows in Calgary has welcomed a new era of royal recognition as Sophie, Dutchess of Edinburgh, has become its official royal patron. The announcement, made during the venue’s 50th anniversary celebrations, was met with excitement by organizers and the broader equestrian community.

The patronage by Her Royal Highness, wife of Prince Edward, the brother of King Charles III, honours not only the venue’s commitment to sporting excellence and development, but also its broad philanthropic mission. This includes initiatives supporting grassroots sport, well-being, education, frontline workers, women’s equality, and the military and agricultural sectors—all values aligned with the Dutchess’s public work.

The Dutchess of Edinburgh is no stranger to Spruce Meadows, having visited the venue in 2006 alongside her husband in their former roles as the Earl and Countess of Wessex. She is a passionate supporter of British sport, serving as Royal Vice President of the Royal Windsor Horse Show and President of the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials.

Accordingly, the royal connection highlights the longstanding ties between Canada and the United Kingdom, a legacy also recognized by the late Queen Elizabeth II during her 1990 visit to Spruce Meadows.

Founded in 1975 by Ron and Margaret Southern, the facility has grown from a former cattle feedlot into one of the world’s leading show jumping venues, always guided by a mission to make equestrian sport accessible to all.