A southwest figure is being memorialized in a unique and historical way.
Dale Anderson passed away on March 27th, at the age of 68, but his lasting legacy with the Swift Current Ag & Ex is being recognized. The organization recently revealed that the annual chore team competition will be named in his honour.
The Dale Anderson Memorial Chore Team Competition will be one of the first of many events to start Frontier Days. The event begins Wednesday morning with a small memorial for Anderson at 9:45 a.m., with the competition beginning at 10 a.m.
Jayda Watson, equines director for the Swift Current Ag & Ex, has worked to ensure the event will help highlight Anderon’s long history in the heavy horse world.
“We're happy to be able to continue to do this this year in his honour,” said Watson.
Anderson was a pivotal figure in the world of horsemanship in Saskatchewan. He brought about many horsemanship events to the southwest, including Heavy Horse and Chore Team competitions during Frontier Days. He was also a notable judge for the Chore Team events during Agribition, as well as for the World Clydesdale Show in Manitoba back in 2023.
A Chore Team Competition consists of teams of horses and drivers navigating an obstacle course that mimics chores done on the farm. This includes hooking up to a wagon, crossing bridges, parallel parking, and hauling heavy equipment.
Watson says the organization is hoping to continue these types of events in Dale’s honour.
“We are committed for this year in Dale's honour,” said Watson. “Then going forward, we'll see what comes.”