Barbara_Kemp_Bromont.jpgOttawa, Ontario—The equestrian community is saddened to learn oft he loss of Barbara Kemp, who passed away February 23, 2009, just four days shy of her 95th birthday. For more than 75 years, Barbara, one of Canada’s leading horsewomen, has influenced equestrian sport in a number of areas. She was a competitor, judge, official, Pony Club supporter and competition organizer.

In 1916 at the age of two, Barbara’s riding career started on a donkey in England where her father was stationed with the Canadian Army. In the spring of 1919, the Kemp family returned to Montreal, and, although they did not own horses, Barbara and her sister, Pamela (Dillingham), were always encouraged to ride.

From 1930 to 1960, Barbara competed in the hack, equitation, hunter and jumper divisions, and also enjoyed cross-country hunter trials. Her passion for eventing was always at the forefront, and Barbara rode up to the Advanced level on two different horses.

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