Harriet Cherry of Nepean, ON, was named the recipient of Jump Canada’s ‘Official of the Year’ Award for 2011.
Cherry started her equestrian career as a typical horse-crazy kid who finally convinced her parents to let her start taking riding lessons. Joining the Rockcliffe Riding Club was just the beginning of what would become a life-long passion for the sport.
Always involved with horses in one way or another, Cherry applied to become a steward in 1981 and, later that year, received her Recorded status. Two years later, she became a Senior Steward.
When the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) stewarding program was introduced to Canada, Cherry became one of Canada’s first FEI stewards. Working alongside Sandra Sillcox, who was Canada’s FEI Steward General at time, Cherry and several other stewards were instrumental in implementing the FEI steward program within Canada. During the first four years of the FEI steward program, Cherry acted as the steward for all FEI jumper competitions in Quebec.
In addition to her stewarding duties, Cherry was also a recorded hunter, jumper, hunt seat equitation and hack judge from 1986 until 2002. In demand at both local and international competitions, Cherry is known for her fairness, knowledge of the rules and fabulous sense of humour.
“I love stewarding,” said Cherry, who plans to continue officiating for as long as she is able. “It has been a wonderful second career and I really enjoy working at the shows.”
The Jump Canada ‘Official of Year’ Award was accepted by Cherry during the 2011 Jump Canada Hall of Fame Gala held November 6 in Toronto, ON.
“Harriet Cherry is a worthy recipient of the ‘Official of the Year’ Award,” said John Taylor, Chair of Jump Canada. “Harriet is not only an excellent steward, but also a popular icon at so many of our shows. I am thrilled that she is being honoured by her peers.”
In its inaugural year, the 2004 Official of the Year Award was presented to Tom Michiel of Calgary, AB. Other recipients include Francois Ferland (2005), Michel Vaillancourt (2006), Marjorie Dennis (2007), David Ballard (2008) and, posthumously, Alf Fletcher (2009) and Sandra Sillcox (2010).
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