Ottawa, Ontario – The Breeds and Industry Division of Equine Canada is pleased to announce the second annual Alberta Invitational Warmblood Sale, to take place in Okotoks, AB, on July 3rd and 4th, 2005.

The consigned horses for the sale are registered warmbloods between the ages of two and 10. Each horse has passed two stages of assessment, judged on conformational correctness, performance suitability and soundness.

“It’s important to present a sale experience that is convenient for the buyer. The Alberta Invitational Warmblood Sale is just minutes from Spruce Meadows and held during the days between Canada One and North American. That means folks can join the sale as a part of their vacation plans, or as a quick inclusion to their competition schedule,” said Gary Bredin, President of the sale. “Featuring the finest performance age horses with some of the strongest warmblood pedigrees available in western Canada will ensure we have the buyer’s interest. A professionally run sale with a friendly atmosphere will keep them coming back.”

The traditional-style auction sale will offer potential buyers tryouts and demonstrations both under saddle and over fences.

“The breeders of western Canada’s warmblood horses have a depth and breadth to their programs in both quality and numbers. Organized sales give them an opportunity to showcase a select few of these horses,” said Barbara Daley, National Marketing Chair for The Canadian Warmblood Horse Breeders Association. “Over time this will strengthen the marketing opportunities for all well bred warmblood horses in Canada, as buyers will have both the desire and the confidence to seek these quality horses out.”

Last year’s sale was a success, and brought a wide range of bidders, including residents of Alberta, British Columbia, California, Idaho and the Yukon. Marion O’Connor of Cocolalla Creek Sport Horses in Careywood, ID, was among the bidders in 2004, and returned home with four new additions to her stable.

“I enjoyed the sale immensely. The selection of sale horses was good, and loved the fact that the x-rays were there on file and the staff was able to help us in every way possible,” noted O’Connor. “The Alberta Invitational Warmblood Sale has a bright future, as the auction format they run is honest and this is the right approach to make a success of this sale.”