In 2005 an amazing new Grand Prix Show Jumping Tournament was launched in Canada – the Kubota Cup Canadian Show Jumping Series. It was an unparalleled success encompassing 7 member horse shows representing both Eastern and Western Divisions, culminating in a National Finals competition at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, Ontario.
Participants ranged from Grand Prix Rookies to Olympic Veterans, like “Captain Canada” Ian Millar, chasing a total purse and prizes worth more than $400,000 PLUS one of two new Kubota RTVs and a crystal trophy!
“The success of the Kubota Cup Canadian Show Jumping Series in 2005 exceeded my highest expectations,” said Sandra Fraser, of Lejoma Sports Management, Executive Director of the Kubota Cup Canadian Show Jumping Series and Executive Producer of the television series, Along For The Ride.
“We surprised ourselves,” said John Gilliland, National Marketing Manager for Kubota Canada Ltd., the Title Sponsors of the Series. “Starting in Brandon (last year) the Western Division riders really jumped on board and we were pleased with their enthusiasm.”
“For the past several years I had a mandate to find a sponsorship opportunity that would encompass all of Canada. When Sandra Fraser approached me with her vision for a national show jumping series, it was perfect. She made it happen and without her we wouldn’t be where we are today, now into our second season.”
Eastern Division Champion, Olympian John Pearce said “I want to try and defend my title. I think that the injection of funds that Kubota has put forward (into the sport) is incredible. They are wonderful people to work with; first class. The public response to the whole Series has been extremely strong which is great for Kubota and great for our sport. I’m absolutely thrilled with Kubota and that I won (the Divisional Championship).”
One of the aspects to the Series that helped to create excitement among the general public was the airing of the complementary television series, ‘Along For The Ride’. The 13-part series, shot on location at each of the eight horse shows, featured 39 of the participating competitors giving viewers a glimpse behind the scenes and into the lives of both Grand Prix rookies and seasoned show jumping veterans. The show aired on both the Global National and Prime TV networks throughout the fall season.
“We had to have a TV show,” continued Gilliland. “One of the most enjoyable parts of the shows is the personal stories of both the human and equine athletes. It helped everyone to understand their journey from the stable to the show ring.” “I learned that these riders are talented, intense, hard working but down to earth and very unique individuals. The TV show was well received (garnering record viewership numbers for a new program in its first season) and showcased the riders extremely well – as riders, coaches, trainers, competitors and potential Canadian Equestrian Team members or future Olympians. As a fellow Canadian, it’s nice to give back and help these athletes in some small way as a sponsor.”Kubota Canada has over 150 retail dealers across Canada. “The dealers have given this sponsorship their unconditional support,” said Gilliland. “We’re very happy with their response and to know that this sponsorship makes sense to them.”The first Kubota Cup Grand Prix in the 2006 Series was held during the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair in Brandon on April 1. This year the class was sanctioned as a qualifier in the Jump Canada Series as well. “Now in the second year of the tournament, we are pleased to announce that our roster of Sponsors is growing and with it the number and value of the prizes,” said Fraser. Grand Prix riders across Canada are gearing up for their run to the Division Championship and a share of the over $400,000 in prize money, travel bursary and gifts.
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