Spruce Meadows is finalizing preparations for another edition of the Masters, one of the most prestigious international show jumping competitions on the calendar, which will be held in Calgary from September 9th to 13th. The competitors are already beginning to settle into the Canadian facilities after a major logistical operation that has allowed for the transport of a large number of the participating horses from Europe.
The second of two Boeing 747s chartered by Spruce Meadows landed yesterday, September 6, at Calgary International Airport with 49 horses from Europe. The horses traveled with their grooms, veterinarians, and specialized personnel responsible for ensuring their well-being throughout the journey.
After landing, the horses were unloaded at the airport's International Animal Lounge and subsequently transported by road to Spruce Meadows. With the arrival of this second flight and other horses from domestic flights, more than 100 horses have now arrived in Calgary to participate in the 2026 Masters.
Among the horses that traveled on this second flight are Oscar A, ridden by Egyptian rider Sameh El Dahan; Fasther and Kick On, ridden by American rider Lillie Keenan; and Gisborne, one of the mounts of Irishman Daniel Coyle.
Once settled at Spruce Meadows, the horses will have several days to rest, exercise, and acclimate to their new surroundings before the competition begins. During this time, they will remain under the constant supervision of their teams, grooms, and veterinarians.
The Spruce Meadows Masters will take place from September 9th to 13th and will once again feature some of the top riders on the international scene. Calgary is already beginning to welcome its leading figures for a week of top-level show jumping.
Media/Rylee Smolarchuk
