The Greater Moncton Equestrian Club, formally known as the Greater Moncton Horse Club, was originally founded 40 years ago. Some of the founders were George Franklin, Ray Ealey, Louis Hoar, Pam Tillies and others. Some of its first members were Peggy Olive and Madeline Gemell.

The Club’s first horse show was called the Magnetic Hill Horse Show and it was held on the property owned by Murelle Lutes Sikorski. It was then moved to the Dieppe Race Track due to the land being sold at Magnetic Hill. Unfortunately the racetrack closed and once again a new location had to be found. One was found, and for the next 5 to 6 years it was held in Riverview.

In 1996 the GMEC club’s future was unsure. Memberships were down and the Club’s funds were in trouble. The Club’s president at that time was Gerri Folkins and she came up with a fundraising idea and a committee was sanctioned. On May 3rd 1997, the first GMEC Annual Auction and Dance made its appearance. It was held at the Lower Coverdale Recreation Centre in Riverview. That night more than 125 members and friends attended. The fundraiser was a smashing success and breathed new life into the Club.

In 2000 under a new committee the Annual Spring Into Summer Show was founded and was held for the following 4 years in the Petiticodiac arena each June. 2000 was also the year that the GMEC Show Circuit was started.

Due to decreasing show entry numbers, in 2005 the club held a smaller open show at the Albert fairgrounds that was very successful.

Present day, the club has over 70 family and single memberships. Although no horse show was held in 2006, the club continues to run a very popular show circuit and publishes a newsletter about 4 times a year. The year end holiday/awards dinner and dance continues to be very popular and bring the entire club together to celebrate our year.

Thanks to Chantalle Twohig and Debbie Himpi who put together this history. If any important details have been overlooked, please send a note to president@greatermonctonequestrianclub.com and a correction will be made.

Updated - Aug 10, 2006