A Newfoundlander who was chosen to lead the Mounted Contingent during the Coronation of King Charles III says horses have provided him with experiences and memories he might never have had.
RCMP Sergeant Jeremy Dawson of St. George’s is with the RCMP Musical Ride, Heritage Branch out of Ottawa.
(Submitted Photo)
He has had the privilege of representing Canada at a number of formal events in London over the course of his 23 year career, including the Jubilee celebrations, and the Coronation.
He travelled to the UK well in advance of the event to get reacquainted with the horses, and take part in rigourous rehearsals timed out to the second.
(Submitted Photo)
“When they called ‘Walk. March.’ everyone had to be on the same marching pace,” He says. “That means…left, right, left right… you had to be on perfect timing.” Practices started on a military tarmac, and then moved on to the streets of London at night.
Dawson rode Noble, a horse gifted to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth by the RCMP. He calls her an ideal horse for the job with a number of qualities that put her above the rest.
(Submitted Photo)
Among Dawson’s most treasured experiences was being invited by 92-year-old Queen Elizabeth II to ride with her through the grounds of Windsor Castle. He was nervous about the protocol involved, and sought advice from now retired Stud Groom Terry Pendry.
His advice to Dawson was “She’s going to ask you questions, and if you don’t know the answer, don’t pretend you know the answer, because she already knows the answer.” Dawson describes an enjoyable hour long ride and conversation with the Queen where she asked about his interest in horses, and explained her passion for animals as they viewed her Jersey cows and Fell horses together.
He tells VOCM News he’s proud to represent Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador and the Qalipu First Nation at such momentous events.
(Submitted Photo)
