Words from our Partners
Megan White, Youth Education, Calgary Stampede
Brett has run the Ultimate Bull Fighting Experience for youth at Stampede School and Stampede Summer Camp, both Calgary Stampede Foundation programs. Both experiences were outstanding! The youth learned all about the exciting art of bullfighting through Brett’s engaging and educational explanation, had the opportunity to ask questions, and of course had the chance to try out some moves themselves with the (dummy) bull!
This is an amazing program as it teaches about animal behaviour and safety, Western sport, teamwork, movement and balance, and of course is a BLAST for the youth! Many participants left the program with a boost of self-confidence and excitement about rodeo and a stronger connection to the larger rodeo culture.
I cannot recommend this program highly enough as a fun, movement-based experience for participants of all ages. Brett is incredibly passionate about the world of rodeo, and his excitement spreads to even the most shy and reserved youth. This is a unique experience from an expert in the field of rodeo and is incredible start to finish!
Megan White, Youth Education, Calgary Stampede
Amy, Angie and their equine assistants have been guest experts at Stampede School for the past 2 school years now and have been a class favourite from day one! These amazing women utilize their expertise in both the mental health and horsemanship worlds to create a unique and impactful experience. Students get to spend the morning getting up close with horses and having a meaningful and mindful hands-on interaction.
Amy and Angie do a fantastic job of creating a fun, safe, and empowering learning environment. Many of our youth participants have absolutely no prior horse experience, and some have been very nervous about participating. Through their patient and kind instruction, Amy and Angie have created a space for these youth to work through their fears and do some self-discovery of their own.
Participants learn about horse safety and communication and get to meet and lead the horses themselves. Through these exercises, students explore their own mental health and emotional wellbeing, and often share how the horses have helped them recognize and move through some big feelings. The effect this experience has on participants is profound and long-lasting, and resurfaces throughout the rest of the school year as one of the most memorable experiences the students had!
For both youth and adults alike, this is an exceptional experience, and I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone!
Amber Craig, Chair, Breaking Free Foundation
Rafter U7 Ranch is a very special place that has strong importance to the Breaking Free Foundation. Amy and Angie have graciously donated their healing ranch for special meetups for our community of trauma survivors, and it is always an unforgettable and powerful experience for everyone.
As facilitators, Amy and Angie are truly incredible at what they do. Their ability to hold space for those sitting in trauma or pain, is powerful to witness. The presence of the horses in our meetups brings another layer of influence and has brought incredible healing for many in our community.
We feel truly blessed to be part of the community that Angie and Amy have built, and they have continued to be incredible supporters of ours.
Jaime Anastasi, CFO/Owner, Abbey Platinum Master Built
The Ultimate Bull Fighting Experience was an excellent opportunity for our team to learn more about the bull fighting world. We gained firsthand experience on bull behavior, instincts and how to outsmart the animal. The knowledge gained through attending this course makes the whole rodeo spectator experience a lot more engaging and fun to watch.
The Abbey Team had an amazing team building experience with the CFR last year! We learned the ins and outs of the bull fighting world, providing a newfound appreciation for the sport.
One of the best activities they had for us was when they demonstrated how the bull fighters work with the bull rider to protect each other. It showed us how to depend on each other and communicate effectively under pressure.
10/10 would recommend attending the Ultimate Bull Fighting Experience!
Karen Kitchen, Events, Sponsorships and Community Engagement, Peavy Industries LP
The Ultimate Bull Fighting Experience was an excellent opportunity for our team to learn more about the bull fighting world. We gained firsthand experience on bull behavior, instincts and how to outsmart the animal. The knowledge gained through attending this course makes the whole rodeo spectator experience a lot more engaging and fun to watch.
The Abbey Team had an amazing team building experience with the CFR last year! We learned the ins and outs of the bull fighting world, providing a newfound appreciation for the sport.
One of the best activities they had for us was when they demonstrated how the bullfighters work with the bull rider to protect each other. It showed us how to depend on each other and communicate effectively under pressure.
10/10 would recommend attending the Ultimate Bull Fighting Experience!
Erin Fieger, Manager, Customer Service, Farm Credit Canada
Our work team from several offices came together and spent the day at Rafter U7 Ranch & Wellness Centre to learn about ourselves, each other & strengthen relationships throughout our group. The Rafter U7 Ranch team created a tailored day that they facilitated, incorporating equine & cattle handling experiences. It took us out of the office environment, pushed us out of our comfort levels, and created a space for a lot of safe challenges, fun & laughs. It resulted in personal growth, group learnings & stronger team connection. The entire group provided great, positive feedback on the experience and we would definitely encourage other teams to invest in themselves this same way!