Large and enthusiastic crowds gathered in Bryson this past Saturday for the acclaimed and much anticipated Royal Canadian Mountain Police (RCMP) Musical Ride.

As the riders and their horses entered, they were met with resounding applause. With their bright red uniforms glistening under the overhead sun, they commanded the audience’s attention with their dazzling displays of coordination and pomp.

The event, held at Lion’s Park, was a historic celebration of both the town of Bryson and the RCMP’s shared 150th anniversaries.

“The troop of up to 32 riders, who are all police officers, and their horses perform intricate formations and drills set to music, lasting about 30 minutes. These movements demand the utmost control, timing, and coordination,” according to the RCMP website.

Attendance was free of charge, but visitors were invited to make a donation to the Bryson, Grand-Calumet and Portage-du-Fort fire departments (B.G.C.P).

Representatives from the fire departments were present at the event’s two entrances with the customary donation boots.

“We are trying to raise money to upgrade some of our equipment,” said Wayne Cameron, who has been with the B.G.C.P fire department since 1984. “The money we raise will help make the job much safer for everyone in the department.”

As the riders prepared to enter, a selection of local honorees took to a stage that had been set up adjacent to the allotted performance area.

These included MP Sophie Chatel, Warden Jane Toller, Director General of the MRC Pontiac Kim Lesage, Pro-Mayor of Bryson Dave Miljour (current mayor Alain Gagnon was unable to attend), previous mayor of Bryson Jack Griffin, Shawville Mayor Bill McCleary and president of the Bryson 150th organizing committee Rosalee Gravelle.

Ian Saunders was chosen as the Musical Ride’s guest of honour. He is a Bryson community builder, councillor, secretary treasurer from 1965 until 1979 and member of the Lions Club.

“When the 150th anniversary committee started we were brainstorming ideas,” said Bryson Recreation Association representative and volunteer organiser of the Musical Ride, Meghan Griffin. “We wrote to the RCMP around September or August of last year and then we forgot about it. They called us around Christmas and said we want to come and we were all ecstatic. We are very excited that they are here.”

“It’s good for the town and it brings people in,” said attendee and Bryson resident Georgette Robitaille, pointing to the large crowds that had gathered while she did so. “A lot of us are hoping more people will move into the area, so hopefully this showcases what we have to offer.”

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