The Back Country

What is this Rendezvous all about?

Rendezvous, or ‘RV’ for short, is an annual event for BCHBC members and friends from all corners of the province to gather together and have a lot of FUN. This year our theme is “Roots & Boots,” focusing on social gatherings, good music, riding, and lots of education. We will of course have our Annual General Meeting and do some fundraising.

Educational & participation events planned:

• The only Mounted Search and Rescue team in BC is based out of Princeton BC. Marion Weisskopff is the official trainer and certifier for SAR members and their horses and will be on hand to answer questions on “how to be prepared for riding out,” and to let you know “what’s in their saddle bags?!”

• The packing demo, hands on workshop and a fun packing competition, are back by popular demand.

• Looking to learn more about Mountain Trail? A mini course will be set up with demos and practice time.

• Learn about First Aid on the trail, Saddle Fitting or tie some new knots.

• Give a go at Cowboy Poetry and Dutch Oven Cooking.

• Guided trail rides will be offered, or you can head out on your own up to the Coutlee Plateau for some great views of the Nicola Valley.

• There will be fun games for juniors and adults (who still have a junior within!).

Entertainment is going to be awesome!

Andy Bales will be joining us from Salmon, Idaho with his true Western Music. Everyone who plays an instrument is encouraged to bring it along for some great jamming and sing-a-longs in the evenings.

For pure enjoyment, we are encouraging Chapters to put together an

Air Band or to Lip Sync to their favourite song… musical talent NOT required.

Our Silent Auction fundraiser will have a focus on hand-crafted or artisan items and Chapter baskets. We will have a special live auction and a 50/50 draw.

This fundraising goes towards supporting our Chapters’ Trail and Education fund.

The Social Gathering and Food:

Over the years, Rendezvous attendance has grown to sometimes over 200 people and lots of equines. Bring your potluck dish for dinner on Friday. Saturday evening we have a great catered dinner lined up, and the Nicola Valley Rodeo Association will be heading up the pancake breakfast Sunday. We don’t think anyone will starve!

Get your tickets:

The 3-Day Member Early Bird Weekend Pass is $100 ($125 after April 15th) or $125 for Non-Members. This includes camping, Friday night potluck and entertainment, Saturday night catered dinner and entertainment, plus Sunday morning pancake breakfast and all the demos/ clinics/games you want!

You can bring your horses and mules and rent stalls, pens or bring your own panels. Not everyone brings an equine because there’s just SO MUCH to take in.

Juniors (age 18 and under) are admitted free, but must be accompanied by a paid adult attendee.

If you can’t make it for the whole weekend, we have single day passes as well, so sign up to drop in and see what BCHBC is all about.

We are looking forward to seeing you in Merritt! Check our updates on Rendezvous on our Facebook page: Back Country Horsemen of BC - Rendezvous or go to our website: bchorsemen.org and click the Rendezvous Tab.