Geriatric miniature horse competes at Calgary Stampede

The oldest horse competing at the Calgary Stampede may also be the smallest.

A miniature horse named LilChief, or Chief,recently celebrated his32nd birthday but that hasn't slowed him down.

For the20th yearin a row, he's competing inleadline and drivingat theStampede's Canadian National Miniature Horse Showagainst horses decades younger than him.

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Family affair

Initially, sisters Robin and Kim Locke showed Chief, but have since handed over the reins to the next generation offamily membersKim's two children,Jackson and Noa.

Along with his annual trek to the Calgary Stampede, the miniature competes atshows throughout North Americaandrecently won severalworld champion titles.

"He's a very versatile horse, but his favourite event is probably obstacle driving, since the courses mimic historical trail rides," said Robin Locke.

Don't call them ponies

Miniature horses, also known as mini-horses, are not ponies.

A full grown miniature horse is smaller than an average pony,registering a height less than86 centimetresfrom the withers theridge between the shoulder blades.

Retirement Plan

Though he's not ready to hang up his horseshoes yet, Chief has been carving out an additional career path.

"We're currently bringing him into nursing homes as a therapeutic animal, " said Robin."It's been very rewarding to see him make people feel better."

Chief competes until 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 14 at theNorthern Lights Arena andAgrium Western Event Centre at the Calgary Stampede.

With files from the Calgary Eyeopener