A woman who died during practice for the Ponoka Stampede’s opening act Sunday night is being remembered for her contagious smile and contribution to the equestrian community.
Two memorials are being held for Alicia Jolene McKendrick, 34. One is in Ponoka on Sunday and another, a celebration of her life, will be in Bentley on July 6.
In an obituary shared online, loved ones say McKendrick “passed away doing what she loved to do.”
In a news release, RCMP said they were called to the rodeo grounds just after 7 p.m. Sunday when she was thrown off her horse, trampled by other horses and died from her injuries.
Jason Cline, the president of the Ponoka Stampede, said the tragedy happened during practice time ahead of the opening act.
Occupational Health and Safety is investigating and issued a verbal stop-work order to the Ponoka Stampede & Exhibition Association pertaining only to the “wild horse” segment of the grandstand ceremonies.
Born in 1988 in Red Deer, McKendrick grew up in rural Alberta.
She co-created McKendrick Stable and built “a renowned equestrian business,” according to her obituary.
“Alicia’s life was full, she was loved by many, and she touched many more with her kilowatt smile and sunny personality.”
A trust fund has been created in her name at the Bentley Servus Credit Union “for young riders of all walks of life, to be able to learn and enjoy the special connection between a horse and a child.”
“In this way, Alicia’s memory lives and rides on,” the obituary explains.
“It was Alicia’s dream to make it possible for any and every child to experience the special bond with a horse.”