July 3, 2026
Ottawa, ON — Equestrian Canada (EC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kristy Laroche as Project Manager for the Competition Structure Alignment Project (CSAP), a national initiative that will review and strengthen Canada’s equestrian competition framework.
Kristy brings extensive experience in sport system planning, organizational transformation, stakeholder engagement and complex project management. She combines a strong understanding of Canada’s equine sector with deep knowledge of the sport’s governance, competition system and the collaborative work that has shaped it over many years. Her appointment follows a competitive selection process and supports Equestrian Canada’s commitment to independent, evidence-based project leadership.
The CSAP is a key strategic initiative supporting EC’s Strategy 2028, reflecting the broader movement across Canadian sport toward modernization, accessibility, participant-centered design and long-term sustainability. The project also aligns with recent federal government investments and priorities aimed at modernizing Canadian sport, reducing barriers, and improving participant experiences at all levels.
“The Competition Structure Alignment Project is one of the most significant strategic initiatives currently underway at Equestrian Canada,” said CEO Meg Krueger. “Our competition system has served the sport well for many years, but it must continue to evolve. This review gives us the opportunity to work with the equestrian community to shape a competition system that is relevant, accessible and sustainable for the future. Kristy’s experience leading complex projects and building consensus among diverse stakeholders makes her well suited to guide this work.”
The current national competition framework was introduced in 2008. Over the past 18 years, the sport has experienced significant changes in participant expectations, technology, governance, safe sport, equine welfare and long-term athlete development. The review will examine how the competition system can continue to move forward while building on the strengths of the existing model.
As Project Manager, Kristy will be responsible for:
- leading project planning and coordination
- managing stakeholder engagement across Canada
- reviewing existing competition structures and previous work
- analyzing data and trends
- developing recommendations for the future competition model
- coordinating communications, reporting and implementation
- ensuring timely delivery of project milestones
The project will be supported by Equestrian Canada staff and guided by a steering committee representing Provincial and Territorial Sport Organizations (PTSO), subject matter experts and key stakeholder groups. Throughout the project, Equestrian Canada is committed to an open and collaborative process that will engage athletes, coaches, officials, organizers, owners, breeders, as well as key PTSO and industry partners. The recommendations developed through the review will be informed by consultation, research and evidence, recognizing the diversity of equestrian sport across Canada.
The goals of the CSAP include simplifying the competition system across the country, clarifying roles and responsibilities at all levels, and better aligning our structure with athlete development pathways and stages of learning. Ultimately, this work is about enhancing the experience for athletes and horses, and ensuring our system supports progression, accessibility, and equine welfare at every level.
The project is currently in its planning and discovery phase. Initial work includes reviewing previous studies and existing competition structures, developing stakeholder engagement plans and preparing for consultations that will take place across Canada throughout 2026 and 2027. Implementation is expected to occur in phases beginning in 2028.
A public project roadmap, along with regular project updates, will be released as stakeholder engagement progresses and key milestones are achieved.