The team is looking to stirrup plenty of community support this summer.

The Foothills County Riding Team is preparing for a busy summer parade season, beginning with the annual Diamond Valley Parade on Saturday.

The team includes riders from a range of backgrounds, including law enforcement, health care and education. Twelve riders are expected to represent the Foothills in Diamond Valley before the group turns its attention to the Calgary Stampede Parade in early July.

Kelly Hamzic, a longtime organizer and 15-year member of the team, said the group is built around volunteer commitment and a shared interest in representing the region at community events.

Hamzic said the Diamond Valley entry will be larger than most equine groups in this year’s parade, with the team bringing about a dozen horses. She selects riders each year for appearances at regional events, including the Diamond Valley Parade, Santa Claus Parade, Okotoks Parade, Calgary Stampede Parade and Little Britches Parade.

The Little Britches Parade was cancelled in mid-May because of weather, making Diamond Valley the team’s first summer parade of 2026.

After Diamond Valley, the team is scheduled to appear in the Calgary Stampede Parade. Hamzic said horse entries for that parade are now invitational, with a limited number chosen each year.

Team members volunteer their time and cover their own costs, including travel, lodging, horse stabling, food and fuel. Hamzic said one participant travels from the Edmonton area to ride with the group.

Hamzic encouraged residents to attend the summer parades and support the local riders as they represent the Foothills across southern Alberta.