Spruce Meadows president and CEO Linda Southern-Heathcott expressed deep gratitude after the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame announced the Southern family as a recipient of the Order of Sport Awards: Legacy Edition. The award, titled Generations of Impact, recognizes the family's enduring contribution to Canadian sport.
A Family Legacy Honored
Founded by Ron and Marg Southern, Spruce Meadows has become a world-renowned show jumping venue. Their daughters, Nancy and Linda, along with their families, have continued the tradition. Linda Southern-Heathcott emphasized that this award is not just another accolade but a meaningful acknowledgment of their family's dedication.
“It’s pretty special,” said Southern-Heathcott. “Nancy and I inherited not just what mom and dad built but the responsibility of continuing it on in a successful way. To be acknowledged is very, very special to me. It recognizes the effort of the family and the commitment of the family to sport.”
The family matriarch, Marg Southern, now 95, remains a source of pride and inspiration. “She always says she’s proud of Nancy and I and what we’re doing,” Southern-Heathcott added. “Nancy is in the forefront with the corporate and a champion of Canada. My position is somewhat quieter, but equally championing Canada and what we have.”
The Value of Sport
Southern-Heathcott reflected on the broader importance of sport in personal development. “Sport grounds people. I believe people need to learn to lose. Not being successful is the strongest way to be better. You have to go back to the basics. Just building upon that; the recognition comes after that.”
Spruce Meadows Summer Showcase
The 51st season of Spruce Meadows is underway, with the National tournament taking place this week. Despite the typical Calgary rain, the event features world-class show jumping and a variety of attractions. The RBC Grand Prix is the highlight of the weekend, drawing top riders from around the globe.
Competitors include Canadian riders Amy Millar and Nicole Walker, Irishman Conor Swail, Brits Robert Whitaker and Donald Whitaker, Australia's Rowan Willis, and New Zealand's Katie Laurie.
Beyond Equestrian Sport
Spruce Meadows has evolved into a multi-faceted venue. This summer, the Scotiabank Stage will host concerts by Dallas Smith and Maren Morris. A new partnership with Barbie offers special giveaways and interactive experiences, including a screening of the Barbie movie. The $20,000 Best Dress Pink Contest awards cash prizes for the boldest pink outfits on Saturday and Sunday.
Other attractions include roller skating at the Horizons Pavilion, both indoors and outdoors, and the launch of the latest Spruce Meadows and Marvel comic book series. On Saturday, the ChangemakeHER Forum will feature a panel discussion with inspiring women, including Nancy Southern, Helen Antoniou, Catriona Le May Doan, Marika Sila, and Jane Wachowich.
