The Duchess of Edinburgh to attend events in Alberta, including a stop at
Spruce Meadows
Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Duchess Sophie will travel to Canada next
month, marking a visit steeped in royal tradition once upheld by the late
Queen Elizabeth.
The Duchess, 60, will be in Alberta on 4 September for a series of
engagements, including a visit to Spruce Meadows, where she serves as patron.
The role is especially significant this year as the venue celebrates its 50th
anniversary. President and CEO Linda Southern-Heathcott praised Sophie’s
leadership and dedication, calling her patronage “a true gift” as Spruce
Meadows expands into a full-scale sports and entertainment district.
Sophie’s connection to the venue goes back nearly two decades, having visited
with her husband, Prince Edward, in 2006. She has long supported equestrian
events, holding roles such as Royal Vice President of the Royal Windsor Horse
Show and President of the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials.
The visit will also carry a historical note: Queen Elizabeth toured Spruce
Meadows in 1990, while Sophie herself last visited Canada in 2023. This year’s
trip is set to reinforce her growing role as a senior royal and her continued
support of equestrian sport on the world stage.
