Welcome to
Heart of the Horse
Thank You for an Incredible Heart of the Horse 2026
What an unforgettable weekend! Thank you to our trainers, competitors, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, and every single person who joined us and helped make Heart of the Horse 2026 so special. We’re already looking forward to what’s next. Stay tuned for our 2027 dates and event announcements. Join our email list to be the first to know when Heart of the Horse returns.
An Event Unlike Any Other
Our Vision: To Honour and Showcase the Horse
"My dream for Heart of the Horse is to showcase the remarkable ability and unlimited potential of both horse and trainer. I want the world to see how inspiring and how deeply horses can impact us. They reveal our true selves and have an incredible way of teaching, helping, and healing us. I want to share all the ways they make us better and spread knowledge from those who have mastered a deeper level of horsemanship. My hope is to inspire connection so that we can all grow as students of the horse."
— Niki Flundra
Heart of the Horse is a first-class production designed to recognize the heart and incredible abilities of both horse and trainer. It’s a celebration of the true art of horsemanship through our signature colt-starting competition and inspiring demonstrations to spread knowledge and understanding.
The 2026 Heart of the Horse takes place August 21st–23rd at the Cypress Centre in Medicine Hat, Alberta. This premier venue provides the perfect setting for top-notch entertainment, western lifestyle shopping, and the exciting Canada’s Top Ranch Horse Competition. Whether you're a lifelong horse enthusiast or new to the world of horsemanship, Heart of the Horse offers something for everyone to enjoy!
What Makes HOTH Special
Incredible Colts
Our trainers have years of experience working with horses and riders of all levels. Watching them connect with and train their colts over multiple days is an experience any horseman or woman would revere!
Western Shopping
The heart of the Horse Trade Show is the chance to gather, shop, and celebrate Western culture all in one place. Discover standout Western fashion, unique gifts, handcrafted goods from local artists, and quality items that reflect the spirit and lifestyle of the horse community.
Beautiful Facility
Our state-of-the-art facility offers top-notch amenities for both horses and riders, including indoor and outdoor riding arenas, spacious stalls, and scenic trails.
Presented by Aura Wellness
Heart of the Horse 2026 is proud to be presented by Aura Wellness, whose commitment to innovation, horse health, and the western lifestyle helps make this event possible. Together, we're bringing the equine community an unforgettable weekend of education, inspiration, and connection.
Learn Liberty
with Niki Flundra
Deepen the connection, communication, and trust you share with your horse through Beyond the Bridle, an online foundational Liberty training course created by Heart of the Horse founder Niki Flundra. Learn Niki’s approach step by step, from wherever you and your horse call home.
HOTH Promo 2024
Cloverdale Rodeo 2015 - Niki Flundra-Unbridled
Niki Flundra - Unbridled
“I have attended every year of the Heart of the Horse. What an incredible experience! In comparison to all the other colt starting events I have been to, this is by far the best. It is easy to see that the event is designed with the horse in mind.
I would highly recommend this event!"
Tara Powell
“I went to my first Heart of the Horse I got goosebumps! It spoke to my Heart!
The Colt starting competition isn’t the only thing to watch during the weekend. They have demos, vendors & an exciting night show.
Thank you for an incredible job of putting on an educational, entertaining unforgettable event. I don’t want to miss another one!"
Eve Ericson
"The events and clinics at Heart of the Horse are always informative and fun. We've learned so much and made some great friends along the way."
The Stewart Family
"The essential joy of being with horses is that it brings us in contact with the rare elements of grace, beauty, spirit, and fire."
— Sharon Ralls Lemon