Horse Council BC was sad to hear of the passing of great local horseman, David Esworthy on December 19th. Our deepest condolences to the Esworthy family during this difficult time.

“Described as a consummate horseman, Esworthy has served in virtually every role possible in his sport: as a rider, judge, steward, horseshow organizer, horseshow chair, and industry advisor.

David stands as one of only two Canadian Federation Equestrian Internationale (FEI) stewards who held tickets in all three Olympic disciplines. Serving as an FEI international judge for many years in some of the world’s most prestigious events, he also taught judging clinics and exams around the world. He also assisted in the preparations for equestrian events at both the 1976 and 1984 Olympic Games.

Closer to home, from 1968-77 Esworthy served as chair of the BC zone of the National Equestrian Federation of Canada, while also serving as vice-president of the national body. At the same time, he served as a director on the Canadian Horse Council and found himself at the centre of the greatest restructuring in Canadian equestrian history when the two organizations combined. Esworthy emerged as president of the newly-formed Canadian Equestrian Federation (now Equine Canada), serving in that capacity until 1984 and as chairman from 1984-91. One of his greatest accomplishments was writing the new organization’s constitution and bylaws, which included clauses for the formation of stronger provincial organizations.


Perhaps Esworthy’s biggest impact is the countless individuals he mentored in BC, Canada, and beyond, who themselves have gone on to become accomplished athletes, officials, and administrators.” – Excerpt taken from the article written and researched by Jason Beck, Curator of the BC Sports Hall of Fame.
David is survived by his son Philip David Esworthy, and his granddaughter, Patricia.

He was predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Patricia.

A memorial service will be held on February 6th, 2016 at 1:00pm in the riding arena at 1036 208 Street, Langley, BC.