Record-Breaking Year for Spurs and Sparkles 2026 Presented by RBC

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Spurs, Sparkles and a Whole Lot of Horsepower!

What happens when you mix show jumping, soccer, golf carts and a whole lot of sparkle? You get Spurs & Sparkles — and, wow, what a night!

On Wednesday, August 12, a SOLD-OUT crowd of 500 guests gathered at Wesley Clover Parks for the fifth annual Spurs & Sparkles fundraiser in support of Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation. Co-chaired by Karen Sparks and Catherine McLaughlin, the evening delivered plenty of heart, horsepower and healthy competition — all in support of an important cause.

The night’s biggest surprise came from Team FACES Magazine, as Quinn Valters, Atlético Ottawa player Manny Aparicio and Canadian show jumper Dylan Munro raced their way to first place in the wildly popular Get Up and Gallop competition. Their winning ride came after a hilarious, high-energy showdown featuring horses, soccer challenges and golf carts tackling an obstacle course. Let’s just say there was plenty of very creative driving!

Presented by RBC, the event raised an incredible $201,250 to support the top priorities at Queensway Carleton Hospital.

And, of course, there was no shortage of friendly competition. Team Terlin, led by Terry McLaughlin, galloped into second place — just four seconds behind the winners. Team Cityscape, led by brothers Will and Daniel Aiello, made an impressive leap from second-last place in 2025 to claim third. The course brought out determination, athleticism and some truly imaginative driving techniques.

For QCH Foundation, Spurs & Sparkles is about much more than a great night out. It’s about bringing our community together, celebrating the people who make our region so special and raising funds that help make a difference for patients and their families.

Thank you to everyone who brought the sparkle, embraced the competition and helped make Spurs & Sparkles a night to remember!