Curry captures Grand Prix title as Winter Fair wraps

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This article was published 07/04/2025 (192 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Kate Curry and her horse, Irvine, stole the spotlight Saturday evening, claiming victory in the Grand Prix show jumping finale at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair.

The co-owner of Curry Stables in Stonewall, Man., Curry rode Irvine to an electrifying win in front of a roaring crowd at the Keystone Centre — a repeat performance of their 2023 success.

“I’m so proud of my horse. He jumped fantastic tonight, and it’s such a wonderful feeling,” Curry told the Sun. “I’m competitive. I want to come here and do as well as I can. And it’s always good to win the final one — it’s like icing on the cake.”

As Curry and Irvine cleared the final jumps, the audience applauded not only the winners but every competitor in the field. The atmosphere inside the arena was electric as spectators cheered on the horses and riders, celebrating the skill and determination that defined the marquee event.

Young talent was also recognized Saturday, with Sophia Bieber taking home this year’s fair scholarship.

Bieber, who competed throughout the week as a rider, called the experience unforgettable.

“It means a lot to me,” Bieber said. “I’ve been coming to the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair since I was little and being able to compete here and then win a scholarship — it’s honestly such an honour.”

Bieber said the fair is more than just a competition.

“It’s the community, the support, and the atmosphere,” she said. “The crowd was so encouraging, and it really pushes you to do your best.”

The fair’s closing day capped a busy week of competitions, exhibitions and community celebrations.

The week-long event was attended by about 70,000 people, solidifying the fair’s place as one of Manitoba’s premier spring traditions, Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba president Clint Swain told the Sun at the event.

“We’re very, very happy. It’s another full house tonight, so what a way to send off the 2025 Royal Manitoba Winter Fair,” Swain said. “We were averaging about 10,000 people a day, and some days were even higher. We could reach that 70,000 mark, which would be up from last year.”

Swain said organizers were already looking ahead to 2026, exploring ways to enhance the fair’s entertainment and cultural offerings.

“One thing we added this year was an extra component to the opening ceremonies,” he said. “Tonight, we had drummers and Indigenous dancers with us. Last night, we had the Crocus Plains drumline come in. It’s those little things that make it a bit more unique.”

Volunteers were also honoured during the closing ceremonies. Swain said volunteers are the backbone of the event.

“We can’t do this without them,” he said. “Their dedication is what keeps the fair running smoothly and creates such a welcoming environment for everyone.”

With the final ribbons awarded and the crowds heading home, Curry said she will carry the memories of this year’s fair — and her Grand Prix victory — well into next season.

“The whole week has been wonderful,” she said. “All of our clients and horses have gone great, and the show’s been run beautifully. The organizers have done a great job, and it’s just been a fantastic experience all around.”

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