Who says unicorns don’t exist? Lake of Bays has one of its very own

It’s not something you see every day…or ever.

You’re driving down the road and there, in a field: a unicorn.

It’s the stuff of fairy tales, and Nancy Tapley, co-owner of Bondi Village cottage resort, is happy to provide this little bit of whimsy and magic for guests at the resort and those who happen to pass by. To a one, they are delighted to meet Snowbird the unicorn.

“To get her unicorn status, the pony must complete an extensive series of tests, among them patience, great manners, cheerfulness,” said Tapley, “When she passes the tests, she qualifies for her colours. Since they are magical creatures, our trade secrets remain! She even has a certificate on her stall attesting to her completion of Unicorn School.”

Tapley has owned horses for more than 50 years and competed as a rider internationally. She is a High Performance Coach, certified with NCCP, and has coached riders to medals at the North American Young Riders Championships. For five years she was also coach of the Paralympic Equestrian Team, and travelled with the team to the World Championships in Denmark, the Europeans in Portugal and the Paralympic Games in Atlanta in 1996.

Snowbird also has an extensive background in competitions. She has been to the Royal Winter Fair, been in various hunter/jumper shows, horse trials, and the Pony Club Games.

Snowbird’s latest role as unicorn has made her a popular attraction at the resort, which Tapley’s family has owned since 1905, especially with kids.

“She takes children staying at the resort for rides and they are so excited to ride her,” said Tapley. “One even brought her stuffed unicorn along, and several wear unicorn shirts for the occasion. Snowbird enjoys making their dreams come true, and we enjoy them telling us all about unicorns.”

Last weekend, Snowbird was a therapy horse for a session with True Presence Horse Sense, which provides experiential workshops with horses, and will continue working for them in the future.

Tapley says that since her stable is on a busy road, Fox Point Road in Dwight, many cars and cottagers have been stopping to have a visit with Snowbird. She has been happy to oblige.

“Snowbird will continue to enchant children as long as she is able,” said Tapley. “She is retired from showing, but loves people and loves to have a purpose.”

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