TJ Stables in Chatham is once again being recognized for innovation in tourism for its ‘Awaken Your Spirit’ Ojibwe Spirit Horse encounter.
As part of the Southern Ontario Tourism Conference, TJ Stables won the Southwestern Ontario Tourism Corporation (SWOTC) 2021 Innovative Experience of the Year award, Municipal officials say.
The announcement was made in London at the annual conference this week.
The experience launched last June and allows for a unique opportunity to learn about First Nations and Metis cultures while being among the historic Ojibwe Spirit Horses, Municipal officials say.
“We truly are honoured to be presented with this award,” said Terry Jenkins, co-owner, TJ Stables, in a media release.
“These little ponies have so much to share and we are humbled to be able to be a part of something so unique. Incredible thanks to the team at Chatham-Kent Tourism, the Southwestern Ontario Tourism Corporation (SWOTC) and Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO) for guiding us through the creation of the experience.”
Shannon Paiva, Supervisor, Tourism Development, Municipality of Chatham-Kent, says they are proud of Jenkins and her entire team at TJ Stables.
“Their hard work and dedication are what lead to this award,” Paiva said, in a media release.
“If you haven’t had the opportunity yet to experience this unique-to-Canada tourism offering, we highly recommend it. They are truly deserving of this prestigious honour. This special experience offers exactly what we strive for in Community, Attraction and Promotion, promoting all we have to offer in Chatham-Kent.”
In October, TJ Stables was awarded the Indigenous Tourism Award for Innovation at the Tourism Association of Ontario Summit (TIAO) for the same experience.
