Equestrian Canada 

Our heartfelt condolences are extended to the family and friends of Michael Gallagher of Codys, New Brunswick, who passed away at the age of 68 on September 1, 2022, following a lengthy illness. 

Gallagher will be remembered for his dedication to and leadership in equestrian sport in Canada and on the international stage, where he served as a competitor, coach, horse show organizer, judge, and technical delegate. He also served in many executive positions in numerous equestrian organizations throughout his lifetime. He proudly and enthusiastically held roles with the Canadian Equestrian Team at international competitions including Team Leader and Chef d’équipe for 2004 (Athens) and 2008 (Beijing) Olympic Games, Chef de Mission at the 2006 World Equestrian Games (Aachen), and Team Leader Equestrian at the 2007 Pan American Games (Rio de Janiero). In 2009, Gallagher was named president of Equestrian Canada. 

Gallagher was born May 3, 1954, in Brampton, Ontario. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 44 years, Alison; his 91-year-old mother, Dolores; daughter Denielle and son Adam, and many grandchildren. 

Canadian equestrians are grateful for the lifetime commitment Gallagher gave to equestrian sport in Canada. Beyond our borders, his contributions to the equestrian world were far reaching. Gallagher leaves behind a notable legacy, will be fondly remembered and greatly missed in our equestrian community. 

“We were devastated to hear about the passing of Mike Gallagher. Throughout his life, Mike was a passionate leader, supporter and advocate for equestrian activity, and he was actively involved in all aspects of the sport, whether coaching students, supporting high performance athletes, or leading and governing both provincial and national equestrian sport organizations. We stand beside our friends at the FEI in recognizing the legacy Mike leaves behind, not only for equestrian sport and industry in Canada, but for equestrian sport worldwide. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and to those he worked with and cared for across the country,” Meg Krueger, CEO, Equestrian Canada. 

Photo: Mike Gallagher. Courtesy of Equestrian Canada