GVSHOF 2024 Inductee: Liz Ashton

BUILDER

Liz started riding ponies at 9 years old, and rose through the ranks representing Canada in show jumping. She went on to attain multiple international titles, and by 1972 rose to a 3rd ranking in the world. She switched disciplines from show jumping to eventing winning a Team Silver medal at the 1975 Pan American Games. In 1976, Equine Canada named Liz “Canadian Horsewoman of the Year” and in 1978 she was Captain of Canada’s Gold medal winning team at the World Championships. She also represented Canada at two Olympic Games.

Liz helped pioneer Canada’s Equestrian Coaching Certification Program, served as the Athlete Representative on the Canadian Olympic Committee and was Director of the Canadian Equestrian Team. In 1992, the Governor General presented Liz with the prestigious 125th Anniversary of the Confederation Medal in recognition of her contributions to Canadian sport.

Liz also had a notable academic career and completed her PhD in Education Administration at the University of Texas. In 1994, she was appointed President of Camosun College and under her vision, the Pacific Institute for Sports Excellence was created.

Liz sat on numerous community boards including President of the Victoria 2000 Summer Games. She received numerous awards for her service including the Queen Elizabeth Golden Jubilee medal, Honorary Doctorate of Laws from Royal Roads University, and the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers.

More at: https://www.gvshof.ca