Contributors

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Ian Allison

Ian Allison is the longtime voice of Spruce Meadows. With a career spanning over four decades, Ian has been at the heart of Spruce Meadows since its earliest days, serving as its Senior Vice President and a trusted steward of its story.


Known for his deep knowledge of equestrian sport, engaging presence behind the mic, and unwavering commitment to the Spruce Meadows mission, Ian has played a central role in bringing the venue’s events to life for audiences around the world.


As host of the podcast From the Ground Up, Ian draws on his firsthand experience and personal relationships with the Southern family, athletes, and partners to share the stories that built one of the world’s premier sporting venues from the ground up.

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Linda Southern-Heathcott

Linda Southern-Heathcott is the President & CEO of Spruce Meadows and a driving force behind its evolution into one of the world’s premier show jumping venues. As a former Olympic rider and lifelong advocate for sport, Linda blends her passion for equestrian excellence with strategic leadership. Under her guidance, Spruce Meadows has expanded its global reach, diversified its offerings, and remained true to its founding values of family, community, and international sport. She continues to champion innovation and long-term vision at every level of the organization.

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Nancy Southern

Nancy Southern is Chair & CEO of ATCO Ltd. and Canadian Utilities Limited, overseeing strategic direction and operations across both companies. She is also Executive VP of Spruce Meadows and serves on multiple boards, including AKITA Drilling and the Rideau Hall Foundation. A strong advocate for Indigenous rights and women in business, she was named an Honorary Chief of the Kainai Nation in 2012. Ms. Southern is a member of the Business Council of Canada, the Trilateral Commission, and the University of Calgary School of Public Policy Advisory Council. Her many honors include the Alberta Order of Excellence, the Patriot Award from True Patriot Love, and recognition from Fortune and Maclean’s as one of Canada’s most influential leaders. She holds multiple honorary degrees and was named a Companion in the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in 2017.