Empty saddles: the RCMP's recruitment crisis is threatening the celebrated Musical Ride

It's one of the RCMP's — and arguably one of Canada's — most recognizable symbols: a Mountie in the red serge uniform riding a horse. But behind the scenes, the Musical Ride is plagued with low morale and disinterest, threatening the iconic program's future, according to an RCMP audit.

Empty saddles: the RCMP's recruitment crisis is threatening the celebrated Musical Ride
Charge! Officers dip their lances as 32 the black Hanoverian horses rush forward.

It's one of the RCMP's — and arguably one of Canada's — most recognizable symbols: a Mountie in the red serge uniform riding a horse. But behind the scenes, the Musical Ride is plagued with low morale and disinterest, threatening the iconic program's future, according to an RCMP audit.