Passing the Reins: Thunderbird Show Park Enters a New Era

LANGLEY, BC – March 24, 2026 – After more than half a century under the visionary stewardship of the Tidball family, Thunderbird Show Park, a cornerstone of Canadian equestrian sport, is set to begin a new chapter. In a historic transition announced today, ownership of the world-class venue will pass from the founding Tidballs to the Mathesons, another local Langley family with deep roots in the community's business and sporting fabric.

The change marks a significant moment for the 83-acre facility, which has evolved from a family passion project into one of North America's most respected equestrian destinations. However, both families have emphasized that this new era is built upon a foundation of continuity and a shared mission to preserve the park’s cherished values of fair sport, exceptional service, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.

All current operations, including the full 2026 tournament schedule featuring the prestigious Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup™ of Canada, will proceed without interruption. The existing management team, led by CEO Chris Pack, will also remain in place, ensuring a seamless transition for competitors, sponsors, and spectators alike.

A Legacy Honored, A Future Secured

For 53 years, the Tidball name has been synonymous with Thunderbird Show Park, or 'tbird' as it is affectionately known. The journey began in 1973, and under the leadership of George, Dianne, and later their daughter Jane Tidball, the park grew into an international powerhouse. The family’s dedication was recognized with their induction into the BC Sports Hall of Fame in 2017.

In passing the torch, the family sought successors who understood the park's soul. "tbird has been a labour of love for our family for 53 years," said Jane Tidball. "As we look to the future, we knew new owners must share our commitment to Langley and passion for this sport. In the Mathesons, we have found exactly that."

This sentiment was echoed by tbird's CEO. "The Mathesons share the same values and ethics as the Tidballs," Chris Pack affirmed, highlighting the new owners' commitment to the park's heritage. A key part of this legacy is the 'George & Dianne Tidball Legacy Scholarship Program,' which the Mathesons have pledged to continue. Furthermore, the Tidball family's presence will continue to grace the grounds, with accomplished riders Laura Balisky (née Tidball) and Laura Jane Tidball remaining active in the ring and ringside.

The Vision of a New Steward

Stepping into this legacy is Dana Matheson, a well-known BC entrepreneur and sports executive, along with his wife, Laurel. The Mathesons are no strangers to tbird, having been longstanding sponsors and competitors. Their daughter is a high-level rider, and Laurel runs Cedar Ridge Equestrian, making their connection to the sport deeply personal.

Dana Matheson brings a formidable track record of business and sports management success. As the former president and CEO of C&D Logistics, he was named one of Business in Vancouver's "Forty Under 40" in 2016 and the George Preston Business Person of the Year in Langley in 2017. His leadership extends across multiple sports franchises, including co-ownership of the Langley Rivermen junior hockey team and presidency of the Langley Rams junior football club, which has secured national championships under his guidance.

"Our family is passionate about Langley, about tbird, and about horses," said Dana Matheson. "Our goal is to carry the torch forward and ensure tbird is around for many more decades."

While preserving the park's core identity, Matheson’s vision includes strategic enhancements to elevate the experience for all. Plans are already in motion to develop a year-round, high-end steakhouse and winery concept on the property, aiming to transform the park into a gastronomic destination and attract a broader audience. The goal is to enhance the spectator experience, making every visit to tbird a memorable event, whether for a seasoned equestrian fan or a local family looking for a unique outing.

More Than a Venue: A Community Cornerstone

Thunderbird Show Park is a vital economic engine and cultural hub for its community, proudly situated in the Township of Langley, the “Horse Capital of BC.” A 2019 economic impact report revealed that a single event, the Nations Cup, generated $14.2 million in economic activity for the region. Annually, the park welcomes 7,500 horses and distributes over $3 million in prize money, drawing competitors and visitors from around the globe and bolstering local tourism and businesses.

Matheson's community-centric business philosophy, honed through his leadership of local sports teams and charitable initiatives, aligns perfectly with the park's role. His ambition extends beyond top-tier competition to include greater community engagement and accessibility. This includes exploring opportunities for lower-level competitions and development pathways to welcome new generations of riders into the sport, reinforcing tbird's role in nurturing talent from the grassroots to the grand prix level.

Upholding a World-Class Standard

In the competitive landscape of North American equestrian sport, Thunderbird Show Park stands shoulder-to-shoulder with legendary venues like Calgary's Spruce Meadows and Florida's World Equestrian Center. Its reputation is built on meticulously maintained grounds, world-class footing, and an unwavering commitment to improvement.

The transition in ownership is poised to reinforce this standing. With a new steward dedicated to both honoring tradition and investing in the future, the park is well-positioned for continued growth. While immediate priorities focus on enhancing the spectator and community experience, long-term ambitions could include securing the sponsorship necessary to return to 5* competition status, the highest level of international show jumping.

For the global equestrian community, the message is one of stability and bright prospects. The seamless handover ensures that a venue celebrated for its quality and character will not only endure but thrive. As one family's half-century legacy is entrusted to another, Thunderbird Show Park is ready to canter confidently into its next 50 years, continuing its story as a jewel of Canadian sport.