09/18/2025
JOHN AND KAREN INDUCTED INTO CANADIAN HACKNEY SOCIETY HALL OF FAME
Carleton Place, Ontario – The legacy of John and Karen Brunton, a couple whose lives have been deeply intertwined with the world of Hackney ponies and road horses, has been cemented with their recent induction into the Canadian Hackney Society Hall of Fame. Their passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the sport have shaped generations of equestrians, making them an integral part of Canada’s equestrian community.
One of their most celebrated ponies, Seventh Heaven, was truly a horse of a lifetime. Owned by the Bruntons for his entire life, he played a pivotal role in their journey. His impact on the Hackney breed extended beyond the show ring, as he went on to sire numerous champions, solidifying his legacy in the equestrian world. In 2019, Seventh Heaven was rightfully inducted into the Canadian Hackney Society Hall of Fame. Now, five years later, John and Karen Brunton join him in this prestigious honor.
A LIFELONG PASSION FOR HORSES
John and Karen’s love for horses was passed down from their parents. John was raised in the show world alongside his parents, Arnold and Eunice Brunton, showcasing renowned road horses like Effective Scott, Effective Kevin, Coverly Bud, Majestic Blue, and Cameo’s Superstar. Meanwhile, Karen grew up showing a six-horse hitch of Clydesdales with her parents, Warren and Marlow Campbell.
Married on May 3, 1975, John and Karen built their home in Carleton Place, Ontario, where they continued the family tradition.
Despite careers outside the equestrian world—John as a flooring installer and Karen with Ontario Hydro—their true passion lay with their horses. They started their own show string, beginning with Cambridge Keys Performer, and expanded their involvement in the Hackney and road horse communities.
A FAMILY TRADITION CONTINUES
Their love for horses was passed down to their children, Rae Ann (born in 1979) and Greg (born in 1983). From an early age, both children embraced the show world. A defining moment came when Rae Ann received a Christmas gift that every horse-loving child dreams of—a pony named Sedore’s Dainty Sensation, which she and Greg showed in leadline, parade pony, and showmanship classes.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the Bruntons built a formidable reputation in the show ring. Notable additions to their show string included High and Mighty Sir Echo, Dunhaven, Wing Command, Joan of Arc, and Debonnaires Moonraker. However, a pivotal moment in their breeding program came in 1984 with the purchase of Sedore’s Carnation Cadenza. This mare, bred to Dun-Haven Crescendo, produced two foals—one of which was the legendary Seventh Heaven, born in 1991.
Seventh Heaven enjoyed a stellar but brief career before retiring to stud, where he sired champions such as Calvin Hobbs, Hopkins, One More Time, and Visions and Dreams.
A key part of Seventh Heaven's success was the partnership between John and Karen and fellow equestrians Tom and Jean Oxley, who provided exceptional care for the celebrated stallion.
DECADES OF DEDICATION
Beyond their personal accomplishments, John and Karen have contributed significantly to the broader equestrian community. John has served as both a director and president of the Canadian Hackney Society and the Canadian Road Horse Association. Karen, meanwhile, has been instrumental in the Ottawa Valley Light Horse Association as the Horse Show Secretary.
Their commitment to the sport continues through their grandchildren, Reid, Sheridan, and Sadie, ensuring that the Brunton family legacy endures. Even today, Brunton Stables remains a cornerstone of the Hackney world, producing 3-5 foals annually. Visitors often stop by to admire the young ponies at play, a testament to the thriving tradition John and Karen have nurtured.
CHAMPIONS ON AND OFF THE FIELD
Among their most recent accomplishments, in 2019 John showed Precious Cargo, a third-generation Brunton-bred pony, to multiple championships. The pony claimed the titles of Royal Canadian Owned Roadster Pony Champion, Royal Canadian Hackney Roadster Pony Champion, and was honored as the 2019 Hackney Show Pony of the Year by Equestrian Canada.
Through their decades of dedication, expert horsemanship, and commitment to excellence, John and Karen Brunton have left an indelible mark on the Hackney and road horse communities. As they take their rightful place in the Canadian Hackney Society Hall of Fame, their story continues to inspire future generations of equestrians.
A LASTING LEGACY
Their journey began with a shared love of horses, and their impact now spans multiple generations. The Bruntons’ story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep-seated love for the sport—a legacy that will live on in the hearts of horse enthusiasts across Canada and beyond.
