Hamilton school kids help name police force horse

Hamilton’s newest police horse has a name thanks to local students from two elementary schools.

Students from the grades 4-8 Comprehensive Special Education Class at W.H. Ballard Public School and a grade 1-2 class at St. John the Baptist Catholic Elementary School helped name the Mounted Patrol Unit’s first Clydesdale.

McMaster, also known as ‘Mac,’ stands 18 hands — about six feet — high and is the first draught horse to join the unit. The breed originated in the 17th century, and takes its name from the Clydesdale district of Scotland.

Hamilton police say the name was chosen in recognition of McMaster University and “reflects a strong local connection and celebrates the community McMaster will now help serve.”

“Our Mounted Patrol Unit is an important part of community policing, helping us build trust and meaningful connections across Hamilton,” said Chief Bergen.

“Having students from W.H. Ballard and St. John the Baptist help name McMaster makes his welcome even more special, and we are grateful for their creativity and enthusiasm.”

Police say McMaster will be used for community engagement, police visibility, and public safety at events in parks and throughout city neighbourhoods.

He is currently undergoing extensive training and will be introduced to the community in the coming months.

The winning school classes will celebrate the ‘naming’ news with a pizza party and visit from the Mounted Patrol Unit.

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