Karyn Drake, who has ridden Quick Six the Touchdown Horse at Stampeders games for 23 years, will be honoured at halftime of Friday’s home-opener against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

After more than two decades of carrying the Canadian flag on a lap around McMahon Stadium during the pre-game anthem and celebrating Calgary touchdowns with a dash down the sideline, Karyn has announced her retirement as the touchdown horse rider.

“The sight of Karyn racing down the sidelines after a Stamps touchdown is one of the most iconic traditions in the CFL,” said Stampeders president and general manager John Hufnagel. “Karyn and Quick Six have long been an important part of the team and we can’t thank Karyn enough for her years of service and the thrills she has provided for our fans.”

Karyn will be replaced by her daughter Chelsea, who will be riding a new Quick Six horse in 2016. The familiar white mustang who has been at Stamps games for the past 12 years is enjoying a well-deserved retirement on the Drake family ranch.

In addition to riding at more than 200 Stamps home games over the years, Karyn has represented the team at eight Grey Cups including Calgary victories in 1998, 2001, 2008 and 2014.