Still Time to Join: OADG's Inaugural Polish Your Dressage Youth Clinic on June 13

The Ottawa Area Dressage Group is thrilled to announce that limited spots are still available for the inaugural Polish Your Dressage Youth Clinic, taking place on Saturday, June 13 at Huntleigh Equestrian Centre in west Ottawa. The extended application deadline is Friday, May 23.

This is a first-of-its-kind event for OADG, designed specifically for junior riders (aged 21 and under) who are training in dressage and want to sharpen their skills with top-level guidance.

What the day looks like

Riders will work with clinician Armand Valkenborg, a Canadian High Performance 1 Coach with over 40 years of experience and six Canadian Equestrian Team long- and short-listings. As a junior and young rider coach, Armand has guided students to NAJYRC and NAYC medals, most recently a Team Bronze at the 2022 North American Youth Championships. He brings that same standard of coaching to every rider he works with, regardless of level.

The clinic format includes private and semi-private riding lessons throughout the day, so each rider gets focused, individualized feedback.

Over the lunch break, the group will come together for a one-hour mental performance session led by Emma Watson, an apprentice Mental Performance Consultant (BHK Education & Coaching, MHK Mental Performance Consulting). Emma's session will focus on self-talk and competition worries, two topics that every rider, young or experienced, can relate to. Her approach is strength-based and collaborative, helping athletes identify what's already working and build from there. Emma has worked with athletes across Softball Ontario, Ringette Canada, CHEO, and the Ottawa Senators Women's Hockey Club, and she brings a warm, grounded style that makes it easy to open up and learn.

This isn't a lecture. It's a practical, interactive session that gives riders real tools they can use at their next show and beyond.

Who can participate

The clinic is open to junior OADG members aged 21 and under who are actively training in dressage. A limited number of riding spots remain, so interested riders should apply soon.

Lesson fees are $30 for semi-private lessons and $50 for private lessons.

To apply, complete the Rider Application Form by May 23, 2026.

Come watch

Can't ride but want to see what it's all about? Auditors are welcome and encouraged! Watching a clinic like this is one of the best ways to learn, whether you're a rider, a parent, or a coach.

Auditor fees are $20 for OADG members and $30 for non-members (Lunch is included.), payable by e-transfer to OttawaAreaDressageGroup@gmail.com.Please include your name and "Armand" in the transfer message.

Why this clinic matters

OADG has a long history of supporting dressage education in the Ottawa area, and this clinic marks a new chapter: dedicated programming for the next generation of riders. Combining high-calibre riding instruction with mental performance training reflects the kind of well-rounded development that helps young athletes thrive, in the ring and out of it.

For full event details, visit the OADG event page.