Train with International Grand Prix Rider James Irwin — August 22–23
- ottawaareadressage
- Aug 7
- 2 min read
This August, OADG is bringing something special to our region: a two-day dressage clinic with international Grand Prix rider James (Jaimey) Irwin, presented in partnership with Lord Kehres Dressage. Whether you're in the saddle or in the stands, this is a rare chance to learn from a rider competing at the sport's highest level — right here at home.
Who Is James Irwin?
James Irwin is an international Grand Prix dressage rider and Equestrian Canada High Performance 1 coach who, together with his wife and fellow dressage rider Tina Busse-Irwin, runs Stoney Lake Equestrian. Born and raised in Peterborough, Ontario, James started riding at age six and turned his focus to dressage at sixteen.
He broke into the CDI Grand Prix ranks in 2008 with Devon, and went on to represent Canada at the World Cup Finals in Gothenburg, Sweden, with Lindor's Finest. His next partner, Donegal V, won international classes in Wellington, Florida, and helped carry Canada's team to a Nations Cup gold medal. James is now developing rising Grand Prix talent Flirtfaktor S, and was recently named to Canada's 2026 National Team B Squad and awarded the 2026 Brosda Olympic Bursary in support of his pursuit of Olympic competition.
This is exactly the kind of experience and insight our community has been asking for — and we couldn't be more excited to bring it to Ashland Farms.
What to Expect
The clinic will focus on proper basics and the training scale, with an emphasis on building a solid, correct foundation at every level. James welcomes discussion throughout each session, so riders and auditors alike are encouraged to ask questions and dig into the "why" behind the work.
Dates: August 22–23
Time: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm each day
Location: Ashland Farms, 2262 Derry Side Road, Ashton, ON K0A 1B0
How to Join — Riding Spots
Riding spots are limited, so don't wait to apply. Submit a brief video of you and your horse to lordydressage@gmail.com by August 10. Schedule and rider selection will be announced by August 14.
Cost: $300 + HST/rider, lunch included
How to Join — Auditing
Can't ride but want to watch and learn? Auditors are very welcome. It's a fantastic, low-pressure way to soak up knowledge from an international-level rider.
Cost: $40/person, lunch included
OADG members save $10 — just $30/person
Registration & payment for both riders and auditors is by e-transfer to lordydressage@gmail.com (password: Dressage). Please let Emma know of any dietary restrictions by August 19.
Don't Miss This One
Opportunities to train and audit with a rider of James Irwin's caliber don't come around often — and this one is happening in our own backyard. Whether you're applying to ride or planning to spend a day auditing and soaking it all in, mark your calendar and get your spot secured before August 10.
Questions? Reach out to lordydressage@gmail.com.
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