12/ FEBRUARY 2026 THE RIDER Celebrating 50 Years of Grey Bruce Horse Day! Horse Day once again


proved to be an incredible day during Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week, delivering a full agenda of practical and relevant equine ed- ucation. As part of the six-day agricultural conference celebrat- ing its 60th anniversary, Horse Day itself marked an impressive milestone—50 years of bringing together horse owners, riders, trainers, and industry profession- als from across the region. The day was packed with


expert-led presentations designed to offer real, take-home value for attendees, alongside generous door prizes—including gift bags, accessories, and treats for both rider and horse—and swag pro- vided by supportive exhibitors and sponsors who filled the room. Horse Day continues to demonstrate why it remains a valued and engaging part of Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week. The morning began with an


in-depth presentation on Equine Dentistry by Dr. Ian Bishop, the second veterinarian in Canada to become


Equine Dentist


a Board-Certified through the


American Veterinary Dental Col- lege. Dr. Bishop walked atten- dees through how a horse’s teeth develop and function, highlight- ing the unique challenges posed by hypsodont teeth and the im- portance of preventative dental care. Using case studies and real- world examples, he explained dental issues and what horse owners should expect during an equine dental appointment. Following this,


lifelong horseman Jim McKague took the


stage with his presentation, Se- lecting and Training Driving Horses. A Canadian Champi- onship winner at the Royal Agri- cultural Winter Fair and member of the Canadian Road Horse Hall of Fame, McKague drew on decades of experience to deliver an interactive and approachable session. Attendees gained insight


into evaluating a horse’s experi- ence before getting started in driving, along with thoughtful considerations around equipment and materials. His presentation offered valuable perspective for new and experienced drivers. After a hearty lunch featur-


ing roast beef, mashed potatoes, turnip, coleslaw, cake, pie - and


Own a Piece of Legacy:


For decades, master saddle maker Don Bailey handcrafted saddles and tack with a level of precision, skill and dedication that is nearly impossible to find today. Now retired Don is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to won the last remaining pieces of his work - each saddle a masterpiece, each piece of tack built with the knowledge of a true horseman. Hand-Tooled Custom Saddles - every saddle bears the mark of a lost art, shaped by the hands of a craftsman who spent his life perfecting his technique. Premium Tack & Leatherwork - Bridles, reins, bits, stirrups, saddle pads. Crafted for durability, designed for the serious rider who knows the difference between mass-produced and handmade. International Quality World-Class Legacy - His saddles have been ridden from Ontario to Italy and beyond. Now you have a chance to own one-whether for riding, collecting or preserving the craft that may never be seen again. A rare opportunity to carry tradition forward. This isn’t just a purchase its an investment in history. As mass-produced saddlery dominates the market, Bailey Saddles stand as one of the last true examples of artisanal craftsmanship.


Call (519) 674-1525 Ian Bishop The Panel Discussion Lisa Wright Lisa Costa


ice cream bars—attendees returned re- freshed for an afternoon presentation by Christine O’Reilly of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness and local veterinarian Dr. Lisa Costa of Geor- gian Bay Equine Veterinary Services, titled Hay(lage) Is for Horses – Sort of, Some- times. The session explored what “haylage” means, with the presentation focused on wrapped hay. O’Reilly discussed key con- siderations around forage production, in- cluding harvest timing, equipment-related risks, and factors that can contribute to soil or air contamination in bales, along with best practices to help reduce those risks. Dr. Costa complemented this with a veterinary perspective, highlighting health considera- tions associated with forage choices, includ- ing botulism risk and prevention, vaccination options, and when haylage may—or may not—be appropriate depend- ing on a horse’s breed, life stage, and health status. Together, the speakers delivered a balanced, practical session that helped at- tendees navigate a complex feeding topic.


Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week Jim McKague


was also pleased to welcome Lisa Wright, a well-known bit educator who shared practical insight into choosing the right bit for both horse and rider. Wright has pre- sented bit seminars across Canada and brings years of hands-on ex- perience from training, competing, coaching, and working with equipment manufacturers. Her presentation focused on how bit choice can vary depending on a horse’s training level, the rider’s experience, and the rules of differ- ent disciplines. Wright discussed the importance of proper fit, ex- plained what can happen when a bit does not fit correctly, and ex- plored how bit action and leverage affect communication with the horse. The session sparked strong discussion, particularly around different bit materials, offering at- tendees a clearer understanding of this important piece of tack. To wrap up the day, attendees


Christine O’Reilly The Panel Discussion


enjoyed the My Favourite Drill panel, which brought together a wide range of training experience and practical take-home ideas. The panel began with Bronwyn and Jason Irwin, hosts of The Horse Trainers TV show airing on The Cowboy Channel Canada and RFD-TV Canada. Bronwyn shared an explanation of when and why to use the one-rein stop, while Jason discussed creating positive associations during train- ing. Next, English riding coach and trainer Jessica Ruppel, who specializes in eventing, shared her “four jumps on a circle” exercise, explaining how it helps horses find rhythm, balance, and a con- sistent canter. Rounding out the panel was Carolyn Aarup, a driv- ing coach with over 25 years of experience in carriage driving and combined driving events in Canada and the United States, who introduced the bowtie driving exercise to improve balance, bend, straightness, and focus. The panel concluded with an engaging ques- tion-and-answer period, ensuring equestrians of all disciplines went home with something to try. With 50 years of Horse Day


now celebrated as part of Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week’s 60-year history, this year’s program high- lighted practical, hands-on equine learning. From expert presenta- tions to open discussion, Horse Day continues to be a place to learn, connect, and feel part of the equine community. The energy in the room made it clear there’s plenty to look forward to at Horse Day 2027.


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