ROAD TO THE HORSE ANNOUNCES JASON IRWIN AS FINAL 2026 WILD CARD COMPETITOR

Road to the Horse returns to the Kentucky Horse Park, March 19–22, 2026, bringing the excitement, tradition, and world-class horsemanship that have defined the event for more than two decades. At the heart of the event is the Wild Card Competition—showcasing a diverse array of talented horsemen and horsewomen from different backgrounds and experiences, each displaying their unique approach to horsemanship and their ability to build a strong partnership with a colt.

Road to the Horse is proud to announce Canadian horseman Jason Irwin as the final Road to the Horse 2026 Wild Card Competitor. Irwin joins Wild Card competitors Sadie Fisher (USA), Tiffany McLaury (USA), and Rob Leach (AUST), completing the roster of four competitors who will compete for a sought-after position in the Road to the Horse 2026 World Championship competition. With his selection, the complete Wild Card lineup is now officially set.

“I’m excited to be a Wild Card competitor at Road to the Horse 2026 and look forward to demonstrating my techniques and style of colt starting, It’s a thrill and honor to be a part of this great event.”

– JASON IRWIN

“We love when Road to the Horse brings together outstanding horsemen and women from across borders with diverse backgrounds. Jason’s talent, feel, and international perspective make him an exciting addition to the 2026 Wild Card competition,”

– TINA BATTOCK
PRESIDENT OF MORRIS EQUINE GROUP

Irwin is a respected horse trainer and clinician based in Ontario, Canada. He is the co-founder of Jason and Bronwyn Irwin Horsemanship and has built his career teaching riders and developing horses across North America and Canada. Jason’s specialty lies in starting young horses. His horsemanship blends practical, confidence-building methods with an emphasis on clear communication and a strong foundation.

The Wild Card Competition will feature four talented colt starters, each vying for the opportunity to advance to the World Championship stage. We will be revealing one new competitor each week until all four are announced. Together, the four Wild Cards will bring diverse backgrounds, styles, and horsemanship philosophies to the Road to the Horse round pen.

About Road to the Horse:

March 19 – 22, 2026 – Lexington, Kentucky

Founded in 2003, Road to the Horse strives to inspire people to reach a higher level of horsemanship and develop unity with a horse based on trust and not fear. Road to the Horse believes that through education and entertainment, they can change people’s ideas and create a better world for the horse.

The Purpose of Road to the Horse is to identify the superior colt starter who accumulates the highest score throughout the competition. Judging focuses on the competitor and the effectiveness of their horsemanship methodology to communicate, educate, and build a partnership with their colt based on trust. Fans witness the entire journey, from colt selection to the final obstacle challenge. To purchase tickets, click here.