World-Class Working Equitation Riders coming to Port Perry for Four-Day International Event

SCUGOG: The township of Port Perry is set to become an international hotspot for equestrian sport this spring, as Restoration Ranch welcomes riders, from across North America, for a four-day Working Equitation event, from May 28th to May 31st. The show will serve as a critical qualifying event, for the World Equitation Games, scheduled to take place in Spain this September.

Hosted by Working Equitation Canada (WECAN), the event will feature riders, from Ontario, Vermont, North Carolina, and Ohio, competing for top honours in the sport’s highest division, the Masters (Level 7). Competitors will be judged by an international judge from Portugal, representing the World Association of Working Equitation (WAWE), the organization overseeing the discipline at the global level.

“This is an incredible opportunity for our Canadian riders to qualify for the Worlds, without having to travel far,” explained Leslie Klatt, on behalf of Working Equitation of Central Ontario. “We’re thrilled to be able to host such a high-level event, right here in Ontario.”

A Four-Day Celebration of Horsemanship

The event kicks off on Thursday, May 28th, with a veterinary inspection, ensuring each horse is fit, sound, and ready for competition.

Friday will feature the Dressage Test, a freestyle performance to music, where riders design their own routine, to meet technical criteria, often compared to figure skating for its blend of precision and artistry.

On Saturday, competitors face the Ease of Handling phase, where horse and rider navigate up to 15 obstacles, judged on accuracy, rhythm, and harmony. The finale, on Sunday, will be the crowd-pleasing Speed Round, a timed obstacle course which combines strategy, precision, and adrenaline. The results across all days will determine the champions and those moving forward to represent Canada, on the world stage.

Open to the Public with Vendors and VIP Experiences

Beyond the competition, Restoration Ranch is inviting the community to join in the excitement. The grounds will host the Working Equitation Central Ontario (WeCo) Market, featuring up to 30 vendors, offering everything from equine equipment and feed to horse-themed gifts and local products.

A VIP tent, overlooking the competition ring, will provide special hospitality, including a sponsored lunch for competitors and invited guests, supported by national equine organizations and event sponsors.

While admission is free, spectators are encouraged to attend and experience firsthand the athleticism, partnership, and tradition which makes Working Equitation one of the fastest-growing equestrian disciplines in the world.

Expanding Opportunities for Canadian Riders

In addition to the Masters division, the event will also include a licensed WECAN show, for competitors, ranging from Levels 1 through 6, expected to draw over 40 additional riders. This expansion helps support national riders, while also contributing to the costs of hosting international judges and world-class infrastructure.

Organizers promise “a big, exciting show” which will shine a spotlight on both local talent and international equestrian culture.

“It’s open to the public, and we’d love for people to come and see what Working Equitation is all about,” said Leslie Klatt.

“It’s going to be an amazing weekend for riders, horses, and spectators alike.”

Event Details:

What: Working Equitation Canada Qualifier & National Licensed Show

When: May 28th–31st, 2026

Where: Restoration Ranch, Port Perry, Ontario

Admission: Open to the public – free entry

Featured attractions: International competition, WeCo vendor market, VIP tent, local sponsors, and live demonstrations.