Ireland’s Equestrian Heritage: In the Hoofprints of Northern Dancer

A first for the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) at the University of Guelph, the college is endorsing a one-of-a-kind equestrian heritage tour of Ireland,In The Hoofprints of Northern Dancer, from April 28 to May 8, 2026, led by friend of the College and honorary doctorate recipient, Lorraine Stubbs. 

“I can think of no better ambassador for OVC’s horse lovers than Lorraine,” said OVC dean Dr. Jeffrey Wichtel. “Her unrivalled curiosity, interest and experience regarding the place of horses in our culture today and throughout history, as well as her extensive world travel, make her a natural for this role.” 

Lorraine is a 15-time Canadian champion in dressage, winning gold and silver in the Pan American Games and a top ten finish at the Olympics. Later, she became a judge, coach, successful racehorse breeder and racehorse owner. 

On behalf of OVC, Lorraine designed and will lead a bespoke Irish tour that begins in Dublin, and includes the Punchestown Festival Gold Cup Race, and visits to Jessica Harrington Racing, Irish National Stud and Coolmore Stud, and that’s just in the first four days. 

“Ireland is one of my favourite places in the world,” said Lorraine. “I want to share how the legacy of Canada’s Northern Dancer lives on in the incomparable Irish equestrian culture.”

While the University taps its own experts to curate and lead these tours, it partners with an external travel agency for booking and logistical support. This is not a fundraising activity for the College but rather another opportunity to contribute to the cultural education of the broader community.

Open to OVC alumni and non-alumni horse lovers, you can learn more about Lorraine’s exciting tour at Worldwide Quest - Ireland’s Equestrian Heritage or call 1-800-387-1483. 

Registration is limited, and guests will be admitted on a first come, first served basis.