A Legacy Field, Engineered for the Next Generation of Performance
The Ottawa International CSI4* CSI2* returns to Wesley Clover Parks with major footing upgrades to its grass Grand Prix field.
Ottawa, ON — The Ottawa International CSI4* CSI2* returns to Wesley Clover Parks this summer, bringing top-level international show jumping back to Canada’s capital, now supported by significant enhancements to the venue’s grass Grand Prix field.
As part of an ongoing commitment to delivering world-class sport, the Ottawa Equestrian Tournaments team has invested in improving the performance and consistency of its iconic grass Grand Prix field. Central to this effort has been collaboration with internationally renowned turf specialist Richard Hayden, B.Agr.Sc., C.Sc., M.Eng. of Hayden Turfcare, whose experience includes work at some of the sport’s most renowned venues, including All England Jumping Course at Hickstead and RDS Arena in Dublin.
The improvements focus on optimizing footing conditions to support horses and riders competing at the highest levels of the sport. Work has included a coordinated series of field improvements, such as surface levelling and the installation of a new automatic irrigation system to deliver more consistent moisture across the field. Additional efforts to improve drainage, reduce compaction, and strengthen turf density are helping to create a more reliable and resilient surface, while a more data-driven approach to footing management will support ongoing monitoring and continuous improvement over time.
“I have enjoyed the FEI event in Ottawa the last several years and am very excited to see their capital improvements to take their event to a world class level,” noted two-time Olympic gold medalist McLain Ward.
Mclain Ward and High Star Hero at the 2025 RBC Ottawa International CSI5* CSI2*. Photo by Ben Radvanyi Photography.
After a site visit in late 2025, Richard Hayden has worked closely with the team to guide ongoing improvements to the field.
“Following my site visit in late 2025, a series of work has been completed in autumn 2025 and spring 2026, including irrigation system upgrades and adjustments to annual renovation techniques on the Grand Prix field. I remain in regular contact with the management team and look forward to the improvements ahead, as well as the continued commitment to excellence in grass footing,” said Richard Hayden.
These investments are part of a broader commitment by the Ottawa Equestrian Tournaments to continuously elevate the competitor experience. Feedback from athletes and trainers has informed key changes across the 2026 season, including increased jumper prize money to secure a factor 15 rating, expanded competition offerings including a $25,000 National Grand Prix, and ongoing infrastructure improvements.
Set within Ottawa’s National Capital Greenbelt, Wesley Clover Parks offers a unique setting where world-class sport meets the natural beauty and cultural vibrancy of Canada’s capital. Just minutes from downtown, competitors and spectators enjoy the best of both worlds: an exceptional equestrian venue and a city known for its hospitality, history, and charm.
Since its inception in 2015, the Ottawa Equestrian Tournaments at Wesley Clover Parks have grown into one of Canada’s premier show jumping series. In 2026, Wesley Clover Parks will stand as the only venue in Canada, and one of very few in North America, to host international competition across all three Olympic equestrian disciplines.
The 2026 Ottawa International CSI4* CSI2* promises an exciting week of competition, showcasing top athletes on a surface built to support world-class performance. To learn more about the Ottawa International CSI4* CSI2* and plan your visit, please visit https://www.ottawaequestriantournaments.com/2026-gold.
Media Contact
Robyn Cyr – Press Officer
Robyn.Cyr@wesleycloverparks.com
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