Profile of Horse Trainer Chris Irwin

Irwin teaches that by becoming better leaders and improving our skills, especially our own body language, we can positively influence our horses.

Irwin grew up in the city. Fueled by a lack of family support Irwin became an overachiever to prove his own self worth. During his school years Irwin set records and gathered awards. After high school, Irwin worked at a racetrack and found his true passion. Dissatisfied with the horse/human relationship he saw, he set out to learn from horses themselves, as a teamster, combined driving competitor and riding and driving wild Mustangs. He has become a popular clinician with the ability to turn around difficult horses. He operates Horsepower Productions and Riversong Ranch with his wife Kathryn.

Irwin does not sell gear specific to his own methods. Recommendations for basic equipment is suggested when you sign up for a clinic.

After working at Longacres Racetrack in Seattle Irwin became a teamster, training and driving draft horses. He has competed in combined driving and earned 18 U.S. National Championships in riding and driving events with Mustangs. Irwin has been called the “Dr. Phil for owners and riders” and lectures at universities and major horse expositions. He’s also appeared on CBC, PBS and Discovery Channel in connection with his work with Mustangs.

Irwin teaches how body language, balance and timing affect our message to the horse. Through two-day horsemanship clinics helps participants hone skills and solve specific problems. Irwin also offers equine assisted therapy.

"Train the trainer."
"Ask not what your horse can do for you. Ask what you can do for your horse.

Chris Irwin's website contains information about his clinics, certification, events, equine assisted therapy, and articles by both Chris and Kathryn.

Irwin has written two books: Dancing with Your Dark Horse and Horses Don’t Lie . His DVDs cover a range of subjects from ground manners to flexibility and strength training for riders. Irwin offers clinics for horse owners and certification for trainers.