About Us | Orchard Park Stables

Meet the Owner

Barb Bowen

Born in the Township of Flamborough in 1949, Barb Bowen founded Orchard Park Stables in 1976. Since then, she has been breeding Irish Draughts and Crossbreds and selling horses as her livelihood to approved homes across North America.

As a third-generation horseperson, Barb carries on a family tradition and equine lineage that goes back over one hundred years. She follows in the footsteps of her father, Howard G. Smith (noted horseman) and grandfather, S. Frank Smith (noted horseman and auctioneer). The youngest of six children, her life skills degree in horsemanship is hard-earned, and only the very best are reproduced.

Orchard Park horses have been sold throughout the United States and Canada — breeding for temperament, ability and looks. The offspring have excelled as children's, adult amateur, professional mounts, and all-around show horses.

Some of these horses are fourth- and fifth-generation born at Orchard Park Stables. With pleasure and pride, Barb offers for sale the progeny that has taken generations of knowledge and breeding to produce.

Our Heritage

Three Generations, One Passion

The First Generation

S. Frank Smith — noted horseman and auctioneer — established the foundation of horsemanship and land stewardship that would define the family for decades.

The Second Generation

Howard G. Smith, noted horseman, expanded the family's knowledge into formal breeding and training, developing the family's reputation for well-bred, well-mannered horses.

Orchard Park Stables — Today

Barb founded OPS in 1976 to carry this legacy forward — a professional breeding and training operation in Freelton, Ontario, bringing exceptional horses to the equine market every year.

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Open Riding Program — New

Expanding beyond sales, OPS now welcomes experienced riders to enjoy our horses through the new Open Riding Program — sharing our love of horses with a wider community.

Our Philosophy

What We Believe

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Temperament First

A beautiful horse that's difficult to handle helps no one. Every OPS breeding decision starts with temperament — because a horse should be a joy to ride, not a challenge to manage.

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Full Transparency

Every horse we sell comes with complete pedigree documentation, honest health history, and a full account of their training. No surprises, ever.

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Lifelong Relationships

We don't just sell horses — we build relationships. Our clients know they can always reach the OPS team for guidance long after the paperwork is signed, and Barb is always just a phone call away.

The Next Generation

Our Future

We are an equestrian family. Every 'Bowen' has grown up on a horse, caring for these incredible creatures in every capacity from birth onward. Jodie and Chad Bowen are both accomplished riders, trainers and coaches. Jodie is also a recorded Judge working with Equine Canada. Youngest daughter, Callie, works daily with Barb, caring for the many horses on the property.

For more than 35 years, Barb's husband, Al Brick, has been instrumental in many ways, particularly in training and backing our young horses for their first rides. The grandkids, Lilly, Charlotte and Maddie, have been on horseback since they were babies and have already successfully shown their ponies. The horsemanship tradition continues.

About Orchard Park Stables