Horse Shows

Horse shows are regular and popular events in the United States, Canada, Latin America, and Europe. The largest shows in North America, all annual shows, are the Washington International Horse Show, Landover, Maryland; the National Horse Show, East Rutherford, New Jersey; the American Royal Horse Show, Kansas City, Missouri; and the horse show of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto, Canada. In the United States, many horse shows are sponsored by the American Horse Shows Association and the various breed associations. There are many local shows having similar rules but not recognized by these associations.

Ribbons, trophies, or cash prizes are awarded. In some events (or classes) they are awarded mainly on the basis of the horse's appearance; in others, mainly on its performance. In most classes both appearance and performance are judged. Horses of the same breed or same gaits or actions compete against each other. In an equitation class, the exhibitor's horsemanship, but not the horse itself, is judged.

Classes may also differ in required age, sex, or experience of horse or rider, or in a combination of these.

Horse shows give you a chance to demonstrate your skill as a rider and trainer, as well as your horse’s breeding and ability. Most shows are sponsored by a breed or performance association or local horse group.

Shows can be grouped into three categories: (1) performance, (2) breeding, and (3) equitation (EHK wuh TAY shuhn), or horsemanship.

In a performance competition, the horses and riders demonstrate various skills. For example, a show may include jumping events or events in which a horse is meant to move with a specific gait.

In a breeding competition, all of the horses in the event are of the same breed. The judges rank the horses based on which they feel best represent the physical type necessary for that breed.

In an equitation competition, the contestants ride their horses around a ring. Competitors are judged on how well they ride and control their horse.