Horse Training Can Lead to Fun Competition
There are also many competitions offered for horse and rider. Although there are many different riding disciplines in the United States (Western, endurance riding, dressage, show jumping, eventing, saddle seat equitation) and they are often governed by different equine organizations, at the local level many horse shows are sponsored by 4-H clubs. 4-H shows are generally held at the district level and then at the state level. They offer both individual and group work. There are senior entries and junior entries. They generally offer English Pleasure and Equitation classes as well as Western Pleasure and Horsemanship classes.
Some states also offer local horse shows, usually in cooperation with the U.S. Equestrian Federation.
The United States Equestrian Federation has been the regulatory organization for U.S. equestrian sports since 1917. They are the largest multi-breed organization in the U.S. and recognize some 2,800 horse competitions in the U.S. annually. They also select, train and fund the U.S. equestrian team for the Olympics. They offer competitions in Carriage Pleasure Driving, English Pleasure, Hunter, Hunter Seat Equitation, Parade Horse, Roadster, Saddle Seat Equitation, Western, Western Seat/Reining Seat Equitation.
Many other breeds have their own breed-specific competitions. Most horse racing in the United States is conducted under various state regulatory bodies, but all American Thoroughbreds must be registered with the Jockey Club no matter where they race. Under reciprocal agreements, Thoroughbreds registered with the Jockey Club may race anywhere in the world.
Tennessee Walking Horses are registered through the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association and they hold special shows with classes for the breed. Likewise, Arabians have their own registry and hold over 500 events annually for Arabs, half-Arabs and Anglo-Arabians. Quarter Horses are registered with the American Quarter Horse Association, no matter what discipline they pursue. If you have a horse of any particular breed and you are interested in showing in specialized classes, be sure to check with the registry for your breed.
You can spend wonderful time with your horse in these activities, at any level. Competing allows you to merge into the world of sports working closely with the developing bond and communication you can achieve with your horse through these forms of horse training.
