Miniature horses and Shetland ponies have their own breed shows, that is, shows put on by their own registries. But owners are not limited to these particular shows! Local shows often have classes for the small equines. Frequently, if miniature horse classes are not included, the show organizers are willing to add classes to their shows, if there are enough entries to fill them.
Halter and Showmanship classes are classes designed to show off the horses' beauty. They don't require a lot of expensive gear: a nice, clean halter and lead rope to start with. If you find you enjoy these classes, upgraded show halters can be had!
Driving classes, usually Pleasure, Reinsmanship, and often Obstacle driving are all fun and interesting classes for those who drive and already have harness and cart. Reinsmanship classes is judged on the driver's skills on the rail and driving a pattern. Open classes for halter and driving classes means any horse of any size may enter. Minis often beat full-sized horses!
Gaming classes can be speed, accuracy, obstacle or pace oriented. They may be in hand - halter - or driven. Scurries, Darbys, Fun Days are all examples and may include holiday themes: Costume class, apple bobbing, egg and spoon, the list is endless - as is the fun!
Competitive Trail Driving - trail driving judged on the horse's ability to navigate hazards found on the trail - like hills, step overs and water! Also judged is the horse's conditioning and fitness.
Combined Driving and Dressage events. Much like the ridden eventing - without the jumps, of course!
The last three types of competition do require a little more drive time and working with the horse. How bad can THAT be?
Halter and Showmanship classes are classes designed to show off the horses' beauty. They don't require a lot of expensive gear: a nice, clean halter and lead rope to start with. If you find you enjoy these classes, upgraded show halters can be had!
Driving classes, usually Pleasure, Reinsmanship, and often Obstacle driving are all fun and interesting classes for those who drive and already have harness and cart. Reinsmanship classes is judged on the driver's skills on the rail and driving a pattern. Open classes for halter and driving classes means any horse of any size may enter. Minis often beat full-sized horses!
Gaming classes can be speed, accuracy, obstacle or pace oriented. They may be in hand - halter - or driven. Scurries, Darbys, Fun Days are all examples and may include holiday themes: Costume class, apple bobbing, egg and spoon, the list is endless - as is the fun!
Competitive Trail Driving - trail driving judged on the horse's ability to navigate hazards found on the trail - like hills, step overs and water! Also judged is the horse's conditioning and fitness.
Combined Driving and Dressage events. Much like the ridden eventing - without the jumps, of course!
The last three types of competition do require a little more drive time and working with the horse. How bad can THAT be?
