Horse show

Many different horse breeds and equestrian disciplines hold competitions worldwide, from local to the international levels.

Most horse shows run from one to three days, sometimes longer for major, all-breed events or national and international championships.

Most shows consist of a series of different performances, called classes, wherein a group of horses with similar training or characteristics compete against one another for awards and, often, prize money.

There are several international disciplines run under rules established by the Fédération équestre internationale (FEI): The rules of the FEI govern competitions open to riders from all nations, including the Olympic games and the World Equestrian Games.

Fran Cleland is the wife of Reg Cleland who was the longest serving Chairman of the Victorian branch of the EFA which was in turn responsible for running The Barastoc Horse of The Year Show the premier horse Show in Australia for over 40 years and under the direction of Fran Cleland introduced Newcomer, Show-hunter, leading rein, first ridden, owner rider and working Hunter classes into the Australian Show Horse scene.

Horse shows provide an opportunity for riders and owners to exhibit their animals without taking part in any of the Olympic disciplines.

Breed societies, particularly those related to the Welsh pony and Arabian horse, also organise their own shows.

At local, unaffiliated level, riding clubs across Britain organise regular shows, which are often staffed by volunteers.

In addition, USEF sanctions events in disciplines and lower-level competitive areas that are not internationally recognized, such as show hunter and equitation.

"Saddle seat" or "saddle type" classes are all on the flat and are variations on English Pleasure, though the high action "Park" style classes differ because they emphasize brilliant trotting action.

To train young equestrians in halter showing techniques, horse showmanship classes are offered.

Horse shows do not offer cash purses as large as in the Thoroughbred racing industry, though a few of the biggest show jumping, cutting and reining competitions may offer purse money into the low five figures.

At best, a solid competitor might break even on entry fees and, if they are quite lucky, cover some travel expenses.