Show Driving!

The world of Driving has so many disciplines. We have learned about Combined Driving, Harness Racing, and Therapeutic Driving so far. Today we are taking a closer look at driving classes that are specific to Breed Shows.

One of the great things about carriage driving is that anyone and any breed can participate. Many breed show associations have specific show driving classes to showcase their breed's ability to drive. Breeds such as Saddlebreds, Morgans, Hackney Ponies, Miniature Horses, Arabians, Friesians, Andalusians, and more all are versatile options for driving.

One common class featured at various breed shows is the Fine Harness Class. In this class horses are judged at the walk and the trot as well as on their conformation and demeanor. They pull a carriage with four wheels and a single driver. Instead of a single horse in the ring there will be multiple horse and carriage pairs in the ring competing at the same time. These horses usually demonstrate a very controlled animated trot with noticeable knee action.

Another exciting class offered at breed shows, especially seen with Saddlebreds, Morgans, and Hackney Ponies, is the roadster division. Horses and ponies are shown at three gaits, the walk, the road gait, and at speed. The speed gait is where they trot around the ring at a high speeds. These horses and ponies will usually pull a road bike similar in design to a harness racing sulky. Drivers will also wear colorful racing silks.

Driving classes at these shows are always fun to watch as various breeds exhibit how versatile they are. Each breed show holds different classes that might not be featured in other breed shows. If you are interested in learning more about a breed specific driving class, the respective Breed Association’s website will have more information.  

Keep an eye out on the BreyerFest Blog as we continue Driving Forward on our journey next week!