W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, August 29, 2023 — Whether you own horses and want to show them off, or you love horses and want to admire herds of them in person, Equine Affaire is the horse expo for you! The Breed Pavilion provides visitors with a colorful and interactive introduction to the world of horses, while the Horse & Farm Exhibits offer avenues of connection between attendees and horse owners, horse farm owners, equine service providers, and more. Whatever side of the fence you’d like to be on, we invite you to come to the Eastern States Exposition in W. Springfield, Massachusetts, on November 9-12, and enjoy all that our event has to offer.

Since 1994, Equine Affaire has proudly served as the pinnacle event of equine-related education, entertainment, and enrichment, bringing joy and knowledge to tens of thousands of equestrians every year through its two events in Columbus, OH, and W. Springfield, MA. This fall, North America’s premier equine expo and equestrian gathering celebrates its 25^th anniversary in Massachusetts with four days of educational clinics, sessions, and demonstrations; two exciting competitions; interactive exhibits and activities; an expansive trade show; kids’ crafts and activities; special giveaways; an exclusive viewing party of the Equine Network’s Horse Week; a fabulous nighttime musical and theatrical show, and so much more. Tickets for Equine Affaire and Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse, are on sale now at equineaffaire.com.

If you own horses, operate a farm or stable, provide an equine-related service, offer a stallion at stud, or have horses available for sale or adoption, you’re invited to participate in the Breed Pavilion, the Horse & Farm Exhibits, the For Sale Stalls, or the Adoption Affaire! These exhibits are the perfect way to put yourself and your horses, brand, farm, or business in front of tens of thousands of interested and enthusiastic horse people. Fill your stalls with the friendliest and most beautiful horses you own, then use your stall fronts as a space to promote your barn, farm, stallion, breed, or business, share brochures and other materials about your services, put up photo displays, and more! Here’s how:

Promote your farm, stallion, or equine services with a Horse & Farm Exhibit Stall in C-Barn. Stalls are 12’ by 9’. Regular in-line stalls are $160 each; end stalls on the outer aisles of the barn are $185, and end stalls on the main center aisle of the barn are $210 each. Each exhibitor is required to purchase or share a tack stall in addition to a horse stall, and tack stalls are $120 each. Rental of an exhibit stall in the Horse & Farm Exhibits area includes:

• One four-day adult ticket to Equine Affaire per stall (a $55 value)
• A one-line listing of stall number, farm name, breed of horse, and phone number or web site address in the event program, distributed for free to our attendees
• A listing of the farm or horse owner name, breed of horse, and phone number or web site address on equineaffaire.com prior to and during the event

Although Equine Affaire is a four-day event, Horse & Farm exhibitors must commit to exhibiting for at least three days (and specify in advance whether they plan to exhibit Thurs-Saturday or Friday-Sunday). Shavings, straw, and hay will be available for purchase on site. Learn more by visiting https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-breed-exhibits/mass-horse-farm-exhibits/. You can also reach out to Jessica Anderson (janderson@equineaffaire.com) today to arrange for rental of your Horse & Farm Exhibit stall, and ask her how you (or your breed association or group) can also participate in the Breed Pavilion. Or visit https://equineaffaire.com/mass-breed-pavilion/ for details!

Do you have a horse for sale? Sign up to participate with a For Sale stall! For Sale Stalls are in-line stalls located within the Horse & Farm Exhibits. Rental of a For Sale stall is only $160 per stall and includes:

• One four-day adult ticket to Equine Affaire per stall (a $55 value)
• A descriptive For Sale sign to post on your stall
• A free listing pre-event on equineaffaire.com that will provide the horse’s breed, age, gender, name, discipline, price, and stall location
• A one-line listing of stall number, horse owner’s name, breed of horse, and phone number or web site address in the event program, distributed for free to adult attendees
• The opportunity to give interested adult customers the chance to test ride horses in a schooling arena at the event

Horse owners who rent For Sale stalls must commit to exhibiting for at least two days and specify in advance their date of arrival. Horse owners who rent For Sale stalls may also rent a tack stall next to their sale stall for an additional $120 to store bedding, tack, feed, and other equipment at the show. Visit https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-exhibit/mass-breed-exhibits/mass-for-sale-stalls/ for more information, or contact Jessica Anderson (janderson@equineaffaire.com).

Do you operate a horse rescue, shelter, or sanctuary that connects horses in need with adopters? Participate in the Right Horse Adoption Affaire in Massachusetts! Equine Affaire is proud to partner with the ASPCA’s Right Horse Initiative to improve the lives of horses in transition and connect adopters with their Right Horse. Offer your horses for adoption at the Adoption Affaire by renting a 12’ by 9’ Adoption Affaire stall for $160. An Adoption Affaire stall includes:

• One four-day pass to the event (a $55 value)
• An Adoption Affaire sign to post on the stall
• A free listing pre-event on equineaffaire.com that will provide the horse’s breed, age, gender, name, discipline, price, photo, and stall location
• The opportunity to give interested adult customers the chance to test ride horses in a schooling arena at the event

Tack stalls are also available for $120. Please plan on occupying your Adoption Affaire stall for at least two days of the event. More information is available at https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-exhibit/mass-adoption-affaire-2/!

The Sale and Adoption Horse Showcase is another incredible opportunity to put your horse’s best hooves forward – literally! – at Equine Affaire. The Showcase will take place on Saturday, November 11, at 3:30 pm in the US Equestrian Arena at Equine Affaire, and includes the chance to lead your horse through the arena in front of thousands of interested potential buyers or adopters while the announcer shares relevant information about your sale prospect. Contact Jessica Anderson (janderson@equineaffaire.com) to schedule your horse’s spot in the Showcase.

Equine Affaire is proud to celebrate its 25^th event in Massachusetts, happening November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Tickets for Equine Affaire and for Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse, are on sale now at equineaffaire.com. Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges its sponsors: Absorbine, US Equestrian, GGT Footing, Horizon Structures, Fair Hill Saddlery, Tribute Equine Nutrition, LRP Matting, Chewy, and Triple Crown Nutrition. To learn more about our event, visit our website (www.equineaffaire.com), follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X @equineaffaire. We’ll see you at Equine Affaire!

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, August 24, 2023 — Looking for a way to kick off your 2023 holiday season with a little extra sparkle and shine? We recommend attending Fantasia! Sponsored by Absorbine, Fantasia is Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse. This two-hour spectacular is filled to the brim with awe-inspiring performances by gorgeous horses and talented equestrians, all set to music. If you’re a horse lover, there’s no better way to lift your spirits or plant a little extra joy in your heart than by spending a magical night at Fantasia.

This November, Equine Affaire proudly celebrates the 25th anniversary of its event in Massachusetts. Featuring clinics, educational exhibits, an extensive trade show, and lots more, this four-day horse expo will take place November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Exposition in W. Springfield, MA. And just like no great ride is complete without a pat of thanks to your equine partner, no trip to Equine Affaire is complete without attending Fantasia! Catch one (or more) of just three special performances on November 9^th, 10^th, or 11^th in the coliseum at the Eastern States Exposition.

As the perfect complement to Equine Affaire, Fantasia showcases all that’s beautiful, graceful, and athletic about the horse. Every performance is also a testament to the special relationship and sense of trust that exists between every equestrian and his or her horse. If you love horses, then Fantasia is the show for you.

This year, you’re invited to enjoy performances from some of the country’s top equine and equestrian entertainers. Composed of two 12-year-old equestrian performers, the Pegasus Riders thrilled our audiences in Ohio with their daredevil trick riding antics and we’re delighted to share they’ll be coming to Massachusetts to spread their magic in November. Thanks to Melissa Barnett’s Lion King-inspired routine, you’ll feel the love each night as she guides her horses through an enthralling liberty routine. Draft horse fans will adore watching Scott Seymour drive the Morrisville College Belgian hitch alongside Sam and Kellie Rettinger’s gorgeous Whispery Pines Percherons. Outfitted with their signature flair, the Young Guns Drill Team promises to bring all the speedy thrills with a perfectly synchronized drill performance. Power couple Brendan and Melanie Wise will bring their horses as well as their own particular brand of bridleless magic and put on two incredible acts. Fans of feather will cherish watching the graceful Friesians and skilled Amish riders of the Friesian Heritage Drill Team perform to a medley of inspiring anthems. And finally, if comedy is what you’re looking for, you’ll laugh – and gasp in delighted awe – at the antics of Bobby Kerr and his American mustangs. Whether you love liberty, bridleless riding, trick riding, drill teams, or driving, there’s an act for you!

Seats sell out quickly for Fantasia, so make sure to purchase your tickets early. Depending on seating, ticket prices range from $16 to $27. Tickets for Fantasia are on sale now at https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-tickets/, so get yours today. Special seating for those who have disabilities is available; please call our office at (740) 845-0085 for special accommodation. All tickets for Equine Affaire and Fantasia are digital and delivered immediately to your email inbox after purchase – just save them to your phone or mobile device, or print them at home, and get ready to enjoy an incredible show come November. Each show begins at 7:30 pm, and the doors open for seating at 6:45 pm. Don’t forget to save your program and stay after the show for autographs from your favorite performers.

Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges the support of Absorbine, sponsor of Fantasia. Learn more about Absorbine by visiting www.absorbine.com. To learn more about Equine Affaire and to purchase tickets, visit our website (www.equineaffaire.com), follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X @equineaffaire. We’ll see you at Equine Affaire!

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, August 11, 2023 — With ninety days to go until Equine Affaire in Massachusetts, it’s the perfect time to start making your plans to attend North America’s premier equine expo and equestrian gathering! Horse lovers and equestrians from all over the world are planning to gather at the Eastern States Exposition in November to help celebrate the 25^th anniversary of our event in Massachusetts. Will you be there?

Twenty-five years can seem like a long time, but equestrians know better than anyone else how fast time flies when you’re having fun – especially when you’re spending it with the people and the horses you love! Equine Affaire is proud to celebrate such an important milestone in its long history of bringing horses and people together to elevate the equestrian experience.

Equine Affaire was founded in 1993 by Eugenia Snyder. Snyder and her team launched the company’s flagship event in Ohio in 1994. Buoyed by the enthusiastic support of the horse industry, Equine Affaire introduced its second event in 1998 at the Eastern States Exposition in W. Springfield, MA. Twenty-five years later, Equine Affaire in Massachusetts continues to delight, educate, and entertain horse lovers of all ages. This fall, join us in the Bay State for a celebration of Equine Affaire that offers a combination of all the features you know and love, plus new and exciting events guaranteed to become fresh favorites!

WAIT, WHEN IS THIS HAPPENING AND HOW DO I GO?

A four-day horse expo filled with clinics, competitions, and more, Equine Affaire will take place at the Eastern States Exposition in W. Springfield, MA, on November 9^th through the 12^th, 2023. Come spend the day at Equine Affaire, and then spend your evening at the Fantasia! Equine Affaire’s special nighttime show, the Fantasia, will return for three nights only – on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday – at 7:30 pm in the Coliseum. Sponsored by Absorbine, Fantasia is Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse and features an incredible variety of exciting equestrian performances set to music.

Tickets for both events are on sale now at equineaffaire.com. General admission tickets are $18 for adults per day and $55 per four-day pass. Admission tickets for children (ages 7-10) are $8 per day. Children six and under get in for free! General admission tickets provide entry to the trade show (spread out across four buildings), all themed pavilions, the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition, the brand-new Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge, and all clinics, seminars, and demonstrations. General admission tickets will also be available for purchase at the gates, cash only. Please note that separate tickets are required for admission to Fantasia for both children and adults, and range in price from $16 to $27. Fantasia tickets will be available online and at the Equine Affaire Information Booth during the event until they sell out.

Hours for Equine Affaire, including the clinic schedule, trade show, barns, and themed pavilions, are 9 am through 7 pm, Thursday through Saturday, and 9 am to 5 pm on Sunday. The doors to the Coliseum will open at 6:45 pm each evening, and Fantasia will begin at 7:30 pm each night. Please note that the Eastern States Exposition charges for parking!

If you’re ready to book your hotel stay for your visit, check out equineaffaire.com today for a list of our host hotels. Room blocks and discounted rates are available at most properties until October. Mention “Equine Affaire” when you book to receive special rates! Camping on site at the Eastern States Exposition is also available for attendees, exhibitors, and participants. You can learn more about camping on the grounds at our website.

WHAT WILL I SEE?

We’re glad you asked! Equine Affaire has built its reputation on the pillars of equine-related education and entertainment, and this fall’s event will feature hundreds of educational sessions, clinics, and demonstrations with some of the industry’s most talented horsemen and horsewomen.

Come learn live and in person from our general horsemanship and training clinicians: Mike Major, Julie Goodnight, Jason Irwin, Brandi Lyons, and Chelsea Canedy. Dive deeper into your discipline of choice with Phillip Dutton (eventing), Steffen Peters (dressage), Andrew Welles (hunter/jumper), Greg Robinson (ranch horse versatility), Jeanne McDonald (dressage), Mark Bolender (mountain trail), Stacey Giere (driving), Bronwyn Irwin (pole bending), Lynn Newton (Western dressage), Carl Bledsoe (easy gaited horses), Jim Masterson (equine bodywork), Marty Whittle (rider biomechanics), Copper Hill Vaulting Team (vaulting), and many more! Phillip Dutton’s presentations are sponsored by Triple Crown Nutrition.

Would you like to ride in a clinic at Equine Affaire? Then you’re in luck! Applications and details for Equine Affaire’s Ride With a Pro clinic program, sponsored by Fairhill Saddlery, are available online at https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-ride-in-clinics/mass-ride-with-a-pro/. Apply by September 8 for your opportunity to ride with many of the clinicians who are presenting at Equine Affaire. It’s an affordable and easy way to give yourself and your horse the gift of advanced instruction by some of the nation’s best instructors, coaches, clinicians, and competitors.

In addition to clinics, attendees will enjoy browsing and shopping at the largest horse-related trade show in the east. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a friend, seeking to outfit one horse or a dozen, wanting to try out brand new products or looking for your faithful favorites, you’re virtually guaranteed to find what you want, need, or just-gotta-have at Equine Affaire! Hundreds of vendors will be on site with products for you to check out, try on, taste, touch, and see. For a full list of vendors expected to be at Equine Affaire, visit https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-trade-show/mass-exhibitors/ and check back often for updates in the months to come.

If you’re new to the horse world, Equine Affaire is your perfect introduction to horses. Check out the Equine Fundamentals Forum for awesome anatomical displays, educational posters and hands-on exhibits, fun activities, and lots more. The EFF is also home to lots of fun kids’ activities, such as arts and crafts and the Stick Horse Rodeo, which happens daily at 3 pm. Once you’ve learned the basics in the EFF, make sure to visit the Breed Pavilion and the Horse & Farm Exhibits. In these areas, you can interact with horses of all different breeds, sizes, shapes, and colors, plus chat with their owners and companions to learn about breed associations, riding organizations, local horse facilities and farms, and lots more. The Horse & Farm Exhibits will also feature horses for sale, as well as horses available for adoption through the ASPCA Right Horse and Equine Affaire’s Adoption Affaire.

Equine Affaire will also feature two incredible competitions this year! First, the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition will take place on Friday, November 10 in the Coliseum. Sponsored by Chewy, this exciting event features up to 25 pre-selected horses and riders who race the clock to tackle an obstacle course. The obstacle course varies from year to year, but every obstacle is designed to test the communication between horse and rider and the versatility skills and athleticism of both parties. Interested equestrians should apply in advance to compete at equineaffaire.com. Applications are due by September 8! Visit https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-compete/mass-versatile-horse-rider-competition/ for all the details. Next, a brand-new event is coming to Equine Affaire on Saturday, November 11. Emceed by Ifa Simmonds of Equestrian Fitness Academy, the Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge is a fun and exciting competition open to all Equine Affaire attendees – no horses needed! Attendees can sign up on site to participate in one of three events: the Barn Chores Marathon, the Bouncy Pony Race, or the Horse Nugget Relay. Prizes will be awarded to the top ten participants in each event. During the event, sign up on site at the announcer’s table outside the Mallary South Arena.

Are you looking for even more ways to get hands-on with horses? Then you’re in luck! Equine Affaire is proud to offer the Drive A Draft experience in collaboration with Whispery Pines Percherons. With expert guidance from Sam and Kellie Rettinger, learn to drive a single Percheron or a pair of Percherons from the ground on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday at the event. You can sign up on site by visiting the Whispery Pines Percherons stalls in the C-barn! Or if you are a veteran, active-duty service member, or a first responder, consider bringing your whole family to participate in A Horse for Heroes, offered by Operation Horses and Heroes. This special activity is the perfect way to celebrate Veterans Day – and to experience horses in an all-new way. Interested parties can apply in advance through the Ride With a Pro application on our website: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-ride-in-clinics/mass-ride-with-a-pro/.

Crown your perfect day at Equine Affaire with a sparkling evening at Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse. Sponsored by Absorbine, Fantasia will take place on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings in the Coliseum. This magical event is a two-hour showcase that features a medley of inspiring performances by some of the nation’s most talented equestrians and horses. Performers will include the Friesian Heritage Drill Team, liberty performer Melissa Barnett, the Pegasus Trick Riders, the Young Guns drill team, an incredible driving display by the Whispery Pines Percherons and Scott Seymour’s Morrisville Belgians, a comedic routine by Bobby Kerr, and much more! Tickets for Fantasia sell quickly, so make sure to purchase yours in advance at equineaffaire.com.

HOW CAN I PARTICIPATE AT EQUINE AFFAIRE?

There are tons of ways to participate at Equine Affaire. In addition to applying to ride in a clinic or competition, you can also sign up to participate in special equestrian fitness workshops, consign items in the Marketplace Consignment Shop, or even volunteer! Equine Affaire relies on hundreds of volunteers at each event. Depending on the number of shifts that you work, you can even earn free admission! Volunteers should apply online by September 27, 2023. For more information on consigning your gently-used items at the Marketplace, visit https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-sell/mass-marketplace/. To participate in an Equestrians In Motion workshop with Ifa Simmonds, stay tuned to our website for more details!

If you would like to exhibit products in the trade show at Equine Affaire or represent your farm, horse-related business, or offer horses for sale or adoption in the Horse and Farm Exhibits, please visit our website or contact our friendly staff at the Equine Affaire office. You can call our office at (740) 845-0085, 9:00am-5:00 pm EST (M-F).

Equine Affaire is proud to celebrate its 25^th event in Massachusetts, happening November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Tickets for Equine Affaire and for Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse, are on sale now at equineaffaire.com. Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges its sponsors: Absorbine, US Equestrian, GGT Footing, Horizon Structures, Fair Hill Saddlery, Tribute Equine Nutrition, Triple Crown Nutrition, LRP Matting, and Chewy. To learn more about our event, visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter/X @equineaffaire. We’ll see you at Equine Affaire!

COLDWATER, OH, July 27, 2023 — LRP Matting and Equine Affaire, Inc. are proud to announce a sponsorship agreement between both companies, making LRP Matting the ‘Official Matting Sponsor’ of Equine Affaire through 2025. Both parties have committed to an official sponsorship agreement for the Equine Affaire events to be held in W. Springfield, Massachusetts, for the next three years.

As the ‘Official Matting Sponsor,’ LRP Matting will provide and install their high-quality and durable rubber mats for use within the Breed Pavilion display stalls, Breed Pavilion Aisles, Breed Pavilion presentation ring, Equine Fundamentals Forum Demo Ring and walkway, and Mallary North Demo Ring and walkway.

“We are very proud to partner with Equine Affaire and welcome the opportunity to support them at one of the largest equestrian events in the country,” says Kris Baucher, LRP’s Commercial Manager. “Being able to showcase our rubber mats in live-action areas is something we are very excited about. Along with providing flooring solutions in multiple areas, we are also happy to contribute to a safe and comfortable overall event environment.”

25 years in W. Springfield, Massachusetts

Equine Affaire is North America’s premier equine exposition and equestrian gathering. Equine Affaire unites horse lovers of all disciplines and interests in the ultimate celebration of the horse. This year’s event, to be held from November 9 – 12, marks the 25^th anniversary of Equine Affaire in W. Springfield, Massachusetts.

“Equine Affaire values the opportunity to partner with a great company like LRP Matting, which provides products designed to benefit and enhance the lives of both horses and people,” says Coagi Long, president of Equine Affaire. “We’re excited for this partnership, and we are looking forward to working with Kris and the team at LRP Matting for our events in Massachusetts.”

Shaping Your Environment

Boosting the well-being of both humans and animals, LRP Matting has a solution for every surface and size. LRP’s long-lasting rubber mats – made from the highest quality rubber – ensure optimal levels of protection and comfort. Since 1971, LRP Matting has been manufacturing rubber mats and flooring for use in agricultural, recreational, and industrial facilities. Apart from standard-sized rubber mats, LRP Matting is also specialized in made-to-measure solutions, producing a completely customizable option to fit our client’s individual needs. LRP Matting is shaping your environment! For media inquiries or additional questions about LRP Matting, please contact: Kenny Boons (LRP Matting) at media@drirubber.com.

Equine Affaire is proud to celebrate its 25^th event in Massachusetts, happening November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Tickets for Equine Affaire and for Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse, are on sale now at equineaffaire.com. Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges its sponsors: Absorbine, US Equestrian, GGT Footing, Horizon Structures, Fair Hill Saddlery, Tribute Equine Nutrition, Triple Crown Nutrition, and LRP Matting. To learn more about our event, visit our website (www.equineaffaire.com), follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @equineaffaire, or call our office at (740) 845-0085, 9:00am-5:00pm EST (M-F). We’ll see you at Equine Affaire!

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, July 19, 2023 – Life’s too short to sit on the sidelines – especially if you’re an equestrian! If you’ve been waiting for a sign that it’s finally time to bring your horse with you to Equine Affaire, this is it. Pack your saddle bags and join us at the 25^th Equine Affaire in Massachusetts this fall, happening November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Whether you want to ride in a clinic, compete for cash, or both, there’s a chance for you to ride at Equine Affaire this year!

Make strides toward your goals in the saddle, on the ground, or behind the cart through Ride With a Pro! Sponsored by Fair Hill Saddlery, the Ride With a Pro program connects equestrians like you with professional coaches, trainers, instructors, and industry experts who can help guide you and your horse in the pursuit of excellence. Mark your calendars and apply by September 8 for the opportunity to participate in a clinic at North America’s premier equine exposition and equestrian gathering.

Whether you’re struggling to master a particular skill, hoping to explore a new discipline, or looking for ways to boost your confidence in the saddle, there’s a RWAP clinic for you. This fall’s class of clinicians includes a wide range of equestrian professionals with a multitude of different teaching styles and perspectives, representing more than a dozen different disciplines. If you’ve always dreamed of riding like a pro, you’ve got to Ride With a Pro! Here’s who you can apply to ride with at Equine Affaire this fall:

Jason Irwin…Colt Starting

Steffen Peters…Dressage

Jean McDonald…Dressage

Stacey Giere…Driving

Carl Bledsoe…Easy Gaited Horses

Jim Masterson…Equine Bodywork

Marty Whittle…Equi Yoga

Phillip Dutton…Eventing

Mike Major…General Training & Horsemanship

Julie Goodnight… General Training & Horsemanship

Brandi Lyons… General Training & Horsemanship

Jason Irwin… General Training & Horsemanship

Chelsea Canedy… General Training & Horsemanship

Andrew Welles…Hunter/Jumper

Mark Bolender…Mountain Trail

Bronwyn Irwin…Pole Bending

Greg Robinson…Ranch Horse Versatility

Lynn Newton…Western Dressage

Anyone 12 years and older is welcome to apply. Since all clinics will be happening at Equine Affaire, applicants should feel comfortable and confident enough in their abilities to ride (or drive) in front of a crowd. For more details on clinic topics, review the 2023 RWAP Clinic Summary Packet, available here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-ride-in-clinics/mass-ride-with-a-pro/. Each clinic summary includes the time and date of the clinic, the topic, and details on whether the clinician is looking for horses and riders with specific skills or issues. All applicants should be prepared to submit an application video, an application form, bio, and photo. Each clinic costs $105, which includes participation in the clinic, admission to Equine Affaire on the day of the clinic, twenty-four hours of stabling, and a free T-shirt. To apply, visit equineaffaire.com (click “Participate,” then “Ride With a Pro”) or you can contact Lori Helsel at LHelsel@equineaffaire.com. All applications are due by September 8, and all applicants will be notified of their selection status by October 13.

Calling all veterans, active duty, and first responders! We have a special opportunity for you this fall at Equine Affaire. We’re partnering with Operation Horses and Heroes, Inc., to bring you “A Horse for Heroes,” which is a chance for you (and your families) to experience the effects of equine-assisted activities and therapies on two different days at Equine Affaire: Friday, November 10, and Saturday, November 11. In the past, we’ve asked participants to sign up for this activity on site at the event; this year, we’re inviting you to apply with our RWAP applicants. There is no clinic fee for this interactive activity, but you will need to submit an application and a bio form to LHelsel@equineaffaire.com. Be sure to visit the RWAP page on our website, as outlined in the paragraph above, to apply.

Are you looking for an extra special kind of thrill this fall? If you and your horse love a challenge, apply to compete in the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition! Open to riders from any discipline and horses of all breeds, the “VHRC” is a timed and judged race through an obstacle course that will test your horsemanship skills as well as your ability to communicate with your horse. This year, the VHRC will take place on Friday, November 10, in the Coliseum at the Eastern States Expo. Many will apply, but only 25 horse-and-rider pairs will be accepted. The first-place winner will receive $2,500 in cash, a champion rosette, and the coveted title of Equine Affaire Versatile Horse & Rider Champion! Second through fourth places will also receive cash prizes of $1,500, $1,000, and $500, respectively, and rosettes, while fifth through tenth places will receive rosettes. Start prepping your application materials today! Visit equineaffaire.com (click “Participate,” then “Versatile Horse & Rider”) to fill out your application form, sign a copy of the VHRC rules, and learn about how to submit an application video. The entry fee is $360 with applications due by September 8. For questions, contact Coagi Long at CLong@equineaffaire.com.

Equine Affaire is proud to celebrate its 25^th event in Massachusetts, happening November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Tickets for Equine Affaire and for Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse, are on sale now at equineaffaire.com. Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges its sponsors: Absorbine, US Equestrian, GGT Footing, Horizon Structures, Fair Hill Saddlery, Tribute Equine Nutrition, and Triple Crown Nutrition. To learn more about our event, visit our website (www.equineaffaire.com), follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @equineaffaire, or call our office at (740) 845-0085, 9:00am-5:00pm EST (M-F). We’ll see you at Equine Affaire!

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA, July 7, 2023 – Join us at the Eastern States Exposition this November as Equine Affaire in Massachusetts celebrates its sterling anniversary in the Bay State! In 1994, Equine Affaire debuted its flagship event in Ohio. Four years later, buoyed by the excitement and loyalty of our fans, the expo expanded to New England, launching the first ever Equine Affaire in Massachusetts at the Eastern States Expo in November of 1998. Now, 25 years later, North America’s premier equine expo and equestrian gathering is primed to celebrate a very special jubilee – and you’re all invited!

Journey to Massachusetts with us on November 9-12, 2023, for Equine Affaire’s silver anniversary event. Filled with all the features you’ve come to know and love, plus tons of new surprises, there’s something special waiting for every horse lover at Equine Affaire. Elevate your equestrian experience with clinics, sessions, and demonstrations; interactive exhibits; world-class shopping; hands-on activities; themed pavilions; exciting competitions for horses and people; watch parties; stellar evening entertainment, and so much more! If you love horses, Equine Affaire is the expo for you.

Tickets for this unmissable equestrian extravaganza and for Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse, go on sale on July 12 via equineaffaire.com. Adult tickets to the expo are $18 per day or $55 for a four-day pass (that’s a savings of $17!); children’s tickets are $10 per day for ages 7-10; and children six and under get in for free. Hours for the expo are from 9 am to 7 pm, Thursday through Saturday, and from 9 am to 5 pm on Sunday. General admission includes entry to the largest equine-related trade show in the east; numerous theme pavilions, exhibits, and special activities; competitions; and all horse clinics, seminars, and demonstrations. Separate tickets are required for Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s companion nighttime show, and range in price from $16-$27. Sponsored by Absorbine®, Fantasia will run for three performances only on November 9, 10, and 11. Doors open for seating at 6:45 pm. The show begins at 7:30 pm and will last for approximately two hours with one 15-minute intermission. On July 12, get your tickets at https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-tickets/.

For almost three decades, Equine Affaire has built its reputation around providing education and entertainment for every equestrian. No matter your discipline, level of experience, or area of interest, there’s something horse-related for you to learn, enjoy, or celebrate at this event. Are you ready for a sneak preview of the 25^th Equine Affaire in Massachusetts?

Equine Affaire is proud to announce an exceptional coterie of the horse industry’s best and brightest stars, including general horsemanship and training clinicians Mike Major, Julie Goodnight, Jason Irwin, Brandi Lyons, and Chelsea Canedy! Eager for help with a specific discipline? Look for Phillip Dutton (eventing); Steffen Peters and Jeanne McDonald (dressage); Andrew Welles (hunter/jumper); Greg Robinson (ranch horse versatility); Mark Bolender (mountain trail); Stacy Giere (driving); Bronwyn Irwin (pole bending); Lynn Newton (Western dressage); Carl Bledsoe (easy gaited); Jim Masterson (equine bodywork); Marty Whittle (rider biomechanics); Copper Hill Vaulting Team (vaulting); and many more to be announced. Hundreds of educational sessions, clinics, and demonstrations will take place around the clock across multiple arenas throughout the event. We recommend coming for the whole weekend so you can catch sessions with all your favorite horsey celebrities! Details on the expo’s celebrated Ride with a Pro program, sponsored by Fair Hill Saddlery, will be announced soon. Applications and information on how you can ride with the pro of your choice at the event will be posted at https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-ride-in-clinics/mass-ride-with-a-pro/.

No horse expo is complete without horses, of course. Come meet and greet with horses of all different shapes, sizes, breeds, colors, and disciplines in the Breed Pavilion and the Horse & Farm Exhibits during Equine Affaire. Whether you live for the elegance and grace of the Friesian, enjoy thrilling to the curls of a Bashkir Curly, or want to lose your heart to an Icelandic Horse, plan to wander the stalls and exhibits from end to end to meet them all. And if you’re looking for your next best friend or riding partner, check out the Adoption Affaire, presented in partnership with the ASPCA Right Horse, as well as the Horses for Sale.

Interested in competing? Applications for the fan-favorite Versatile Horse and Rider Competition will be posted online soon! With $5,500 in cash and other prizes at stake, the VHRC is going to be one exciting race – and there are just 25 spots available to ride. Brush up on your horsemanship skills, practice with your favorite obstacles (and a few new ones!), and start planning ahead for your chance to race the clock in the Coliseum. Or if you aren’t planning to bring your own horse, there’s a brand-new opportunity to win prizes and bragging rights at Equine Affaire – no horse required. Compete in the first annual Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge, a fun way for barn yard Olympians to test their mettle and show off their strength and skills in front of all their friends. Look for more details on this hilarious new offering on our website, coming soon!

We know our most diehard fans love to shop, so of course, we have a tremendous trade show planned for our 25^th anniversary. Featuring some of the biggest names in the industry, our trade show is the perfect place to meet and greet with representatives from Absorbine, US Equestrian, GGT Footing, Horizon Structures, Fair Hill Saddlery, Saddle Up Clothing Company, Poulin Grain, Smartpak, Spalding Fly Predators, The Impeccable Equerry, The Certified Horsemanship Association, Straight Arrow Products, Boehringer Ingelheim, Mainline Fence, The English Saddler, The Equestrian Collection, and hundreds more. Shop and show your support to all our incredible vendors, then pay a visit to the Marketplace Consignment Shop, where equestrians just like you can consign their gently used horsey goods.

Oh, and did we mention Fantasia? Equine Affaire’s musical nighttime show, sponsored by Absorbine, will feature an incredible line-up of equine and equestrian performers. Spend the day at the expo, then settle in for an evening of entertainment with such stars as the Pegasus Trick Riders, Bobby Kerr, the Friesian Heritage Drill Team, Melissa Barnett, and many more!

There are plenty of additional reasons to attend Equine Affaire, including interactive activities with horses, networking with equine professionals, learning opportunities for new riders and new horse owners, and lots more anniversary surprises to come! Stay tuned to our social media channels (FB/IG/Twitter: @equineaffaire) and to our website at equineaffaire.com for announcements in the months to come.

Ready to plan your pilgrimage to Massachusetts? Visit equineaffaire.com to stay apprised of all the latest news (remember to select the “Massachusetts” event) and to find a list of our host hotels.

Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges its sponsors: Absorbine, US Equestrian, GGT Footing, Horizon Structures, Fair Hill Saddlery, Tribute Equine Nutrition, and Triple Crown Nutrition. To learn more about our event, visit our website (www.equineaffaire.com), follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @equineaffaire, or call our office at (740) 845-0085, 9:00am-5:00pm EST (M-F). We’ll see you at Equine Affaire!

LONDON, OH, May 2, 2023 — On April 13-16, the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus overflowed with horses and horse-lovers as tens of thousands gathered to honor and participate in the 28^th annual Equine Affaire! Long celebrated as North America’s premier equine expo and equestrian gathering, Equine Affaire provides the perfect platform for equine enthusiasts to gather and celebrate all things horse through learning, riding, networking, interactive activities, entertainment opportunities, shopping, and more.

“As we move steadily closer towards our 30^th anniversary in Ohio, we’re honored to continue to serve the horse industry as a premier event,” said Coagi Long, president and owner of Equine Affaire. “Equine Affaire was founded in 1993 by Eugenia Snyder and held its first event in Dayton in 1994. It’s incredible to look back and see our rich history unfold as we’ve grown, developed, survived a worldwide pandemic, and then come back just as strong. We’re thankful for all the people, organizations, associations, and horses who continue to help make our events grand year after year.”

Every year, Equine Affaire fills four days at the Ohio Expo Center to their fullest with hundreds of educational sessions, clinics, and demonstrations; world-class equine shopping avenues; championship competitions; exhibits; interactive activities; and countless opportunities for visitors to meet and greet with horses and to connect with a host of elite industry professionals. The first three nights of the event also feature the Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s beloved musical celebration of the horse. Sponsored by Absorbine, Fantasia is a nighttime show filled with incredible performances by some of the nation’s most exciting equine and equestrian performers. Read on for a recap of highlights from this year’s event, and find out how you can join us next time.

AS ALWAYS, THE HORSES WERE NUMBER ONE

This year’s event was filled – naturally! – with horses. From colossal Percherons to adorable mini-Gypsy Cobs, horses of practically every size, shape, breed, and color filled the buildings, barns, and arenas as they participated in clinics and breed demos, represented their breed associations in the Breed Pavilion and Horse and Farm Exhibits, met potential new owners through the ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Affaire, or introduced people to the magic of horses through hands-on activities and meet-and-greets.

One of Equine Affaire’s primary goals is to produce events that help improve the horse management, training, and riding skills of current horsemen. To that end, more than forty of the industry’s elite equestrian educators were on site to present clinics, sessions, and demonstrations designed to educate and enlighten. Headliners included Guy McLean, Jonathan Field, Julie Goodnight, and Jason Irwin, along with a selection of discipline-specific clinicians such as Brad Barkemeyer (reined cow horse & roping), Nona Garson (hunter/jumper), JJ Tate (dressage), Bryan Penquite (reining), Rita Timpanaro (hunter/jumper), Bronwyn Irwin (pole bending), Sterling Graburn (driving), and many more.

Many of these clinics also included participants who applied for the Equine Affaire “Ride with a Pro” program earlier in the year, which enables riders to receive instruction and coaching right there at the event. Horse owners could also apply for their horses to receive training in clinics that focused on working with green horses, such as Guy McLean’s clinics.

Equine Affaire was proud to offer not just one, but two, interactive activities this year for visitors who wanted to get up close and personal with horses. First, Equine Affaire partnered with Sam and Kellie Rettinger of Whispery Pines Percherons Carriage Rides and Logging to offer the Drive A Draft activity. Interested attendees could sign up in advance to learn how to drive either a single or a pair of giant Percheron horses from the ground. Offered on three different days, the activity was incredibly popular, outgrowing its time slots and drawing rave reviews from visitors.

The other interactive activity was A Horse For Heroes, which is a special feature just for veterans, active duty, and first responders, as well as their families. Equine Affaire proudly collaborated with Operation Horses & Heroes to bring this activity to Ohio audiences. Participants signed up at the event and enjoyed interacting with horses and experiencing the effects of equine-assisted activities and therapies, all while working hand in hand with the experienced and compassionate staff of Operation Horses and Heroes. OH+H is a registered 501©3 founded by Gerald Paulsen, who is a former U.S. Army NCO and proud veteran himself, as well as an avid horse lover.

In the barns, the ASPCA led an Adoption Affaire event for nearly 40 horses from 9 ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Partner organizations as well as from the ASPCA Equine Transition and Adoption Center in Oklahoma. Each group brought along several adoptable horses, and the ASPCA was present to support them and answer the public’s questions about equine adoption. The Adoption Affaire event resulted in 21 horses being adopted on-site, with at least three adoptions pending. The ASPCA encourages horse lovers to explore adoption digitally by visiting myrighthorse.org to meet hundreds of adoptable horses in one place.

FROM LIBERTY TO VERSATILITY, COMPETITION WAS STIFF!

The Versatile Horse & Rider Competition has been a popular feature of Equine Affaire for years, and every spring, riders apply for their opportunity to tackle the Equine Affaire versatility course and vie for $5,500 in cash and other prizes. The 2023 Ohio Versatile Horse & Rider Competition took place on Friday, April 14, in the US Equestrian Coliseum, and showcased twenty-five spectacular rides. This year’s 2023 Ohio Versatile Horse and Rider Champions were Franny Galvin-Hynes and her 7 year old Fjord-Quarter Horse mare, Super Nova, who were also our champions in the 2022 Massachusetts VHRC! Franny and “Nova” came in first with a score of 53.5 and won $2,500 in cash. The reserve champions were Kristin Fouty and Dun Got It Goin On, an 18 year old American Paint Horse gelding, who scored 51. Fouty and “Boo” won $1,750.00 in cash. For the full results, check out equineaffaire.com/press!

Founded by Dan and Elizabeth James, the International Liberty Horse Association is the world’s only association dedicated exclusively to promoting the discipline of liberty and celebrating liberty horses, trainers, competitors, and fans everywhere. Equine Affaire was proud to partner with the ILHA to offer the ILHA Invitational Freestyle Competition again in Ohio. Sponsored by Espana Silk Grooming Products, the ILHA Freestyle Competition was a team competition this year and took place on Friday and Saturday of the event. The Champion Team was Sally Durbin and Reese Wolheter, while the reserve champions were Kelly Jackson and Cara Shroeder. Third place went to Kelsey Duff and Grace Thomas. Bella Sweigard and Amanda Lewis came in fourth, but also won the honor of being the “fan favorites.” Congratulations to all!

Finally, the Ohio 4-H State Horse Bowl & Hippology Contests took place on Saturday, April 15, in the Voinovich Center. A record number of teams competed as youth from all over the state came together to demonstrate their knowledge of horses in a friendly, competitive setting. In the Horse Bowl contest, Union county teams reigned supreme in both the junior and senior divisions.  The senior high individual overall was Ayla Powers and the junior high individual overall was Eli Ball.  In the Hippology contest, the team from Jefferson county won the junior division with Maddie Granatir being the high individual overall. Twenty teams competed in the senior division, with the team from Lorain county coming out on top and also having the high individual overall in Jordyn Simpson. Complete results are available at horse.osu.edu. Congratulations to all the participants!

FANTASIA SHOWCASED ALL THAT WE LOVE ABOUT THE HORSE

Sponsored by Absorbine, Fantasia is the must-see equestrian show of the year – and once again, high ticket sales and a sold-out Saturday night performance proved that much of the horse industry agrees with that statement. This year’s show featured a wide variety of performances, including beloved fan favorites like the Knights of Iceland and the Diamond D Cowgirls, and newcomers like the Pegasus Riders. The Pegasus Riders is a duo of 11 year old girls, Maddy Gatrel and Liberty Cunningham, who are also accomplished dancers, contortionists, barrel racers, and champion trick riders. This was the girls’ first performance at Equine Affaire and they knocked it out of the park!

Outfitted with dazzling and patriotic sparkle, the Diamond D Cowgirls lit up the arena with their award-winning mounted drill team performance. Guy McLean brought his signature Australian charm to the show with a hilarious comedic routine that paid homage to “The Man From Snowy River.” The Rettingers’ fantastic six-Percheron hitch and Crowl’s Haflingers hitch, Bryan Penquite’s reining freestyle, and a touching drill performance from the beautiful Friesian Heritage Drill Team rounded out the evening, with renowned trick rider Dusti Dickerson’s fiery Roman Riding performance serving as the grand finale.

EQUINE AFFAIRE IS HOME TO THE LARGEST HORSE-RELATED TRADE SHOW IN NORTH AMERICA

Fans of Equine Affaire continue to put shopping opportunities at the top of their list of reasons for why they love the event, and this year’s trade show floors did not disappoint. Super stores such as Rod’s Western Palace, State Line Tack, Cashman’s Horse Equipment, and Circle L Saddle Company lined the trade show buildings with impressive and attractive displays of product, featuring everything from tack and grooming supplies to décor, clothing, toys, books, and more. The Bricker building overflowed with a full range of vendors and exhibitors, including companies such as Cascada, who chose to debut their brand new app-enabled watering system at Equine Affaire. Equine Affaire’s beloved consignment shop, The Marketplace, was also a popular shopping spot for visitors throughout the weekend.

For a full list of all the vendors who populated our trade show floors, visit https://www.equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-trade-show/ohio-exhibitors/.

You can also view the digital version of the official Equine Affaire program here for even more information about our sponsors, advertisers, exhibitors, and vendors: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/84beeeeb#/84beeeeb/1.

DID YOU MISS OUT? HERE’S HOW YOU CAN CATCH UP…

If you had the misfortune of missing out on joining us this year, we’ve got great news for you! Equine Affaire partnered with the Horse Radio Network and EQUUS Television in order to provide select coverage on our event for listeners and viewers at home through podcasts and videos. Here’s how to catch the coverage:

• Watch EQUUS Television Network by visiting equustelevision.com/search?keywords=equine+affaire or by downloading their mobile app today to see exclusive interviews with our presenters, street scenes from the event, quick tip videos, and lots more, including a photo essay! It’ll (almost) feel like you were there. Watch interviews with Julie Goodnight, Sam & Kellie Rettinger of Whispery Pines Percherons, Sheryl Mankel, Cynthia Keating, and lots of others.
• Listen to the Horse Radio Network by visiting https://www.horsesinthemorning.com/ or by looking for Horses In The Morning on your favorite podcast player. Glenn Hebert, America’s Horse Husband, and Allison Rehnborg, Equine Affaire’s marketing coordinator, recorded and produced three episodes live from the event, featuring interviews with vendors and exhibitors like The Funky Unicorn, Braveheart Beasts, United Horse Coalition, and Espana Silk Grooming Products; presenters like Wendy Murdoch of the Sure Foot Equine Stability Program, Jason and Bronwyn Irwin, Carl Bledsoe, Ifa Simmonds, and Sky Epperson; and Adoption Affaire partners like the West Virginia Horse Network and Horses Haven in Michigan. If you like what you hear, make sure to keep listening for more of the Equine Affaire podcast, which airs on the third Thursday of every month as part of Horses In The Morning, America’s leading daily morning podcast for the horse world.
• The official photographer of Equine Affaire is Winslow Photography, LLC. All images taken by Winslow at the event are now online and available for review and purchase here: https://winslowphoto.photostockplus.com/album/3489619/.
• Finally, follow our social media pages (@equineaffaire on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) to review play-by-play coverage of the event and to see videos and photo albums, as well as to catch all the latest news about our next events.

SAVE THE DATES, UPDATES ON THE OHIO RAFFLE, AND EVEN MORE INFORMATION

The staff of Equine Affaire are already hard at work producing our next event, which will take place on November 9-12, 2023, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, MA. Save the date and revisit our website and social media channels for updates. Tickets for Equine Affaire in Massachusetts and for Fantasia will go on sale July 12.

Mark your calendars for the 2024 Equine Affaire in Ohio, which will take place April 11-14 at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus.

Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges the generous sponsors who helped make this year’s event possible: Absorbine, Rod’s, US Equestrian, Espana Silk, GGT Footing, and Best Sand Equestrian Sand. Equine Affaire would also like to thank the companies who donated prizes for this year’s online raffle: Bronco Western Supply, Back On Track USA, and US Equestrian. Raffle winners have been chosen and notifications have been sent via email. If you entered the 2023 Ohio Equine Affaire raffle, make sure to check your email!

As North America’s premier equine expo and equestrian gathering, Equine Affaire elevates the equestrian experience for horse lovers of all ages. Visit equineaffaire.com for schedules, tickets, and additional details about upcoming events. Our office staff can be reached by phone at (740) 845-0085, Mon-Fri, 9 am to 5 pm ET.

COLUMBUS, OH, May 1, 2023 — Sponsored by Espana Silk Grooming Products, the International Liberty Horse Association Invitational Freestyle Competition took place in two parts on Friday, April 14 and Saturday, April 15 at Equine Affaire in Ohio. Participants competed in a special teams format, tackling the compulsories on Friday and the freestyle on Saturday.

The official results are as follows:

Champions: Sally Durbin (Senior) and Reese Wolheter (Youth)

Reserve Champions: Kelly Jackson and Cara Schroeder

3rd Place: Kelsey Duff and Grace Thomas

4th Place: Bella Sweigard and Amanda Lewis

The Fan Favorites award went to Bella Sweigard and Amanda Lewis.

Congratulations to all of the competitors and the ILHA team for putting on another incredible event!

COLUMBUS, OH, April 15, 2023 — The 2023 Versatile Horse & Rider Competition took place yesterday in the US Equestrian Coliseum and what a show it was! We had twenty-five spectacular rides and saw a lot of excellent horsemanship and fine riding. Master of Ceremonies Jason Irwin performed his duties admirably, and judge Brad Barkemeyer did a fabulous job scoring our rides. Special thanks to our announcer, Noah Rattner, for musical contributions, and to our ring crew for set up and tear down!

First, we’d like to acknowledge that yesterday, at the end of the competition, there was a scoring malfunction and the placings that were announced and acknowledged at the event were incorrect. Equine Affaire would like to extend a formal apology to all of the riders who were affected by the scoring spreadsheet malfunction. We strive for excellence and accuracy in everything that we do, especially when it affects riders who give their all, and we deeply regret this mistake. Thank you for extending grace and patience to us in this situation, and our staff have worked hard to make things right with all involved.

And now, with no further ado, here are your official results for the 2023 Versatile Horse & Rider Competition in Ohio.

Congratulations to Franny Galvin-Hynes and Super Nova, her 7 year old Fjord-Quarter Horse mare, for a spectacular trip around the VHRC course. Franny has added another jewel to her crown with this run, because she and Super Nova were also the winners of the 2022 Massachusetts Versatile Horse & Rider Competition! Here’s a little bit more about your winning duo:

In 2017, Franny Galvin-Hynes made her first trip from her Canadian home to Equine Affaire in Ohio and, although she was only 15 at the time, she immediately determined she just had to compete in the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition one day. An 18 year old Franny was first accepted to compete in 2020, but like many others, she had to wait out the pandemic. She eventually got to compete for the first time in Ohio in 2022, where she and Super Nova were thrilled to finish in 6th place. Franny was very excited to be welcomed back to Equine Affaire last fall in MA, to meet up with her VHRC friends again, and then cap it off with her dream-come-true of taking home the VHRC 1st place ribbon with Super Nova.

Super Nova was a somewhat scruffy looking yearling when Franny first saw her, but she felt a connection, saw her potential, brought her home – and they’ve been a dynamic duo ever since. They’ve spent endless hours training together and competing as a team in extreme cowboy racing, team penning, ranch roping and western games, as well as enjoying long trail rides or local parades with their barn buddies. Sometimes they throw on their English tack for some hunter/jumper classes and fun on the local eventing courses, or leave the tack in the locker and practise their liberty work together.

Franny says, “Nova is a one in a million horse for me, I’ve never had a horse like her before. She’s always willing to try anything I ask, no matter what it is; we trust each other completely.”

A heartfelt congratulations to KRISTIN FOUTY and DUN GOT IT GOIN ON! This pair also put in the work and had a spectacular ride. “Boo” is an 18 year old American Paint Horse gelding. Here’s a little bit more about Kristin and her Boo:

Kristin and “Boo” have been together since 2007. Boo is a “been there and done that horse.” From open and 4-H shows to the ranch circuit, Kristin and Boo have tackled many disciplines, including pleasure, jumping, rodeo, and ranch. They’ve also earned a variety of champion and reserve champion titles from open and professional circuits, such as the American Ranch Horse Association and the Ranch Horse Association of Michigan. They placed in the top ten in the 2019 and 2022 VHRC.

Here are the rest of the placings with their official scores:

1. Franny Galvin Hynes and Super Nova. Score: 53.5
2. Kristin Fouty and Dun Got It Goin On. Score: 51
3. Wendy Montgomery and SF Distinguished Gentleman. Score: 50.5
4. Raymie Shoop and Miss N Bleach. Score: 50
5. Brenda Hanson and Ace. Score: 49
6. Dawn Chambers and Charge on Gunsmoke. Score: 48
7. Tammy Burgard and WR Classic Whiskey. Score: 47
8. Sidney Hawk and Zippo’s Blue Sky. Score: 44 (Tiebreaker: 9)
9. Dawn Chambers and MT Rowdy Coal. Score: 44 (Tiebreaker: 7.5)
10. Melinda Arnitsis and Bella Beretta. Score: 42.5
11. April Baronas and I Can’t Eeven. Score: 42
12. Tammy Burgard and Nada Snow. Score: 40.5
13. Franny Galvin-Hynes and Aspen’s Wild Grove. Score: 40
14. Miranda Roesel and Shamrock. Score: 39 (Tiebreaker: 9.5)
15. Raymie Shoop and Sweet Hollywood Star. Score: 39 (Tiebreaker: 7.5)
16. Amanda Malone and Turbo. Score: 37
17. Dessie Shepherd and Paris. Score: 35
18. Alexis O’Neal and Pepper. Score: 31.5
19. Robin Ball and Bentley. Score: 24
20. Brittany Buchanan and Creme De Motion. Score: 23
21. Anya Emmons and High Stylin Bobcat. Timed Out.
22. Mike Cassedy and Wakiyan. Timed Out.
23. Marissa Wooton and Flo Dunnit Again. Timed Out.
24. Matt Keefe and Blue Moon Jr Cash. Timed Out.
25. Olivia Giufrrida and Tiny. Timed Out.

Congratulations to ALL of our riders! We look forward to this fall, when the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition will return to Springfield, Massachusetts, for the 2023 Equine Affaire in Massachusetts. If you’re interested in applying to ride there, materials will be posted on our website later in the year. Stay tuned!

LONDON, OH, April 7, 2023 – Equine Affaire returns to the Ohio Expo Center in just one week! As you pack your bags and look forward to the ultimate road trip with your barn buddies, check out this handy trail guide. Whether it’s your first time in Ohio or you’ve been attending this event for years, this handbook can help you plan your visit from beginning to end. Elevate your equestrian experience at Equine Affaire by checking out our insider’s guide to what to see, where to go, and what to do! We’ll also share frequently asked questions and links to all the latest news.

I WANT TO GO! WHERE IS IT, WHEN IS IT, AND HOW DO I GET THERE?

Equine Affaire will take place at the Ohio Expo Center on April 13-16, 2023. The Ohio Expo Center (OEC) is located at 717 East 17^th Avenue in Columbus, Ohio. Hours on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are from 9 am-7 pm (EST), and on Sunday, from 9 am-5 pm (EST). Single day tickets and four-day passes for Equine Affaire are available for purchase here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-general-information/tickets/.

You can access the event via off I-71 from 17^th Avenue on the north side of the Ohio Expo Center. On Thursday through Sunday, you can drive through the main gate (Gate 3) and park on the south side of 17^th Avenue. On Friday and Saturday, you can also park in a large lot on the north side of 17^th Avenue and walk through pedestrian Gate 2, near the Bricker Annex. For an overview map, click here: https://equineaffaire.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/23-OH-Overview-Map-Combined-1.pdf.

The Ohio Expo Center charges for parking, so please be prepared to pay the parking attendants promptly when you arrive. It’s $7/day or $20/four day pass. Also, please leave your pets at home! We cannot allow any pets in any of the buildings, except for credentialed service dogs per Ohio Revised Code § 955.43.

Need more information? Click here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-general-information/ohio-location-event-hours/.

QUICK TIP: If you plan to come multiple days or would like to enter and leave repeatedly on the same day, purchase a parking pass from the OEC! Parking passes will be available for purchase from the parking attendants at the gate.

FAQ: When can I arrive to park on site? You can arrive and park as early as you wish, but the doors to all the exhibit buildings will remain locked until 9 am.

WHERE CAN I STAY?

There are a variety of host hotels near the event. A list is available on our website! Many of our host hotels still have rooms available. Here’s how to find out: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-general-information/ohio-host-hotels/.

Are you coming in an RV or camper? Camping is available on site at the OEC. There is no advance registration. All spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, and there are plenty of spaces for all. The current OEC camping rate is $50/day and subject to change without notice. You can learn information about camping at the OEC here: https://www.ohioexpocenter.com/p/visit/camping-at-the-ohio-expo-center.

HEY, WHAT’S FANTASIA?

We’re glad you asked! Fantasia is Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse. Sponsored by Absorbine, this special nighttime show features exciting performances by the nation’s top equine and equestrian performers. The perfect end to a perfect, horse-filled day, Fantasia takes place in the Coliseum on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights during Equine Affaire. The doors open at 6:45 pm and the show starts promptly at 7:30 pm. The show typically lasts approximately two hours with one fifteen-minute intermission.

Fantasia requires separate tickets, and tickets sell quickly, so buy yours today! You can purchase Fantasia tickets online at https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-general-information/tickets/ or by calling our office at (740) 845-0085, M-F, 9 am-5 pm (EST). You can also buy tickets on the day of each performance from the Information Booth in the Bricker building until we sell out.

QUICK TIP: Make sure to stay after the event for a special autograph signing session! All the performers come back out into the arena after the show to sign postcards and programs.

FAQ: Do I need to purchase separate tickets for Equine Affaire and Fantasia? Yes, you need to purchase general admission tickets to access Equine Affaire’s daytime activities and a separate ticket to attend Fantasia. However, if you arrive after 6:30 pm EST to attend Fantasia, you will not have to purchase a general admission ticket to Equine Affaire.

HOW CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT RIDING AND TRAINING?

Equine Affaire is organized by horse lovers for horse lovers. Our mission is to produce events that help improve the horse management, training, and riding skills of equestrians. That’s why our first-class educational program is filled with talented speakers and presenters who are dedicated, passionate, and knowledgeable about the horse industry – so if information about horses is what you seek, information about horses is what you’ll get!

Whether you love riding, jumping, liberty, reining, ranch work, roping, dressage, pole bending, driving, learning about horse health care and husbandry, or any number of other horse-related topics, there’s a clinic, seminar, or demonstration on our schedule for you. Check out our schedule and presenters at this link to find the best clinics to attend for you and your area of interest: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-educational-program/ohio-presenters/.

QUICK TIP: Many of our presenters will have booths in the trade show, and others are happy to answer quick questions or give brief tips after their clinics or seminars are over. The best questions to ask (according to our presenters) are short and sweet, with minimal background info, so try to keep your visit brief and to the point!

FAQ: How can I ride in a clinic at a future Equine Affaire? Equine Affaire’s Ride with a Pro clinic program is a popular and affordable way to ride with and learn from one of your idols at Equine Affaire! Applications are available online starting in January and the deadline to apply is typically in early February. Learn more about Ride with a Pro here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-participate/ohio-ride-in-clinics/ohio-ride-with-a-pro-2/.

WHAT IF I DON’T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT HORSES?

Equine Affaire has introduced tens of thousands of people to the horse industry over the years, and we’re proud to serve as your guide to the wonderful world of horses, too. Beginners, start your visit at the Equine Fundamentals Forum in the Celeste Center. The EFF features educational exhibits about horses, horse health, horse management, equine anatomy, and lots of hands-on activities, such as a mane and tail braiding station, identification stations, and more. There’s also a demo ring where horse-savvy experts will be hosting demonstrations on fundamental topics all day, every day, so there’s plenty to see and do and learn. We also suggest visiting the Breed Pavilion, where you can learn about breeds of horses from breed representatives, and touring the Horse & Farm Exhibits, where you can meet horsemen and horsewomen from a variety of local businesses and horse organizations. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

QUICK TIP: Make sure to stop by the Equine Affaire Information Booth and tell our friendly staff that you’re brand new to Equine Affaire and to horses in general. They’ll have extra tips and info for you to help get you started! That’s also where you can pick up your official event program.

WHERE DO I GO TO SHOP?

Equine Affaire is home to the largest horse-related trade show in the Midwest. Featuring hundreds of exhibitors spread out across several buildings, you’re virtually guaranteed to find what you’re looking for! Make sure to visit the Bricker Annex, the Celeste Center, and the Voinovich Center, as well as outdoor areas between buildings, to see all the exhibitors. See a full list of vendors here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-trade-show/ohio-exhibitors/.

Love shopping for bargains? Located in the Voinovich, the Marketplace at Equine Affaire is a consignment shop where people just like you can drop off their gently used equestrian items for sale, or browse for bargains among quality used equestrian goods. Learn more about consigning and shopping at the Marketplace here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-participate/ohio-sell/ohio-the-marketplace-consignment/.

QUICK TIP: Many exhibitors host raffles at their booths during the show. Make sure to take business cards or little slips of paper pre-filled with your name, mailing address, and email addresses to make entering raffles quick and easy! You can find a list of all the exhibitors holding raffles in the event program, too. You never know what you might win! (And for that matter, don’t forget to enter Equine Affaire’s raffle online: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-participate/ohio-win/ohio-free-raffle/. Entries are accepted through April 16!)

HOW CAN I SEE HORSES COMPETE?

There are two competitions taking place at Equine Affaire! First, the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition will take place on Friday, April 14, 2023, in the Coliseum. This exciting competition features horses and riders riding an obstacle course created to test communication between horse and rider, as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Riders are competing for $5,500 in cash and other prizes. It’s one exciting race! Check it out here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-participate/ohio-compete/ohio-versatile-horse-rider-competition/ and bookmark this page for the future to learn more about applying to compete!

Next, the International Liberty Horse Association Invitational Freestyle, sponsored by EspanaSILK, is returning to Equine Affaire. The compulsories will take place on Friday, April 14, in the Cooper Arena, and the freestyle finals will happen on Saturday, April 15, in the Coliseum. This competition showcases the amazing discipline of liberty and demonstrates all the ways horses and humans can communicate with each other with little or minimal tack. Learn more here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-other-features/ilha-freestyle-invitational/!

FAQ: Is admittance to both competitions included with my general admission ticket? That’s correct. No extra tickets are required to attend the VHRC or the ILHA.

HOW CAN I MEET SOME COOL HORSES AND PEOPLE?

Visit the Breed Pavilion in the Voinovich Center and the Horse & Farm Exhibits in the Gilligan Complex! First, the Breed Pavilion will showcase dozens of horse breeds and registries with origins in North America, Europe, and beyond. You can network with horse owners, research breeds, learn about national, regional, and local breed associations and their activities, and so much more. Association representatives will be on hand to provide helpful information and answer questions about their breeds and horses, and equines from miniatures to drafts and from stock horses to sport horses will be on exhibit and presented in hand for your consideration. Under saddle demonstrations of the breeds featured in the Breed Pavilion will also be conducted throughout the weekend in the main clinic arenas, offering you a chance to understand and appreciate the conformation, characteristics, and aptitudes of horses of different breeds.

After you’re done in the Breed Pavilion, take a stroll through the Gilligan Complex and visit the Horse and Farm Exhibits. You can chat with barn and equine business owners, visit with industry professionals offering horses for sale, and plenty more. The Adoption Affaire, in partnership with the ASPCA Right Horse program, will also be going on in the Gilligan Complex all weekend. Make sure to visit the Adoption Affaire stalls (marked with green signs) to learn about the mission of various rescues and sanctuaries and meet horses up for adoption.

Have you ever dreamed of driving a pair of giant draft horses? At Equine Affaire in Ohio, we are delighted to offer you the chance for a fascinating experience with the gentle giants of Whispery Pines Percherons! Free for all Equine Affaire attendees, the Drive A Draft activity will take place once a day, Friday through Sunday, in the Cooper Arena. Sign up by visiting the Whispery Pines Percherons’ stalls in the Gilligan Complex near the green wall. Learn more here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-other-features/drive-a-draft/.

Are you a veteran? Meet Operation Horses and Heroes at Equine Affaire. We’ve partnered with Operation Horses and Heroes to offer A Horse for Heroes, where veterans, active duty, and first responders can experience the benefits of equine-assisted therapies and activities. This activity will take place once a day on Friday, April 14; Saturday, April 15; and Sunday, April 16 in the Cooper Arena. You can learn more here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-other-features/a-horse-for-heroes/.

Are you an equestrian interested in learning more about improving your fitness? You need to meet Ifa Simmonds. Ifa Simmonds is an equestrian fitness trainer and clinician, as well as the creator and owner of Equestrian Fitness Academy. He’ll be offering live workshops on a variety of rider fitness and wellness topics during the event on Thursday, April 13; Friday, April 14; and Sunday, April 16 in the conference room in the Voinovich Center. Best of all, it’s free to Equine Affaire attendees! Sign up and learn more here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-other-features/equestrian-fitness-academy/.

QUICK TIP: Ask all the questions! Our exhibitors love to share and showcase their equestrian experiences. Make sure to ask for business cards or pamphlets, too, especially if you’re interested in taking lessons, purchasing a horse, or asking for training services.

WHAT ABOUT THE KIDS?

Equine Affaire is a great place to take kids of all ages, especially horse-crazy ones. The Equine Fundamentals Forum has lots of fun activities, including an arts and crafts project, a fun stick horse rodeo (3 pm daily!), and a purple mechanical pony.

For young adults prepping for college, check out the College & Career Fair presentations. There will be two special presentations about pursuing equine-related careers and college degrees – one on Thursday and one on Friday – as well as the opportunity to sign up for a one-on-one mentoring session with Dr. Karin Bump. You can sign up for the one-on-one sessions in advance, or on site in the Equine Fundamentals Forum in the Celeste Center. Here’s more information about this opportunity: https://equineaffaire.com/events/ohio/ohio-attend/ohio-educational-program/ohio-college-career-fair-scavenger-hunt/.

The Interscholastic Equestrian Association is offering an intensive dressage judge’s clinic on Sunday, April 16, from 2 to 4 pm in the Cooper Arena. Formatted to review items from a judge’s perspective, this clinic will explore the hunt seat and dressage disciplines in the IEA show format. IEA is a nonprofit organization that promotes and improves the quality of equestrian competition and instruction for middle and secondary school students. Best of all, kids don’t have to own a horse to compete with IEA! Learn more about IEA by attending the clinic at Equine Affaire.

THIS EVENT SOUNDS GREAT! HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER/EXHIBIT/ADVERTISE/PARTICIPATE SOMEDAY?

Yes! You can learn more about how to volunteer, exhibit, advertise, or participate with Equine Affaire in the future by visiting www.equineaffaire.com.

MY QUESTION DIDN’T GET ASKED! NOW WHAT?

If you have more questions or need to get in touch with our staff, there are plenty of ways to reach out to us! Bookmark our website (www.equineaffaire.com), follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @equineaffaire, or call our office at (740) 845-0085, 9:00am-5:00pm EST (M-F). We can’t wait to see you at Equine Affaire!

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