WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA, November 4, 2022 — The Versatile Horse & Rider Competition happens one week from today! We are so thrilled for another round of this fabulous competition. As part of our preparations, we’re introducing you to all 25 horse and rider pairs that will be competing in this year’s competition. If you missed the first three posts, click here and check them out! Then come back to meet our last five riders.

Sponsored by Nutrena, the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition will take place in the US Equestrian Arena in the coliseum at the Eastern States Exposition on Friday, November 11, from 1 to 5 pm. Riders will traverse our obstacle course and race the clock to see who will win the title of the 2022 Massachusetts Versatile Horse & Rider champions.

Every obstacle is designed to test communication between horse and rider as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Their efforts will be evaluated by our celebrity judge, Scott Purdum; narrated by our emcee, Steve Lantvit; and applauded by an audience of excited fans.

The champions will win $2,500 in cash and a champion rosette, while reserve, third, and fourth will take home rosettes and cash prizes of $1,500, $1,000, and $500, respectively. Fifth through tenth will take home rosettes.

Ready to meet the next five competitors for this year?

Jackie Rappel and Beckett’s Hickory Doc, 20 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

Jackie and “Roanie” are VHRC veterans and have competed six times. It’s safe to say they love versatility work! Jackie, now a practicing attorney, first met Roanie seven years ago when she was between jobs and earning money riding horses. She started riding Roanie, who was a sale horse at the time, and fell in love. She has taught the senior gelding to perform flying lead changes. They’ve also competed in reined cow horse. These days, Roanie is semi-retired, but Jackie says that as long as he has the ability and desire to compete, she’s going to keep chasing a top 3 finish in the VHRC.

Kayla O’Leary and Wildfire, 12 year old Mustang mare

Together for seven years, Kayla and Wildfire are jills-of-all-trades. They’ve competed in local Western and ranch pleasure shows as well as English shows. They’ve done mounted shooting and cow work, revolutionary war re-enactments, and trail riding. They’ve even performed in multiple parades as members of Teddy Roosevelt’s rough riders from the Spanish American wars, demonstrating various cavalry techniques such as mounted shooting, drill formations, saber work, and other skills. This year marks their fourth time competing in the VHRC.

Brittany Mayer and Copperhead Road, 7 year old Mustang mare

Brittany is a trainer and riding instructor from Cumberland, Rhode Island, and has competed in the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition twice before. This is the first year she will be competing with “Copper”. Brittany and Copper have known each other for just over two years, but have been a consistent team for about 6 months — ever since Copper officially joined the family this summer. In the last several months, they’ve gotten to know each other quite well in a variety of ways including trail riding, ranch sorting, showing, and plenty of obstacles. They have lots of showing goals for next year in the ranch horse events and are hoping to become an even stronger team as they continue to learn about each other.

Amanda Malone and Ironwood Turbo, 17 year old Fjord gelding

Amanda and “Turbo” have been partners for four years. Amanda says, “This little horse has made me proud of who [he is] and what he has accomplished. Turbo is a one-of-a-kind horse.” Hailing from Mathias, West Virginia, Amanda and Turbo have competed in eventing, trail, games, parades, jousting, and lots more, plus many expos and demos as representatives of the Fjord breed. They also participated in the Apple Blossom Parade in Winchester, Virginia, this year. Turbo loves people and learning new things. Turbo has been helping train young horses and being a solid horse for new people to experience the Fjord horse. This will be Amanda and Turbo’s third time competing in the VHRC.

Karli Knapp and Meadowbrook’s Sir Prize, 14 year old Gypsy Vanner gelding

Karli and Meadowbrook’s Sir Prize competed in the VHRC last year for the first time and took eleventh place. Karli and her Gypsy Vanner compete in English, Western, dressage, reining, and driving. This year, they entered many more obstacle clinics and competitions in order to improve their skills in time for this year’s competition. Karli is excited for the chance to be back and work on her precision over obstacles.

Are you excited yet? We’ve got five more competitors to introduce to you before November 11^th gets here. Watch this page for all the updates, then plan on attending the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition in West Springfield, Massachusetts, on November 11^th, from 1-5 pm in the US Equestrian Arena in the coliseum, to see who will win!

 

 

 

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA, November 2, 2022 – The Versatile Horse & Rider Competition is coming back to Equine Affaire in Massachusetts and we can’t wait! As part of our preparations, we’re introducing you to all 25 horse and rider pairs that will be competing in this year’s competition. If you missed the first two posts, click here and check them out! Then come back to meet our next fabulous few contenders.

Sponsored by Nutrena, the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition will take place in the US Equestrian Arena in the coliseum at the Eastern States Exposition on Friday, November 11, from 1 to 5 pm. Riders will traverse our obstacle course and race the clock to see who will win the title of the 2022 Massachusetts Versatile Horse & Rider champions.

Every obstacle is designed to test communication between horse and rider as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Their efforts will be evaluated by our celebrity judge, Scott Purdum; narrated by our emcee, Steve Lantvit; and applauded by an audience of excited fans.

The champions will win $2,500 in cash and a champion rosette, while reserve, third, and fourth will take home rosettes and cash prizes of $1,500, $1,000, and $500, respectively. Fifth through tenth will take home rosettes.

Ready to meet the next four competitors for this year?

Rob West and Moonshine Lady, 11 year old Mustang mare

Moonshine and Rob have been together since 2016, ever since the mare was gathered from the wild and the pair competed in the Extreme Mustang Makeover in Virginia. They placed fifth. After that, they embarked on a great adventure (#MissionMoonshine)! Rob and Moonshine have competed in many events, encountered many trails, swum in the ocean, and represented Mustangs at the famous Hampton Classic Horse Show. Rob says, “Moonshine is truly my best friend, and she will be with me my whole life or hers.”

Anya Emmons and High Stylin’ Bobcat, 3 year old American Quarter Horse mare

Anya and “Peep” first met in October of 2021 and fell in love at first sight. Anya had been searching for a young horse to begin her training career, and when she met Peep, she knew he would be perfect. Almost a year later, they’ve developed a strong bond and trust in each other and are looking forward to competing together in the VHRC.

Although she’s just beginning her career as a performance horse trainer, Anya has been riding since she was 6 years old and enjoys riding in reined cow horse.

Lisa Doyle and Dagger L.S.F, 13 year old Friesian gelding

Lisa and “Harry” are a dynamic duo that bring plenty of flash and style to the VHRC. They’ve competed multiple times since 2019, including earning eighth place in the 2022 Ohio event. In addition to versatility, the pair participate in team penning and sorting, ranch riding, trail competitions, and parades.

“Our goal has been to show that Friesian horses are not just beautiful, but are adaptable and versatile enough to do much more than just dressage and showing,” Lisa says. “We love bringing the Friesian horse experience to everyone. Our goal for this year is to hopefully hit the top 5 in the competition. We have been told by other competitors every year that we are their favorites to watch compete, and as we always hear that we get style points!”

Logan DeCourcey and Cletus, 14 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

Logan and Cletus are new to the competition world and to each other – they’ve only been together for six months! Cletus is an ex-roping horse and Logan has been teaching him “the ropes” of flat work and versatility. The pair hail from Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Are you excited yet? We’ve got ten more competitors to introduce to you before November 11^th gets here. Watch this page for all the updates, then plan on attending the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition in West Springfield, Massachusetts, on November 11^th, from 1-5 pm in the US Equestrian Arena in the coliseum, to see who will win!

 

 

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA, October 31, 2022 – Sponsored by Nutrena, the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition returns this fall to the coliseum at the Eastern States Exposition on Friday, November 11, from 1 to 5 pm. This year, 25 horse and rider pairs will traverse our obstacle course and race the clock to see who will win the title of the 2022 Massachusetts Versatile Horse & Rider champions.

Every obstacle is designed to test communication between horse and rider as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Their efforts will be evaluated by our celebrity judge, Scott Purdum; narrated by our emcee, Steve Lantvit; and applauded by an audience of excited fans.

The champions will win $2,500 in cash and a champion rosette, while reserve, third, and fourth will take home rosettes and cash prizes of $1,500, $1,000, and $500, respectively. Fifth through tenth will take home rosettes.

We introduced our first five competitors here. Ready to meet the next five?

Olivia Giuffrida and Tiny, 8 year old Clydesdale cross mare

Olivia has owned Tiny for three years. When the pair first came together, they were starting from scratch. Olivia says she didn’t have a clear direction for their journey together, but it was clear that they both liked trying new things and learning together. Three years later, they’re excited to be competing in the VHRC because versatility is one of the disciplines they enjoy most.

Danielle Gauvin and Put A Little Pep In Your Step, 18 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

For more than nine years, Danielle and “Pep” have done everything together, from simple trail rides, ponying horses, an introduction to mounted cowboy shooting, barrel runs, western games, visiting nursing homes during COVID, hunters/jumpers, and eventing. Pep is a very willing mount who will always give his all and then some. With every new thing, Pep always exceeds expectations. Together, Danielle and Pep have many barrel racing accomplishments including their most recent title as 2022 Woodstock Fair Barrel Classic Champions, as well as their accomplishments in past years, including being the Woodstock Barrel Classic Champions for the last 7 years, multiple years qualifying for state championships in their barrel runs, and qualifying for the world show in barrel racing. Last year, Danielle and Pep had their first attempt at the Equine Affaire Versatile Horse Competition and were ribboned winners. This year, they are hoping to come back and show what they have learned and worked on in the last year to improve their versatility.

Denise Spender and Oliver, 7 year old Thoroughbred gelding

Denise Spender and Oliver hail from Coventry, Rhode Island. They’ve been together for four years and enjoy riding in both English and Western disciplines.

Carolyn Weeks and Mr Spoc, 10 year old Mustang gelding

Carolyn and Mr. Spoc have been together for the last eight years, competing in various horse events, camping, trail riding, and driving. Carolyn, who’s also a barefoot trimmer, a barn manager, and a school bus driver, says Mr. Spoc is one of the sweetest horses she has ever worked and that he has a great sense of humor and a desire to please. Carolyn has been working with horses since she was seventeen years old and learned how to trim and train when she was in her mid-twenties.

Nichole Grunert and Passing In Style, a 20 year old Thoroughbred gelding

Nichole discovered “Portobello” at a barn near her home. He was a rescue from an auction and covered in fungus – which is exactly how he got his name. They’ve been together for thirteen years now and have participated in myriad disciplines, including gymkhanas, dressage, Western pleasure, equitation, and hunter classes. Together, Nichole and Portobello earned many high point overall grand/reserve championships, have placed fourth in a previous VHRC, and have shown in the Hampton Classic Horse Show. In 2021, Nichole nearly lost Portobello to a foramen entrapment colic, but he’s made a full recovery.

“This was our first year back to showing together and he has done nothing but give his all,” Nichole says. “This horse is my diamond in the [rough], and I am forever grateful to call him mine.”

Are you excited yet? We’ve got fifteen more competitors to introduce to you before November 11^th gets here. Watch this page for all the updates, then plan on attending the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition in West Springfield, Massachusetts, on November 11^th, from 1-5 pm in the US Equestrian Arena in the coliseum, to see who will win!

 

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA, October 24, 2022 – Equine Affaire’s most exciting feature challenge, the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition, returns this fall to the coliseum at the Eastern States Exposition on Friday, November 11! Every year, dozens of horsemen and horsewomen apply to compete in the VHRC, and every year, we narrow it down to 25 competitors. This year’s class of daring horsemen and horsewomen will race the clock and each other to complete an exciting course of obstacles. Every obstacle is designed to test communication between horse and rider as well as each competitor’s horsemanship skills and athletic prowess. Their efforts will be evaluated by our celebrity judge, Scott Purdum; narrated by our emcee, Steve Lantvit; and applauded by an audience of excited fans! Twenty-five horses and riders will compete, but only one pair will earn the title of the 2022 Massachusetts Versatile Horse & Rider Champions and the grand prize of $2,500 in cash and a champion rosette. Reserve, third, and fourth will take home rosettes and cash prizes of $1,500, $1,000, and $500, respectively; fifth through tenth will take home rosettes.

Ready to meet the first five competitors for this year?

April Baronas and I Can’t Eeven, 7 year old Mustang mare

April Baronas hails from Attleboro, MA. This year, she’ll be competing on I Can’t Eeven, or Eevee, a Mustang from the Little Owyhee HMA in Nevada. Eevee is owned by Carole Mayer and has been trained by April. April has been riding Eevee for four years, competing in trail, obstacles, dressage, and hunter/jumper classes in Open and adult divisions and at training level. In Eevee’s first show season, the pair earned many top ten placings at local, regional, and national virtual shows. They’ve gone on to win many other awards and accolades in their time together.

Eevee is the first “green project” that April has ever taken part in, and she describes her time with the mare as “a journey of growth for both of us.” April has competed in the VHRC four different times previously, and she’s excited for the chance to compete on a horse that she has trained and guided herself with the ultimate goal of taking her to Equine Affaire.

Melanie Davidson and Willow, 18 year old Haflinger mare

Melanie and Willow are jills-of-all-trades. Melanie wasn’t looking to buy a horse, but a friend mentioned needing help with a new pony. After working with Willow for six months, the pair became an inseparable team. Now together for five years, they’ve dabbled in almost every discipline together and have enjoyed jumping, fox hunting, trail riding, gymkhana, drill team, mounted shooting, dressage, and more. Melanie and Willow have also performed in many reenactments and cavalry demos with swords, lances, pistols, and bow and arrows. Willow has even pulled cannons and carts.

“There are not many horses I’d call bombproof, but Willow is the closest. She will go over, under, and through anything I point her at without hesitation,” Melanie says.

Megan Harmon and Doc Highbrow Dually, 9 year old American Quarter Horse gelding

From Windham, Maine, Megan and “Dually” have been a team for the last three years. They compete in Western Dressage, ranch riding, and versatility events, and also enjoy beach rides and trail riding. Dually has a huge personality and enjoys scratches, begging for snacks (his favorite is salt & vinegar chips). and playing with his plastic barrels or his Mega Jolly Ball. He’s a little horse with a whole lot of heart and always gives his best try at whatever Megan asks of him. Megan says he’s the absolute best partner she could ever ask for.

Franny Galvin-Hynes and Super Nova, 6 year old Fjord-Quarter Horse mare

Franny Galvin-Hynes has been riding since she could walk, training horses since she was twelve, and has won multiple championships in Ontario Extreme Cowboy and at Kentucky’s Retired Racehorse Project in competitive trail, show jumper, and ranch work. She’s competed successfully in several TIP Mustang Challenges, loves to ride in local hunter/jumper shows and Western games, enjoys trail riding with friends, and this summer, started learning team penning and ranch roping.

Super Nova is a 6-year-old Fjord-Quarter Horse who came to Franny as a somewhat scruffy yearling – but Franny saw her potential and they’ve been a dynamic duo ever since. Last summer, they hit the Ontario Extreme Cowboy circuit for their first full season and finished the year as Maturity Champions. This summer, they decided to give Ranch Roping a try and found it’s a very good fit – they have wins in the open class and teamed up to win a Cowboy Relay Challenge Buckle!

Franny first made the trip from Canada to Equine Affaire over five years ago and knew immediately she had to compete in the Versatile Horse and Rider competition one day. She made that dream come true earlier this year in Ohio, placing 6th overall with her beloved Super Nova, and is back this fall to move their names up the leaderboard!

Kendra Gorham and Drummers Tango, 20 year old American Paint Horse mare

Seven years ago, Kendra had to euthanize her heart horse. Heartbroken, she decided she was never going to own another horse again – and then “Tango” waltzed into her life. Then just thirteen years old, Tango, a fiery, smart, and strong little mare, proved to be exactly what the doctor ordered. Kendra purchased Tango as a wedding gift to herself and embarked on a whole new journey of love and trust with her new horse.

Although Tango is twenty years old this year, Kendra says she’s still shining in the show ring, has the heart of a winner, and never, ever stops trying. Kendra is thankful to have the chance to ride in this year’s competition with her beloved Tango.

Are you excited yet? We’ve got twenty more competitors to introduce to you before November 11^th comes around and every one of them has an amazing story to tell! Watch this page for all the updates, then plan on attending the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition in West Springfield, Massachusetts, on November 11^th, from 1-5 pm in the US Equestrian Arena in the coliseum, to see who will win!

 

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA, October 18, 2022 – It’s almost time for Equine Affaire, and that means you should start planning your visit to North America’s premier equine exposition and equestrian gathering! Whether it’s your first time or your fifteenth time to join us in Massachusetts, this handy trail guide is the perfect handbook to help you plan your trip from beginning to end. Get the most out of your visit to this year’s Equine Affaire by learning tips and tricks for enjoying your visit; links to all the latest info about the event; plenty of answers to our most frequently asked questions; and, of course, an insider’s guide to what to see, where to go, and what to do for each day of the event.

WHERE IS IT, WHEN IS IT, AND HOW DO I GET THERE?

Equine Affaire will take place at the Eastern States Exposition on November 10-13, 2022. The Eastern States Exposition is located at 1305 Memorial Ave in beautiful W. Springfield, Massachusetts. Hours for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are from 9 am-7 pm (EST), and for 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/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-tickets/.

All attendees should access the event via Gate 9. The Eastern States Exposition charges for parking, so be prepared to pay the parking attendants promptly when you arrive. Also, please leave your pets at home! We cannot allow any pets in any of the buildings, except for service dogs wearing the appropriate service vests.

Need more information? Click here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-locationevent-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 ESE! 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?

Equine Affaire has negotiated room blocks and special discount rates at several hotels near the event. To receive the special rate, make sure to mention Equine Affaire when you call! Room blocks and discounted rates expire throughout October, so book early. See our list of host hotels here: https://www.equineaffaire.com/events/Massachusetts/mass-attend/host-hotels/

Want to camp? Camping is available on site at the ESE. There is no advance registration. The campgrounds will open to the public at 5:00 pm (EST) on Wednesday, November 9. You can call (413) 737-2443 for more information about camping. Learn more here: https://equineaffaire/com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-campinglodging/

QUICK TIP: All our host hotels are listed in order of distance from the event here (https://www.equineaffaire.com/events/Massachusetts/mass-attend/host-hotels/) and that page also includes room block expiration dates, so make sure to bookmark it!

HEY, WHAT’S FANTASIA?

Fantasia is Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse, featuring exciting performances by some of the nation’s top equine and equestrian performers. Designed to showcase the beauty, athleticism, and grace of the horse, this extraordinary nighttime show takes place only on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights during Equine Affaire in the Coliseum. The doors open at 6:45 pm and the show starts promptly at 7:30 pm. Fantasia requires separate tickets, and tickets sell quickly, so buy yours today! You can purchase Fantasia tickets online at https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-tickets/ or by calling our office at (740) 845-0085, M-F, 9 am-5 pm (EST).

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 separate purchase 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 {INSERT DISCIPLINE HERE}?

Whether you love to ride, jump, vault, participate in drill teams, spin and stop, work cows, perform liberty, drive, learn about horse health care and husbandry, or dozens of other things, there’s a clinic, seminar, or demonstration available for you! Equine Affaire has a top-notch educational program that’s filled with speakers and presenters who are dedicated, passionate, and at the top of their game – so if information about horses is what you seek, information about horses is what you’ll get! 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/massachusetts/educational-program/mass-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 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 July and the deadline to apply is typically in early September. Learn more about Ride with a Pro here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-ride-in-clinics/mass-ride-with-a-pro/.

WHAT IF I DON’T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT HORSES?

Equine Affaire is proud to be the gateway to the horse industry for many beginners! If you don’t know anything about horses, you’ve come to the right place. Start your visit at the Equine Fundamentals Forum in the Mallary South complex. 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, an educational skeleton display, and lots 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!

WHERE DO I GO TO SHOP?

Equine Affaire is home to one of the nation’s largest horse-related trade shows. With hundreds of exhibitors spread out across multiple buildings, there are plenty of opportunities to kickstart your Christmas shopping season, fulfill wish lists for every horse lover in your family, or outfit your tack room with everything you need to train, feed, care for, or spoil every horse you own! Check out our list of vendors here (https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-trade-show/mass-exhibitors/)!

Love shopping for bargains? Located in the Mallary South, 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/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-sell/mass-marketplace/).

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/massachusetts/mass-other-features/mass-free-raffle/)

HOW CAN I SEE HORSES COMPETE?

There are two competitions taking place at Equine Affaire! First, the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition, sponsored by Nutrena, will take place on Friday, November 11, 2022, 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/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-compete/mass-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 on Saturday, November 12^th, and Sunday, November 13^th. 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/massachusetts/mass-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 Stroh building, of course! 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 C-barn and visit the Horse and Farm Exhibits. You can chat with barn and equine business owners, visit with industry professionals offering horses for sale, learn about rescues and sanctuaries, meet horses up for adoption, and plenty more. You might even see performers or clinicians getting ready for a demo or clinic or preparing for their turn in Fantasia.

Are you a veteran? Check out the Equine Immersion Project at Equine Affaire. We’ve partnered with the EIP to offer A Horse for Heroes, where veterans and first responders can experience the benefits of equine-assisted therapies and activities. This activity will take place only on Friday, November 11 – Veterans Day! You can learn more here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-other-features/a-horse-for-heroes/.

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 rodeo (3 pm daily!), and a purple mechanical pony.

For young adults prepping for college, check out the College & Career Fair Scavenger Hunt, which combines education and tips for pursuing an equine-related career with a fun scavenger hunt that encourages participants to network with equine businesses and colleges and meet new people (plus, the chance to win prizes!).

Equine Affaire has also partnered with Ebony Horsewomen, Inc., of Hartford, Connecticut, to offer youth the opportunity to interact with horses and experience the fun of equine-assisted activities and therapies. Horses That Heal will feature unmounted activities on Saturday, November 12. You can sign up on site in the barn office in C-Barn!

The Interscholastic Equestrian Association is offering an intensive dressage judge’s clinic on Thursday, November 10. Formatted to review items from a judge’s perspective, this clinic will explore the dressage discipline 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 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!

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA, September 21, 2022 – Do chicken mansions really exist? Are there horses who thrive in swampy conditions (and still manage to have great feet)? Can equine-assisted therapy really help you cope with trauma? If you’ve listened to the most recent episode of the official Equine Affaire podcast, you’d already know the answers to these questions – and more!

This month, Equine Affaire’s blended episode of Horses in the Morning on the Horse Radio Network features interviews with three key participants of the upcoming 2022 Equine Affaire in Massachusetts. Sponsored by Horizon Structures, the September episode gives listeners a glimpse of some special guests that will appear in the Breed Pavilion, the trade show, and in A Horse for Heroes, a special event feature taking place on Veterans Day. This fall’s Equine Affaire will take place on November 10-13, 2022, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts.

“In this episode, we really wanted to highlight the diversity of everything we have to offer at our event,” said Allison Rehnborg, who co-hosts the show with Glenn Hebert of the Horse Radio Network. “That’s why this month’s guests all represent several different parts of the expo.”

The episode’s first interview is with Pamela Landskroener, owner of Lazy Dog Acres in Maryland. A member of the Carolina Marsh Tacky Association, Landskroener breeds, trains, shows, and sells Marsh Tackies. This fall, she’ll be bringing two of her horses to exhibit in the Breed Pavilion at Equine Affaire and help spread awareness about the breed, which is listed as critically endangered and worthy of further study on the Equus Survival Trust’s 2022 Equine Global Conservation List.

Next, Jill Siragusa – chief marketing officer for Horizon Structures – called in to catch up with Glenn and Allison and share about how horse owners can order custom structures for their farm or home from the company. Horizon Structures is a proud sponsor of Equine Affaire as well as the title sponsor of this month’s episode. Based out of Atglen, Pa., Horizon Structures sells high quality prefabricated structures made by the Amish in the United States. Whether you’re in the market for horse barns, dog kennels, outdoor living spaces, chicken coops (yes, including chicken mansions!), kids’ playsets, or greenhouses, Horizon Structures and their crews can design, build, deliver, and assemble the structure of your dreams. Want to see their products for yourself? Come to Equine Affaire and check out some examples of their work on site at the ESE.

The third segment of the show featured a special interview with Tara Mahoney, CEO, and Ryan Casavant, COO, of the Equine Immersion Project. The Equine Immersion Project’s mission is to support service members and their families through the power of horses by offering equine-assisted therapies and activities. Through these activities, participants can learn coping strategies, interpersonal skills, mindfulness, leadership skills, empathy, and more. This fall, the EIP is bringing its services to Equine Affaire to minister to veterans, military, and first responders with an interactive activity on Friday, November 11 – Veterans Day. Mahoney will also be presenting demonstrations about how horses can help first responders and military. To learn more about the work of the EIP, listen to this valuable interview – then learn more at equineimmersionproject.com.

Ready to listen? Here’s how to catch this episode (plus past and future episodes) of the Equine Affaire podcast collaboration with Horses in the Morning. The Equine Affaire episodes air on the third Thursday of the month.

• Visit equineaffaire.com/home/podcast, or
• Open your favorite podcast player (Google Play, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Spotify) and search for “Horses In The Morning,” or
• Download the Horse Radio Network App & click “Horses In The Morning,” or
• Jump on HorsesInTheMorning.com, scroll down, and look for our episode!

Interested in advertising on the Equine Affaire podcast? Contact Allison Rehnborg at arehnborg@equineaffaire.com today! Your company name, logo, and commercials could become a part of the Equine Affaire episodes of Horses in the Morning. With over 3,000 episodes produced, Horses in the Morning is the perfect avenue for reaching an audience filled with horse people.

Equine Affaire is an exciting and affordable horse exposition filled with fun activities suitable for families, kids, and equestrians and horseback riders of all ages. General admission tickets include entry to the largest equine-related trade shows in the country; numerous theme pavilions, exhibits, and special activities; multiple horse competitions; and all horse clinics, seminars, and demonstrations. Separate tickets are required for Fantasia, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse! Sponsored by Absorbine®, Fantasia is an evening show boasting a variety of performances by elite equestrian and equine performers. Tickets for Equine Affaire and Fantasia in Massachusetts are available now at equineaffaire.com.

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!

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA, September 1, 2022 – Are you ready to invest in your riding skills and enhance your knowledge of general horsemanship, but not sure where to start? Come to Equine Affaire! Dedicated to elevating the equestrian experience since 1994, Equine Affaire is North America’s premier horse exposition and equestrian gathering. No matter your discipline, skill level, or area of interest, there’s sure to be an educational clinic, seminar, or demonstration for you, thanks to Equine Affaire’s expansive top-notch educational program. With dozens of presenters booked to appear, including Olympians, judges, professional equestrian performers, veterinarians, professors, and a variety of other top industry professionals, you can’t afford to miss this opportunity to invest in your skills and knowledge for the good of the horse!

Join us at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts, on November 10-13, 2022, to learn live and in person! Headlining clinicians Jonathan Field, Pat Parelli, Steve Lantvit, Lorie Duff, and Scott Purdum will teach clinics focused on general horsemanship, including topics such as recognizing body language, simplifying lead changes, steps for starting young horses, improving departures and transitions, and achieving better balance in the saddle. Meanwhile, discipline-specific clinicians will present on topics such as eventing, dressage, hunter/jumpers, Western dressage, driving, vaulting, and more. Read on to learn more about our featured presenters and for a full list of discipline-specific clinicians!

Jonathan Field grew up in both English and Western saddles before becoming a full-time cowboy on one of the largest cattle ranches in Canada. Jonathan decided to become a horseman after surviving a near-death accident that resulted in the amputation of his left hand at the wrist. That ordeal taught him all about how to face challenges in life, and since then, he has dedicated his life to helping people develop their skills and connections with horses and to pursue their dreams. His foundation training program is embraced by people around the world, from those new to horses or those regaining their confidence to elite competitors and industry professionals, and everyone in between. Jonathan’s trademark style prioritizes creating an environment where people can enjoy learning and developing their ability to overcome obstacles, all while having fun. Jonathan is a two-time Road to the Horse finalist, a TEDx presenter, a stunt man in several major motion pictures, and a recipient of the Jack Brainard Horseman’s Award. He is also a horseman, published author, and renowned international clinician.

Starting in 1982, Pat Parelli began creating a natural horsemanship program to improve the relationship between humans and horses. Pat promoted the concept of love, language, and leadership. Pat’s desire to spread this knowledge to the world rose in him after watching his mentors Tom Dorrance and Ray Hunt work with horses. In 1984, Pat began teaching clinics, and in 1991, he coined the name Natural Horsemanship. Natural Horsemanship has become a viable and important aspect of the international horse industry and continues to expand and influence the way in which horses are trained. Pat provides amazing talent for both training horses and teaching people. Today, Parelli Natural Horsemanship and the program have spread to 76 countries, over a million people, and have improved the lives of horses around the world.

Steve Lantvit is a multiple World Champion and Reserve title winner in ranch horse competition who believes in training versatile, well-rounded, and capable horses and riders through confidence, mutual respect, and solid communication. As an award-winning clinician and trainer, he builds confidence in horses and riders through cross training and exposure to a variety of situations, improving their performance and attitude whether on the trail or in the show ring. Steve has used his decades of experience in the horse industry to create his own line of training aids for the everyday horse person, including training DVDs, tack, and other equipment. He travels the country teaching clinics in addition to training horses, teaching lessons, and hosting clinics at his ranch in LaPorte, IN. Steve also shares his training insights through a weekly television series, “Sure in the Saddle,” on RFD-TV.

Lorie Duff is an internationally renowned Canadian equestrian trainer and clinician, a Canadian provincial equine judge, an equine business consultant, and a motivational speaker. Born and raised on a scenic dairy farm overlooking the ocean in Topsail, Newfoundland, Lorie credits her parents and “the simple farm life” with how she developed her philosophy of horsemanship. Lorie’s philosophy of communication, trust, and respect helps establish a safe and solid inter-disciplinary platform. Her philosophy also supports and enhances the continued mutual learning of humans and horses that work together. Lorie’s successes from teaching her program have taken her throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. One of her greatest achievements was to be the “First Ever Western Performer” invited to the RCMP Sunset Ceremonies for two consecutive years (2016 and 2017) to showcase the Western discipline and demonstrate her horsemanship philosophies. Today, Lorie owns and operates Liberty Lane Farm, just outside Ottawa, and enjoys traveling across Canada, the United States, and Europe to teach and help as many people as she can.

Scott Purdum created his Advantage Horsemanship™ educational training program with a goal to assist others in expanding their horsemanship knowledge and bring horses and people together through mutual trust and respect. Scott’s passion for horses as a youth, riding hunters and pleasure horses, led him to an internship with top-rated Quarter Horse trainer, Ken Adkins, of West Virginia, and studies in equine science at the University of Maryland. He has authored several articles featuring problem solving training exercises and produced the popular training DVD, “Where Do We Start?” Scott resides in Union Bridge, MD, where he offers clinics, trains horses, runs a Professional Trainer program, and provides riding instruction. He also travels throughout the country offering large group sessions and one-on-one instruction.

In addition to these renowned presenters, Equine Affaire is proud to present discipline-specific clinicians including Gina Miles (eventing), Nona Garson (hunter/jumper), Bill Warren (dressage), Sterling Graburn (driving), Jane Karol (dressage), Chad Crider (barrel racing), Leslie Lopardo (Western dressage), Karen Black (reined cow horse), Michael Gascon (easy gaited horses), Sally Batton (The Athletic Equestrian and Equicize), Ty Evans (mules), Carrie Brandt & Laura Benson (Icelandics), Caleb Carinci Asch (lunging), Joyleen Seymour (Mounted Games), the Copper Hill Vaulters (vaulting), and many, many more. With a schedule filled with more than 150 horse clinics, sessions, and demonstrations, all presented by passionate and dedicated equine professionals, there’s something to learn for everyone!

Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges the sponsors who make the 2022 event possible: Absorbine, Farnam, US Equestrian, Horizon Structures, Nutrena, GGT Footing, and EspanaSILK.

To learn more about Equine Affaire, 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!

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA, August 25, 2022 – Do you have a horse-related business, farm, horses for sale or adoption, or stud services to promote? Then come to Equine Affaire! This fall, tens of thousands of equestrians and horse lovers will converge on the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts, on November 10-13, 2022. As North America’s premier equine expo and equestrian gathering, there’s no better place to advertise your services to your target audience. And best of all, you can do it live, in person, and “in horse”!

Become an exhibitor and participate in Equine Affaire’s Horse & Farm Exhibits this fall! Our Horse & Farm Exhibits are presented in a prime area of stalls within the C-Barn, adjacent to the coliseum. In addition to complementing the Breed Pavilion, these exhibits provide horse owners just like you with the opportunity to market your horses for sale or promote your stallions, farms, lesson programs, training services, or other businesses. Showcase your business and your horses and put your brand in front of your target audience with our easy, affordable exhibit options!

Ready to learn more? Stalls in the Horse & Farm Exhibits are 10’ x 10’. 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; and 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, exhibitors must commit to exhibiting for at least three days and specify in advance whether they plan to exhibit Thursday through Saturday, or Friday through Sunday. Shavings, straw, and hay will be available for purchase on site. Possible participation options with the Breed Pavilion are also available – just ask when you apply!

Do you have a horse for sale? Purchase a “For Sale” stall! With thousands of horse lovers in attendance, there’s no better place to market your horses for sale in the hopes of finding the perfect buyer. “For Sale” stalls are in-line stalls located among other Horse & Farm Exhibit stalls. Rental of a “For Sale” stall is only $160/stall and includes:

• One four-day adult ticket to Equine Affaire per stall (a $55 value)
• A descriptive “For Sale” 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, 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, and
• The opportunity to give interested adult customers the chance to test-ride their horses in a schooling arena at the event (with the proper releases)

If you rent a “For Sale” stall, you must commit to exhibiting for at least two days, and specify your date of arrival in advance. If your horse is sold before the second day, you may substitute another horse for sale. Horse owners who rent “For Sale” stalls may also rent a tack stall next to their “For Sale” stall(s) for an additional $120 to store bedding, tack, feed, and other equipment at the show.

NEW! This year at Equine Affaire, horse owners can opt to showcase their sale horses in special Sale Horse Spotlights scheduled on Thursday and Saturday of the event. Sale Horse Spotlight slots must be scheduled in advance. During a Sale Horse Spotlight, horse owners can ride, drive, or lead their sale horses in the coliseum while the horse’s name, owner name, and other pertinent information is announced to the crowd. It’s a great way to catch a potential buyer’s eye and show off all your horse can do!

Are you a rescue or sanctuary looking to find adopters for horses? Join the Adoption Affaire! In cooperation with the ASPCA Right Horse initiative, the Adoption Affaire features adoptable horses of a variety of ages, sizes, temperaments, and disciplines. These stalls are marked with green “Adoption Affaire” signs. Equine Affaire loves partnering with local rescues and sanctuaries to help match horses in need with new owners who can provide them with forever homes. If you are interested in participating in the Adoption Affaire, contact Jessica Anderson at janderson@equineaffaire.com for more information.

Ready to apply for your Horse & Farm Exhibit space, rent a “For Sale” stall, participate in the Breed Pavilion, or book your horse’s slot in the Sale Horse Spotlight schedule? Contact Jessica Anderson at janderson@equineaffaire.com or by calling (840) 745-0085, ext. 112, for more information! All applications are due by September 9, 2022. For more information, including applications and liability forms, you can also visit https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-exhibit/mass-breed-exhibits/mass-horse-farm-exhibits/.

Want to learn more about Equine Affaire or plan your visit? 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!

WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA, August 16, 2022 – Introduce a little magic into your life this fall with tickets to Fantasia! Sponsored by Absorbine®, Equine Affaire’s musical celebration of the horse is returning to the Eastern States Exposition coliseum on the nights of November 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th. With just three performances, don’t miss your chance to experience the fiery spirit of the horse on awesome display like never before! Tickets for Fantasia and general admission tickets for Equine Affaire are both on sale now at equineaffaire.com.

Hailed as a family tradition by many of our long-time attendees, this special evening show boasts a variety of performances by elite equestrian and equine performers, all set to musical styles ranging from classic to contemporary. If you’ve attended Fantasia before, you know that each show is unique – and if you’ve never been before, you’re in for a treat! Ready for a sneak peek into this year’s lineup?

First, the Canadian Cowgirls Precision Drill Team will perform an intricate lighted drill team performance as well as a special bedtime story act, featuring therapeutic riding for children. Next, renowned circus performer Lea Innocenti’s exquisite six-pony Roman riding act and Caleb Carinci-Asch’s daring bareback and vaulting routines will thrill audience members of all ages! Driving fans, get ready for Sterling Graburn’s combined driving team and several other hitches to cross and crisscross the coliseum arena at blazing speeds. Fans of the International Liberty Horse Association’s Invitational Freestyle may recognize liberty performer Elliott Holtzman. Holtzman won the ILHA Freestyle Competition at the 2021 Equine Affaire in Massachusetts with his whimsical Aladdin routine, and as part of his prize, he was selected to perform in this year’s Fantasia! Reining enthusiasts will love watching para-reiner Fred Win’s brand-new reining and liberty freestyle mashup. Bringing a taste of the Wild West to the show, four-time champion trick roper, whip cracker, and gunslinger Rider Kiesner will wow audiences alongside trick rider Bethany Iles. And finally, the Knights of Iceland and Taktur Icelandics – always a crowd favorite! – will set the arena on fire with a tolt and flying pace race, a drill performance, and a beer competition. And that’s not all. Even more acts are also scheduled to appear, including a dressage freestyle.

As always, tickets to this exciting show sell out fast, so don’t wait! Purchase your tickets to Fantasia today at equineaffaire.com. Prices range from $14 to $25. If you are bringing a large group of friends with you, make sure to select your seats early so that you can all sit together. The best way to purchase tickets is to visit https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/mass-tickets/ and use our handy online ticket portal to view and select your own seats from a diagram of the arena. You can also call our office, any time between 9 am & 5 pm EST (M-F), at (740) 845-0085 to purchase tickets. Please note that all tickets are digital and will be emailed after purchase. While you’re purchasing your Fantasia tickets, remember to buy your general admission tickets for Equine Affaire, happening November 10-13, 2022, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts.

At the event, doors to the coliseum will open at 6:45 pm each evening, and the show begins promptly at 7:30 pm. There will be one brief intermission. Make sure to stay after the show for your chance to meet the performers and ask for autographs!

Want to learn even more about some of the performers in this year’s Fantasia? Our August episode of the official Equine Affaire podcast, in partnership with Horses In The Morning, features interviews with Caleb Carinci-Asch, the Daring Equestrian; Laura Benson of the Knights of Iceland; and Terry Jenkins, captain of the Canadian Cowgirls. The episode will go live on August 18, 2022. Listen to the episode via Stitcher, GooglePlay, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the Horse Radio Network app, or by visiting https://www.horsesinthemorning.com/category/equine-affaire/!

For more about our incredible 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 can’t wait to see you at Equine Affaire!

LONDON, OH, August 9, 2022 – With less than a hundred days to go, are you ready for the return of Equine Affaire? You’re invited to attend North America’s premier equine exposition and equestrian gathering on November 10-13, 2022, at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Whether you’re a diehard horse fanatic or brand new to the horse world, you can’t afford to miss this horse expo!

Equine Affaire is filled with endless opportunities to learn, exciting competitions, immersive activities, tons of shopping, and hundreds of horses, not to mention tens of thousands of horse lovers just like you eager to share, network, and have fun together. General admission tickets are on sale now via equineaffaire.com. Tickets for adults are just $18/day or $55/four-day pass; tickets for children, ages 7-10, are just $10/day; and children, ages six and under, get in for free! General admission includes entry to the largest horse-related trade show in the East; all theme pavilions; the Versatile Horse & Rider Competition; and all clinics, seminars, and demonstrations! Read on to learn more about how to elevate your equestrian experience in Massachusetts this fall.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR EQUINE AFFAIRE EXPERIENCE

Come prepared to learn! The schedule is filled with more than 150 horse clinics, seminars, and demonstrations, all presented by passionate and dedicated equine professionals. This year’s presenters on general horsemanship include Jonathan Field, Pat Parelli, Steve Lantvit, Lorie Duff, and Scott Purdum. Discipline-specific clinicians include Gina Miles (eventing), Nona Garson (hunter/jumper), Bill Warren (dressage), Sterling Graburn (driving), Jane Karol (dressage), Chad Crider (barrel racing), Leslie Lopardo (Western dressage), Karen Black (reined cow horse), Michael Gascon (easy gaited horses), Sally Batton (The Athletic Equestrian and Equicize), Ty Evans (mules), Carrie Brandt & Laura Benson (Icelandics), Caleb Carinci Asch (lunging), Joyleen Seymour (Mounted Games), the Copper Hill Vaulters (vaulting), the Canadian Cowgirls (drill teams), and many, many more. Sessions are designed to educate and elevate, so no matter what your level of experience or skill, there’s something to learn for everyone!

Interested in participating in a clinic? Consider applying for the Ride with a Pro clinic program! More than 50 clinics will offer unique opportunities for selected riders and horses to receive individual instruction and training from nationally recognized industry professionals. Clinic fees range from $75 to $350 and include clinic participation, event admission, and 24 hours of stabling. All applications are due by September 9, 2022. Find out more details about ways to improve your horseback riding experience at https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-ride-in-clinics/mass-ride-with-a-pro/.

Love to shop? Bring your spending money and kickstart your Christmas shopping season with our four-day shopping extravaganza! Equine Affaire boasts some of the largest and most varied trade show floors in the industry, with more than 450 vendors spread out across 5 buildings. Browse offerings from the horse world’s most beloved national and regional brands, retailers, manufacturers, and organizations, as well as myriad small businesses. Many of our horse clinicians will also have booths where you can ask for autographs, buy products, or even ask one-on-one questions! Whether you’re shopping for products or services, you’re guaranteed to find what you need, what you want, and what you can’t live without. See our full list of vendors here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-trade-show/mass-exhibitors/ and check back often in the weeks to come for updates. And if you enjoy hunting for bargains (or want to consign your own gently used horsey items!), check out the Marketplace, Equine Affaire’s own consignment shop. Learn more about how to consign here: https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-sell/mass-marketplace/.

Cheer on and join the excitement as dedicated horsemen and horsewomen give their all to compete in two fantastic horse competitions! First, the annual Versatile Horse & Rider Competition will return on Friday, November 11. Competitors will have the chance to vie for $5,500 in cash and other prizes, as well as the honor of being named the 2022 Massachusetts Versatile Horse and Rider Champions! Up to 25 horse and rider pairs will race the clock as they test their skills and athleticism navigating a complex obstacle course. This year’s competition will be judged by Scott Purdum and the master of ceremonies will be Steve Lanvit. Think you’ve got what it takes to win? Apply by September 9^th! Details are available at https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-participate/mass-compete/mass-versatile-horse-rider-competition/. Next, and back by popular demand, the International Liberty Horse Association will host an invitational freestyle liberty competition, sponsored by EspanaSilk, on Saturday, November 12^th and Sunday, November 13^th! Select liberty trainers and horses of a variety of breeds and backgrounds will display their talents in a two-part invitational, designed to showcase just what’s possible when a horse and human elevate their communication skills to a whole new level. You don’t want to miss either of these fantastic displays of horsemanship!

Want to learn about all different kinds of horses, meet equine professionals, or shop for your next horse? Visit the Breed Pavilion, the Horse and Farm Exhibits, the For Sale Stalls, and the Adoption Affaire! These special and interactive sections of Equine Affaire are dedicated to the hands-on experience. There’s no better way to learn about a new breed of horse than by interacting live and in person. Breed representatives and horses of dozens of different breeds will be on site with educational materials and tons of great information in the Breed Pavilion. In the Horse and Farm Exhibits, meet and network with the proprietors of tons of horse businesses, from boarding barns and stud farms to lesson facilities and more. Finally, you can also shop for your next best friend by browsing for horses for sale from Massachusetts and surrounding areas, or by visiting the Adoption Affaire, where adoptable horses of a range of ages, types, sizes, and backgrounds will be presented in hopes of finding their next forever home. Interested in participating or learning more? Visit https://equineaffaire.com/mass-breed-pavilion/!

Got kids? Little horse lovers will adore the Equine Fundamentals Forum, where there are plenty of horse-related activities for little cowgirls and cowboys as well as older kids. Tots will enjoy riding Purple Rein, our purple mechanical horse; coloring and crafting their own mounts to ride in the stick rodeo; and learning fun horsey skills like braiding, wrapping, and more. Older youth will also enjoy great networking opportunities and learning new skills through the Career and College Fair Scavenger Hunt, which will take place Saturday, November 12. For youth interested in improving their horse-showing skills, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association will host an intensive dressage judge’s clinic on Thursday, November 10, in the GGT Young Arena. The Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. Equestrian and Therapeutic Center will be hosting Horses That Heal, a special event designed to show youth and families the benefits of equine-assisted activities. Learn more about all of these and other events at our website!

Looking for even more ways to participate at Equine Affaire? Try A Horse for Heroes! The Equine Immersion Project will be on site to provide opportunities for veterans, first responders, and active duty members to enjoy the benefits of a variety of unmounted activities. Equine Affaire is also looking for volunteers to help us put on this year’s event, so if you’d like to volunteer, contact Lori Helsel at lhelsel@equineaffaire.com today. Volunteers can work shifts in exchange for free admission and a classy souvenir. Bring your whole barn family and make a day of it.

Finally, no day at Equine Affaire is complete without attending the Fantasia! Sponsored by Absorbine®, Fantasia is a musical celebration of the horse unlike any other. This evening show boasts a variety of performances by elite equestrian and equine performers set to musical styles ranging from classic to contemporary. Hailed as a family tradition by many of our long-time attendees, each show is a unique experience that showcases the beauty, athleticism, nobility, and grace of the horse. This year’s show will feature trick roper Rider Kiesner and trick rider Bethany Illes; the renowned Canadian Cowgirls Drill Team; daring equestrian Caleb Carinci Asch; reiner Fred Win; driving fanatic Sterling Graburn and his posse of combined drivers; the Knights of Iceland; Elliott Holtsman with a stunning liberty performance; a fanciful dressage freestyle, and more! With just three performances on November 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th, tickets are already going fast. Prices range from $14 to $25. Purchase your Fantasia tickets (separate from general admission tickets) online at equineaffaire.com today.

READY TO PLAN YOUR TRIP?

Equine Affaire has partnered with several local hotels to offer special discounted rates and room blocks. When you call to book your room, make sure to mention Equine Affaire! Make your reservations early, as many room blocks and discounted rates will expire in October. Visit https://equineaffaire.com/events/massachusetts/mass-attend/host-hotels/ for details and check out /mass-campinglodging/ for information about camping on the grounds at the Eastern States Exposition. You can also learn about special discounts on car rentals at /mass-airport-rental-cars/!

The address for the Eastern States Exposition is 1305 Memorial Ave, W. Springfield, MA 01089. Please note that the Eastern State Exposition charges for parking!

GOT QUESTIONS?

To learn more about our incredible 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 can’t wait to see you at Equine Affaire!

Equine Affaire gratefully acknowledges our generous sponsors: Absorbine, Farnam, US Equestrian, GGT Footing, Horizon Structures, Nutrena, and EspanaSilk! Make sure to visit the booths of these and our many other sponsors at our trade show in Massachusetts to share your appreciation for their help in sustaining this event!