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Saddlebreds, Hackneys, and Roadster Horse Show - Pendleton Photo

Saddlebreds, Hackneys, and Roadster Horse Show - Pendleton

Mar 7 - 9, 2024, 10am - 6:30pm
Garrison Arena
1101 W Queen St
Pendleton, SC 29670

The original event, which started in June 1933, was known as The Greenville Horse Show.  The founding members' determination for the "show to go on" continued its success, even during World War II.  This year's event, heralded as one of the longest continually running American Saddlebred shows in the country, is a reflection of similar determination. This competition is for the American Saddlebred and Hackney breeds, as well as the roadster and saddle seat equitation disciplines or events.

Historically referred to as the “Horse America Made,” the American Saddlebred is the ultimate show horse. Proud, upright carriage with neck arched and ears forward, the American Saddlebred dominates the saddle seat disciplines with its elegant and powerful high-stepping action.

The Hackney originated in Norfolk, England, bred by prosperous farmers seeking to improve the quality and trotting speed of their carriage horses. The breed flourished in Britain throughout the 1800s due in part to the emphasis on swift, light carriage, and riding transport, and by 1878 the Hackney had found its way to the United States. The Hackney is a versatile performer that excels in carriage and combined driving events, as well as in the show ring wearing a saddle.Saddle seat is a style of competitive horse riding using an English saddle (smaller and lighter than a Western saddle and no horn to grab onto) that is designed to show off the high action of certain horse breeds. The style developed into its modern form in the United States. The goal of the saddle seat riding style is to show off the horse's extravagant gaits, particularly the trot. The rider must make the riding look effortless, and stay still, sitting upright, with shoulders back.  In saddle seat, high-stepping gaits are required of the horses. Roadster is a type of driving competition for horses where the horse and exhibitor appear in equipment similar to that used in harness racing. Horses pull a light sulky or carriage and drivers wear special clothing called racing silks. However, the exhibitors do not race. Instead, they perform in an arena at horse shows at trotting speeds that include a slow jog, a medium speed "road gait," and a rapid and long-strided but controlled trot referred to as showing "at speed." Animals are evaluated on performance and manners.

Free Event

Mar 7 - 9