On July 2, the 76th annual Marion Horse Show once again proved that the venue and the attendees alike are magnificent.
The venue, Washburn Park off Front Street in Marion, features an arena fit for royalty. According to the show’s website, the event was founded in 1947 by Charles R. Washburn as a fundraiser with monies going to local youth groups. The Tri-Towns pooled their resources for a 4th of July celebration with festivals and a parade.
The stated mission today is to preserve the horse tradition of Marion with the annual show, its jewel in the crown or, should I say, bridle. And it’s an open show, open to all who wish to test their equestrian mettle. Once again, the show did not fail to entertain or challenge the riders.
The show tests the riders and, of course, their horses in a wide variety of categories. Over 70 different skillsets were listed in the program. For the casual observer, it all looks difficult to execute, but for the rider who has spent endless hours working with the horse partner, it’s a matter of understanding what the horse is willing to do based on trust and training.
There is a variety of riding styles, such as English, Western and Saddle seat.
Some of the challenges the teams faced included a trail class, where horse and rider had to perform a series of tasks without hesitation such as walking backwards, gathering a sack, riding with sleigh bells and ignoring a small, lighted Christmas tree.
The glossary of terms for horse-related activities is mind boggling. There are Hunters, a class of horse and rider that is judged based on the horse’s movement. They should appear relaxed with smooth rhythmic movements. Equitation is based entirely on the rider’s position and control of the horse.
To add another layer to the complex world of competitive horseback riding, there are different types of judging. The Pleasure style judges the horse. Equitation, as previously noted, judges the rider, while In Hand looks at the ability to lengthen strides.
While horse shows have been a part of the agrarian culture for hundreds of years, a report noted that as far back as when Rome was the center of the world some type of horse racing or competition has taken place. In 1918, the Association of American Horse Shows formed on the eastern seaboard. Thusly began what today riders and horses must train to do, work together, in strict conformance to regulations, standards and traditions.
The Marion show featured primarily female riders from girls to women. Dressed in crisp shirts with collar closures neatly tucked into breeches, and short jackets, riding boots and helmets, they looked professional and in full possession of equestrian form.
There is also the tradition of placing ribbons in the hair of females and on the horses’ manes. The colors are silent messages. Green means the horse and/or rider are new to competitive riding, but red on a horse’s mane means it likes to kick – beware.
While this event is now in the books, mark it in your calendar for next year. You won’t be disappointed to see riders and their horses putting their best foot (hoof) forward in the hope of earning a ribbon, and it’s a great way to kick off summer fun with the whole family.
By Marilou Newell