Diving into Disciplines: Breed Shows

Over the past three weeks, we have been exploring a variety of equine disciplines that any breed of horse can participate in. All of them have been part of the inspiration behind our 2025 BreyerFest theme, Cheers to 75 Years.

Open shows of various disciplines allow anyone with any breed of horse to enjoy the competition ring. Along with open shows, there are also a plethora of breed-specific shows for horses of the same breed to compete against each other in many different competitions. These horses compete against each other for year-end awards within their association.

Some breeds associations in the United States that host their own shows across country include Arabians, Andalusians and Lusitanos, American Saddlebreds, Appaloosas, Friesians, Vanners, Icelandics, Miniature Horses, Hackneys, Morgans, Quarter Horses, Paints, Paso Finos, Welsh Ponies and Cobs, and a variety of draft breeds.

A notable aspect of breed shows is the variety of classes one can enter their horse in. Many breed association shows offer a variety of English and Western classes for riders to compete in, in addition to classes specifically tailored to that breed, such as classes for the breed's unique gait. A horse can compete in one or many classes or divisions at these shows.

From in-hand classes to under saddle classes, there is something for every horse and rider of every level. Paso Finos will have classes to show off their unique fino gait, American Saddlebreds will have classes to show off their 5-gaited rack, and Icelandics will have classes to show off the tölt. Some breeds such as Arabians and Friesians will also have regalia classes, where horses and riders are dressed in historical or culturally-significant tack.

Saddlestea classes are popular among breeds with high action trots, such as the Morgan and National Show Horse. The goal of these classes is to show off the breed's extravagant gaits - specifically the trot, which should be clean and rhythmic with the horse appearing energetic but pleasant to ride. Saddlebreds will have separate classes for three-gaited and five-gaited horses (to demonstrate the rack). Many of the other high-action breeds will have popular classes to compete in such as Park, Pleasure, Country Pleasure, and Equitation.

While there are many under-saddle, jumping, and in-hand classes at breed shows there are also plenty of driving classes, including Pleasure Driving, Country Pleasure Driving, Carriage Pleasure Driving, Formal Driving, Roadster, and Fine Harness. Different breed driving classes focus on different aspects - for example, some will look for high-action animated trots, while others prefer the horse and rider to demonstrate a more relaxed way of moving.

No matter the type of horse you own, showing within a breed association can be lots of fun! The energy of breed shows is high, and sometimes intense, but there is camaraderie among competitors. Owners and riders are passionate about their breeds and love showcasing them.

Breyer strives to represent a variety of breeds in our lineup, and many horses who have become champions within their breed associations have been immortalized as models. One such champion is WGC Marc of Charm, an American Saddlebred stallion. His flawless execution of his gaits, especially his rack, has helped him gain seven world champion and world grand champion titles within the American Saddlebred Association. Marc's portrait model was created on our Racking Saddlebred Stallion mold (#802), sculpted by Jennifer Scott.

What is your favorite breed that Breyer has made a model of? Share in the comments below!