Giddy up, hobby horse enthusiasts! It’s your trusty pals at Hobby Horse Adventures, and we’re practically bursting at the seams with excitement about our upcoming June events. As the UK’s go-to destination for all things hobby horsing, we’re on a mission to create a space where riders of all ages and skill levels can come together, learn from each other, and have an absolute blast. So, grab your faithful hobby horse companion and let’s canter through what we’ve got in store for this month!
What is Hobby Horsing?
For those who are new to this delightful pastime, allow us to introduce you to the whimsical world of hobby horsing. Imagine this: a horse’s head atop a sturdy stick, a pinch of creativity, and a dash of athletic prowess. That’s the heart and soul of hobby horsing! This charming sport, made famous by the Finland Championship, involves riding your very own hobby horse over jumps, navigating cross country courses, and even showcasing your skills in dressage. It’s a trend that’s taking the UK by storm, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to be at the forefront of this exciting movement.
June’s Upcoming Hobby Horse Events
Hold onto your hobby horses, folks, because June is absolutely jam-packed with events that’ll have you chomping at the bit! Let’s take a closer look at what’s on the horizon:
Hobby Horse Event – Blackpool
Date: 15/06/24
Location: Penny Farm, World Horse Welfare Centre
Classes:
- Class 1: 20cm (10am)
- Class 2: 30cm (10:45am)
- Class 3: 40cm (11:30am)
- Class 4: 40cm pairs (12:15pm)
- Class 5: 50cm (1pm)
- Class 6: 60cm (1:45pm)
- Class 7: Accumulator (2:30pm)
- Class 8: Chase me Charlie (3:15pm)
- Class 9: Dressage to Music (4pm)
Entry Fees: £10.00 to £50.00 (depending on the number of classes)
Loan a Pony: £5.00 (if you don’t have your own)
Accessibility:
- Wheelchair access
- Indoor stables and arena
Amenities:
- On-site refreshments and stalls
- Access to Penny Farm visitor centre and cafe
Dog-Friendly: Assistance dogs only
Hobby Horse Event – Driffield
Date: 23/06/2024
Location: Field House Camping & Coffee Barn
Format: Pay-on-day classes at £5.00 per class (including warm-up)
Setting: Outdoor grass arena (weather permitting) or indoor barn
Classes:
- Clear round classes
- Fun jumping classes
- Grand National
Other Features:
- Camping available for a weekend getaway
- Meals and refreshments available on-site
Dog-Friendly: Well-behaved dogs allowed on-site and campsite
Accessibility:
- Wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, seating, and toilet
Hobby Horse Event – Tamworth
Date: 29/06/2024
Location: Middleton Equestrian Centre
Classes:
- Class 1: 20cm
- Class 2: 30cm
- Class 3: 40cm
- Class 4: 40cm pairs
- Best Presented Horse: £3.00 (pay on the day)
- Star of the Day Announcement
- Class 5: 50cm
- Class 6: 60cm
- Class 7: Chase me Charlie
- Class 8: Dressage to Music
Entry Fees: £10.00 to £50.00
Loan a Pony: £5.00 (if needed)
Accessibility:
- Indoor arena
- Quiet music played
Amenities:
- On-site refreshments
- Hot drinks and snacks
- Stalls selling hobby-horse and crafty pony gear
Dog-Friendly: Assistance dogs only
Hobby Horse Pay and Play on the Day
Defender Bramham International Horse Trials
Date: 06/06/2024 – 09/06/2024
Location: Bramham
Todmorden Country Fair
Date: 22/06/2024
Location: Todmorden
Discover the Magic of Hobby Horsing
If you’re new to the world of hobby horsing, you might be wondering what all the fuss is about. Well, let us tell you – it’s an experience like no other! When you mount your trusty hobby horse and let your imagination run wild, you’ll find yourself transported to a world of adventure, excitement, and pure joy.
At our events, you’ll have the chance to put your skills to the test on a variety of courses, each designed to challenge and delight riders of all levels. From navigating tricky jumps to showcasing your elegance in dressage, there’s always something new and exciting to try.
But the real magic of hobby horsing lies in the connections you’ll make along the way. Our events are a gathering place for like-minded individuals who share a passion for this unique and wonderful sport. You’ll meet new friends, swap stories, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
And the best part? Hobby horsing is an inclusive activity that welcomes everyone with open arms. No matter your age, background, or experience level, you’ll find a warm and supportive community ready to cheer you on and help you grow.
A Sneak Peek at Our Exciting Plans
We’ve got big plans in store for the future of Hobby Horse Adventures, and we can’t wait to share them with you! In addition to our regular events, we’re working on some truly special experiences that will take your hobby horsing journey to the next level.
Picture this: a weekend-long hobby horse extravaganza, complete with camping, bonfires, and endless opportunities to ride and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Or how about a series of themed events, each with its own unique challenges and surprises?
We’re also exploring ways to make our events even more accessible and inclusive, with plans for sensory-friendly sessions, adaptive equipment, and dedicated quiet spaces for those who need a break from the excitement.
And of course, we’re always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to showcase the creativity and skill of our hobby horse community. From costume contests to talent shows, there’s no limit to the fun we can have together!
Why Attend a Hobby Horse Event?
Aside from the fact that it’s the most fun you can have on a stick (literally!), attending a hobby horse event is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in a warm, welcoming, and inclusive community. Our events are carefully designed to cater to all skill levels, from beginners just finding their footing to experienced riders ready to take on new challenges. It’s a chance to showcase your skills, connect with like-minded enthusiasts, and forge friendships that will last long after the event is over.
At Hobby Horse Adventures, we firmly believe that everyone deserves to experience the thrill of competition and the joy of accomplishment. That’s why we award rosettes to all participants, regardless of their placing. It’s not just about winning; it’s about celebrating the shared love and passion for hobby horsing together!
Neurodiversity and Hobby Horses
One of the most heartwarming and unexpected aspects of our hobby horse journey has been the deep connection we’ve formed with the neurodiverse community. We’ve had countless parents reach out to us, expressing their initial apprehension about bringing their children to events. They worry about overwhelming situations, not fitting in, or facing isolation due to their unique challenges.
But here’s the beautiful thing: time and time again, these courageous children and their families have found a true sense of belonging within our hobby horse community. It’s a place where differences fade into the background, and everyone is united by their shared love for the sport. The pure joy and unbridled excitement on their faces as they realise they’re accepted, valued, and embraced is a sight that never fails to bring a tear to our eye.
To nurture this inclusive environment, we’ve created the “Hobby Horse Adventures with Diversity” Facebook group. It’s a safe, supportive space where parents and our team can discuss best practices, share ideas, and work together to make our events as accessible and accommodating as possible. We’re constantly learning, growing, and adapting to ensure that every child, regardless of their individual needs, can experience the magic and wonder of hobby horsing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries we receive from our lovely hobby horse enthusiasts:
Do I need to bring my own hobby horse?
Nope, not at all! Most of our events have hobby horses available for participants to loan a pony for £5 for the entire day.
What age range is suitable for hobby horsing?
We welcome riders as young as three years old for our smaller classes. As children grow and gain confidence, they can progress to higher jumps and more challenging courses. Our oldest participants are around fourteen, but we don’t have an age limit—hobby horsing is truly for everyone!
How do I know what height to jump?
The best approach is to practise at home and get a feel for what height you’re comfortable with. Our courses typically feature 5-8 jumps in a sequence, so it can be quite a workout!
Can spectators come and watch?
Absolutely! Spectators are more than welcome to come and watch for free, enjoy the festive atmosphere, browse the stalls, and cheer on the riders. Who knows, you might just catch the hobby horse bug yourself!
What does it cost to participate?
Our classes are priced at £10 per class, which includes entry, the chance to compete for beautiful rosettes, and the opportunity to stand on the podium for a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place finish.
Quality Hobby Horses for Sale
No hobby horse adventure is complete without a trusty steed by your side. We offer a stunning selection of high-quality hobby horses for sale, ensuring that you have the best possible experience. From the charming Buckberry Babies Hobby Horses at £40.00 to the graceful ByAstrup Hobby Horses in Sandy, White, and Black at £45.00 each, we’ve got a horse to suit every rider’s unique style and personality.
We’re also proud to offer the exquisite Laurel Designs Hobby Horses in Brown White Nose, Dark Brown, and Grey at £195.00 each, as well as the affordable MyHobbyYourHorse collection in Black, Brown, and White at just £100.00 each. Shellys Homemade Hobby Horses are exquisite and high end at £150. Browse our collection today and find your new best friend!
We also now stock Jumps. Three different types and available at all shows as well as Laurel Designs Horses.
Conclusion: June’s Most Anticipated Hobby Horse Events
Phew, what a ride! We hope you’re as excited about June’s hobby horse events as we are. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious newcomer, there’s never been a better time to join our vibrant, inclusive community. At Hobby Horse Adventures, we’re passionate about creating an environment where everyone can experience the joy, camaraderie, and pure magic of this wonderful sport.
As we gallop into the future, we’re committed to bringing you even more unforgettable experiences, both on and off the hobby horse. We’re constantly dreaming up new and exciting ways to celebrate this unique and wonderful sport, and we can’t wait to share them with you.
So, what are you waiting for? Saddle up, grab your trusty hobby horse, and let’s make some unforgettable memories together. We can’t wait to see you at our June events, and we look forward to creating many more unforgettable memories together in the years to come.
Happy riding, and see you soon!
The Hobby Horse Adventures Team
Ready to join the fun? Visit Hobby Horse Adventures and sign up for our upcoming events to experience the magic of hobby horsing!
Further Reading
For those looking to explore more about the enchanting world of hobby horsing and related topics, here are some insightful resources:
- History of Hobby Horsing – Learn about the origins and evolution of hobby horsing, a sport that combines creativity and athleticism and has gained popularity especially in Finland and beyond (Wikipedia) (HorseyCounsel).
- The Fascinating Rise of Hobby Horsing – This article explores how hobby horsing has become a cultural phenomenon in Finland, promoting empowerment and creativity among young girls (Global Citizen).
- What is Hobby Horsing? – Discover the main competitions, the equipment used, and how this sport is gaining traction in different parts of the world (HorseyCounsel).