Spotlight On Thoroughbred Celebration Shows

Sasha Moran with her "Forrest Gump" in the racehorse leadline class (photo by Krista Hodgkin)

Two weekends ago, I had the pleasure of attending my first Thoroughbred Celebration Horse Show, which is a Virginia program created in the same vein as many competition series around the country that showcase the versatility and athleticism of the off the track thoroughbred. This year was the fourth anniversary of TCHS at the amazing Virginia Horse Center, in Lexington VA.

Thoroughbreds registered with The Jockey Club traveled from Pennsylvania, Maryland, North Carolina, West Virginia, New Jersey, Florida, and all points in Virginia to compete in more than eighty classes over three days of competition, vying for more than $4,500 in prize money, $8,000 in prizes, and nearly 600 ribbons. Thoroughbreds flooded the Daily Racing Form Winner’s Circle all weekend, many making an appearance there for the first time.

The kind lady who donated these photos, Sasha Moran, says, “I’ve been going to the TCHS for three years now and it has become my favorite show series of all time. Not only is it amazing to see various OTTBs from different situations come into the show ring and prove their versatility, but the camaraderie and friendship that is made is never ending. Being an active volunteer and participant in these shows, I have seen a come back in the breed and it has been rewarding to not only work with my own OTTB but see others grow and succeed in their new careers.”

Sunday Jumper Classes (photo by Sasha Moran)

TCHS, which is traditionally only hunter and jumper classes, expanded their repertoire the include dressage, combined test, and hunter trial divisions this year, with a big upswing in entries. I was riding a horse who had never competed or jumped off the farm before, and was freshly off his career as a racehorse. The competition was perfect, as it was held over three days, and he could participate in small jumper classes throughout the weekend to give him experience and confidence in all areas.

The horse show is also notorious for their prizes and goodies. Never have I attended a show where I was made to feel so darn special for every class I completed! Winners for even very low level divisions were awarded big ribbons, apparel, horse treats, personalized picture frames and more. Um, hello! I can go win an Advanced division at a recognized show and I’m lucky if I get a cooler!

What a better way to showcase one of the most athletic and versatile breeds in the equine world? I simply couldn’t think of one. Check out their Facebook page for more information on how to participate in the next one! [TCHS FB Page]

Many thanks to Sasha Moran for donating these amazing photographs from the weekend.