Tryon International is home of the
North American Hobby Horse Series™
proudly presented by:
A favorite free event Saturday afternoons in July and October, the worldwide sport of hobby horsing debuted in America at Tryon International in 2017. All that’s required for this sport is a hobby horse: a toy consisting of a stick with a horse head that participants “ride.”
Riders complete a course of jumps with their hobby horse, scored for time, incurring faults for every rail knocked down. Ribbons are awarded to top scores per division, as well as special awards. Pre-registration is required online in advance for this free event.
View FAQ, galleries of past events, and fill out the registration form below.
FAQs
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A play on the discipline of Show Jumping, riders complete a course of jumps with their hobby horse, scored for time, and will incur four faults for every rail knocked down while on course. The top eight placing participants will be awarded ribbons for each division, and special awards will be given on select dates. Riders compete in divisions by height and age.
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6 & Under: Cross-rails & 18 inches
7-9 year olds: Cross-rails & 18 inches
10-12 year olds: 18 inches & 2 foot
13 & Up: 2 foot & 2 foot 6 inches
Parents’ Division (18+): 2 foot 6 inches
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Yes. Walk-ups will not be accepted, however our hobby horse area is available before and after competition for unorganized play and enjoyment!
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2023’s hobby horse competitions, presented by Young Rider, will be hosted all Saturdays in July and October. Save the dates and pre-register!
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NO - hobby horse competitions are FREE, but we do require all participants sign a waiver form and pre-register. In order to provide adequate ribbons, prizing, and time for competitors to enjoy the event, participants MUST sign up in advance.
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That’s up to you! We recommend comfy athletic shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Dress to celebrate the season, like your favorite rider in the Grand Prix competition, or in your favorite outfit!
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That’s okay! We are always happy to share one of ours, and there are also hobby horses available for purchase in the Unique Boutique.
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Absolutely! Whether your hobby horse comes from a store, is made of wood or a pool noodle or a broomstick, all hobby horses of all kinds are welcome here. In fact, we often give out prizes for those special handcrafted ponies!
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Check-in begins at 5pm and the course is open for practice until competition starts at 5:30pm.