It may sound weird, especially to professional horse riders, but it's a real annual competition in Finland. The Hobbyhorse Championship is the largest hobby horse event in the world, involving over 10,000 people throughout the country, mostly girls aged 10 to 18.
Program of the event
The Equestrian Federation of Finland organizes the event, which gathers thousands of spectators and hundreds of participants from all over the world. The hobbyhorsing competition involves participants performing routines and movements with their hobby horses and has several sub-categories, including dressage, show jumping, high jumping, knockout, western riding, and international freestyle. All the hobby horses are hand-made by their owners and are given names. Sometimes, horses are exchanged or even sold.
Activities for the visitors
In addition to the Hobbyhorse Championship, which has ten disciplines, attendees can see several competition classes in show jumping and dressage, socialize, meet new friends, and enjoy various performances. Competing requires registration in advance. Seinäjoki Arena also features over 100 vendors. An impressive marketplace is spread over two halls.
Location & Tickets
The Finnish Hobbyhorse Championships are set to take place at the Seinäjoki Arena, spanning over 13,000 square meters and accommodating up to 10,000 people. Conveniently situated near Seinäjoki's city center and close to the train station, the arena offers easy access for participants and spectators alike. Seinäjoki Arena offers free parking as well. General admission to the Championship is 19.5 euros if purchased online. Tickets at the gate are 20 euros. Kids aged three and under may attend the competition for free.
