4-H Saddles Up Equestrian Show

The annual Blue Ridge Equestrian Fun Show is coming to Blowing Rock. The 4-H riding club is teaming up with Appalachian State University riders to expand the event, which typically draws several hundred people and some of the top riders in the region. The ASU Equestrian Club riders will also participate and serve as mentors, and the alliance will add nearly two dozen people to the event. Blue Ridge Equestrian 4-H has 16 full-time members and the expansion of the show will allow it to appeal to a wider range of riders.

There are 40 classes of competition this year, and entry fee is $8 for each category. There are also “Jackpot classes” with cash prize money, divided between the top three finishers, and an entry fee of $10. The show is on Sept. 13, with registration at 6 a.m. and the show beginning at 8 a.m. The show will continue until all events are complete, which depends on the numbers of participants. Other new additions to the show will bring more people of all age levels. This year there will be miniature horses to appeal to children, with other games added that aren’t horseback-related.

A concession stand will sell items to help support the horse club. Any non-profit can set up a booth for free, and the Blazing Saddles riding program will be in attendance this year. Auction items include coupons to area restaurants and businesses as well as collector’s items. The show will be held at the Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve.