by Anne Chunko, for the Standardbred Pleasure Horse Organization of Ohio

Columbus, OH — Standardbreds will be the focus of the annual Spring Fun Show at the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Hilliard, Ohio, this Saturday, April 26, starting at 9:00 a.m.

The show is organized by the Standardbred Pleasure Horse Organization of Ohio, an Ohio-based membership organization whose mission is to promote the breed’s versatility on and off the track.

The show offers in-hand, English and Western pleasure, equitation and horsemanship, and leadline classes. In addition, a ground poles class — for those who are not yet ready to show in jumping classes — as well as trail classes, driving classes and fun classes like barrel racing and flag race are offered.

The SPHO of Ohio will award three championship divisions: 2 Gait Championship, for walk/intermediate gait riders; 3 Gait Championship for walk/intermediate gait/canter riders; and Driving Championship.

Horses currently racing as well as those that are retired or in their second careers in non-racing pursuits are all welcome. Many of the classes are open to all breeds, with several Standardbred-only classes offered. SPHO of Ohio rules apply, including the fact that pin-fire marks and blemishes are not counted against any horse; that “trot” and “intermediate gait” are interchangeable and a horse may trot, pace, stepping pace, amble, rack or other smooth gait for the intermediate gait and will be judged equally. No show clothes or special show tack is required — only riding boots and long pants are required.

The show will be held at the fairgrounds indoor arena, rain or shine.

Camping is available for $25 per night, and indoor stabling is available for $25 per stall. The grounds fee, if you show from your trailer, is $8.00 per horse.

For more information, please visit www.sphooh.org or contact show committee chairperson Donna Masters at (740) 323-0265.

The SPHO of Ohio invites you to come and cheer on Standardbreds and support our versatile breed.