This morning, I stumbled across a post sharing class counts for the American Royal Horse Show. Now, I’ll admit, my American Saddlebred knowledge isn’t exactly top level, but over the past few years, I’ve gained a real appreciation for their show world.
One class title instantly caught my eye: Veteran Show Pleasure.
Curiosity got the best of me, so, of course, I went digging. According to a 2018 Saddle & Bridle article, this division was created “to honor and showcase the longevity and competitiveness of the American Saddlebred, and in appreciation of our military veterans.” Horses must be 11 years or older to compete—chosen intentionally to coincide with Veterans Day on November 11.
How wonderful is that? 🐴
I absolutely love everything about this concept. Not only does it honor our military veterans, but it also celebrates another kind of veteran—the seasoned show horse who’s still out there doing what they love, years after many have hung up their halters. This could even be tied into local or National military veterans program with donations and/or welcoming them to our show to present awards.
In so many show circuits, the spotlight tends to shine on the youngsters: the futurity winners, the promising three-year-olds, the stars just starting their careers. And while that’s super exciting, there’s something deeply special about a horse who has stood the test of time. The ones who have trotted into ring after ring, year after year, with the same spark in their eyes.
While older horses can, and absolutely should, remain competitive in regular classes, offering them a special class of their own sends a powerful message. It shows that we value their experience, heart, and longevity just as much as a young horse’s potential. A dedicated division not only celebrates these seasoned partners but may also inspire exhibitors to keep their horses in the ring longer. When owners and trainers know there’s a place where maturity and consistency are spotlighted, it reinforces the idea that a horse’s show career doesn’t have to peak early—it can evolve, endure, and continue to shine well into their veteran years.
As horse breeding and registration numbers continue to dip across breeds, encouraging longevity in our show horses feels more important than ever. These horses are ambassadors for soundness, good training, and lasting partnerships, and they deserve to be celebrated.
While I’m not always in favor of adding more classes to our already jam-packed Arabian show schedules, I can’t help but wonder: could we take a page out of the Saddlebred playbook?
Imagine a Veterans Hunter Pleasure or Veterans Western Pleasure class—something just for the older, wiser horses who’ve already had their moments in the big spotlight but still love the game and want to compete. With the right sponsor and some creative prize money, it could become a fan-favorite event: a true showcase of heart and staying power.
Our Arabians and Half-Arabians are already known for their longevity, beauty, and brilliance. A class like this could be a perfect way to celebrate that spirit and give our beloved horse show veterans one more chance to shine under the lights.
Because at the end of the day, a long and happy show career?
That’s something worth cheering for. 💫
He showed into his early 20s.
Silhouette Arabians 