They’re not just for racing anymore …
The Standardbred was created to be a harness horse – a willing worker; calm, intelligent and good natured, tough and strong. Many people have the idea that because it is a harness horse the breed is not suitable for riding.
As a result, most are destroyed and become pet food when their racing career is over or when they fail to make the grade, even though they are still young and healthy.
Now horse lovers are coming to recognise that the very qualities that make a good harness racer also make a good riding horse for both pleasure and competition.
The SPPHA (Standardbred Pleasure and Performance Horse Association) is a non-profit, volunteer-run association that promotes the Standardbred as a multi-talented breed, which can succeed in many equestrian disciplines.
These horses are successful across a variety of activities, ranging from showing, endurance, dressage, show-jumping or eventing, to pony club, trail riding and pleasure harness, or just as a much loved family pet.
The SPPHA promotes the Standardbred horse in a number of ways. One of the most important of these is through direct transfer of horses from the racing industry into equestrian homes through our Adoption Program. Owners and trainers donate horses to the SPPHA, and these horses are then matched with new adopting owners.
People seeking to adopt a Standardbred complete the adoption application process, which includes screening to ensure a suitable home is being offered. Most applicants are matched with a horse to suit their needs without much delay.
The SPPHA supports both led and ridden classes at local shows for Standardbreds, and coordinates the High Point Awards for Showing at both State and National levels.
The Association has also commenced a High Points Competition for Dressage. We also offer members quarterly newsletters, and source information on horse care and training. There is also a range of SPPHA merchandise available for purchase.
As well as competitions, the Association also organises the SPPHA Annual Dinner at Harold Park, our major social and fund-raising event. As personnel and support allows, we also organise training days and trail rides, and participate in appropriate promotional activities, such as arranging stands at trade displays, and providing information for magazine and newspaper articles to further advance acceptance of the breed.
Since the formation of the SPPHA, there has been significant positive change in opinion towards the Standardbred. Many people are experiencing first hand the amazing temperament and trainability of this wonderful breed. The future is looking much brighter for the Standardbred … they’re not just for racing anymore!
For more information:
Website: www.standardbred.org.au
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