The first U.S. Hobby Horse Championships took place on August 13, 2024, in Almont, Michigan, marking a significant milestone for this unique sport. Over 100 competitors gathered to showcase their skills in various events, including showjumping, dressage, and barrel racing.
Hobby horsing, which originated in Finland approximately 24 years ago, has gained international recognition and popularity. The sport involves participants "riding" stick horses with fabric heads, combining elements of track-and-field, dancing, and gymnastics. Rosie Mulari, an 18-year-old champion from Finland, traveled more than 4,200 miles to compete in the inaugural U.S. event, highlighting its importance in the hobby horsing community.
"This is a huge deal for hobby horsing. There's no stopping us now. As the sport grows, we are getting closer to Olympic level."
The championship was organized by four teenage friends from three different states, showcasing the grassroots nature of the sport's growth in the United States. Mirabelle Soleil Whitman, one of the organizers, explained how social media played a crucial role in bringing them together and planning the event.
Hobby horsing has seen rapid expansion in recent years, with several European countries hosting competitions and Australia holding its first championship in July 2024. The sport typically attracts female tweens and teens, although participants of all ages and genders are welcome.
Julia Mikkonen, chair of the Finnish Hobbyhorse Association, provided insight into the sport's origins and growth. The first Finnish Hobbyhorse Championships were held in 2012, drawing about 100 participants. By comparison, the 11th annual event in June 2024 attracted approximately 2,000 competitors from 21 nations.
The U.S. championship featured various events mirroring traditional equestrian competitions. Participants demonstrated their skills in showjumping, dressage freestyle, and barrel racing. The competition also included a puissance event, where riders attempted to clear increasingly high jumps.
Many competitors and their parents view hobby horsing as more than just a playful activity. Angela Smith, mother of 11-year-old competitor Daphne, noted that the sport contributes to her daughter's overall athletic development. The championship attracted participants from across the United States and even internationally, with competitors traveling from as far as Hawaii and Canada.
The event's success has raised hopes for the future of hobby horsing in the United States. As the sport continues to grow, enthusiasts are working to establish it as a legitimate athletic pursuit, challenging misconceptions and showcasing the skill and dedication required to excel.
The U.S. Hobby Horse Championships concluded with a celebratory atmosphere, as participants and organizers reveled in the historic nature of the event. As the sport gains traction, it offers an accessible and imaginative alternative to traditional equestrian activities, allowing enthusiasts to experience the thrill of riding and competing without the need for real horses.