MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The West Virginia University J.W. Ruby Research Farm in Reedsville is ready to take part in a showcase of over 50 horses from across four states.
The Mountaineer Open Horse Show Series will begin on Saturday, June 21, and will go through Sunday, June 22, at the research farm, where riders of all ages will present horses of various ages and breeds in over a dozen competitions. WVU J.W. Ruby Research Farm horse unit manager and event organizer Crystal Smith encourages Morgantown area residents to check out the free event that also includes free refreshments and chances to see live trained horses in person.
“The event starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday this weekend and will probably run from about 9 to 4,” said Smith. “Spectators are welcome at the horse show, we would love to have people come out and watch.”
According to Smith, the equestrians that will take part in the Mountaineer Open Horse Show Series will consist of riders from West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Ohio. Over the course of two days, they will take part in competitions that range from traditional hurdle clearing that is normally envisioned for show horses to a southern style that includes a level of show performance. The performers will present horses that range from as young as one year old to as old as seven.
“You would see all the over-fences classes, which are the jumping competitions and then everything in the English discipline and Gated discipline,” said Smith. “Sunday is all the western disciplines and the ranch.”
Smith also noted that several of the competitors have taken part in previous iterations of the Mountaineer Open Horse Show Series. This includes some performers who started taking part back when they were in high school with horses who have been showcased for multiple years. While the series does have a competition factor, it is also intended to be a learning experience for those still working to understand horse performing.
“The series is known for being very accepting and super friendly,” said Smith. “It’s very fun to watch competitors that have been coming to the farm for years grow in their own riding.”
There are no costs to attend the Mountaineer Open Horse Show Series, and concessions will be available on-site. Registration will begin a couple of hours before the gates open, with the event expected to begin at 9 a.m. sharp. With two days worth of horse performances led by equestrians of all ages, Smith encourages Morgantown area residents looking to do something in the shade to stop by and see what’s in store.
“There will also be concessions on site, we will have light breakfast and lunch from the WVU Collegiate Horsemen, we definitely encourage people to come eat lunch while they watch and support that organization.” said Smith.