There is an organization, the “National Dressage Pony Cup” that has programs for ponies and small horses. The pony programs include designated classes and awards at partner shows, year end awards based on all classes (not just designated classes), two championship shows (east and west coast), and pony breeding awards at a USDF Breed Show (Dressage at Devon). For small horses the programs include year end awards and the championship shows. (The small horse division is a newer addition.)
The championships shows also include lots of breed awards, perpetual trophies, recognition by level, and really pretty ribbons.
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Thanks a lot!
just downloaded the membership app and the measuring docket. Guess i better go stick my horses and see who (that i’ve been training already) measures up. (or down rather lol)
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VSH is usually a designation used for larger miniature horses, particularly in driving classes.
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And since I think you’re in MO–the Dressage Pony Championships are at the NEC. It’s a fun show to go to, even just to watch!
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I recently saw some nice looking young Cleveland Bay crosses for sale on FB that were pretty reasonably priced. TB and Holsteiner crosses. I don’t know anything about the specific horses personally but wanted to pop back in to mention that since I’d mentioned the breed before and still think they are a very good option for anyone looking. We had some lovely ones when I was a junior, both F1 and F2 crosses. If anyone is interested, search for some of the Cleveland Bay groups and you should find them.
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About to hit the road to look at a 4 year old ASB gelding in Versailles KY at a well-respected farm that has a few others doing low eventing now. He’s chestnut with chrome AND flaxen mane and tail! The little girl in me is trying to contain herself;).
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good luck!
Uber Exciting. Once you have a Saddlebred and experience their brainpower, you’ll never go back.
I tried and went to fancy WB, but there’s no comparison upstairs. Learned my lesson.
Toes crossed you’ll find your beauty in Versailles.
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The breeder who has that horse breeds exceptional quality. I think that you will be impressed and pleased.
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Okay, so I may regret my life choices. The horse pictured was AWESOME! He’s 4 and not in active work - but has done enough to be ready to start serious work. It was crazy windy and he was just such a good boy. But with the video, a few of my very trusted horse friends questioned the size match. I told the owner I’d pass for now, as she had others looking. If that’s any of you, he was AWESOME! Just, maybe a little petite for me right now??? And if he doesn’t sell, I may circle back. But he’s a great rep of the ASB Sporthorse potential and I LOVE that his breeder is marketing to us! Thumbs up for the experience and nothing but great things to say. I wish I was a little more petite, lol. Though he felt really solid - just - I know my friends have my best interest at heart and I just started looking. This horse shopping thing is hard!!! Stay tuned for the next steps!
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ASBs grow until they are six, and will pop up a good bit from 5-6. I have a gelding here who grew 2", and spread out. I do get a kick out of people with size issues. The mare in my avatar was 15.2, and I have a very long leg- like a 33" inseam. When I was younger, I thought big horses were necessary. Then I realized how much more I like the smaller ones- they seem to stay sounder for me, amongst other things.
Best wishes in your search!
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He is nowhere close to done growing. Buy him.
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I like the 15-15.3 size, and I legitimately may regret life choices but he’s first I’ve tried, in great hands with others looking at him, so I’ll feel better trying a few more. But good to know about the growth patterns of the ASB. My loss will for sure be someone’s else’s gain!
And heck, if I try a few great ones and share them here, great PR for the ASB breed potential! Seriously - part of the decision is knowing there are more where he came from! Love the breed!
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I don’t know which looks more akimbo to me, a little person aboard a huge horse, or a big person aboard a little one. Neither looks aesthetically ideal to me. As far as riding…when a horse fits, you know it. Someone shorter will probably feel that ASB quite large enough for them. i have a 13.2 ponymule that is so big-on-the-inside that we look good together (plus i’m only 5’ so). I feel great aboard a 14.2ish horse. The young standardbred i’m training is still growing at 4 and he’s 15.1 or 2 and feels quite tall to me. I am daunted by the prospect of saddle training two of my larger mustangs who are 16. To me, that’s HUGE!!!
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My first initial reaction was that he may be a bit too small. Not necessarily that he can’t carry your weight, but with a longer stirrup length you might not feel much horse there. Which is fine, in some cases, but not my personal preference. Yes he could grow and maybe fill out more, or he could not grow so much either. I think if your friends are saying you should pass for how, and that’s your gut instinct, then go with it.
It would by no means be a terrible/the worst match
size wise, but I can see reason for doubt.
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Yes! I’ve known many horses that don’t finish until age 6, but some really don’t grow past 4. With only room in barn and budget for one more, I want to feel really confident in the match. And this was my jumping saddle. It’s hard because I may truly regret passing on him! But I literally just posted an ISO last week, and tons of cute ASBs. This one was my top pick based on looks, description, location, and price. And his height is great, just a little petite for my thunder thighs at this point…. I think horse shopping is about as stressful as saddle shopping!!!
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So did your saddle fit him?? If so, you should probably buy him. 
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Ok. That’s both hilarious and wise.
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My slender built 16 hand ASB is now a solid 16.3 and starting to get thick at almost 5. Way bigger than I wanted, but I just got a bigger mounting block.
They grow till 6 depending on the line and some don’t mature till 7/8 years old time frame. Mine is a late bloomer based on his bloodlines.
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