I am looking for beginner friendly show series in the central Florida area for my 6 year old son who is new to showing.
You are talking about a wide range of areas, but Fox Lea in Venice has family friendly schooling shows. Check their website for info. Still 2 hours from Orlando, tho.
Disclaimer - I have never been to these shows personally, but heard good things about them years ago:
http://gohja.org/#Calendar
Also there is PCHA in Tampa at the Florida State Fairgrounds:
http://www.pcha-fl.org/html/calendar.htm
Central Florida is very broad. What general area are you in and how many hours in each direction are you willing to travel? Someone suggested Fox Lea, which is a great venue, but there are many local non rated cheaper shows as well. Let us know the general area you’re in!
I’m not sure I would consider Venice (Fox Lea) central florida…it’s pretty far south and close to naples. Tampa does have a local circuit that I’ve never been to so can’t tell you much about how it is. The main local show that we do in Orlando is GOHJA…it’s a great, casual atmosphere that’s perfect for beginners. I would definitely recommend this show :]
If you are anywhere near Weirsdale - Horse Shows In The Park (.com) puts on a really nice schooling show.
Sumter Equestrian Center in Bushnell, Fl. (on Hwy 476). Easy drive, great facility, friendly staff and exhibitors. We take our youngsters to this show, and tons of beginners find many classes to enter. You can’t go wrong here. Just google the name!!
[QUOTE=Mel0309;7959122]
If you are anywhere near Weirsdale - Horse Shows In The Park (.com) puts on a really nice schooling show.[/QUOTE]
I second the Horse Shows in the Park recommendation. Very beginner friendly.
Forgot about Sumter. Have judged there and it is also very beginner friendly.
As others have said, GOHJA in Orlando, PCHA in Tampa, Sumpter in Bushnell. If price matters, Sumpter is cheaper than PCHA and GOHJA but the footing/scheduling isn’t always as good.
FWIW: I’d pick PCHA. (Good footing, plenty of wash racks, well judged, family/beginner friendly, strong competition, end of year banquet and awards, prizes for blue ribbons, etc.)
