The second edition of the German Hobby Horsing Championship took place in Frankfurt, a competition that is transforming the very concept of equestrian sport. Organized under the supervision of the German Equestrian Federation (DtHHV), the event involved thousands of enthusiasts and confirmed a constant growth of the discipline throughout Germany.
Through qualifying tournaments spread across the territory, the objective was to make access more equal and inclusive, avoiding long journeys and allowing everyone to participate at a national level. The public followed the technical and spectacular tests with enthusiasm, in an arena that registered over 1000 participants and more than 3000 spectators. The atmosphere was that of a real sporting arena, with courses designed to simulate show jumping and a strong focus on safety and participant inclusion.
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What is Hobby Horsesing and how to compete
Hobby Horsing is a sporting discipline that reproduces elements of show jumping and dressage using a stuffed horse on a stick. Participants face complex routes, overcoming obstacles that can reach up to one metre, combining agility, coordination and creativity. The categories are divided by age, from U6 up to U99, making the sport accessible to children, teenagers and adults. In Germany there are around 9,500 active practitioners, especially young athletes. The creative aspect also makes the discipline even more engaging: many athletes build and decorate their own stuffed horse, transforming it into a unique object that represents their sporting and personal identity.
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From Finland to Germany: the boom in cruelty-free sport
Born in Finland about twenty years ago, the Hobby Horsing has spread rapidly in Europe thanks to social media and productions such as the film HobbyhorseRevolution. A sport that is increasingly appreciated because it is cruelty-free, given that it completely eliminates the use of real animals, focusing on movement, imagination and self-expression. The phenomenon has also grown on social media, where videos of training and races have helped make it viral among young Europeans. The competitions also include the customization of the horses, making each athlete an active part of their sporting experience.
An ethical and sporting choice
More and more young people see Hobby Horsing as an innovative and animal-friendly form of sport. The discipline combines physical activity and creativity, offering an alternative to traditional practices involving live animals. A discipline that represents a new way of experiencing sport, where competition combines with respect for animals and personal expression.
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