I get many different reactions from people when I tell them my daughter and I show model horses.  Most are just like the one I had when we first heard.  It seemed quite odd.  So why do we do it?  At first the thought of showing off how many models we had sounded fun.  But there is much more to it than putting your favorite models on the judging table so everyone can see.   Model shows are judged very similar to real horse shows. 

There are two different types of Model Horse Showing: photo and live. 

In Photo shows you take a picture of your model with a background, props and appropriate tack.  The harder it is to tell if this is a real horse or not, the better the picture will do in a show.  I don't photo show so I don't have much information.                                                                                        

In Live shows you bring your models to a show and have them judged on a judging table by a judge.  Winners receive ribbons usually for first through eighth.  First and second place winners are eligible for the Champion and Reserve Champion judging.

Showing in Live shows

First, the show is broken down into Halter and Performance classes.  Halter class is also divided into "OF" (original finish), Custom (painted and/or remolded, sculpted), and Resin (not highly reproduced like Breyer, Stone ,Animal Artistry, etc.)

Halter classes are further broken down into basic breed classes which could include: Sport, Draft, Light, Pony, Stock, and Foal.  Within each basic class is a subclass.  For example:  Stock horse could include Quarter horse, Paint, Appaloosa, and Long ears, and Other stock.                               

Performance classes could broken down into basic English, Western, General performance classes.  Just like halter, it is then broken down further.                                               

English could  include classes such as Hunter/Jumper, Pleasure, Trail, and Other English.          

Western could include Games, Stock Work, Trail, Pleasure, and Other Western.                             

General could include anything else such as Harness, Costume, and Other.

Knowledge is very important in model horse showing. Visit your local Library or book store for books on horse breeds.  Attending a local horse show could help you with both halter and performance.  Various horse magazines could also give great information.  Breyer also has their own publication called "Just about Horses" or "JAH". 

If you are interested in Live Model Horse Showing, there are shows all across the country.  There are even several sites that list live model horse shows by state.