Springfield, Ohio – The 2017 International Friesian Show Horse Association (IFSHA) World and Grand National Championship Horse Show begins today, Wednesday, October 4, at the Champions Center Expo. Over 230 classes will display the beauty and athleticism of the Friesian and part-bred Friesian horse across a variety of disciplines that include dressage, Western dressage, English pleasure, carriage pleasure driving, trail, in-hand, and more.

Now through Sunday, October 8, the honorable judging panel of Debbie Banfield for driven dressage, Thomas A. Poulin for dressage and Western dressage, and Richard Petty, Nancy Troutman, and Todd Trushel for performance and in-hand, will evaluate and crown the 2017 World Champions.

Several special events will take place for exhibitors throughout the show, including an Exhibitor Meet and Greet this evening at 7:00 p.m. EST in the Vendor Hall. Additionally, the IFSHA Annual General Meeting and Board of Directors meeting will take place in the Banquet Hall a half-hour after the last class of the Saturday afternoon session, on October 7. A silent auction will run concurrent with the show, and the 2017 IFSHA National Trade Fair will feature Friesian artisans, breeders, and manufacturers of fine products for horses and people alike.

Special awards will be presented throughout the show, including the IFSHA Founders Award to the nominated IFSHA member in recognition of outstanding efforts on behalf of the organization, and the IFSHA President’s Award, awarded to a nominated member in recognition of their contributions to the improvement and success of the US Equestrian Friesian show circuit.

More information on the 2017 IFSHA World and Grand National Championship Horse Show can be found online or in the 2017 prize list. Be sure to follow IFSHA Friesians on Facebook for show updates.

The Friesian horse was developed in the province of Friesland in the north Netherlands. Known for its luxurious mane, tail, and forelock, a Friesian horse has an expressive face, high-set neck, and powerful legs and hindquarters. Friesians are willing, active, and energetic horses, well suited for the variety of disciplines displayed at the 2017 event.

Find out more about the Friesian breed and all of US Equestrian’s 29 recognized breeds and disciplines in this Learning Center video. Join the conversation and follow US Equestrian on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram using #JoinTheJoy.