The Best Equestrian Events and Competitions in North Scottsdale

 

It is no surprise that North Scottsdale and surrounding communities have a keen interest in equestrian sports. Many properties in the area have expansive land to allow homeowners to engage in horse ownership, with many participating in equestrian activities. Equestrian sports have no age barriers, and there is a wide range of participants, from the young riders starting out to the amateur adults taking on a new hobby and world-class riders training day in and day out.  The North Scottsdale community, with its many events and premier facilities, attracts residents and visitors interested in equestrian sport.

North Scottsdale is home to a bustling equestrian community. Renowned centers and training facilities are found across the area, providing elite programs and instruction for the equestrian enthusiasts in the community. Due to the popularity of equestrianism in North Scottsdale and the surrounding communities, this is a prime location for various equestrian events and competitions throughout the year. Whether you are an equestrian competitor or a dedicated fan interested in watching the best in the world compete in Scottsdale, there are several fantastic equestrian events and competitions in North Scottsdale to choose from.

 

With a longstanding history and tradition dating back to 1955, the Arabian Horse Show in Scottsdale welcomes thousands of participants and spectators each year to this exclusive event. The level of competition at this event is prominent, bringing together the best breeders, trainers, and owners across the country and the world. Held each year in February, the beautiful weather and scenery provide the perfect backdrop and conditions for this event. The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is held at the World of Scottsdale facilities, the premier location for equestrian events and competitions in the area. With 11 arenas and ample event space, the exquisite location provides a spectacular experience for all in attendance. The schedule of events includes dressage, sport horses, and working western competitive categories.

 

Hosted by the Arizona Hunter Jumper Association, this fall equestrian event in Scottsdale provides a classic horse show experience. Arizona Fall Classic events include jumper, hunter, and stirrup and serve as regional and national competitions for the United States Equestrian Federation in certain categories. The event takes place in October at WestWorld in Scottsdale. Prizes for winners of this prestigious event can reach up to $10,000 for medal finalists in the Grand Prix event.

 

The Sun Circuit is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a world-class event in Scottsdale. With opportunities for various exhibitors, there is a host of categories to participate in this expansive event taking place in March. The eight-day event grants competitors ranging from amateur beginners to world-class level champions the chance to compete amongst the best in their class in categories such as showmanship, western pleasure, horsemanship, riding, hunter, and working events. This widely anticipated event expects to bring in thousands of participants and spectators to none other than the WestWorld grounds in Scottsdale.

 

For horse lovers and enthusiasts in the North Scottsdale community, there are also events that go beyond competition. The Open Your Heart Gala is a fundraising event raising awareness and funds for the Hunkapi Programs, which provide equestrian instruction and immersive experiences for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction disorders, and other emotional disorders. Held in October, the Open Your Heart Gala is an evening filled with activities hosted by Emmy award-winning news celebrity Brandon Lee. The events of the gala include a farm-to-table dinner and fundraising efforts through a live auction. VIP ticket

packages and sponsorship opportunities are available.

 

A unique equestrian event combining horsemanship and archery, the Clash of the Warriors is a competition unlike many other equestrian events in the North Scottsdale area. This three-day event hosted by the Desert Warriors of the Southwest provides competitive events in the tower, raid, and hunt categories. Competitors must hold membership with the Mounted Archery Association of the Americas. Event sponsorship opportunities are available.

 

The United States Dressage Federation hosts one of its various regional dressage championships right in North Scottsdale at the WestWorld facilities. Dressage allows for the exhibition of some of the most beautiful and best-bred horses in the competitive arena. The dressage regionals in Scottsdale are open to competitors who qualify, including adult amateurs and high-level entrants. The competition takes place in late September, with qualification periods for the event occurring through early September.

 

Touted as one of the best polo events in the world by international competitors and spectators alike, the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships is an extravagant event with desirable experiences for all in attendance. Although the sport of polo takes center stage for the weekend's festivities, a wide array of activities and events are available throughout the day, including a couture fashion show, wine-tasting experience, grand displays, and live musical performances. Ticket options include table packages with VIP seating locations, experiences, and all access passes. The event takes place in November for what is sure to be spectacular weather and a lively atmosphere at the WestWorld of Scottsdale.

 

To reach world-class levels, riders must gather experience and exposure at premium competitions, such as the American Cup Championship Arabian Horse Show in Scottsdale. This event focuses primarily on youth and amateur riders. The American Cup Championship takes place in November at the arenas within the World of Scottsdale. Competitors have an opportunity to compete at the same venue as many world-class level equestrians. This event meets qualification standards for Region 7 and Arabian Horse Association National level competitions.

There is no shortage of equestrian events and competitions in North Scottsdale to attend or participate in. As a horse and riding enthusiast, you will find activities and events to fill up your busy schedule throughout the year. Home to many of the country's most prestigious and best equestrian events and competitions, North Scottsdale provides year-round equestrian entertainment and sports to appeal to the entire family. If you are considering a move to North Scottsdale or live in the area and are looking for an equestrian-friendly property to expand on your interests, contact Miki Nakajima for more information and insight on available properties in the community. The North Scottsdale community and surrounding areas are a perfect fit for anyone interested in the equestrian lifestyle.