The biggest event in the equestrian sports calendar, the International Horse Show is a yearly affair hosted in rotation between the three turf clubs located in Perak, Selangor and Penang, respectively. With the objective of showcasing equestrian sports to the public, the silver state plays host this year with the Perak Turf Club and PRTC Equestrian Club being the organisers.
To be held from Thursday, October 13, the four-day occasion features competitions from mixed disciplines such as show jumping, dressage, obstacle archery, fancy dress, cross country and triathlon. It is jam-packed with family-oriented activities, traditional carnival delights and exhibitions. On the cards are horse breeds display, face painting, magic show, fire eaters, carnival eats, pony and carriage rides.
Equestrian competitions will go on throughout the four days while the expo and carnival will begin on the second day.
“The biggest highlight is the third leg of the show jumping event for the 2017 SEA Games qualifier to be held on the third day which will attract top riders. Plus, we are having obstacle archery for the first-time ever,” Soo Lai Kwok, General Manager of the Perak Turf Club told Ipoh Echo. The knock-out six bar competition will be the crowning moment of the opening ceremony on Saturday, October 15.
When asked about the potential of equestrian sports in Ipoh, Lai Hah Wan, the Deputy General Manager of Perak Turf Club replied, “Equestrian sports tend to be viewed as an elitist game. At our centre here, we have very affordable riding lessons. Hence it’s not totally out of reach. I hope the horse show can help spur public interest in the sport when they see the top riders in action.”
In addition, the organisers will be hosting over 200 underprivileged children from welfare homes and organisations for the disabled, to lunch during the fair.
From exciting speed, agility and nail-biting competitions for horse enthusiasts to educational, hands-on and fun activities for the young ones, it will be a great family day out.
Admission is free. For more details, do swing by their website: perakturfclub.my.
Mei Kuan
