About SPHO

What is SPHO of Ohio?

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SPHO (Standardbred Pleasure Horse Organization) of Ohio is a group of Standardbred enthusiasts in the Buckeye state who get together to enjoy our Standardbreds. We promote the breed off the track and educate people about the versatility of the Standardbred. We are one of several clubs in the US promoting Standardbred versatility, and we welcome members and non-members alike to participate in our events.

 

SPHO Activities

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SPHO of Ohio participates in LOTS of activities throughout the year!

We organize and sponsor:

  • THREE Shows a year, showcasing our Standardbreds with classes just for them! But also with many open classes for all breeds of horses!

  • Fun Show

  • Hunter Paces

  • Breed Demonstrations - at Equine Affair and the Kentucky Horse Park

We also get together throughout the year for:

  • Trail rides - day and weekend!

  • Parades

  • Clinics

  • Shows

  • A Night at the Races

  • Awards Banquet

... and anything else we can find to do with our horses!

 

Membership Benefits

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SPHO of Ohio provides a wonderful network of people who LOVE their Standardbreds!! In addition to discounted rates at all of our events for our members, as a member of SPHO you will also be able to participate in our annual High Point Awards for shows and trail miles for ribbons and great prizes during our annual members banquet. You are also able to participate in some of our members-only events like when we travel to Lexington to showcase our wonderful horses at the Kentucky Horse Park for the breed demonstration! Best of all, you will find a network of lifetime friends who share you passion for riding and horses!!
 

What is a Standardbred?

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Standardbreds evolved in North America as people began breeding faster harness horses for racing. Originally, the breed was used for farm and family work, and racing was for recreation.

The founding father of the breed is Hambletonian 10, grandson of Thoroughbred Messenger.

Standardbreds can be fierce competitors on the track, but off the track, they excel in show and pleasure horse pursuits. They are known for their willing temperaments, desire to please, and athletic ability in a wide range of skills under saddle and in harness.

 

Mission, Beliefs & Objectives

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Mission Statement
The mission of SPHO of Ohio is to promote and educate the general public about the Standardbred breed as a versatile and useful pleasure horse before, during, and after any racing career. Read on for more information about our beliefs and objectives.

Beliefs
In developing and operating to fulfill its mission, SPHO of Ohio supports the following beliefs:
i. We believe the love of the Standardbred is our common bond.
ii. We believe SPHO of Ohio serves as a resource on Standardbred horse ownership.
iii. We believe in promoting responsible horse ownership.
iv. We believe each person involved in our organization is valuable.
v. We believe the organization exists for the good of the whole.
vi. We believe in promoting the well being of the horse.
vii. We believe that knowledge promotes better horsemanship through education.
viii. We believe in and recognize the volunteer ethic.
ix. We believe in the pursuit of excellence in all our activities.
x. We believe in the pursuit of individual excellence.
xi. We believe that interactive communication is essential to a healthy organization.
xii. We believe the value of participation is in the process as well as the achievement.
xiii. We believe principles of responsible horsemanship are valuable in all equestrian activities.

Objectives
SPHO of Ohio strives to:
i. Serve as a resource on Standardbred horse ownership to the SPHO of Ohio membership and the general public.
ii. Facilitate the training and placement of Standardbred horses with responsible owners.
iii. Engage in all activities to further the awareness of Standardbred pleasure horse ownership.
iv. Provide and promote educational opportunities that encourage responsible pleasure horse ownership and serve SPHO of Ohio members and the general public.
v. Provide for recognition for outstanding accomplishments of SPHO of Ohio members and its members Standardbred horses.

 

 

2013 SPHO SHOWS

Open Spring Show
April 26-27
Franklin Co. Fairgrounds
Open Summer Show
May 31 - June 1
Franklin Co. Fairgrounds
Open Fun Show
July 13
Lancaster Co. Fairgrounds
August 4
Cashman's - Delaware, OH
Old Fart's Show
August 18
Cashman's - Delaware, OH
Grand Circuit Classic
Aug 31 - Sept 1
Franklin Co. Fairgrounds
Standardbred World Show
October 5-6, 2013
Eden Park

2013 SPHO EVENTS

Equine Affair - Breed Demo
April 11-14
KHP Parade of Breeds
June 22-23
Kentucky Horse Park
Delaware All Horse Parade
September 8
Delaware Open Horse Show
September 14
Hunter Pace(s)
Hunter Pace - June 15
Infirmary Mound Park
Beginners Pace - July 28
Cashman's - Delaware, OH
Awards Banquet
DATES TBD

For More Info...

Please email spho.ohio@gmail.com with any questions on SPHO of Ohio and we will be sure to get back with you as quickly as possible!

Mission Statement

The mission of SPHO of Ohio is to promote and educate the general public about the Standardbred breed as a versatile and useful pleasure horse before, during, and after any racing career. Read on for more information about our beliefs and objectives.

2013 SPHO

SUPPORTED EVENTS

New Vocations Charity Horse Show

July 6 & 7

Delaware All Horse Parade

Sept. 8

Standardbred National Show (NJ)

DATES TBA

Delaware Open Horse Show

Oct. 14

 

"Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire. It is a grand passion. It seizes a person whole and, once it has done so, he will have to accept that his life will be radically changed".

-Ralph Waldo Emerson