Parade of drafts

While I was at BreyerFest, I took in two separate showings of the Kentucky Horse Park's Parade of Breeds, both of which were heavily focused on draft horses.

I'm not a big draft horse fan, but I still enjoyed both shows. This was the first time I'd ever seen an American Cream...

love those eyes!... 

or a Suffolk Punch.

This mare was as broad as she was tall.

She was ridden bareback with a driving bridle. I'm sure this was because there are no saddles that fit her unique physique!

The Clydesdale was also exhibited bareback.

I don't usually think draft horses are cute, but this one was. Look at that face. So cheeky!

The Belgian was exhibited in hand.

He was a really tall boy and new to the Parade of Breeds.

He did great. 

I'm always on the lookout for new performance ideas and tack reference pictures, so I sat up and took notice when this Percheron trotted into the ring.  

He wore the kind of  medieval costume that is not authentic but popular at exhibitions and festivals.

I have a galloping draft that I like to show in performance. 

I've always wanted to make him a costume like this, but his big mane is a significant obstacle.

The Shire also wore a fun costume...

 but again, it included a full neck piece.

There's no way to fit that over a big, flowing mane.

But then...

I saw the Shire's second costume. 

 This one is perfect for Liam. Woo hoo!

Because I am still a horse crazy, ten year old at heart, I will always love the Parade of Breeds. I'm really glad I got to experience it again (twice!). Thank you, BreyerFest!