| There are several reasons why the Topsfield Fair draft
horse show is one of the fair's most popular events. This show
combines agriculture with action and demands team work; not simply
between driver and horses but it also requires that each horse be
part of the complete unit. Classes range from single carts to the
exciting six horse hitches, with several competing in the arena at
the same time. Exhibitors invest many hours and dollars to insure
that their animals, wagons, harnesses and equipment are turned out
in superb fashion for the draft horse show. Classes for the four major draft horse breed are featured in
the show, including Belgians, Percherons, Clydesdales and Shires.
Several
junior driving classes give youngsters a chance to get the feel of
what it means to compete with some of the best draft horse stables
in the Northeast, as they learn to put their horses through their
paces.
Classes for lady drivers only are also included in the show,
ranging from single carts and pairs to a special four horse hitch
class, shown by individual breed.
During the last day of the fair, winners of the 6 horse
hitches in each individual breed are brought back into the arena
to compete for the manager's trophy which is awarded to the best
overall hitch in the entire show. Hitches competing in this class
are also awarded points toward an international championship
series held later in the year.
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