Wisconsin is a popular location for Clydesdale owners, trainers, and breeders. 2018 will be the third World Clydesdale Show hosted in Madison at the Alliant Energy Center. Executive Director of Clydesdale Breeders of the United States Cathy Behn describes it as the “Olympics” of Clydesdale shows. Demographically, Wisconsin works well for horses, and the people here love the breed too. The Budweiser Clydesdales spurred popularity for the breed, but the hardy working horses they are, breeders were already prevalent in the Midwest.
Two show rings will host 100 classes. There will be the world-famous hitch classes of up to 8 horses, but riding has grown tremendously too. Spectators can watch classes in halter, barrel racing, jumping, and dressage. The Budweiser horses will even be there!
About 30,000 people are expended to attend. Cathy said they hope to register 700 horses. Entries close on August 24th.
Clydesdales risked extinction during World War I due to increasing mechanization and war conscription. These were war horses. In the 1970s, the breed began to bounce back. That’s part of why people like Cathy are so passionate about the breed. They have a rich history with multiple faces. And for their beauty. It’s the third smallest draft horse breed, but it’ strong. It’s graceful and one of the few breeds to have feathering around its feet. There’s no confusing a Clydesdale for any other horse.
The World Clydesdale Show takes place October 24-28 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison.
