Germany Gallops into Hobby Horsing Full Speed Ahead
Germany hosted its first Hobby Horsing Championship in Frankfurt September 14, 2024, with over 300 riders competing in dressage, style jumping, and show events.
Hobby Horsing Germany
By Elke Porter | German Canadian Business News | May 25, 2025
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Germany galloped into a new sporting era September 14, 2024 as Frankfurt hosted its first-ever national Hobby Horsing Championship. With more than 300 participants—primarily children and teens, but also about 20 adults—the event drew an enthusiastic crowd of 1,500 spectators. Riders competed in dressage, time jumping, and style jumping, all while astride handcrafted stick horses.
Originating over two decades ago in Finland, hobby horsing combines athleticism with imagination. What began as a grassroots activity has gained global momentum, especially during the pandemic, when social media boosted its visibility. Now, nations like the U.S., Australia, and Germany are recognizing it with official championships.
“It gives me self-confidence,” said Max Gohde, 15, a rider from Gifhorn. “And now there’s this atmosphere where everyone supports each other.”
What may seem like child’s play has evolved into serious sport. Competitors are judged on elegance, posture, and precision. In dressage, for example, judges look for graceful movements, varied gaits, and strong body positioning. In jumping events, riders must clear obstacles with accurate landings and a steady rhythm.
The German Hobby Horsing Association was founded in 2023 ago with 13 members. Today, it boasts over 5,000 athletes and 200 clubs. “It was very important to us to set an example and make the sport more popular,” said association president Kay Schumann. “With this championship, we offer a motivating goal for all riders.”
Though often ridiculed online, hobby horsing is increasingly being recognized for empowering young people—especially girls—while offering a creative, inclusive space. For enthusiasts like Britta Skott, it’s a joyful outlet: “You can live out your passion for horses without needing a real one.”
With annual championships now planned, Germany’s hobby horsing movement is galloping full speed ahead.
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