This Unusual Sport Is Galloping Into Michigan

Apparently, hobby horsing is huge in Finland, and now it’s catching on here in Michigan.

I didn’t even know this was a real thing until I saw photos of kids competing in what looks like a mix of equestrian events and gymnastics… except the horses are plush toys on sticks.

It sounds quirky, but the sport is serious enough that there are official rules, judges, and even specially designed hobby horses that can cost quite a bit.

The US version of the event kicked off last year at Almont Middle School, bringing in 120 participants. Before last year, you’d have to travel across the world to compete but four girls here in Michigan decided to bring it to the US, and the event grew even more in its second year.

What is Hobby Horsing?

Basically- it’s exactly what you’d think. People riding around on stick horses, pretending they’re real horses. It’s fun, it’s silly, and some participants train for months, perfecting jumps and choreography. And it’s not just kids, teens and adults get into it too.

It’s also building the confidence of the girls who participate, and in a world looking to make us feel bad, isn’t that magical all on its own?

If you’ve never heard of hobby horsing, you might laugh at first, but clearly, for the people involved, it’s an actual sport with a growing community.

And judging by how fast it’s spreading, we might be seeing more local riders trotting their way into the spotlight soon.