BY ALY BLACK
For more than 100 years, generations of horsemen and horsewomen have gathered in Warrenton for one of the most beloved traditions in equestrian sport. From June 24–28, the 106th Annual Warrenton Pony Show will return to the historic Warrenton Horse Show Grounds, bringing together top pony riders, hunters, equitation competitors, families, and community members for five days of competition, education, and fun.
Known as “The Oldest Pony Show in America,” the Warrenton Pony Show is unique not only because of its rich history, but because it remains the only recognized horse show in the country organized and operated by a Junior Committee made up entirely of young people 18 years of age and under. Throughout the year, committee members work tirelessly to plan the event, raise funds, paint jumps, coordinate activities, and ensure the show continues to thrive for future generations.
The show also continues its longstanding tradition of giving back to the community. Since its inception, the Warrenton Pony Show has benefited local charitable causes, and this year proceeds will once again support the Fauquier SPCA. Through their efforts, Junior Committee members learn valuable lessons in leadership, responsibility, community service, and philanthropy.
Championship Competition & Prestigious Finals
The Warrenton Pony Show continues to attract some of the region’s top riders with a schedule featuring nationally recognized hunter, equitation, and pony divisions, along with qualifying opportunities for WIHS, NAL, VHSA, MHSA, and USEF programs.
A major highlight of the week is Warrenton’s role as host of three prestigious championship finals:
• VHSA/M&S Pony Medal Finals
• VHSA/M&S Pony Medal Equitation on the Flat Finals
• VHSA/M&S Children’s Pony Medal Equitation Finals
These finals bring together many of Virginia’s top pony riders who have spent the season qualifying for the opportunity to compete for championship honors.
The show will also feature the $2,500 Country Chevrolet Pony Hunter Derby on Saturday evening under the lights. One of the week’s premier events, the derby attracts many of the region’s best pony riders and has quickly become a favorite among competitors and spectators alike.
New Thoroughbred Division
New for 2026 is the $1,500 B&Z Services Junior/Amateur Thoroughbred Hunter Division.
Designed exclusively for Thoroughbreds, the division celebrates the athleticism, versatility, and heart that make these horses such exceptional partners. Whether showcasing an off-track Thoroughbreds successful second career or competing with a hunter-bred Thoroughbred, riders will have the opportunity to compete for significant prize money while highlighting the breed’s growing impact in the hunter ring.
The division reflects the increasing popularity of Thoroughbreds in the hunter discipline and provides another exciting championship opportunity during the week.
$1500 Hunt & Go Team Challenge presented by Piedmont Equine
Adding even more excitement to the schedule is the $1500 Hunt & Go Team Challenge presented by Piedmont Equine.
Teams of three riders will be randomly drawn, with one rider representing each height of 2′, 2’6″, and 3′. Following an initial course of five to seven jumps, teams immediately return for a handy round, creating a fun, fast-paced competition that emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship.
The unique format encourages riders from different divisions to compete together and often results in new friendships, memorable moments, and plenty of excitement around the ring.
Something for Every Rider
While the Warrenton Pony Show is known for its top-level competition, it remains committed to creating opportunities for riders of all ages and experience levels.
From Leadline and Pre-Short Stirrup classes to Opportunity divisions, Local Hunter divisions, Children’s Hunters, Adult Hunters, Junior Hunters, Pony Hunters, and Amateur-Owner Hunters, the show truly offers something for everyone.
One of the most anticipated crowd favorites is the Costume Class, where exhibitors can showcase their creativity and enjoy one of the most entertaining traditions of the week. Whether competing for a championship or simply making memories with family and friends, riders of all ages will find a welcoming atmosphere at Warrenton.
Education, Outreach & Community Impact
This year, the Warrenton Pony Show is expanding its educational offerings thanks to support from the Virginia Horse Industry Board through its Junior Committee Outreach, Education and Support Project.
The initiative is designed to empower the next generation of equestrian leaders while strengthening connections across Virginia’s horse community. Through expanded outreach, educational programming, and new opportunities for participation, the project aims to introduce more young people to the horse industry and encourage them to become active leaders within it.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this support from the Virginia Horse Industry Board,” said Jonelle Mullen, who serves as Co-Project Manager for the initiative alongside Laura Bartee. “This grant provides a remarkable opportunity to not only enhance our historic show but also to cultivate a new generation of leaders within the Virginia horse industry. By expanding our Junior Committee and welcoming new disciplines, we are building a more inclusive and sustainable future for our sport and our show.”
The project will introduce a variety of new activities during the 2026 Warrenton Pony Show, including educational seminars, clinics, outreach opportunities, and new classes designed to engage participants from a variety of equestrian disciplines. Organizers are also working to attract new Junior Committee members, exhibitors, volunteers, and sponsors while creating meaningful opportunities for Pony Club members, 4-H participants, FFA students, IEA riders, therapeutic riding programs, and the broader Virginia horse community to connect and learn from one another.
The initiative will begin with a pilot program focused on the counties surrounding Warrenton, with the goal of expanding successful elements statewide in future years.
This project and program is supported by a grant through the Virginia Horse Industry Board.
More Than a Horse Show
Beyond the competition rings, the Warrenton Pony Show remains a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and tradition. For more than a century, young people have come together to organize and operate this historic event, creating an experience that is as meaningful for the volunteers behind the scenes as it is for the exhibitors in the ring.
Whether you’re competing for a championship, cheering on a future horseman or horsewoman in the Leadline, enjoying the Costume Class, participating in one of the educational opportunities, or simply spending time with friends and family, the Warrenton Pony Show offers something special for every horse lover.
The 106th Annual Warrenton Pony Show will be held June 24–28, 2026, at the Warrenton Horse Show Grounds in Warrenton, Virginia.
Join us as we celebrate more than a century of equestrian tradition while continuing to build the future of our sport through competition, education, community service, and the next generation of equestrian leaders.
Learn more at https://www.warrentonponyshow.com/
