Standardbreds showed off their skills as riding horses to thousands of equine enthusiasts at the Maryland Horse World Expo this past weekend.

Friends of Maryland Standardbreds was one of several groups promoting the breed at the 19th annual Horse World Expo at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium. Clarissa Coughlin, founder of Friends of Maryland Standardbreds, said she was pleasantly surprised by the amount of interest the breed received throughout the weekend and was thrilled to see multiple exhibits featuring Standardbreds and harness racing.

“It was gratifying to see so many Standardbred organizations promoting the versatility of the breed,” Coughlin said. “Together we can make a difference. The Standardbreds will no longer be the best kept secret in the horse industry.”

Coughlin said her group shared facts about harness racing in Maryland and distributed information about the Harness Horse Youth Foundation camp to be held at Ocean Downs in the summer as well as the Racing Under Saddle clinic slated for later this year.

With Standardbred ambassador Quantum Natasha, a retired trotter, they also showed the willingness and flexibility of the breed. Quantum Natasha participated in the Expo’s Parade of Breeds with eight-year-old Grace Robinson, who regularly shows the mare, as well as with trainer Julia Jesu (Close Up Show Stables).

Other Standardbred groups participating in this year’s event included Rosecroft Raceway, Cloverleaf Standardbred Owners Association and the Maryland Standardbred Breeders Fund.

Ohio’s Starting Gaits Standardbred Transition Program also brought several horses to demonstrate how easily the animals adapted to careers as riding horses.

Organizers of the Maryland Horse World Expo said they were excited by the expanded Standardbred presence at this year’s event.

“It was a great opportunity for the public to meet the breed and learn what is offered on the track and after their racing career,” said Denise Parsons, president of Equestrian Promotions. “All of the Standardbred representatives pulled together to show this wonderful breed and show its versatility.”

(Friends of Maryland Standardbreds)