In recent days, curious images of a particular "vegan riding" competition held in Finland have gone viral on social media.
The cuts of the exercises that participants usually practice in it have already been seen by millions and millions of people on TikTok.
What is really attractive is the absurdity of the subject: competitors – both adults and children – "ride" wooden and plastic horses as if they were flesh and blood and were part of a real riding competition. They run, jump fences, imitate the animal's trot, get scores, etc.
Dozens of participants of all ages compete to raise awareness.
Although in networks this sport was nicknamed "vegan riding", those who practice it seriously call it "Hobby Horseing".
A competition full of curiosities
The world championship of "vegan" riding has been organized for about four years by the Association of Amateur Horses of Finland to raise awareness about the sport. The last one would have been attended by more than 10,000 people. It is also celebrated in Germany.
As a color data it can be said that each fake horse has a name and belongs to a fictitious breed and that, in addition, there is a good market for reins.
A fake horse designed to compete in hobby riding. Photo: instagram @flyinghighhobbyhorse
An Instagram page titled "Flying High Hobby Horse" features many of the toys used in hobby riding competitions.
"Yolo", one of the "horses" presented, was described thus: "This little guy is destined for the hunter ring. I'm so happy I finally added a smaller horse to my stable! As of now, Yolo has jumped the maximum height of 2 feet, my goal is to jump 3 foot courses with him!"
The person who manages that Instagram account was responsible for uploading to YouTube a video of his participation in the final of the 2023 competition in Finland.
Finnish Hobby Horse Championships 2023
Reactions in networks
As expected, phrases like: "The world is crazy" abounded; "What else do I need to see?"; and "What does this have to do with veganism?"
"First explain why they call riding an activity where equines are not used. They can't invent a new one without staining a sport. Hint: vegan jumps with (mental) obstacles," one person opined.
Another, for example, added: "And if they better do an obstacle course and stop emulating a horse."
See also