Friends of Sound Horses (FOSH) announces and invites all gaited horse fans to join together at the Festival for the Horse taking place August 9-13 in Mora, Missouri.

Having fun while learning will be the theme of the event being held in partnership with North American Western Dressage (NAWD). No matter your interest learning sessions, trail riding, watching demonstrations, socializing with like-minded friends and participating or watching a Western Dressage show for both gaited and trotting horses and mules, there will be something for every horse and mule and every rider.

Join FOSH and NAWD for a unique gathering that celebrates the spirit of learning together for the good of all of our equine partners. Full details are atnawdhorse.org.

The event kicks off Wednesday, August 9 with a slate of demonstrations from NAWD professionals and featured clinician Dan James of the renowned Double Dan Horsemanship. Learning sessions for August 9 and 10 include:

Dan James - Cantering

Dan James - Is your horse ready for bareback/bridleless riding?

Dan James - Leads and Lead Changes

Double Lane Horsemanship - Six Feet on the Ground & Long Reining Fix-A-Test sessions

Double Lane Horsemanship - Create your own freestyle

Julie Slater - Ranch Horse exercises for success

Alece Ellis - Dressage for the gaited equine

Brandy Von Holten - Obstacles and Trail

Festival for the horse attendees are invited to apply for riding spots in these demonstrations space is limited, and participants will be selected on a first come, first-served basis with consideration for applicants qualifications. The full schedule is available online. Instructors will also offer lessons on Wednesday and Thursday for an additional fee.

Included with your Festival for the Horse participant fee of $250 is access to all demonstrations, opportunities for obstacle course and trail riding, along with dinner and campfire treats on Wednesday and Thursday. Von Holten Ranch will host a Friday night banquet, featuring dinner, a DJ, photo booth and prizes; tickets are $20.

The Festival for the Horse Show takes place August 11-13; this fun, friendly competition lets you put your skills to the test for great feedback and prizes. Entries are $35 per test, and a $20 office fee. Tests include Western Dressage, Ranch Horse, Six Feet on the Ground, Long Reining, Trail and Freestyle.

Registration for the Festival for the Horse is now open. Full information, including the event schedule, is available at www.nawdhorse.org/event/festival-horse-equines-welcome.

FOSH is the only international organization dedicated to the promotion of the sound gaited horse emotionally, mentally and physically. Since 1998 FOSH has promoted fair competition through its IJA program (Independent Judges' Association). FOSH provides educational resources and promotes humane training practices. For more information about FOSH or to become a member, please visit www.fosh.info or e-mail data@fosh.info.

Friends Of Sound Horses Partners With North American Western Dressage