People of all ages and walks of life enjoy watching horses and people in action. To compete builds self-confidence, character, experience. And smiles. The bond that happens between horse and human is one that lasts a lifetime and helps in many life situations out of the saddle.

See that smile? Horses and humans go together well and have for millenia. This is from the CHSA show competition, linked to the official Facebook page for the event this weekend.

According to the U.S. Equestrian Federation, 27 million people older than 12 ride – at least once a year. Ah, but the number of those older than 12 in the USA who ride on a regular basis? 14.6 million. (No mention of horse-obsessive humans who ride at every opportunity.)

The number of horses in the U.S., 6.9 million. Horse owners, 2.2 million. Consumer expenditures (by ASHA membership) equals $2 billion; 83 percent are female. Members own an average of four horses. And 40 percent own a farm; 66 percent of those are 10-plus acres.

Connecticut Horse Show Association (CHSA) finals at Shallowbrook Equestrian Center, Hall Hill Rd., Somers, on Thursday, Aug. 25 through Sunday, Aug. 28. This event is “to encourage and promote interest in the beginner and intermediate classes and/or divisions” – and to encourage participation in CHSA-approved shows. Surplus funds from the event benefit the CHSA Scholarship Fund. Visit www.chsafinals.com for information or follow image below linked to the site.

In the ring, in between classes, CHSA event.