ALMONT, MI — With their hands over their hearts for the National Anthem, riders bowed their heads before mounting their trusted steeds.

Each gripping the reigns before racing out, dozens turned to hundreds as the deafening sounds of elated tweens and teen girls galloped together for a rowdy group lap outside and around the Almont Middle School gymnasium.

Not a single hoof touched the ground.

This is hobby horse.

It’s a sport where everyone is cheering for each other and encouragement and camaraderie are complimentary like the peanut butter and jelly sandwiches packed in parents’ bags for a long day of competition.

While there are winners, there are no losers — only respect for showing up and showing out.

For one weekend in early August, a worldwide collection of enthusiasts to the sp

See Full Page