About

The Trillium circuit is designed for riders and horses who are making the step into recognized showing or for those who are looking for high quality shows without the time and financial commitment of a multiple day horse show.

We have divisions that are perfect for riders who are taking their first jump into horse showing or young horses being introduced to the world of showing, as well as a number of divisions available for you to set goals to progress to the next level.

Trillium shows operate under the rules and guidelines of both Equestrian Canada and the Ontario Equestrian Federation. This means all officials are EC certified and venues must meet certain standards in terms of ring size and safety. The Central East Zone is one of seven geographical Trillium zones throughout Ontario allowing riders to compete locally. For more information about the Trillium Circuit, check out the THJA yearbook, or read below for information on the Central East Zone.

How much does it cost to compete?

One aspect that make Trillium shows unique is that each division is completed in one day. Very often, other shows will split a division over two days, requiring horses and riders to spend longer at the show and pay for additional stabling, trailering, and coaching fees. Limiting our divisions to one day helps limit our competitor’s time and financial commitment. Prices may vary slightly depending on the individual horse show. All prices are listed in the prize list which you can view by following the links on our show dates page. However, all divisions pay prize money to fifth place which can sometimes cover the cost of your whole division!

The Central East Zone prides itself in no hidden fees, transparent price lists, and making your show experience as affordable as possible. We recognize that life can get busy and not everyone wants to spend their entire summer at horse shows. Our shows typically run over 2 days only (in total), and will rarely ever require you to stay for more than one day.

Who can compete in Central East Trillium?

Anyone! The Central East Trillium circuit is open to any level of horse or rider that wants to compete and we have a range of divisions to suit all from leadline, crossrail and walk/trot up to 3’6 Trillium Hunter and 1.10 M Trillium Jumper. We always love to see new competitors join our circuit.

What memberships do I need?

There are two levels of classes with different membership requirements (class levels are listed in the individual show prize lists):

Silver where both rider and owner must have a Silver Equestrian Canada (EC) membership and where horses must have a current EC passport
Bronze where both rider and owner must have a Bronze Equestrian Canada (EC) membership

ALL riders and owners must have an Ontario Equestrian (OE) membership in order to compete. Trillium Hunter Jumper Association (THJA) memberships are required if you would like to collect points towards year end awards and qualify for the THJA Championship show.

You must renew your membership before the start of show season. There is no grace period and points are not given retroactively if you are late to get your membership.

Where are Trillium shows held?

Central East Trillium shows are held at a variety of top-tier venues, such as Caledon Equestrian Park, Pickering Horse Centre, and Royal Canadian Riding Academy. We are very lucky to have such high-end venues available to us. All three venues have multiple show and warm-up rings, stabling for horses, food and product vendors, and seating for spectators. Caledon Equestrian Park was also the host facility for show jumping and dressage for the 2015 Pan American Games!

What divisions are offered? How do I find the show schedules and entry forms?

Central East Trillium offers a wide range of jumping and flat classes and divisions. Prize lists, schedules and entry forms are available on the individual horse show’s website. Follow the links on our show dates page for more details.

What happens at the end of the season?

All divisions qualify for year end awards for the top ten in each division. Ribbons and prizes are given out at our banquet each year and riders, trainers, and parents are able to join together to celebrate the success of the season. For more information on banquet visit our banquet page.

Silver division competitors are eligible to qualify for Trillium Championships held in September of each year. This prestigious event brings together the top seven riders from each zone across Ontario. It features hunter classics, mini-prix for jumpers, and spectacular prizes for champion and reserve in every division. This is a province wide competition so the competitors represent not only themselves, but are a part of their zone team, vying for high point zone in Ontario. For more information on championships visit the THJA website.

Are spectators welcome at Trillium shows?

Spectators are welcome at any of our Trillium shows. All the shows tend to be grass-roots, family-oriented horse shows with a very relaxing and friendly atmosphere. There is no charge for admission or parking. There is food available for purchase on site or you are welcome to bring your own. Have a son or daughter interested in horses or starting lessons? Bringing them to a show is a great chance for them to see what they can work towards.