History of the Trillium Circuit

In 1983 with the help of the O.E F., and sponsorship from Segrams, the Trillium Circuit was created. It was set up to bridge the gap between schooling shows and the "A" circuit, and to offer exhibitors an inexpensive and viable alternative to pursue their horse interests. It was also intended as a training ground for new officials and course designers.

Twenty years later, the Trillium circuit is still growing, and has seen hundreds of horses and riders develop through its ranks.

Over the years the caliber of horse and rider has dramatically changed. In the early years many of the horses were "anything that could jump a course", and some of the shows themselves left a lot to be desired in terms of conditions and jumps. However, this was the basis of what is now a flourishing circuit. As we move into the year 2003, the Trillium Circuit can boast a very high standard of competition, through the diligent work of horse show managers and trainers across the province.

Since its inception, the Trillium Circuit has developed from being a subsidiary of the O.E.F., into being an organization in its own right - the Trillium Hunter/Jumper Association (THJA).

This organization is run by a committee representing all seven Trillium zones: Central East, Central West, Eastern, Georgian Bay, North East and South West and South East.

Through elections and annual general meetings in each zone the committe governs all aspects of the Trillium Shows including the implementation of show standards and rule changes that pertain to the Trillium Circuit. The Association also publishes newsletters throughout the year to inform members of any updates, and carries on an active membership campaign.

The highlight of the show season is the culmination of the years efforts at the Trillium Championships in September. These Championships are open to the top seven qualifiers in each division from each zone, and is the scene of a very competitive, yet fun for all horse show.

For the year 2000, the THJA, at the request of exhibitors, has made some changes to the core program. A Child/Adult Jumper Division with a maximum fence height of 3'3" was introduced, and was incorporated into the Championship program.

The other major change was to make our Junior Hunters, previously showing at 3'6", into a modified Junior Hunter Division showing at 3'3". This is an attempt to encourage our young riders in the Children's Division to move up by giving them a stepping stone to the Trillium Hunters at 3'6".

The Trillium Circuit is welcomed a new Zone in the year 2000 - "South East" zone. A full core program is offered, with participation in the Championships show. The success of this series of shows will result in the permanent addition of the new zone to the Trillium Hunter/Jumper Association Constitution.