Oct. 18 Power, control and skill are displayed as horse and rider maneuver two and four-wheeled carts around the ring. Riders bring a variety of different horse breeds to compete in this growing sport. The Morgans and Saddlebreds are high-stepping breeds known for their quality, dependability and spirit. The Saddlebreds gained fame during the Civil War when they served as mounts for such famous generals as Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant. Hackneys are an English breed that possess a very unique gait that is marked by a pronounced flexion of the knee.
Roadsters are well known for pulling carts and carriages around the arena floor.
The last day of the N.C. State Fair Horse Show features mules and donkeys under saddle in halter, Western, English and jumping classes.