Notably, carriage driving is an inclusive sport that welcomes individuals of all ages and abilities. Many active riders train their ponies and horses for driving, ensuring a lifelong partnership even as their needs change. The Nashoba Carriage Classic's recent Carriage Classic's success is a testament to the community's dedication to the sport and charitable support.
The Nashoba Carriage Association recently held its much-anticipated Annual Nashoba Carriage Classic and Driving Derby at the picturesque Germantown Charity Horse Show grounds from October 18-20. This year’s event marked another milestone in the association’s commitment to promoting carriage driving—a sport that beautifully intertwines tradition with contemporary competition.
The event welcomed a diverse group of participants, including members, regional friends, and neighboring association members, all eager to partake in the festivities. The star attractions were Friday evening’s Driving Derby, the Coach Dog Class, and sidesaddle classes, which added a charming historical touch to the event.
The Nashoba Carriage Classic proudly supported WarHorses for Heroes, a greater Memphis area nonprofit providing equine-assisted therapy for veterans with service-related injuries. The event’s success was a testament to the community’s dedication to both the sport and the greater good.
The Nashoba Carriage Association, formed in 1997 in Germantown, Tenn., has spent over two decades fostering a vibrant carriage driving community in the Mid-South. From monthly potluck meetings to pleasure drives across stunning properties in Tennessee and Mississippi, the association offers numerous opportunities for members to connect and grow.
Carriage driving stands out as one of the oldest and most cherished disciplines in the equestrian world. Events like the Nashoba Carriage Classic highlight the sport’s rich heritage, with drivers featuring antique or replica carriages judged across various divisions, including single, pairs/multiples, small pony, very small equine (VSE), draft horse, large pony, horse, and junior driver divisions.
Wanda Chancellor, a long-time member of the Nashoba Carriage Association and active competitor, states, “It is a good sport; it can be dangerous, but carriage drivers, even at the highest levels [of competition], are very welcoming and helpful to one another. There are always people around helping you get ready and hitched up. It’s a supportive and fun group of people.”
Notably, carriage driving is an inclusive sport that welcomes individuals of all ages and abilities. Many active riders train their ponies and horses for driving, ensuring a lifelong partnership even as their needs change. It offers physical benefits such as improved hand-eye coordination and strength, alongside cognitive advantages like enhanced spatial awareness, as well as providing outlets for equestrians who might not be able to ride physically but can drive.
Wanda said, “There are a lot of young kids who start driving early, and several who are a little older who help out. Many like to ride on the back [of carriages] as navigators during cone and speed classes. I think they really enjoy it because it is different from other competitive showing they are involved in. It [carriage driving] is competitive, but we all just have fun. It is not as much pressure as some other equestrian sports.”
Exhibitors displayed skill and camaraderie throughout the entire weekend. The event served as a reminder of the enduring bond between horse and human, showcasing the sport’s ability to connect people through shared passion and tradition.
“The hospitality makes this show and association so unique,” Wanda stated. During Friday night, Germantown Charity Horse Show members hosted a Julep Party during the Derby. They served hors d’oeuvres, and exhibitors, spectators, and volunteers enjoyed mint juleps. Saturday lunch was provided, and on Saturday evening, everyone attended a wonderful dinner for all the exhibitors. “It is just really special, and everyone looks forward to the Saturday dinner that serves really nice food,” Wanda shared. After the Magnolia Drive on Sunday, a barbecue lunch was served where people gather before loading up to head home.
The Nashoba Carriage Association encourages newcomers to explore carriage driving, whether through lessons with local instructors or volunteering at events. It’s an excellent opportunity to join a community of like-minded individuals who share a love for animals, healthy competition, camaraderie, and learning new skills through horses.
For more information about the Nashoba Carriage Association and how to get involved, visit their website at nashobacarriage.org and follow their Facebook page: Nashoba Carriage Association.
