History

A hoosier tradition for over 50 years!

The Classic was originally a part of the Indiana State Fair, which has a long tradition of Saddle Horse competition dating back to the 1890’s. In the years after World War II, the “Society Horse Show”, as the Classic was then known, grew in size and importance. Audiences flocked to the Coliseum where Jan Garber’s orchestra accompanied the equine stars of the era and fans cheered legendary champions like Wing Commander, The Lemon Drop Kid and Lady Carrigan.

By the 1980’s, the All American Horse Classic had acquired its present name and a reputation for excellence. The show became home to the American Saddlebred National Sweepstakes, the second and richest jewel in the Triple Crown of horse shows. Founded by Hall of Fame horseman Bill Wise, the ASHA Sweepstakes program has awarded over $3 million in purses since its inception.

“the Greatest Horse Show ever seen in Indianapolis” See the history of the coliseum

Indiana Horseman’s Hall of Fame