National Gallop 2025: Hungary’s Heart Beats on Horseback

The National Gallop returns with a packed weekend of speed and skill-based equestrian events from October 3–5 in Szilvásvárad (northern Hungary), where more than 100 riders will compete in the prestigious Hungarian horse-racing festival.

Ahead of the main races, the popular International Mounted Police Competition kicks off the festivities on October 3, featuring simultaneous speed and agility challenges, shooting, fire jumps, and barrel racing, with both Hungarian and international competitors.

The official opening ceremony and rider’s oath take place on October 4, followed by youth races including the Junior Hussar Gallop (ages 14–17) and Children’s Hussar Gallop (ages 10–13). Adult competitors will face off in the National Gallop’s preliminary heats, alongside the Carriage Gallop and Carriage-Pushing events. The day also includes a performance by the Győr Daredevil Riders and concludes with a dramatic herd drive demonstration.

October 5 brings the semi-finals of the junior and adult gallops, as well as the debut of a Traditional Hussar Competition, where historical re-enactors representing 1848-era regiments tackle a series of timed skill tests. Additional highlights include show-jumping and carriage-driving pair contests, a Citizen Guard riding display, and youth training demos from HaZám Riding School and the Fonyód Junior Hussars—complete with drills and cannon fire.

Spectators can also enjoy performances by Gömör Horsemen portraying border defenders, pony-mounted child hussars, a Puszta Five show, and a live battle scene from 1848–49.

Finals begin with the children’s races, followed by the mounted police and carriage gallop championships. A historical cavalry parade sets the stage for the closing rounds of the youth and traditional hussar competitions. The National Gallop Grand Final is followed by a trophy ceremony and a majestic herd drive to wrap up the festivities.

Via MTI; Featured image: MTI//Komka Péter