There’s a new show in town, and it’s all about horses and kids.
It’s the Francis Field Show Circuit, a series of horse shows dedicated to providing a welcoming, family-friendly environment where riders of all levels can learn, compete, and grow.
Ashley Toepper, owner of the not-for-profit Toepper Trail Farm in Monee, said the series of shows highlighting young riders will take place at Francis Field, a youth foundation and historic landmarked 4-H field.
“Francis Field has long been known in our community as a place where horsemanship, sportsmanship, and friendships come together,” she said.
“Our mission is to create opportunities for youth and equestrians of all backgrounds to participate in equestrian events in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. There are shows and classes for everyone, from English to western, speed, dressage, and we are also building an ADA-compliant wheelchair ramp for those who need it to participate in our Equestrians with Disabilities classes. We truly encourage everyone to participate!
“The 2026 show circuit will feature multiple shows throughout the season and will conclude with a Year-End Awards Banquet, celebrating the hard work and achievements of our riders. We are committed to offering a class for every type of rider, from beginners just starting out to experienced competitors.”
Toepper noted the Francis Field Show Circuit board was established in 2026, “when a group of us wanted to see more local shows and provide a circuit where competitors could work toward a year-end goal.” The circuit is part of the Equine Association and Youth Group of Francis Field, which is a not-for-profit organization, she added.
The seven-member board includes Michele Monaco; Ashley Toepper; Kelly Sassi, owner of Impulsion Equestrian Center and Sassi Performance Horses; Breanna Giacomelli; Jes Skudlarek, owner of Livin A Dream Farm LLC; Onnie Smith, owner of Painted Ha-Lo Ranch, coach for ISU horsemanship team; and Brittany Reardon, president of the Equine Association and youth group of Francis Field and executive board member of Francis Field Youth Foundation.
Plans are underway for the first show of the season on May 17 and will run through the summer and fall, with the final show taking place on October 3.
“The shows are open to the public, and we love to welcome everyone to come see what it is all about,” Toepper said.
“There is typically no admission to come watch the shows, and you do not need to get a ticket in advance.”
Making the new circuit happen, she noted, will take some help.
“We are always looking for volunteers – office help, gate workers, volunteers to hand out ribbons to class winners, concessions, and more,” she said.
“We are definitely looking for sponsors.
“We are committed to offering a class for every type of rider, from beginners just starting out to experienced competitors. To help make this circuit possible, we are seeking local business sponsors to partner with us. Sponsorships help offset the costs of hosting the shows, maintaining the facility, and providing awards for riders who have worked hard all season. Sponsors receive valuable recognition, including business recognition during show announcements, logo or name placement in show materials and promotions, recognition on Francis Field social media and event pages, and the opportunity to directly support youth involvement in equestrian sports.
“Most importantly, your sponsorship helps keep equestrian opportunities accessible for families, while strengthening a positive community environment centered around horses and youth development. We would be honored to have your support as part of the 2026 Francis Field Show Circuit.”
For more information, Toepper can be reached at 815-383-9121, or contact Kelly Sassi at 708-214-9178, or Brittany Reardon at 773-552-4691. Information also may be found online at FrancisFieldHorses1@gmail.com.