Devon, Pennsylvania – May 25, 2025 – It was our pleasure to present the annual Devon Horse Show Carriage Marathon—one of Devon’s most cherished traditions. With roots dating back to 1896, the Devon Horse Show has long celebrated the elegance and heritage of carriage driving. From St. David’s Church to the Dixon Oval, these majestic carriages made their way through the historic Devon area before the final judging, honoring a legacy over a century in the making.
The Devon Pleasure Drive, also known as the Carriage Marathon, is a 4.5-mile trip to the showgrounds through the neighborhoods of Devon, ending their journey in the Dixon Oval for a final judging.
The Carriage Marathon was added to the show’s schedule in the early 1950s by Devon Horse Show chairman, James K. Robinson, Jr., and has remained an iconic staple of the show ever since. On the first Sunday of Devon, locals and residents line the streets to watch and wave as the carriages drive past, most often also enjoying a picnic for Memorial Day Weekend.
Judging for the event begins at 12 noon at St. David’s Episcopal Church, and following their tour through the neighborhoods they enter the Dixon for a final inspection and awards. Everything is judged as part of the event including the horses, carriage, and driver.
There are specific requirements that must be met in order to participate. The carriage itself must be original and restored to new or almost new condition, The harness and clothes worn by the riders and participants must compliments the carriage’s appearance. Women must wear hats and gloves and the driver must be covered by a driving apron.
The Carriage Marathon remains a key part of the Devon Horse Show’s opening weekend, offering spectators a unique opportunity to see historic vehicles and traditional driving attire up close. As one of the long-standing elements of the show, it continues to reflect Devon’s commitment to preserving equestrian history and honoring the standards set more than seventy years ago.
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