Does the sound of galloping hooves make your heart race? Does the sight of a majestic horse and rider sailing over a high fence make you cheer? Are you considering naming your next daughter Rachel Alexandra?

If you answered yes, consider yourself a horse lover. But did you know that you don't have to go to Pimlico or Great Meadow for a little equine adventure? Show Place Arena and Prince George's Equestrian Center in Upper Marlboro hosts horse shows nearly every weekend from mid-March through early November, and most of them are free. There is no betting or big hats here: Seeing a horse show is simply a fun, inexpensive way to get up close to the big animals. The center and the area offer a range of indoor and outdoor events, one weekend you might find a rodeo and on another you might find barrel racing, dressage or jumping.