[i_luv_Ozzy_my_horse]

i was wondering.. i've been entering in a lot of Hunter shows with my horse and we dont always do thaaaat great but in Equitation we do much better. I was wondering.. what exactly do hunter judges judge on in a hunter class? Ozzy does go on the bit yet so i think it might be the reason we dont always place in the jumping, and never place in the flat.

what do you think? Maybe if htere are any people here who judge hunter shows could help.. thanks in advance!

[Blistering Winds]

Which association?

if AQHA rules, go to www.aqha.com and pull the rule book. Explains all the classes and that is what the judges learn to a T.

[cassidy]

hey bw your always full of great info!!

[Blistering Winds]

Thanks. It all got crammed into my head this past semester!! LMAO Needs to leak out!

[tn walker]

Yes, the various associations vary greatly in what the judges look for. What breed is your horse?

Generally, all hunters should have manners, consistency, drive from the hocks, moving with a free shoulder, hitting the ground with a flat knee and light hoof to ground contact.

[tn walker]

Originally Posted by Blistering Winds

Thanks. It all got crammed into my head this past semester!! LMAO Needs to leak out!

Haha! Giiiiiirl, juding is NEVER going to leak out! You'll never be able to look at a horse again without totally critiquing it 100% LOL

[i_luv_Ozzy_my_horse]

Ozzy's a thoroughbred.. but I'm competing in regular not-for-specific-breeds regonal shows.. the association is the name of our region.. and then at hte end of the summer the best of each region compete against each other..

[tn walker]

Typically around here in the states (not 100% about Canada, but I would think they would be very similar) a TB type hunter is judged on teh following above all others:

Manners, consistency, way of going, impulsion. The horse should move in a relaxed frame with a head carriage that is consistent with their conformation. Typically not high in the air or level from poll-whithers-croup. They should be on the bit, not strung out or overflexed. There should be good lenght of stride at all three gaits, with the trot being espeically emphasized. Drive from the hocks (without being strung out behind), reach with the shoulder and forarm, hitting the ground with a flat knee (very little knee action) and a long, elastic stride are essential. The horse should move with good forward impulsion, without excessive speed.

[SammyDoodle]

In the UK TBs are not preferred in the hunter classes - they do better in Riding Horse and Hack classes - TB x ID and ID horses seem to do better as they are a bit more substantial.

However I love the show hunter classes and I enter with my TB (even tho he has terrible conformation and I know we can never win or even be placed) I just enter as I enjoy the class and I am thrilled if he goes well - (see TN Walkers post which covers the requirements)

If you enjoy the class and your horse goes well and has good conformation there is no reason not to enter with a TB - however you might want to consider Hack (if he is a fine TB) or Riding Horse classes as well.

The most important thing is to enjoy your time with your horse - for me a good performance makes me feel as good as if I had won something!

[Blistering Winds]

If it is open, I bet they use AQHA rules. Many do. Call them and ask them. Most follow similar rules. Unless it is "arabian" or Walker, then the rule are WAY WAY different on leg height, action, etc.