HORSE SHOWS

You think your horse looks better, has a flashier action, or jumps higher or more smoothly than anyone else's. The only way to find out is to enter the world of horse shows. If your're right, the judges will concur, and you'll go home with a handful of ribbons and trophies.

On the Circuit

Professional and serious amateur riders spend many months and miles on the road to compete at major shows. It can be a major undertaking to transport horses, tack, and other equipment necessary to show your horse at its best. A ringmaster ushers in classes and keeps them running smoothly. Judges select the winners, while stewards enforce the rules. Officials must pass written tests to be licensed by the American Horse Shows Association, the governing body for most American horse shows. In jumping events, the ground crew under the supervision of the course designer, sets up fences according to the designer's plan. The crew will also reset any fence that may be knocked down.

 

Saddle Horse Classes

With arched necks and elevated legs, American Saddle Horses step around the ring. These proud and magnificent horses seem to thrive on attention and applause as they are exhibited in either three or five gaited classes.




Western Classes

Western or stock-seat classes demand responsiveness, agility and savvy. Horse and rider engage in competitions that are derived from the cowboy's work around the corral or out on the trail.

The Western Saddle

As sturdy and comfortable as an easy chair, the stock saddle is also made for work: heavy stirrups provide foot protection against brush, while the horn is a lasso's "hitching post."

 

Hunter Seat Classes

Based on manners and performance required in the hunting field, these classes place a premium on form over fences. Conformation counts in certain divisions, while only performance is assessed in Working classes.


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Original Artwork by Kentucky Horse Park Artist-in-Residence, Boguslaw Lustyk.