What do judges look for in a Hunter walk/trot class?

L

LopeSlow

New member
If it's hunter, the judge isn't judging you. You could ride backwards and it wouldn't matter (or maybe it would--that might be a little extreme!). The key is to ride in a way that best shows off your horse--so you don't want to look sloppy. Also, bad riding will make your horse perform worse. But your horse's movement and appearance is more important than your own.

In a hunter class, the judge wants a horse that moves out with impulsion, using the hind end, with a level/slightly elevated topline (no giraffes, but no pleasure horses either in a hunter class). The nose should be at or slightly in front of the vertical. The horse should accept rein contact and soften to the rider's hands. He should move with a long, straight stride and track straight along the rail--no weaving. He should be consistent, maintaining the same pace throughout the class. He should be very attentive, not getting distracted when passing others or at certain spots. During transitions, he should respond immediately without changing his frame or attitude--just his gait. If asked to stop and stand, he should stand quietly and not fidget. His gaits (walk and trot) should be rhythmic and cadenced. He shouldn't be fast and rushed, but not slow and pokey either--a good, natural rhythm that looks "easy" and forward.
 
I've been to 2 horse shows and did decent at them...but I've been practicing a lot and was just checking to make sure I'm correcting the things that will get me noticed:
For Rider:
-correct diagonal
-steady, low, together hands(not bumping in mouth)
-heels down and IN
-eyes up and forward
-turn your shoulders to the inside
-shoulders back, sit up straight
-smile :)

Horse:
-correct diagonal
-forward moving
-straight
-looking where she's going

anything else a judge looks for?
 
horse:
every thing you aid and on the bit..

Rider:
you dont nessicarily want your foot IN because this takes your calf (the primary support) off your horse, but not definatley turned out..

Presentation. Make sure your boots are polished, your horse is clean, and you ride with a tall back. As my instructor puts it, "Act like you own the ring. To be confident, you have to look it."

2) Consistency. Keep your pace consistent. Try not to accelerate from transition to transition

3) Balance. Make sure your horse is balanced. As my instructor says, your horse must step back to go forward...it's much easier to keep him collected around the corners and slightly extend to find your distance when approaching the jump.

4) Always look ahead!! Be anticipating corners (and preparing your horse so that you won't cut them!!)
 
Lol I don't think they care if you're smiling :P

But yeah the basics like correct diagonal, forward, ears forward, horse looking relaxed and happy.

Happy horse showing!
 
LopeSlow got it right, but two more things...
Make sure you stay away from the other horses! The big reason is that you never know if one is a kicker, but you also want to make sure the judge can see you at all times. If you are clumped in a group with another horse between you and the judge, the judge can't see you. And if there is another horse 3 feet away from you, the judge's attention will be divided.
Also, make sure you are wearing attire appropriate for the show. It's always better to dress a tad too formal than not formal enough.
 
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