Conformation: What to Look For
Conformation is the first thing that you should look at when assessing a potential show animal. Are the legs straight and well put together? Is the shoulder long and sloping from the withers to the point of the shoulder? Does the horse have a short strong back and broad, strong hindquarters? Are the head and neck in proportion to the rest of the body? There are varying opinions on whether scars and other unsightly marks such as splints (a bony growth on the fore or hind limb, usually caused by concussion) should effect a judge’s decision. As a rule, if you are buying a horse specifically for showing, try to find one with as few scars and marks as possible.
All You Need to Know About Perfect Paces
Your future show horse will also need to have straight, active and attractive paces. Action will differ slightly depending on the breed. For example, a good hackney pony will move with a lot of knee action whereas a British riding pony will move close to the ground. However, no show horse, regardless of breed or type, should have faults in its action such as brushing (when the inside of a fetlock is struck by the opposite foot) or dishing (when one or both front feet are thrown outward and forward).
Manners, Manners, Manners
Temperament is very important in the show ring, especially when it comes to the children’s ponies that are supposed to be judged on how capable they are of carrying and looking after a young rider. Also bear in mind that, in the United Kingdom, most show horse classes will require that the horse be ridden by the judge as well. This means that, even if you can cover up the horse’s bad manners and difficult temperament, the truth will probably come out as soon as the judge’s rear end hits the saddle! However beautiful a horse is in the flesh, do not be tempted to spend money on something that is difficult or bad tempered. You won’t have fun competing on such a horse and it will always let you down in the showing arena.
Charisma!
This is the one quality that separates the champions from the merely mediocre. This type of horse exudes presence and owns the ring as soon as it steps into it. It is not something that can be trained into a horse; it is a natural part of its personality. If your horse is well put together, moves nicely and also has this intangible charismatic quality then there is no denying that your animal could be the next showing star. See you at the championships!
Choosing the Ideal Hunter Jumper Horse
When selecting the ideal hunter or jumper horse there are two important things to keep in mind. One is obviously the horse itself, and the other is the 'fit'. To triumph in this sport the horse and rider must work as a unit. We'll start with choosing the horse.
Horse Breeds
Several equine breeds have become successful show jumpers and occasionally the nonspecific grade horse will turn out in championship form. Most jumpers, however, are bred from thoroughbred stock or quarter horse breeding, or a combination of both breeds known as an appendix. Other excellent jumpers and hunters have been bred from a thoroughbred draft horse cross commonly called "warmblood" breeding. Most jumpers stand over 16 hands high but some have been as small as 14.2 hands. A smaller horse, however, may make the jumps more intimidating to the rider.
Hunter vs. Jumper Performance
There is a basic difference between hunting classes and jumping classes. Hunters are judged on their manners, style and ease of movement. Jumpers are scored by the number of obstacles they clear and the time involved in the jumps. Hunter showing and jumping horses are sports events and demand good athletic ability from the animal and the rider. The horse must be able to navigate sharp turns, clear high hurdles, and show amazing bursts of speed. A well muscled horse with good confirmation is agreeable, but the horse must also show willingness for discipline. Each event, hunting or jumping, requires good co-ordination and communication between horse and rider. When looking for the perfect horse seek one that shows well, with long legs, smooth lines, and a set to the head that indicates they welcome a challenge. They must not, however, be too forward or prone to acting out. Make sure you and the horse can form a bond. Letting a professional trainer completely chose your horse is not always a good idea. Their advice should be coupled with hands-on experience. When the horse is in the paddock it should show some interest, or curiosity, with you. And you, as well, should feel some kind of connection with the animal. That's the beginning of communication.
Fitting Your Horse
The 'fit' is as important as the horse. The animal should be chosen with your body confirmation in mind. The length of your legs, the structure of your spine, will have a lot to do with how comfortable you appear on the horse. That will impress the judges. You should chose a mount that suits you physically and allows you to show your ability as a rider.
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