What is Show Horse?:
The overall principle of exhibiting in show horse is to exhibit a horse or pony that is beautifully conformed, of high quality, is a magnificent mover and that displays lovely manners and paces. Showing is subjective, and the judge will award places to the horses he or she feels most fulfills those qualities. Movement is very important because a show horse must move with balance, elegance, lightness, correctness and with the right rhythm for the gait. If a horse is not conformed correctly it will have difficulty in moving with perfect rhythm. This shows as carrying head too high or too low, displaying a short or choppy gait, too much knee action, not pushing through from behind, and many more imperfections. The Categories of Show Horse:
Show horses are exhibited in three divisions; Pony, Galloway and Hack.
- A Pony Show Hack/Hunter must not exceed 14hh
- A Galloway Show Hack/Hunter must be over 14hh and not exceed 15hh
- A Hack Show Hack/Hunter is over 15 hh
A Show Hunter should possess more substance than the modern ridden Show Hack, but it must be emphasised they should be quality animals. A quality Show Hunter must create the impression that it is capable of hunting over a variety of terrain – this militates against any weakness in conformation which would prevent this, and he must do it comfortably and safely for his rider. How to Start:
To compete in official events at any level, you must first become a member of Equestrian Western Australia. Becoming a member not only provides you with insurance, it also helps contribute towards the running of events and the training of officials without which these events could not take place. For more information on becoming an EWA member please visit www.equestrian.org.au.
