Horsemanship
Your Guide to Preparation and Competition
At a horse show, western horsemanship is also referred to as western equitation and is judged differently than the pleasure classes. The rider is the main focus of the judge while the horse may also be a consideration for judging.
In this class you may be expected to perform a pattern, rail work or a combination of both. Only amateurs and youth exhibitors are permitted to show in this class.
Below we will be discussing what you can expect once you sign up for a horsemanship class, the major judging criteria, and a few helpful tips on preparation for this class.
Class Breakdown
The western horsemanship class typically has a pattern component to it. Riders are evaluated on their ability to perform a posted pattern determined by the judge.When you walk to the in-gate you will either wait your turn inside or outside the show ring. Some shows have a warm-up area outside the main show arena where you can wait while other shows may have you enter the ring and line up with your rear to the rail.
When completing the pattern you will be judged as an individual. No room for shyness while working your pattern because the judges, fellow exhibitors and spectators are going to be watching you as you work through your pattern.
Once your pattern is finished you may either be instructed to find a spot on the rail (if you are also going to be judged with rail work) or exit the show arena.
Breed circuit shows will likely have you complete both pattern and rail work. If you are at an open show, it is left to the judge’s discretion.
On the rail you as the rider are judged typically at all three gaits in at least one direction.
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Judging
In a western horsemanship class, the rider is judged on precision and smoothness through the pattern. Both horse and rider must work as a team while working through each portion of the pattern.Riders must also be well balanced during the pattern while demonstrating poise and confidence. Cues to transition the horse from one part of the pattern to another should be subtle.
Horse should appear relaxed through the pattern with the head carried no lower than the level of the withers with and the nose only slightly in front of the vertical.
When judging the rider, the judge will compare each rider in the class to a standard. As a rider in a horsemanship class you must maintain balance through the entire pattern no matter what maneuver you are completing.
Horsemanship Pattern Example
You must maintain an upright position through your upper body. You should also present with a straight line from your ear, to the shoulder, hip, and heel. Your heels should be positioned lower than the level of your toes.
You must be relaxed through your back so as not to present with excessive stiffness through the low back.
Riders may be penalized for both their appearance in the ring (loose or poorly fitting clothes) along with the appearance of their horse (poorly groomed or conditioned).
While working this class you can be penalized for loping on the incorrect lead, excessive use of the reins, breaking gaits, improper head position of your horse, or resistance of your horse during the pattern.
More severe faults include touching your horse or saddle, horses kicking, bucking or rearing. Riders can be disqualified for falling off, using prohibited equipment, knocking over a cone, and failing to wear numbers appropriately.
Class Tips
- To keep your non-rein hand in proper position, try holding a tiny pebble through your pattern
- When practicing your horsemanship pattern, practice pieces of it. If you run through the entire patter over and over your horse may anticipate your cues before you give them when working your pattern
