At a typical hunter horse show, the competition is divided into different divisions, usually based on either the rider’s age and experience, or the horse’s experience and capability. These different divisions are then divided into classes. At smaller hunter shows, each division typically has three classes. One class will be an under saddle class and the other two classes are over fences classes. At larger rated shows there are usually five classes in each division, four jumping and one under saddle. While we now typically see hunters being shown in a man-made sand ring, the sport actually emerged from the hunt field. The judging of hunters is based on what a judge would like to see in a horse that was going to fox hunt. In the under saddle classes, horses are asked to walk, trot, and canter both directions and are judged on the way they move and cover the ground, their temperament, and their conformation. All of the horses in an under saddle class are in the ring at the same time and are being directly compared to one another. In the over fences classes, horses are asked to individually jump a set pattern or “course” of fences. The horses are judged on their form over the jumps as well as how they carry themselves in between the jumps. Extreme speed is penalized while an even pace is rewarded. One of the most important things to realize about the hunters is that the judge is only looking at the horse. In theory, a sack of potatoes could be riding the horse and, as long as the horse looks beautiful while on course, still win the class.
So, what makes a great hunter? A great hunter is a horse that can easily cover ground and makes riding him seem effortless. Over the fences, a great hunter is one that can practically leave the ground from anywhere and still effortlessly clear the fence (this is referred to as a “scopey” horse). In addition, a great hunter tucks his knees in the air and uses his neck and back over the jumps which allow him to be round. A great hunter has a very even rhythm which allows jumps to be taken completely out of the same stride. He should never have to shorten or lengthen his stride significantly to jump the jumps on course. A great hunter under saddle horse is one that moves beautifully. He should have a flowing, ground covering trot and canter that does not require the horse to bend much through his knee. At each of his gaits, a good hunter appears to be floating across the ground. Even though the above are desired characteristics for a classical hunter horse, horses that compete at hunter shows vary drastically in ability. Even if your horse doesn’t move or jump beautifully, it doesn’t mean that the two of you can’t be successful in the hunters. At many shows, judges will reward horses that might not jump great as long as they have a consistent pace. At any given hunter show there are lots of classes offered. Whether young or old, green or seasoned, there truly are divisions that are appropriate for everyone! Kansas is not the hunter capitol of the world. Even so, there are still many shows offered throughout the year. Smaller local hunter shows are put on almost on a weekly basis throughout northeast Kansas. A couple organizations offer shows that give riders and horses a great introduction to the hunter world. In addition, some of the shows offer higher fence heights and tougher competition in the higher divisions to give seasoned competitors the chance to tune up their skills. The Kansas City Professional Horsemen’s Association, the Northeast Kansas Hunter Association, the Great Plains Hunter Association, and the Snowflake/Sunshine Show Series are a few horse show associations and horse show series that offer regular hunter shows. Information on any of these organizations can easily be found online. Once a rider and/or horse has gotten enough experience showing at the lower local level, showing on the rated circuit is the next step. Rated horse shows are shows that are sanctioned by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). These shows offer multiple days of competition, offer plenty of divisions, offer a higher level of competition, and usually offer prize money. Since rated shows are sanctioned by USEF, the horse shows must also provide licensed officials to judge and steward the show. Shows can have several ratings: AA, A, B, or C. AA-rated shows are the most competitive, offer the most prize money (are also a little more pricey for the competitor), and allow horses to accumulate the most amount of points counting towards year end USEF awards. A “C” is the lowest rating a rated show can have. C-rated shows are more like local horse shows and offer a good introduction to exhibitors who are showing at a rated show for the first time. In Kansas, two rated shows are held throughout the year. The Saddle and Sirloin Hunter/Jumper Show is held in early June and is held just outside of Kansas City. This show carries a “C” rating. The American Royal is held in Kansas City each year at the end of October. This show carries an “A” rating. |
No matter what competition you choose to attend, one of the most important things in the hunters is your overall turnout. The way you and your horse look at a horse show says a lot about what kind of work, time, and effort you have put in at home. By no means am I suggesting that in order to compete at a hunter show, you must be dressed to the nines and your horse must have all of the best tack. On the contrary, as long as you and your horse appear to be neat, tidy, and workmanlike, you are on the right path. As in any discipline, the proper grooming and care of the horse is of utmost importance. While braiding is only required in rated divisions, it always makes the horse look wonderful and gives the appearance of an exceptionally turned out horse and rider. When showing in the hunters, certain tack is suggested while other tack is prohibited. Beginning with the legs, no boots or polos are permitted when showing. A fitted saddle pad should be used under the saddle and a conservative, preferably leather girth should be worn. Standing martingales are permitted in the over fences classes but are forbidden in the under saddle classes. A wide range of bits are permitted. However, elevator bits and gags are not permitted and the use of harsh bits might be penalized since it is an indication of the horse’s manner. D-ring, eggbutt, and full-cheek snaffles are the most popular bits used. Riders competing in the hunter ring should be dressed conservatively. Tall, black field boots should be worn along with tan, beige, or grey britches. A conservatively colored coat (navy, green, or gray) should be worn along with a conservatively colored blouse. At all USEF sanctioned shows and at most local shows, riders are now required to wear ASTM/SEI-approved helmet. If you have long hair it should be pulled back neatly in a hairnet when showing. The most important thing to remember about turnout and attire is that the goal is to be tidy and workmanlike. If these bases are covered, you are all set to show at a hunter show! Hunter shows are a good place for all different levels of riders and horses. A ton can be learned from one day of competing in, or just watching, a hunter show. While winning might be the most fun, learning is the most important! |