Halter (horse Show) - Sport Horse Disciplines

Sport Horse Disciplines

Sport horses, that is, animals of any breed who are intended to be used under saddle as show hunters, show jumpers, dressage horses, or even eventers, when shown in hand, are judged first and foremost on their potential athleticism, with soundness and quality of movement being very important. They have manes braided in a style appropriate for their discipline, and usually have their tails either braided or pulled. They are shown in a hunt seat style bridle (horses two and under may be shown in a leather halter). Other than cleanliness, braiding, and basic show trimming of legs, muzzle, ears and a short bridle path, grooming products are kept to a minimum and excessive oils and polishes are frowned upon.

The handler usually dresses neatly, but casually, often wearing a polo shirt and khaki pants, with running shoes. Correct hunt seat riding attire is also permissible. However, many people find running in field boots to be cumbersome, particularly when showing on the triangle (see below), so the more casual look prevails.

The horse is stood up for judging in an "open" stance, in that the front and hind legs are not lined up squarely, but rather the two front legs and two hind legs are placed with one leg slightly in front of the other, so that all four legs can be seen simultaneously from the side. The head and neck are allowed to be held at a natural position, thought the handler may subtly raise or lower the head a bit to flatter the individual horse. Most sport horses now show on a "triangle" pattern, allowing a view of the horse going toward and away from they judge as well as a side view of the horse in motion. Horses are walked a small triangle pattern, then trotted on a larger triangle pattern before setting up for the judge to further assess them at a standstill.

Any breed may be shown in a sport horse style when appropriate, but the most common breeds shown in a sport horse style and no other include the Thoroughbred and all of the various Warmblood breeds. Due to the strong international influence on the under saddle events within the sport horse disciplines, there is less difference between the USA and Europe in this style of presentation than for other styles.