English Horse

For the purposes of simplicity this site will use the working definitions of the American Quarter Horse Association Rule Book to define the performance classes and how the horse should perform in the class.

AQHA Breed Association is the largest breed association so by using their definitions we believe we will be covering most rules of movement likely to be seen at AQHA, APHA, Open, Zone and NSBA Performance Events.

The Rail and Pattern Performance English Horse Events are as follows:

• Hunter Under Saddle

• Hunter Hack

• Working Hunter

• Hunt Seat Equitation

• Over Fences

• Pleasure Driving

Hunter Under Saddle

(a) Hunters under saddle should be suitable to purpose.
Hunters should move with long, low strides reaching forward with
ease and smoothness, be able to lengthen stride and cover ground
with relaxed, free-flowing movement, while exhibiting correct gaits
that are of the proper cadence.

The quality of the movement and the consistency of the gaits is a major consideration. Horses should be obedient, have a bright expression with alert ears, and should respond willingly to the rider with light leg and hand contact.

Horses should be responsive and smooth in transition. When asked to
extend the trot or hand gallop, they should move out with the same
flowing motion. The poll should be level with, or slightly above, the
withers to allow proper impulsion behind. The head position should
be slightly in front of, or on, the vertical.

(b) This class will be judged on performance, condition and
conformation. Maximum credit shall be given to the flowing, balanced, willing horse.

(c) Horses to be:
(1) shown under saddle, not to jump.
(2) shown at a walk, trot and canter both ways of the
ring. Horses should back easily and stand quietly.
(3) reversed to the inside away from the rail.

(d) Horses may be asked to change to canter from the flatfooted
walk or trot, at the judges discretion.

(e) Faults to be scored according to severity:
(1) Quick, short or vertical strides
(2) Being on the wrong lead
(3) Breaking gait
(4) Excessive speed at any gait