Working Hunters

Jumping Phase

 A jumping round includes a minimum of 5 jumping efforts and a maximum of 8.

Riders are to navigate a rustic course at a controlled hunting pace. Judges may ask for a demonstration of a gallop before, within, or after the course. 

During competition, riders should enter and present themselves to the judge. With the judge's permission, they may continue their round.

The course is judged on straightness to jumps, even pace, correct number of strides in any combination, arena usage, and overall flow of the course.

Jumping Faults:

1st Rail down or refusal: 10 points

2nd Rail down or refusal: 20 points

3rd Rail down: 20 points

3rd Refusal: Elimination

A judge will mark a rider's round out of 50 based on jumping style and ability.

Flatwork Phase

Judges will work the riders around the ring with changes of gait and rein. 

The class is judged on quickness of transitions, ability to navigate a crowded ring, and flow of the whole round.

Riders are encouraged to take more straight lines and diagonals than that of a show hunter and show themselves riding off the rail.

A judge will mark a rider's round out of 30 based on the horse's manners, movement, and general impression.

Conformation Phase

The judge will assess the conformation and type of each horse, looking for a true working hunter in conformation. 

Riders in correct attire will present their horses unsaddled to the judge.

A judge will mark a horse's conformation out of 20 based on level, mood, breed type, and correct attire (of rider).

Breed Score & Suitability