Hunters

Hunter horses commonly are graceful, steady, and have great conformation. The disciplined hunter requires focusing on the horses’ movements rather than the rider. A course typically consists of 6 to 9 jumps using single fences, as well as, lines. The horse is judged over fences and on the flat; on the flat, they are judged on the walk, trot, and canter.

A hunter-mover with minimal knee action that moves straight legged on the flat and over the jumps with a round bascule form having the knees tucked at a 90 degree angle, is considered to be a great. Riders are expected to be well dressed with clean attire including a helmet, tall boots, show jacket, and a tucked in show shirt. The horse must be well groomed, and their mane and tail must be braided at rated shows.

During your performance, presentation is the key. Judges will focus on your horses’ behavior, movement, and jumping form. Each hunter division has different heights, ranging from 2ft to 3ft 6in. The riders’ attire as well as, the horses’ appearance including the cleanliness of their tack, is taken into consideration in judging.