The “Showmanship at Halter” event is also known as “Fitting and Showing.” In this class, exhibitors are judged on how well they present their horse while performing a specific pattern. Generally, showmanship is the first class of the day and sets the tone for the rest of the day. The ideal performance in this class is:
- An exhibitor who is poised, confident, and neatly attired
- An exhibitor and a horse that quickly and efficiently perform the pattern promptly, smoothly, and precisely.
Judge’s Responsibilities
The event consists of specific patterns performed in specific ways. The patterns:
- Are posted 1 hour before the class starts
- Must be appropriate to fit the size of the show and the skill level of competitors
The judge will:
- Set up the cones
- Walk the pattern
- Answer any questions
- Keep it the same for everyone
Sample Pattern
Quarter Method
Exhibitors are required to use the Quarter Method when presenting their horse. The Quarter Method positions the exhibitor one quadrant away from the judge. As the judge moves, the exhibitor should also move based on which quadrant the judge is in. For example:
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- When the judge is in quadrant I, the exhibitor should be in quadrant IV.
- When the judge moves to quadrant II, the exhibitor should move to
- quadrant I.
- When the judge moves to quadrant III, the exhibitor should move to quadrant IV.
- When the judge moves to quadrant IV, the exhibitor should move to quadrant I.
Scoring
Before scoring a showmanship class, a judge should be familar with each association’s rules and regulations as they may differ from one another. Most associations use a scoring system where scores range from 0 to infinity, with 70 being an average score.
Maneuver Score
Each maneuver indicated in the pattern receives a maneuver score of +3 to -3 with half point increments and 0 indicating an average maneuver. The following are the general guidelines used to determine appropriate maneuver scores:
+3 Excellent
+2 Very Good
+1 Good
0 Correct
-1 Poor
-2 Very Poor
-3 Extremely Poor
Form and Effectiveness Score
Each exhibitor receives a form and effectiveness (F&E) score to evaluate their overall horsemanship. F&E scores range from 0-5. The following are general guidelines used to determine appropriate F&E scores:
5 Excellent
4 Very Good
3 Good
0-2 Average
Penalties
- Common penalty points are 3, 5, and 10
- Exhibitors may also receive a 0 score or no score. These are generally reserved for instances such as breaking patterns, breaking rules or abuse of the animal
- Judges and exhibitors should refer to the desired association specific guidelines, rules, patterns and score sheets for the most accurate information
Resources
- AQHA Rulebook
- APHA Rulebook
- Judging Showmanship
- Pattern Score Sheets
