The class "Equitation over Fences" is judged primarily on these criteria: how riders are positioned on the horse how effective they are in using their aids while communicating with their mount when completing a course. All of the following information is provided by...

      The western riding class is one of flying lead changes. It is a combination of control and skills, mixing techniques from trail, reining, and equitation. This judged event is not timed. The horse is judged on these criteria: Quality of gaits Lead...

      Exhibitors in a reining class individually perform a specified pattern. The generally accepted guidelines for reining set forth by the National Reining Horse Association are as follows: To rein a horse is not only to guide it but also to control...

      Timed event classes may also be referred to as "games," "gymkhanas," or "O-Mok-See." Generally in these classes, the fastest time wins. Deviating from the described rules or pattern will result in either a time penalty or disqualification,...

It is important to understand that there is a difference when judging cattle classes under a breed association's rules and regulations versus a jackpot or rodeo event. The following descriptions and penalties will be based on the rules and regulations of a breed...

Several competitive events involve horses jumping over an obstacle or a series of obstacles. Although they all involve jumping, there are specific differences among the disciplines. These classes are also offered either at breed shows (AQHA, APHA, etc.) or at...

      This class is the beginning of the over-fences classes. The purpose is to give horses an opportunity to show their expertise over low fences and on the flat. The horse should move in the same style as a working hunter. Judging The class will be...

"Hunter under Saddle" and "Hunter Pleasure" are different terms used by different organizations to describe very similar classes that have these requirements: Riders must exhibit a horse with a bright, alert expression. Horse must have gaits that show its working...