UNITED SADDLEBRED ASSOCIATION-UK
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The first half of this page brings you news of events held for the American Saddlebred and the later half explains the requirements of the various Saddlebred classes, what to wear and what the judge is looking for. If you have a question that isn't answered here, please EMAIL us.SHOWS AND CLINICS
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 | In Hand |
| Saddle Seat (both 3 and 5 Gaited) |
| Hunter |
| Western |
| as well as all the traditional classes you would see at your usual shows, plus endurance, dressage, driving etc. |
For Saddlebreds in the UK these are the only
classes where Pure and Partbreds are judged separately. As you will have read in
our opening pages there are many partbred owners out there who are just as proud
of their "American Saddlebred" ancestory as their purebred owners.
Love Is A Memory - courtesy of Franke
Barker, Applewood Farm, California, USA.
In hand classes are open to Saddlebreds of any age and conformation and way of
going are taken into consideration. Purebreds are shown with a full mane and
tail and the traditional long shanked curb bit, while partbreds have the option
of following either this American heritage, or their British heritage where they
are shown plaited and braided. The choice is entirely up to the owner and is
usually dependant on the amount of "Saddlebred type" the horse
displays.
The ideal American Saddlebred is well proportioned and presents a beautiful
overall picture. He should be in good flesh, with good muscle tone and exhibit a
smooth, glossy coat. Masculinity in stallions and femininity in mares are
important. The average height is 16hh and average weight 1,000lbs. Any colour is
acceptable.
The handler trots their horse into the ring individually, placing themselves on
the inside. Usually the judge asks for each entrant to trot in, one at a time
down one long side - each horse will trot in and then line up nose to tail,
while the next horse trots in. After all entrants are in the ring, the judge
will call each horse forward individually to be inspected. They are
"parked" out for the judge to look at and then walked away and finally
trotted around the arena to the back of the line up. Each horse may also have a
"tailer" - as the name suggests they run at the "tail" end
of the horse and help to drive the horse forward and to engage.
Stallions may not be shown by exhibitors under 18 years of age. In hand classes
are judged 50% on conformation and finish, 50% on way of going and natural
action, except in colour classes (e.g. Golden/Pinto Saddlebreds In Hand) when
colour counts for 25% of the total marks.
Turnout: Handlers should be neat and smart
at all times. Jodphurs or trousers should be worn, accompanied by shirt and tie
or smart barn tops. Jackets (blazer length), waistocats and formal shirts and
blouses may also be worn. If hats are worn they should be neat and tidy.
Competitor numbers should be worn by the handler of the horse. Only one tailer
is permitted per horse. Weanlings and yearlings should be shown in show halters.
2 year old and older horses must be shown bitted (snaffle or single curb).
Horses may be shown with a roached (hogged) or full mane, with braids.
This is the "American" style of showing, with a cut back saddle, "saddle suit" and Derby hat and where the Saddlebred shows of his animation, style and presence.
Generally speaking, performance counts most in Open, Novice and Maiden classes, whilst manners count more in Ladies, Youth and Amateur classes. Way of going lays roughly in the middle!
For example, Amateur classes are judged on manners, performance, presence, quality and conformation, while Open classes are judged on performance, quality, presence, presence, conformation and manners.
Obviously there is some overlap
and if walk, trot and canter is called for, they need to be shown, but it gives
you an idea of why some horses will win one class and not another at the same
show under the same judge. In America there are 3 major divisions in saddle seat
- Country Pleasure, Show Pleasure and Performance, each requiring a higher
degree of animation, presence and performance than the one before. If we were
judging by American standards the majority of our Saddlebreds fall between the
Country Pleasure and the Show Pleasure divisions. However, our classes are
usually run under "Show Pleasure" divisions - we simply do not have
enough Saddlebreds showing out there to split the classes ... YET!
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There
are also different divisions for Saddle Seat |
The most animated way of showing is the Park Horse, closely followed by the Performance Horse. Energy is directed towards animation and engagement. Usually the forearm of the front leg is well above the horizontal when the horse is trotting. The Park horse is animated in the extreme with almost all his/her energy being directed towards elevation - park horses are shown at the Park Walk, where he should look like he is walking on hot coals - it is almost not a walk and many will perform a hot-footed walk that is a slow trot.
The Pleasure Horse and the Country Pleasure Horse are the categories the majority of Saddlebreds in the UK fit into. Both should be animated in their way of going, but more so for the Pleasure Horse. The Country Pleasure Horse is not allowed to wear weighted shoes or pads and so almost all our Saddlebreds that cross-compete (e.g. in both hunter and saddle seat) will be in this category. Only amateur riders are allowed to compete in 3-G and 5-G Country Pleasure classes.
What is a 3-Gaited horse? ... One
that performs walk, trot and canter. BUT he has to do it with style, animation
and lots of presence. The 3-Gaited Saddlebred will be shown at an animated walk,
show trot and canter. He may or may not be asked to rein back in the line up,
depending on the judge.
Turnout: In America the 3-Gaited Saddlebred
is shown with a trimmed mane and tail (hogged mane, tail trimmed), whilst in the
UK, although this is perfectly acceptable we usually see him with a full mane
and tail and braids are acceptable. A cut-back saddle is required and the horse
should wear a double or a pelham bridle. Martingales are prohibited except where
the schedule specifically states training tack may be worn or in Academy
classes. Informal suits should be worn during the day and may also be worn in
the evening or for championships and should be accompanied by a Derby hat.
Formal suits should only be worn in the evening or for championships. No boots
(over-reach, brushing etc) may be worn in a 3-Gaited class.
A 5-Gaited horse does all the
above, as well as the 2 extra gaits unique to the Saddlebred - the Slow Gait and
the Rack. The Slow gait is performed with great collection and animation whilst
the Rack is a faster version with each foot hitting the ground at regular
intervals. Both are lateral gaits. In addition the trot of the
"gaited" horse should be stronger and bolder than his 3-Gaited
counterpart.
Turnout: The 5-Gaited Saddlebred is shown
with a full mane and tail and braids. A cut-back saddle is required and the
horse should wear a double or a pelham bridle. Martingales are prohibited except
where the schedule specifically states training tack may be worn or in Academy
classes. Informal suits should be worn during the day and may also be worn in
the evening or for championships and should be accompanied by a Derby hat.
Formal suits should only be worn in the evening or for championships.
Quarter-boots (trotting boots or over-reach boots) may be worn in a 5-Gaited
class.
In the UK the Saddlebred usually shares the show ring with the Morgan Horse. Both are shown in similar styles and classes. One of these classes is the ROAD HACK class, which the Saddlebred Horse has made his own. In this class each horse is required to perform at a walk (show walk, but must be a flat 4-beat walk), show trot (normal pleasure trot), a Road Trot (the fastest each horse can possibly trot whilst still maintaining form - form should not be sacrificed for speed), Canter (from a walk) and Hand Gallop. This is done on both reins. In addition the judge does call for a halt on the rail and asks everyone to walk off on a loose rein. If that's not all, in the line up each horse has to rein back. Anyone who has a Saddlebred will tell you how much they "love to trot" and they really can fly round the ring when "Road Trot" is called for. Turnout is either as for the 3-Gaited or the Hunter Saddlebred. Quarter-boots (trotting boots or over-reach boots) may be worn in a Road Hack class.
Another class is EQUITATION.
This is what the English showing fraternity would call a "Best Rider"
class, but that doesn't really do it justice. Yes the rider is being judged, but
not only do they have to perform at walk, trot and canter both ways of the ring
with everyone in at the same time, they also have to ride a set pattern
individually, which is usually posted an hour before the class. And, they have
to "show" their horse - the judges are looking for the same sort of
performances from the horses that they would see in a normal showing class -
just riding round for an accurate test will not win you an equitation class.
Traditionally, in America, equitation classes are for youth riders (under 18).
However they are just as popular with adults in the UK and frequently you will
see both in the ring. Stallions may not be shown in equitation classes, but may
be shown by Ladies and Amateurs (over 18 years of age) in all other performance
classes.
Turnout is the same as for the
3-Gaited Saddlebred, except informal suits must be worn at all times. No boots
(over-reach, brushing etc) may be worn in a Equitation class.
When we use the term
"hunter" to describe an American Saddlebred Show Horse we mean a usual
"English" riding horse type class. It does become confusing when you
consider the American showing fraternity uses the term "English" to
describe saddle seat (as that is where it originated from). So, to keep things
as uncomplicated as possible we have adopted their terminology and use the term
"Hunter". Obviously some Saddlebreds will be finer than others, some
will be more upheaded and show more animation. These types are ideally suited to
the saddle seat classes in the show ring. Their counterparts at the opposite end
of the spectrum are ideal "hunter" horses. Like the saddle seat
classes, hunter Saddlebreds perform at walk, trot, and canter both ways of the
ring. The judge can also call for extended trot and hand gallop. Hunter classes
here encompass everything from show hunter to show cob and riding horse to hack
with everything inbetween - a Saddlebred will fall between the hack and the
riding horse category, depending on the amount of bone he/she is carrying and
the amount of knee action he/she has - however the classes are called HUNTER, so
don't get put off by the class name.
Turnout: Hunter horses
should wear plain bridles (no patent browbands or caveson sets) and should not
be shown with coloured braids in his mane. It is acceptable to either have the
mane and tail natural (with a trimmed bridle path of course!), with the name in
a running (or Arab) plait, or to pull his mane and tail and turnout your hunter
Saddlebred as any regular "English" horse in the show ring. Riders
should be presented in the usual attire for Riding Horse classes. No boots
(over-reach, brushing etc) may be worn in a Hunter class, except if it has a
jumping phase and then protective boots and martingales may be worn.
Saddlebreds are also shown in western divisions. Try not to think of classes run under WES rules (Western Equestrian Society) - yes plenty of UK Saddlebreds do show in "open" classes under WES rules and do very well. However, some of the terminology and class requirements are different to what is expected in a WES run class. In this case we will look at what would be required of you at an "American" run show. Like all the other classes the judge will ask for walk, trot and canter, except in the western classes these are called walk, jog and lope. The western Saddlebred will have a much lower head carriage than his "show horse" counterpart, but compared to horses in WES classes he will look a bit like a "Parade" horse. This is his heritage and WES rules are quite clear - horses should carry their head and neck in a natural position. For the Saddlebred this is going to be above the horizontal - even if he or she does nothing but western their whole life. Your Saddlebred is not a Quarter Horse (no offence to Quarter Horse readers out there), so please don't try to make him look like one! Like the hunter Saddlebred, the western Saddlebred should not be shown with coloured braids in his mane.
Turnout: Western Horses should wear plain bridles (no patent browbands). Nosebands are prohibited in western classes. His should be shown with a full mane and tail with no braids. Snaffle, bosal and hackamore bridles should be ridden two-handed and curb bridles should be ridden one-handed. The horse should wear a stock saddle and the competitor number should be pinned on the left side of the saddle blanket (both sides if given paired numbers). The rider should be neat and smart at all times, should wear a Stetson or BHS approved safety hat. Chaps are not mandatory, but jeans (if worn on their own) should be worn over boots. No boots (over-reach, brushing etc) may be worn in a western pleasure or horsemanship class.
All showing boils down to one thing
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you get out what you put in, in terms of training, practice and natural ability |
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at the end of the day, it is one person's opinion (and they are usually unpaid, so a smile and a thank you works wonders, especially at the end of a long show) |
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it's meant to be fun! |
| CLASS DEFINITION & CALLS | MEANING |
| Maiden | Not to have won a class in this division - once you win ANY class in this division you are out of Maiden classes. Maiden Horses can go in Maiden, Novice and Open classes. |
| Novice | Not to have won more than 2 classes in this division. Once you win a class in this division 3 times you are out of Novice. Novice Horses can go in Novice, Limit and Open classes. |
| Limit | Not to have won more than 6 classes in this division. Once you win a class in this division 6 times you are out of Limit. Limit horses can go in Limit and Open classes. |
| Open |
Open to any horse and/or rider. Horse that have won more than 6 times in a division and are no longer eligible for Limit classes will need to enter the Open classes. |
| Amateur | Not open to professionals. All riders under 18 years of age are amateurs. Horses may be in professional training and can be schooled by professionals. |
| AOTS (Amateur Owned Trained & Shown) |
As the class describes. Having lessons and/or
attending clinics does not affect AOTS or Amateur status. Horses cannot be
in professional training (for at least 6 months prior to the show) nor
should the rider receive assistance by a professional.
(Please note we do not consider it a breach of AOTS status if a someone helps with holding a horse, mounting / turning down jod cuffs etc. at a show). At all times SAFETY must come first and if that means a professional stepping in to help you prevent an accident, then we would not consider that a breach of AOTS status either. |
| Age and sex restricted classes | E.g. Under 12 years, Ladies only - specific to the description given. |
| Reverse | To change the rein and proceed in the opposite direction. The judge may also call for a change of pace at the same time e.g. "Reverse and Trot". |
| Pleasure Trot | Your horse's "normal" trot, with energy directed to collection, animation and elevation. |
| Show Trot | This is where the pleasure trot is to be opened up - think of a working trot going to a medium trot - the horse should still be collected and animated but show a greater length of stride. |
| Road Trot | This is a full extended trot - the fastest your horse can trot whilst still remaining in "form". That means he must remain collected on the bridle and he must still show elevation and animation. The judge is not looking for a horse that simply lengthens his whole frame, but one that collects his hindquarters under him more to lift and elevate the front end allowing full use of his shoulder and maximum length of stride. Form should never be sacrificed for speed. |
| Lope | Called for in a western class - a slow 3-beat canter. |
| Hand Gallop | To show lengthened strides in canter. In saddle seat classes the judge is looking for an extension of the the canter. In Hunter classes the rider can open the horse up more and depending on the room available ask for some "gallop" strides. The rider MUST remain in control at all times - it is not unknown for hand gallop to be called, then a canter and then halt! |
| Halt | To stop. Usually asked for on the rail (around the arena) and horses should stand square and attentive. |
| Overtaking | Overtaking
should be done with consideration for other riders in the ring. Always
overtake towards the inside of the ring and allow enough space for the
horse you have overtaken before you go back to the rail. In hunter and saddle seat classes you may half circle across the arena to overtake, or ride a large circle to make more room. In western classes you should always parallel pass (no half or full circles). |
| "Rail" | If you are riding in a class and a rider shouts "rail" this usually means they have right of way. If you are already on the rail and another horse is cutting in front of you (maybe from overtaking) you can claim your space by calling "rail" - loud enough for other rider to hear. |
| "Line up" |
The command for all entries in the ring to
come into the centre and line up (where-ever you are directed by the ring
steward - usually in front of the spectators). This is also your last chance to show the judge what he may have missed and so entries will always TROT around the rail for 1/2 to a full lap before coming into the line-up (not applicable in western classes, when they should come into the line-up by the shortest means possible). As the second rail work will be to the right, this last trot is always clockwise - competitors must NOT change direction. |
Hopefully this has given you some insight into showing the American Saddlebred Horse in the UK - we hope to see you at future shows - either as a spectator or as a competitor.
In addition you are just as likely to see the Saddlebred Horse in Endurance Competitions, Dressage, Driving - in fact any discipline you can think of, the Saddlebred is capable of taking part in.
Remember that while your Saddlebred is out there competing he or she is earning points towards their CHAMPIONSHIP STATUS (don't forget to send your Hi-Point Books in at the end of each showing season). USA-UK run a number of awards that Saddlebreds can take part in. In addition the ASHA in America run Saddlebred Select Awards (for purebred horses) and Sport Horse Awards (for both pure and partbred Saddlebreds) - these are open to Saddlebreds the world over and are based on returned forms (simply get the show secretary to sign a pre-printed form) - why not have a go at that too?
If you have news of you and your Saddlebred out and about at shows, or if you have any questions regarding the showing divisions covered above please contact USA-UK.
Show
note
We are keen for members to express their support for horses in the ring,
however please take care not to lean over the rail into the ring area to clap,
bang the boards or wave any articles, this is against the rules.
Don't stop cheering but please make sure you express your enthusiasm outside the
rail.
ANY JUDGE or interested party who wishes to know more about the breed
standards and rules of showing the
American Saddlebred Show Horse are invited to contact USA-UK.
An electronic power-point presentation is available covering the major topics.
In addition judges from other breed
societies or associations who are interested in a more hands-on approach are
welcome to contact USA-UK to join
our visiting accredited judges in the ring. They will talk through their
choices, what they see in the ring and the class
calls and requirements - a great insight to familiarise yourself with the breed.
We are also happy to help to arrange for you to work alongside an accredited judge for you to gain USA-UK Panel Listing, or simply for a better insight into judging the American Saddlebred Horse.
Contact USA-UK direct.
CONTACTS:
USA-UK
24 Coton Grove, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands, B90 1BS.
Secretary
Horse Registrar
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Send mail to
Lynnusauk@aol.com with
questions or comments about this web site.
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