The Hunter division is a branch of horse show competition that is judged on the horse's performance, soundness and when indicated, conformation, suitability or manners.[1] A "show hunter" is a horse that competes in this division.
Show hunters, ideally, show many qualities that were rewarded in the fox hunting field such as manners, fluid movement, and correct jumping style. They are shown in hunt seat style tack. Any breed can be exhibited, but at the highest levels they are usually of Warmblood or Thoroughbred type, though a hunter-style pony is also seen in youth classes. Some classes are restricted to horses of certain breeds or height.[2]
In the United States, show hunters are primarily exhibited over fences in various divisions, including Green Hunter, Working Hunter, Conformation Hunter and so on, with a few additional classes offered for horses shown in-hand or on the flat, known as "Hunter Under Saddle." In the United Kingdom, competition over fences is called "Working Hunter," and the term "Show Hunter" describes classes held on the flat. Whilst there are similarities between the American and British classes, there are differences in scoring, attire and type.
- ^ The National Equestrian Federation of the United States (November 7, 2012). "2013 United States Equestrian Federation, Inc. Rule Book" (PDF). United States Equestrian Federation, Inc. Retrieved November 11, 2012.
- ^ Haywood, Rebecca (May 12, 2016). "'Remember their heritage': how to win in the show ring on an M&M working hunter pony". Horse & Hound. Retrieved February 22, 2019.