This document provides information and guidelines for the judging on common side saddle class formats.

Suitable for both competitors and judges.

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BEST PRESENTED SIDE SADDLE HORSE & RIDER:

• Full traditional 'turnout class' appointments are not required - a correct habit with apron "safety" skirt is still required. 

• Competitors will be asked to walk, OR they may be asked to both walk and trot so that the hang of the apron safety skirt may be assessed.

• Presentation of the riders’ mount will be assessed

• An overall impression of smartness​ of horse and rider

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WALK  / TROT:

• Competent to walk and trot both reins

• Judge to ask riders to start on the right rein first

 

 

SIDE SADDLE MOUNT:

• Open to horses of all types: Hack, Riding Horse, Hunter, Cob & Heavy

• Riders will be asked to walk, trot and canter both reins

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SIDE SADDLE RIDER:

• Riders should be poised, elegant, straight and supple

• The overall appearance should display a picture of elegance

• Riders will be asked to walk, trot and canter both reins

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SIDE SADDLE UTILITY:

• This class is similar to the working hunter; however, ALL horse types are welcome

• Two drums and jacket where rider will pick jacket or item up and place onto the second drum

• Demonstrate the ability to jump a small jump

• Judges may ask for a one-handed section

• A hand gallop which is smooth and easy going

 

 

SIDE SADDLE WORKING HUNTER:

• Horses must be of hunter type

• Demonstrate the ability to jump over a small course of jumps – if only one jump supplied, the judge may choose for riders to jump both ways

• Judges may ask for a one-handed section

• A hand gallop which is smooth and easy going

• A full gallop may also be asked for.

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SIDE SADDLE HUNTER:

• Horses must be of hunter type

• Judges may ask for a one-handed section

• A hand gallop which is smooth and easy going

• A full gallop may also be asked for.​

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SIDE SADDLE PARK HACK & HACK:

• A park hack is generally 14.2hh to 15.2hh

• A hack is generally over 15.2hh

• Horses must be of hack type

• An ideal park hack or hack side saddle mount should show elegance, presence, gaiety

• Free moving and not mechanical

• Ability to ride walk, trot and canter on both reins

• Exaggerated knee action is not desirable

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OTHER CLASSES MAY INCLUDE:

• Best Paced & Mannered

• Side Saddle Leadline

• Side Saddle Pony / Side Saddle Galloway

• Side Saddle Pairs

• Turnout  class – “formal” – correct appointments required & scoring sheets provided

• Concours D'Elegance 

• Period Turnout