WALK/TROT: This division is for those with limited showing experience who do not feel comfortable and safe cantering in a group of riders. Open to riders of any age, but there is no cross-entry between other divisions.
GREEN HORSE: Horse was started after October 1, 2023.
JUNIOR: Rider’s age as of October 1, 2023 is between 8-10.
INTERMEDIATE: Rider’s age as of October 1, 2023 is between 11-13.
SENIOR: Rider’s age as of October 1, 2023 is between 14-19.
ADULT: Age 20+
INFORMATION ABOUT CLASSES
If you’ve never been to a 4-H show before, some of these classes may be new to you. Below is some information gathered from other 4-H programs to help give you a sense of what they’re all about. Don’t let this information overwhelm you, though. The idea is to try something new and have fun doing it!
SHOWMANSHIP
A class judged on the rider’s ability to fit (prepare) and show a horse at halter being poised and confident while leading a well-groomed and conditioned horse through a precise pattern. English or Western attire may be worn.
A riding class judged on the rider’s body position, ability to control their horse, and on the correct use of riding aids. Stock Seat is a Western style of riding. Western tack (saddle and bridle) and attire are worn.
WESTERN DISCIPLINE RAIL
A riding class that tests the skills of both horse and rider. In this class, riders execute specific gaits, transitions, and movements as requested by the judge. They may be asked to extend or collect gaits, stop, side-pass, pivot, perform lead changes, back up, dismount, reverse, counter-canter, extend trot, and other movements at the discretion of the judge. This class is sort of like playing “Simon Says” on horseback. Western tack (saddle and bridle) and attire are worn.
BAREBACK EQUITATION
A riding class ridden without a saddle. Riders may choose to exhibit in any of the Equitation riding styles; Hunt Seat, Saddle Seat, or Stock Seat.
ENGLISH DISCIPLINE RAIL
A riding class that tests the skills of both horse and rider. In this class, riders execute specific gaits, transitions, and movements as requested by the judge. They may be asked to extend or collect gaits, stop, side-pass, pivot, perform lead changes, back up, dismount, reverse, counter-canter, extend trot, and other movements at the discretion of the judge. This class is sort of like playing “Simon Says” on horseback. Traditional English attire is worn.
HUNT SEAT EQUITATION
A riding class judged on the youth’s body position, ability to control their horse, and on the correct use of riding aids. Hunt Seat is an English style of riding based on the tradition of fox hunting. Traditional English attire is worn.