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WASHINGTON4-H HORSE JUDGINGMANUAL

EM4797

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Washington 4-H Youth Development Policy onProtective Headgear in the 4-H Equine Program

All Washington 4-H youth participating in all equine projects and activities must wear AmericanSociety of Testing Materials (ASTM) and Safety Engineering Institute (SEI) approved headgear whenthey work with, are around, drive, or are mounted on a horse, pony, or mule. The headgear musthave a chin strap and be properly fitted.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................3

ANATOMY OF THE HORSE ...............................................................................................4Good Conformation...........................................................................................................4Topline and Underline ........................................................................................................7Correlated Features ............................................................................................................12Way-of-Going That Helps Determine Function..................................................................12Unsoundnesses and Blemishes of the Horse......................................................................14Correlated Structural Features that Lead to Defective Gait or Unsoundness..........................19

JUDGING THE HALTER HORSE........................................................................................21In Judging the Halter Class, Keep in Mind the Particular ................................................................21

Class You Are JudgingDescriptions and Regulations for Different Breeds............................................................ 21

JUDGING THE PERFORMANCE HORSE...........................................................................26The Pleasure Horse............................................................................................................26Showmanship at Halter.....................................................................................................29Stock Seat Equitation........................................................................................................30English Equitation............................................................................................................30Western Riding.................................................................................................................31English Riding..................................................................................................................31Reining Class...................................................................................................................32

COMPLETING THE PLACING CARD .................................................................................33

ORAL REASONS...............................................................................................................34How to Take Notes..........................................................................................................34How to Give Oral Reasons................................................................................................35Terminology.....................................................................................................................36Sample Oral Reasons.........................................................................................................47

CONTEST REGULATIONS AND SCORING.......................................................................49Typical Rules and Regulations for a 4-H Horse Judging Contest..............................................49Contest Scoring................................................................................................................50

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Horse judging is an art where anauthoritative person expresses his/heropinion of a class, by his/her order ofplacement. The ability of a judge toexpress his/her opinion orally reinforceshis/her order of placement. For the judgeto give a convincing set of oral reasons,she/he must compare the horses inthe class while keeping in mind the"ideal" accepted model of that breed and/or type of performance.

To become a competent judge a personmust develop and/or perfect part or all ofthe following:

Know all the parts of the horse.

Know all the possible blemishes andunsoundnesses and how theywould affect the horse's movement.

Know how to weigh conformationfaults over blemishes for makingplacements.

Know the "ideal" type or "ideal"performance of one or more breeds.This includes the rules of those BreedDivisions.

Know a method by which you cancompletely and rapidly evaluate ahorse.

WASHINGTON 4-H HORSEJUDGING MANUAL

INTRODUCTION

Know a system to rapidly take noteson a class and be able to organizethose notes into a set of reasons.

Know the important comparisons tomake when giving oral reasons.

Know what an "ideal" set of oralreasons sounds like.

Know that win, lose or draw, youmade your best effort.

For the beginner to be able to learn thesepoints takes much practice and guidancefrom qualified persons. Practice judgingwill require many sessions just buildingthe "ideal" horse in the beginner's mind.The beginner then must spend manyhours comparing horses, one withanother and those to the "ideal." Whilethe placements are being perfected, thebeginner should start learning and usingthe reason terminology in hisconversation. With much practice andguidance the beginner will be ready forhis/her first contest.

It must be remembered that contestjudging is much different from practicesessions. Contest judging is done undertime limitations. These limitations areexplained in the Contest Regulationsand Scoring.

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GOOD CONFORMATION

Part of this section should merely be a reviewof what you have already learned in yourprevious project books. It is repeated, however,because of its importance in the overall pictureof judging horses. A thorough knowledge of ahorse's anatomy (Figure 1) is the primary stepin being able to judge accurately.

The Head

In all types of horses, the size of the headshould be in proportion to the size of the body.In the case of foals, yearlings, and two-year-olds, a big head that is balanced in its propor-

ANATOMY OF THE HORSE

tions is an indication of growthiness andoverall size outcome.

Good breed type and attractiveness of the headin all its features are primary qualifications inhorses. Horses intended for breeding shouldshow masculinity or femininity in the head.Long, narrow heads with deeply dished facesor Roman noses are undesirable because oftheir plainness. Width of muzzle and jawis taken to indicate good disposition andintelligence. Straight-faced horses are preferredover dishedface or Roman-nosed types in mostbreeds. When viewed from the side the headshould have a triangular shape. That is, itshould taper to a fine muzzle.

Figure 1. Anatomy of a horse.

Buttock

Flank

Stifle

Gaskin

Hock

Fetlock

Forehead

FaceBridge of nose

NostrilMuzzleUpper lip

Lower lipUnder lip

Throatlatch

Point of shoulderChest

Arm

Elbow

Forearm

Knee

Hoof

Poll

Crest

Neck

Shoulder

Withers

Hea

rt-

girt

h

Back

Barrel

Underline

Cannon

Fetlock joint

PasternCoronet

Topline

LoinPoint ofhipRump or croup

Thigh

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Ears

The size, length, set, direction, and movementof the ear are important. Extremes in size ofear detract from the appearance of the head.A medium-sized ear, clean cut in design, thatshows the blood vessels clearly outstanding, ischaracteristic of horses with high quality andrefinement.

Set or location of the ears helps determine thebeauty of the head. Ears set well apart, nottoo low down over the eyes or too far back onthe poll of the head, contribute to good looks.

The movements of the ears are an indicationof temperament. Ears kept in a constant stateof unrest may signal a nervous temperament,im-paired eyesight, or total blindness.Motionless ears are an indication of a slow,lazy, sluggish disposition.

Eyes

Big, full, prominent eyes of a dark, rich, hazelcolor are desired in all types of horses.

"Walleyes," sometimes called glass eyes, arethose in which the iris is a pearly white color.Such eyes are objectionable on the basis oflooks but are functional and not considereddisqualifications.

"Pig-eye" is the term applied if the eye is toosmall, narrow, and squinty. Such eyes usuallyhave thick eyelids and are commonly asso-ciated with coarseness and a sluggishtemperament.

Nostrils

Good-sized nasal passages are considered indi-cations of good breathing ability. Small nostrilsare usually associated with short, flat ribs and,consequently, a chest that lacks lung capacity.

The normal nostril should be large, the skinclear, and the mucous membrane rose coloredat rest and a deep red after exercise. The liquiddischarged should be clear and transparent,the breath shouldbe odorless, and the

breathing noiseless. The nostrils should belarge, because the nasal passages are the onlyavenues of air intake to the lungs.

Mouth

The jaws of the mouth should meet evenly.Not only are protruding or receding lowerjaws unsightly, but they interfere with thehorse's eating. The terms applied are: "parrotmouth," which means the upper jaw protrudesover the lower; and "monkey mouth," whichmeans the lower jaw protrudes beyond theupper. Alternate terminology would be "overshot"and "undershot" jaws or mouths, respectively.

Teeth

The teeth are classified as incisors, canines, andmolars. They are organs of mastication. Agecan be estimated by inspection of the incisors.

The bars of the mouth occupy the space oneach side of the lower jaw between theincisor and the premolar teeth or betweenthe canine and the first molar teeth. The barsare covered only with mucous membrane.

It is against the bars of the mouth that bitpressure is brought to bear in the control ofhorses by the reins. Horses are said to be"hardmouthed" when the mucous membraneof the bars becomes toughened and thickened,and the sensitivity of the mouth is deadenedbecause of the calloused condition of the bars.

Neck

Long, trim necks are associated with athleticability in all types of horses. A trimthroatlatch is very desirable, since it permitsthe horse to flex the head easily. Bothvertical and lateral flexion are required ingood head carriage. Horses with long, trimnecks and well-defined throats usually learncollection more readily and are more agile.

Short necks-bulky, thick, and staggy in pro-portions-are undesirable in saddle horses becausethey mean a lack of suppleness and mobility.Commonly, a short neck makes a horse heavy-

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headed and less subject to control. In race horses,short, bulky necks mean short elevator musclesin the shoulders and less length of stride.

The neck is straight when the crest line fromthe poll of the head to the withers approachesa straight line. The neck is arched when the crestline is convex from poll to withers. "Swan-necked" is the term applied when the crest lineof the neck is strongly convex and the wholeneck imitates in form and carriage that of a swan.

"Ewe-necked" is the term used when the crestline of the neck shows a distinct depressionjust in front of the withers. Ewe-neck andswan--neck are the reverse of the form desired;hence, horsemen refer to them by the ex-pression "set on upside down."

"Lop-neck," "fallen-neck," and "broken-crest"are terms applied when the crest of the neckbecomes invaded with adipose (fatty) tissue,resulting in so much weight that the neckcannot sustain itself, and it breaks over orfalls to one side.

"Ewe--necked" and "broken-crested" horsesare unsightly and undesirable. The crest ofneck is demanded in all types of horses whereimpressive fronts are a requirement. Thedegree of crest differs with the breed andspecific use of the horse.

Withers

These comprise the region between the shoulderson top, behind the crest of the neck, and infront of the back. They are formed by the spinousprocesses of the first five or six thoracic vertebrae.The height of a horse is measured from thehighest point of the withers to the ground.Equine stature is stated in hands and inches;four inches constitute a hand.

Prominent withers are desired because theyensure maximum length of spinal and shouldermuscles, also a longer stride to the forefoot.Horses with low, thick, rounded witherswhich lack definition move out awkwardlyand clumsily in front. Such horses are usually

low-headed, too heavy on the bit, inclined toforge and interfere, and are undesirable forrapid movement.

"Mutton withers" is the term applied to thislow, flat, rounded conformation over theshoulder top. In saddle horses, such withersare objectionable not only because they affectperformance, but also because they fail toprovide a good seat for the saddle; consequently,it is difficult to keep a saddle in place.

Back

The back is bounded in front by the withers, be-hind by the loin and laterally by the ribs. In saddlehorses, it is the part of the top which re-ceives theweight of the rider. In all horses, its function is totransmit to the front end of the body the efforts ofpropulsion, which are com-municated to it fromthe back legs through the loin.

A straight back of proportionate length is mostdesirable. It is always a sign of strength andprovides for the greatest freedom of movementof the legs. A convex back is termed a "roach-back." Such backs are shorter than straight backsand do not permit sufficient extension andflexion of the legs in taking long, rapid strides."Roach-backs" and long legs are a combinationwhich results in forging.

The back that is concave or hollow is referredto as "sagging" or as a "sway-back." It is object-ionable because it detracts from appearanceand suggests weakness. The short, straight backsupported by ribs that are well sprung, long,and deep provides a middle that has amplebreathing and digestive space. Such proportionsindicate good wind as well as good feedingand staying qualities. Short, flat ribs arecharacteristic of horses that are poor keepersand have poor wind and staying power.

Loin Region

The loin includes the portion of the top whichextends from the last ribs to the hips. Short,heavy loin muscles are needed because theyfurnish the chief means of support for the

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lumbar vertebrae. Shortness of the loin is neces-sary for the best functioning of this part in car-rying power from the hind legs forward.

All types of horses should have an abundanceof muscling over the loin. "Coupled up goodand close" is the phrase that describes idealmuscling of the loin. Horses that break acrossthe top in front of the hips and that are long,narrow and weak in loin conformation are spo-ken of as being "slack in their coupling."

TOPLINE AND UNDERLINE

The topline should be short in relationship tothe underline. This allows the horse to movewith more collection and impulsion. Thewither should be long and extended well intothe back. When a perpendicular line is droppedfrom the top of the wither to the ground, thegreater the distance from this line (where it in-tersects the underline) to the point of the el-bow, the greater the top to bottom line ratio.

Croup or Rump

This includes the region from the hips back tothe tail-head. In conformation, the croup maybe too steep, it may be too nearly level, or itmay incline upward from the point of the hipto the tail.

If a horse is too steep in the croup, the top linelooks plain. Furthermore, the steep croup tendsto displace the hind legs too far forward be-neath the body, causing them to bear too muchof the body weight. If the croup is too nearlyhorizontal or is set up a bit at the tail-head, thehind legs are displaced rearward. In the lattercase, the back is not well supported because thefront and rear bases are spread farther apart. Ashort, steep croup is undesirable in a mare asthis makes her prone to reproductive problems,especially a tipped vulva.

There are very definite breed characteristics as-sociated with croup carriage. For example, Ara-bian horses are associated with a very flat, levelcroup and thoroughbreds with a sharp, steepcroup.

The croup should carry the width as uniformlyas possible from the hips rearward. "Goose-rumped" is the term applied to horses that taperfrom the hips to the tail-head, displaying peaked-ness and angularity in this region. Owners ofwestern horses like to see the croups of theirhorses deeply creased. They associate this fea-ture with heavy muscling and with easy-keepingand good feeding qualities.

The length of hip is measured from the point ofthe hip to the buttocks. A longer hip affords ahorse a longer stride and the ability to movewith more impulsion. The length of croup andthe length of hip should be relatively of thesame length.

Flank

To give balance to the middle, horses should bedeep in the fore and rear flanks. Depth of flankin front and behind contributes to the balanceof conformation. The best flanks are seen inhorses that are well fleshed and highly fitted.

Flank movements, which are indicative of ahorse's wind and breathing, should be slow andregular without any signs of jerkiness. The nor-mal number of movements when at rest are 12to 14 per minute.

Age and physical condition are factors causing avariation in the number of flank movements.Excessive movement is quite commonly calledpanting. A horse that is easily winded and stayswinded a long time is probably narrow in itschest, shallow in its rib, and cut up in its flank.

Chest and Heart-Girth

Proportionate width is demanded in all types ofhorses. Too much width, even in draft horses,where width is greatly emphasized as a featurein conformation, constitutes a real defect. Whenthe front legs are set too far out on the corners,a rolling, rocking, laboring, and ungainly gaitresults. With front legs so placed, horses are un-fit for work at speed.

The narrow-chested horse whose front legs

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appear to have the same point of junction tothe body is spoken of as being pinched or tooclose in front. A narrow chest commonly ac-companies a lack of muscling and constitution.

The depth of heart-girth is measured from thetop of the withers to the point of the elbow.Depth of heart-girth coupled with spring of ribsand width through the chest floor, affords thehorse more heart, lung, and chest capacity Thiscapacity gives the heart and lungs more roomfor expansion and contraction, thus increasingthe athletic ability of a horse to work harder,longer, and faster.

Shoulder

The scapula is the skeletal base of the shoulder.The chief duties of the foreleg are to supportweight, to preserve the stability and balance ofbody, to aid the hind legs in propelling thebody forward, and to resist injurious effect ofwear and tear on their own structures.

Following are reasons why the shoulders shouldbe long and sloping, rather than short, straight,and steep: (1) they make possible a greater ex-tension of the forearms; (2) they allow the frontleg to be raised higher so the stride can be fullycompleted before the foot strikes the ground;(3) they give power and strength to the swingof the forearm; (4) they contribute to ease, free-dom and style of action; and (5) they help dis-perse the damaging effects of concussion.

Straight shoulders, on the other hand, are ob-jectionable because: (1) they are commonly ac-companied by short, straight pasterns, resultingin a stilty set to the front legs (a conformationwhich causes shorter steps and harder concus-sion); (2) they produce a rough gait; and (3)they retard rotation of the scapulae causing thehorse to work its front legs with less freedom.Shoulders are sometimes referred to as "pegged"when shoulder action seems retarded ratherthan free.

Arm

The humerus bone transverses the arm region.

To permit a sufficient extension and rapidity ofaction of the thoracic limb, the bone of the armshould be short in comparison with that of theshoulder. If the length of the arm is excessive incomparison with the shoulder (especially if theshoulder is short and straight), the foot willcover less ground at a single stride, and actionwill not be reachy, free, and easy.

A long shoulder, a short arm, plus a long fore-arm makes possible maximum extension ofstride and speed. The arm should operate in aplane parallel to the plane occupied by thehorse's body. If the arm deviates inward toomuch, a horse will stand toe-wide at theground. If the arm deviates outward too much,a horse will stand toe-narrow or pigeon-toed.

Forearm

This is the name given to the region betweenthe elbow and knee joints. Length of stride de-pends largely upon the length of the forearm,because the forearm carries the knee forwardand upward. Hence, the longer the forearm, thelonger the stride.

Short forearms in comparison with the cannonregions are objectionable because they result inshorter strides. A short forearm will augmentheight rather than extension as a feature of thestride. Long forearms and short cannons notonly favor speed, but contribute to stability onfeet and legs. With short cannons, knees arebrought closer to the ground, making the sup-port of the body easier and more certain duringtravel.

Chestnut

These are semi-horny formations varying insize with the type of horse in question. On thefront legs, they are located upon the inside faceof the forearm a few inches above the knee. Onthe hind legs, they are located on the lower in-side face of the hock. They are not nearly aswell developed in light-leg types as they are indraft horses. They are thought to be the rudi-ments of one of the four toes which once char-acterized the species.

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Knee

This joint should be wide, thick, deep andcleancut in outline, properly placed and di-rected. Thickness of the knee is measured fromside to side, width from front to rear. Widthand thickness are desirable features becausethey increase the supporting area of the jointand furnish a more stable support for the body.

To distribute wear and tear properly, the kneemust be correctly placed. If the joint breaks ordeviates forward, a horse is termed "knee-sprung," "over at the knees," or "buck-kneed." Iflength of toe accompanies the "knee-sprung"conformation, there is a strong disposition tostub the toes, stumble, and fall.

If horses stand back on their knees, they aretermed "calf-kneed." Such horses in motionusually bring their feet down hard, increasingconcussion. When viewed from the front, ifknees break inward, they are termed "knock-kneed." If its knees break outward, a horse issaid to be "bow-kneed" or to stand "open in itsknees." Both the "knock-kneed" and "bow-kneed" conditions are types of "bench--knee"(any lateral deviation, in or out, of the kneewhen viewed from the front).

Comparison of Front and Rear Legs(Figures 2a and 2b)

The arm of the front leg corresponds to thethigh of the hind leg. The femur is the ana-tomical base of the thigh. The elbow, forearm,and knee of the front leg are the counterpartsof the stifle, gaskin, and hockbehind. Heavymuscling through the thigh, stifle, and gaskinis demanded. The hind legs are the propellers,so these muscles are required.

Horses that are turned out a trifle in the set ofthe stifle are preferred. This permits maximumex-tension of the hind leg, allows freedom ofaction, and turns the hocks inward beneath thebody, permitting a horse to work his hocksclose together (as opposed to wide apart) andgo coll-ectively. The gaskin should equal theforearm in length and, like the forearm, shouldbe heavily muscled.

Figure 2a. Skeletal front leg.

Figure 2b. Skeletal hind leg.

COMMONTERMINOLOGY

ANATOMICALNAMES

Shoulder blade

Point of shoulder

Arm

Elbow

Forearm

Knee

Cannon

Fetlock jointPastern

Hoof

Scapula

Humerus

Olecranon

Radius and ulna

Carpus

Metacarpal bones

Sesamoid bonesFirst and second phalanxCoffin or pedal bone(Third phalanx)

COMMONTERMINOLOGY

ANATOMICALNAMES

Hip

Hip joint

Thigh

Stifle

Gaskin

Hock joint

Cannon

Fetlock

PasternHoof

Femur

Fibula

Tibia

Tarsus

Metatarsals

Sesamoid bonesFirst and second phalanxNavicular orshuttle bone

Coffin orPedal bone(third phalanx)

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Hock Joint

The hock joint is referred to as the "pivot of ac-tion" in a horse. It plays an important part inpropulsion and helps to decrease the harmfuleffects of concussion. It is called the "pivot ofaction" because it is the region upon which theextensor muscles concentrate their propulsiveefforts. As the feet, carrying the body forward,rapidly strike the ground, the reaction from themovement bears mainly upon the hock joint. Itis the hock joint that bears the burden of theweight when a horse rears from the ground.

The hock joint is satisfactory when it is clearlyoutlined, appears lean in quality, is wide anddeep in its proportions, is well opened asviewed from the side, and is properly directedas viewed from the rear. A hock is lean and dryin appearance when its prominences and de-pressions are well marked and when the skin isfine and close fitting.

Horses that stand with the points of the hocksturned inward and base wide at the ground aretermed "cow-hocked." Horses with hocks thatturn outward are called "opened in the hocks."Such hocks may cause a twisting, rotating ac-tion on the move and are also termed "rotatinghocks

If the angle formed by the hock as viewed fromthe side is too acute, a horse is called "crookedin his hocks," is said to have too much set tothe hocks, or is called "sickle-hocked." If hocksare rounding on the back side, they are called"curby" or "saber-hocked."

A hock may have lack of set and be too straightand is termed "post-legged." This condition isobjectionable because it tends to shorten thestride. Improper set of the hock joint results inimproper distribution of body weight and maylead to early unsoundness.

Cannon Region

The cannon region extends from the knee andhock to the fetlock joints. The three bones (onelarge and two small) which traverse each frontcannon are the metacarpals. The small metacar-

pals are commonly termed "splint bones." Thethree corresponding bones in each of the rearcannons are the metatarsals. In general formand arrangement, they resemble each otherclosely, but the metatarsals are longer.

Size of the cannons depends not only upon thesize of the metacarpal or metatarsal bones butalso upon the size and set of the tendons thattraverse the region. Horses that are constricted,"chopped away," or "tied in" beneath the kneeare criticized by horsemen as "lacking bone."Bone is an indication of substance and contrib-utes to ruggedness.

Big cannon bones and strong, clearly-set ten-dons are required to furnish ample support toknees and hocks. Cannons should be character-ized by being clean-cut and defined. Well devel-oped flexor tendons produce the desirable ap-pearance of "flat bone."

Fetlock joint

The fetlock joint involves the articular or ad-joining portions of the cannon bone, the firstphalanx, and the proximal sesamoid bones.The joint is stabilized by a series of tendons andligaments. The fetlock joints and correct pas-terns help provide springiness to the gait anddisperse concussion.

Some breeds of horses have long hair at thefetlock called feathering. The ergot is a semi-horny projection which protrudes from the rearbase of the fetlock joint.

Pasterns

A sound set of pasterns is a primary require-ment in both light and heavy horses. Extremelylong, low pasterns are weak pasterns. Such pas-terns, in company with shallow heels, charac-terize horses that are termed "coon-footed."Short, straight pasterns increase concussion,stilty action, and rob the gait of spring and free-dom, which are important features of thestride.

Straight pasterns and small, boxy feet with theirnarrow heels and straight, upright hoof walls

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often lead to unsoundness. The pasterns serveas a base of attachment for extensor and flexortendons, functioning in locomotion as agentsof extension and flexion. Snap, as a feature ofthe stride, is due in no small part to the work-ing of the pastern joints.

Foot

A working knowledge of the hoof is necessaryto understand the principles of good hoof care.The hoof is a highly-specialized horny shellthat covers sensitive bones, nerves, and bloodvessels and tissues.

The visible covering if the hoof, seen when thehorse is in a standing position, is the wall. Ifthe horse's leg is picked up, the bottom of thehoof is seen to consist of the wall and bars (aninward continuation of the outer wall), the sole(a concave area inside the wall), and the frog (aV-shaped cushion in the middle of the hoof).

Each portion of the hoof has a specific func-tion. The wall is designed to carry the bulk ofthe horse's weight as well as protect the under-lying structures. The bars act as a brace to con-trol over-expansion and contraction of the hoof.The sole covers softer tissues and is somewhatconcave to give grip and allow for expansion.The frog aids in absorbing concussions, circula-tion, and regulating moisture in the hoof.

Conformation of the hoof plays a big part in itsability to stand up under a long life of variedwear and tear. Selective breeding is one way toget good hooves. Also, a good balanced diet,composed of sufficient essential vitamins andminerals, helps maintain structural soundnessof the hoofs. Front hooves should be larger,rounder, and stronger than those of the hindlegs, because the forelegs support about two-thirds of the horse's body weight.

The coffin bone, also called the third phalanx,gives shape to the hoof. If shape is not consis-tent, damage or disease may have altered thenormal growth of the bone. All hoof growthstarts from the coronary band, the junction ofthe hoof with the hair line. If this area is notsmooth, regular, and healthy, there is littlechance of having a sound hoof.

The wall of the hoof should be smooth and solid,continuing at the same slope as the pastern. Theinside wall may be slightly steeper than theoutside wall and still be normal. The wall, usu-ally thicker at the toe and heel than at the quar-ter, should be free of any deep cracks or scars.

The next part of the hoof is the sole, just insidethe wall. The wall and the sole unite at thewhite line. This line is important. All horseshoenails should be driven directly into or just out-side the white line and stay in the outer wall.The white line is also the junction between thesensitive and insensitive tissues of the foot.This line can be separated or injured by infec-tion or inflammation.

The sole should be concave, strong, and free ofdeep depressions; any discoloration would indi-cate excessive bruising or inflammation. Flat-footed horses, and particularly those that havehad a case of laminitis or any degree of adropped sole, bruise the sole more frequently,especially at the toe.

Another common location of bruising is theangle formed by the hoof wall and the bars.Bruising in this area of the sole is known as a"corn." Corns are very often found after shoeshave been left on too long. As the foot growsout, the heel of the shoe moves forward inside

Structure of the Foot

Figure 3. The hoof.

Bulbs of the heels

Bars

Frog

Sole

White line

Hoof wall

Quarter

Heel

Toe

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the hoof wall, causing pressure on the sole anddevelopment of a corn at that point. A corn canbecome tender, abscess, and hemorrhage.

The V-shaped, spongy wedge in the center ofthe hoof-the frog-is a great indicator of the gen-eral health of the hoof. Without a good, full,flexible frog, contraction of the hoof and nor-mal physiology of all the other hoof parts maybe harmed. The frog should be a firm, full, elas-tic cushion for the horse.

Any puncture wounds which penetrate the frogare particularly serious, because the frog over-lies very delicate structure. Any puncture of thesensitive tissue of the hoof certainly deservesprotection, particularly against tetanus infection.

When judging, look for hooves which are inproportion to the body size and leg structure ofthe horse. You want a hoof full and rounding atthe toe and quarter, and wide and deep at theheel. A foot which is narrow at the heel withstraight upright hoof walls is called "mule foot."This is objectionable because of appearance andis also very hard to shoe properly The hoof wallshould have enough flare to permit the drivingof nails safely and easily.

CORRELATED FEATURES

Relations of Form and Function

The proportions of the head in all kinds ofhorses are a rather accurate index of thebody proportions to be expected. That is,long, narrow heads are commonly correlatedwith long, shallow, narrow bodies.

Long, sloping shoulders are correlated withlong, sloping pasterns.

Short, straight shoulders are correlated withshort, straight pasterns.

Long, trim necks and clean throatlatches areassociated with balance, agility, and abilityto work off the hocks.

A deeply-creased croup is correlated witheasy keeping, good doing, and satisfactoryfeeding qualities.

Depth of heart-girth and spring of rib are as-sociated with lung capacity and endurance.

Structural Features That Enhance Action

Long forearms are correlated with longstrides.

Horses that stand toes straight away on theirfront feet are likely to have true action.

Sloping shoulders and sloping pasterns ofthe front leg are correlated with a graceful,springy stride.

When horses stand with the points of theirhocks turned slightly inward, hind toesturned slightly outward and hind cannonbones occupying parallel planes, their hockswill be carried close together instead of wideapart. Such a position on the hind legs iscorrelated with collected action instead ofspraddled action behind. A more pronouncedturning inward (cow-hocked) is undesirable.

WAY-OF-GOING THAT HELPS DETERMINEFUNCTION

The term "way-of-going" is self-defining. Thepace refers to the rate at which a horse moves.Action implies flexion of knees and hocks.

Length-distance from the point of breakingover to the point of contact of the same foot.

Directness or trueness-the line in which thefoot is carried forward during the stride.

Rapidity or promptness-time consumed in tak-ing a single stride.

Spring-manner in which the weight is settledupon the supporting structures at the comple-tion of the stride.

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Normal feet moveforward in astraight line

Basewide feetmove forward ininward arcs-"winging"

Splayed feet moveforward in largerinward arcs-"winging"

Base narrow feetmove forward inoutward arcs-"paddling"

Pigeon-toed feetmove forward inwider outwardarcs-" paddling"

Normal foot formseven arc in flight

Too stubby-high heel andshort toe causes lengthen-ing of first half of stride, longheel touches ground earlierwhich shortens last half ofstride.

Long toe-short heelcauses shortening offirst half of stride andlengthening last half ofstride.

Figure 3b. This illustrates how the length andslope of the hoof affects way of going.

Figure 3a. Path of the feet as seen from above.

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UNSOUNDNESSES AND BLEMISHES OFTHE HORSE

An important part of judging a horse is yourability to recognize common blemishes and un-soundnesses, and to rate the importance of each.A thorough knowledge of normal, sound struc-ture makes it easy to recognize imperfections.

Any deviation in structure or function that in-terferes with the intended use of a horse consti-tutes an unsoundness. You must know the differ-ence between abnormalities that do and thosethat do not affect the serviceability of the ani-mal. Blemishes include abnormalities that donot affect serviceability. Examples can be wirecuts, rope burns, shoe boils, and capped hocks.

Be sure to consider the use to which you intendto put the animal before you purchase a blem-ished or unsound horse. Hereditary unsound-nesses are disqualifications in breeding classes.

Following are the definitions of 46 abnormali-ties in the horse that constitute unsoundnessesand blemishes. Many of these are further illus-trated in Figures 4-8.

Bandy legs (Figure 6b)-When a horse standspigeon-toed on its hind feet, with the pointsof its hocks turned outward, it is said tostand bandy--legged behind. Such horsesusually go wide at the hocks, making col-lected performance impossible. (A horseshould work with its hocks fairly close to-gether instead of wide apart.) Also, it is im-possible for a horse so positioned on its hindlegs to rock its hind feet forward, upward,break them over at the toes, and carry thehind legs directly forward. The bandy-leggedhorse gives a lateral twist to its hocks, oftenreferred to as "rotating hocks," which oftencause early unsoundness of the hock jointsbecause they cannot withstand the increasedstrain imposed upon them.

Bench knees (Figure 4e)-When the cannons (asviewed from the front) fail to meet the cen-ter of the knees and are offset to the outsideof the center of the knee. This fault very of-ten causes large splints to develop.

Blindness-Partial or complete loss of vision ineither or both eyes. A blind horse usually hasvery erect ears and a hesitant gait. Frequently,blindness can also be detected by the discol-oration of the eye. Furthermore, certain veri-fication can be obtained by moving thehand gently in close proximity to the eye.

Blood spavin-A varicose vein enlargementwhich appears on the inside of the hock andimmediately above the location of a bogspavin.

Bog spavin (Figure 8)-A soft filling of thenatural depression on the inside and front ofthe hock. A bog spavin is much larger than ablood spavin.

Bone spavin (Figure 8)-A bony enlargement onthe inside and front of the hock where thebase of the hock tapers into the cannon boneof the lower leg. Also called jack spavin, it is aheritable weakness and one of the mostdestructive conditions affecting the useful-ness of a horse. The lameness is most evidentwhen the animal is used following rest.

Bow-knees (Figure 4c)-Bow-kneed (or bow-legged) horses often stand over the outsideof the front feet. This faulty position bringsundue weight upon the outside portions ofthe front feet, especially the outside lateralcartilages, often causing early formation of "sidebones." The length of serviceability of a horseso positioned on his legs is usually decreased.

Bowed tendons (Figure 8)-A thickened en-largement of any one or all of a group oftendons and ligaments (usually the super-flexor tendon, deep flexor tendon, andsuspensory ligament) which occupy theposterior space in the cannon region betweenknee and fetlock joint or between hock andfetlock joint. Bowed tendon is the name horse-men apply to ruptured tendon tissue, and ismore commonly seen on front legs than onrear legs. Sprains which result in bowed tendonsare not uncommon in horses that work at speed.

Buck-knees (Figure 5b)-Buck-kneed (or knee-sprung) horses are ones over-at-the-knee or

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Figure 4. The front legs, front view.

Figure 6. The rear legs, rear view.

Ideal Splay-footed(chest wide)

Bow-kneed Splay-footed(chest narrow)

Bench-kneed Knock-kneed Pigeon-toed

a. b. c. d. e. f. g.

a.Ideal b.Bandy-legged c. Cow-hocked

Figure 5. The front legs, side view.

a. Ideal b. Buck-kneed c. Calf-kneed

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Figure 7. The rear legs, side view.

a. Ideal b.Sickle-hocked c. Camped out behind d. Leg too straight

Figure 8. Location of various potential unsoundnessesand blemishes of the horse.

Poll evil

Under- or overshot jaw

Sweeney

Bowed tendon

Fistula

Shoe boil

Splints

Side bone

Hernia

Bog spavinBone spavin

Toe crack

Ringbone

Stifled

Thoroughpin

Capped hockCurbed hock

Quarter crack

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whose knees protrude too far forward whenviewed from the side. They are less stable ontheir front legs than horses whose knees (asviewed from the side) are perfectly straightand squarely placed beneath the body forpurposes of support. If buck-knees are ac-companied by long toes, such horses usuallystumble, particularly if the going is a little soft.

Calf-knees (Figure 5c)—Knees (when viewedfrom the side) that break backward, Calf-knees are objectionable because bowed tendonsand knee ailments often develop. The gaitswill likely be accentuated by pounding.

Capped hocks, knees, and elbows (Figure 8)—Swellings located on the point of the hock,front of the knee, and tip of the elbow,respectively. These swellings are caused byinjuries which result in excess secretion ofthe synovial fluid.

Cocked ankles—A condition usually limited tothe hind feet. A horse with cocked ankles willstand with the fetlocks bent forward in acocked position.

Contracted feet—A condition most often occur-ring in the forefeet and characterized by adrawing-in or contracting of the heels. Atendency toward contracted feet may beinherited, but improper shoeing usuallyaggravates the condition.

Corn—A bruise of the soft tissue underlying thehorny sole of the foot which is seen as areddish discoloration of the sole immediatelybelow the affected area. Fast work on hard orrough surfaces, flat soles, weakened bars, andpoor shoeing may cause corns.

Cow-hock (Figure 6c)—A condition that, de-pending on severity, may or may not predis-pose the horse to an unsoundness. A cow-hocked horse stands with the points of thehocks turned inward, while being base-wideand splay-footed at the hoofs (not to beconfused with simply being narrow or close

behind, in which hocks point in but thehorse is also base-narrow). A cow-hockedhorse moves its rear legs through an inward-then-outward arc while traveling.

Curbed hock or curbs (Figure 8)—The conditionin which there is a fullness on the upper rearof the cannon area just below the point ofthe hock. "Curbs" is due to enlargement ofthe ligament or tendon.

Fistula (Figure 8)—An inflamed condition in theregion of the withers, commonly thought tobe caused by bruising. Fistula and "poll evil"are very similar except for location.

Forging—A defect in the way-of-going, charac-terized by the striking of the supporting fore-foot by the striding hindfoot on the same side.

Founder (laminitis)—A serious and painfulailment of the hoof. It can be caused byover-eating, overwork, giving hot animalstoo much cold water or inflammation of theuterus following foaling. All feet may be affected,but the front ones are more susceptible.

Heaves—A difficulty in forcing air out of thelungs. It is characterized by a jerking of theflanks (double-flank action) during exhaling.There is no satisfactory treatment, althoughaffected animals are less bothered if turnedto pasture, if used only at light work, if thehay is lightly watered at time of feeding, orif the entire ration is pelleted.

Hernia or rupture (Figure 8)—The protrusion ofany internal organ through the wall of itscontaining cavity, but it usually means thepassage of a portion of the intestine throughan opening in the abdominal muscle.

Interfering—A defect in the way-of-going,characterized by the striking of the fetlock orcannon of the supporting leg by the oppo-site foot that is in motion. This condition ismore prevalent in horses with splay-footedconformation in their front legs.

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Knock-knees (Figure 4f)—Horses that stand in atthe knees or that are too close at the knees.Knock- kneed condition is caused by thebones of the upper and lower leg not en-tering and leaving the knee squarely. Knock-kneed horses, if worked at high speed, usuallyhave interference problems.

Moon blindness (periodic ophthalmia)—Acloudy or inflamed condition of the eyewhich disappears and returns in cycles oftencompleted in about one month. It is alsocharacterized by tearing and squinting of theaffected eye or eyes.

Navicular lameness (navicular disease)—Inflammation and/or fracture of thenavicular or distal sesamoid bone. There is acharacteristic defect in gait resulting fromthe lame animal trying to protect its soreheels. Each stride is ended with the finalportion being shortened, because the animaltries to land each foot toe first. It isespecially associated with contracted heels.

Osselets—An inclusive term referring to anumber of abnormal conditions around thefetlock joints. Generally, it denotes a well-defined swelling slightly above or below thecenter of the joint and off center of the exactfront of the leg. Affected horses travel with ashort, choppy stride and show evidence ofpain when the ankle is flexed.

Quarter, toe, and heel cracks (Figure 8)—Avertical split in the wall of the hoof thatextends from the bearing surface of the hoofupward for some distance or extends fromthe coronary band downward. These types ofcracks (sometimes called sand cracks) areusually caused by poor hoof care, such asallowing hoofs to become too long, dry, andbrittle. In the case of cracks originating atthe coronary band, some type of injury tothe band itself, resulting in a weakenedsegment of the hoof wall, is the likely cause.

Quittor—An active, seeping sore at the coronetof the hoof, usually over the area of the

lateral cartilage. Normally confined to theforefeet, this condition can cause a long-lasting lameness.

Parrot mouth—An hereditary imperfection inthe way in which the teeth come together. Itis caused by the lower jaw being shorter thanthe upper jaw (also known as "overbite").The reverse of this condition, "monkeymouth" or "underbite," is caused by thelower jaw being longer than the upper jaw.

Pigeon-toed (Figure 4g)—A pigeon-toed horseappears to be standing with the aim of thehoof turned toward the center of the body.Such a horse commonly exhibits paddling asa result of this imperfection.

Poll evil (Figure 8)—An inflamed condition inthe region of the poll usually caused bybruising the top of the head. The swellingusually contains pus or straw-colored fluid.

Ringbone (Figure 8)—A bony out-growthinvolving one or more bones and/or joints ofthe pastern region. It affects the forefoot,although occasionally the hindfoot isinvolved. This condition usually causes aprogressive lameness, as the bony outgrowthcompletely rings the pastern region (hencethe name "ringbone"). It is usuallyaccompanied by a stiffened ankle if eitherthe pastern joint or coffin joint is involved.

Roaring—A whistling or wheezing when resp-iration is speeded up with exercise. Thiscondition involves a faulty throat cartilageand can generally be corrected surgically.

Scratches (grease-heel)—A dermatologicalinflammation of the posterior surfaces of thefetlocks and pastern.

Shoe boil (Figure 8)—A soft fleshy swellingcaused by an irritation at the point of theelbow (also called capped elbow). The twomost common causes are injury from theheel caulk of the shoe and injury fromcontact with a hard surface.

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Sickle-hock (Figure 7b)—A term, together with"set to the hocks," applied when a horse'shind feet (as viewed from the side) are set toofar forward in relation to his hocks. Horseswhich have this definite angle in the set oftheir hocks have an advantage in collection,stopping, and turning on the hindquarters.If the angle is too acute, however, theunsoundness called "curb" can develop.

Compare sickle-hocked condition with "legtoo straight" and "camped out behind"(Figures 7c and 7d). No unsoundness is dir-ectly related to these conditions, but extremedeviation in leg set should be avoided. Distancehorses typically have "legs too straight."

Side bones (Figure 8)—Ossified lateral cartilageseen to protrude immediately above andtoward the rear quarter of the hoof head.They are most commonly in the forefeet,and the condition may occur on one or bothfeet and on one or both sides of the foot.Lameness may or may not be present. Sidebones are one of the most common potentialunsoundnesses in the feet of horses.

Splay-foot (Figures 4b and 4d)—A term appliedwhen a horse stands with the toes of hisfront legs turned outward. A horse with thisdefect cannot rock his front feet upward fromthe heel, break over at the toe and carrystraightforward. The striding foot of a splay-footed horse will swing inward toward thesupporting leg, and he or she will be guiltyof "winging." Interference is almost inevitable.

Splints (Figure 8)—Abnormal bony growthswhich can occur on the inside and/oroutside of the cannon bone. They are mostcommon on the inside of the front leg;when found on the hind cannon, they areusually on the outside. Splints may enlargeor be high enough to interfere with normalknee or hoof movement and thereby causeirritation and lameness.

Stifled (Figure 8)—The stifle corresponds to theknee in man. A horse is said to be stifled

when the patella of the stifle joint has beendisplaced. Occasionally, the patella canmanually be placed back in normal position,but more often the affected horse is rendereduseless without surgical corrections.

Sweeney (Figure 8)—A depression in the musclemass of the shoulder caused by an injury toa nerve resulting in a lack of innervation orcontrol of muscle tone. Atrophy or muscledegeneration results.

Thoroughpin (Figure 8)—A puffy condition inthe hollow of the hock. The puff can be seenmostly on the outside, but is movable whenpalpated. Thoroughpin rarely causes lameness.

Thrush—A disease of the frog of the foot,characterized by a black, thick, foul-smellingdischarge. It is caused by unsanitary conditions.

Undershot or overshot jaw—A hereditaryimperfection in the way the upper and lowerjaw meet. An undershot horse has a lowerjaw longer than the upper jaw (also knownas "underbite" or "monkey-mouth").

Winding—A twisting of the striding leg aroundand in front of the supporting leg so as toresemble a tight-rope walker (also called"rope-walking").

Windpuff—A puffy enlargement of the pasternjoint, also referred to as "windgall." Theenlargement is a fluid filled distension of thebursa (joint sac or capsule).

CORRELATED STRUCTURAL FEATURESTHAT LEAD TO DEFECTIVE GAIT ORUNSOUNDNESS

The calf-kneed position on the front legs iscorrelated with hard concussion of the feetat completion of the stride. The calf-kneedposition tends to make a horse pounding-gaited on the move.

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Low, rounded withers are correlated with thedefect in gait known as "forging." Thick-withered horses commonly hang in thebridle, go low-headed, and handle their frontlegs awkwardly and clumsily.

The pigeon-toed position on the front feet iscorrelated with a defect in gait known as"paddling" or "winging out."

The toe-wide or splay-footed position on thefront feet is correlated with the defect in gaitknown as "winging in" or "dishing."

Horses that stand with the points of theirhocks turned outward will exhibit a defect instride known as "limber hocks" or "rotatinghocks."

Short, straight shoulders and short forearms

are features of the front legs correlated withshort strides and hard concussion.

Buck knees and long toes are features of thefront legs correlated with stumbling.

Short straight shoulders, short straightpasterns and narrow contracted heels arecorrelated with many unsoundnesses, incl-uding ringbone and sidebone.

Long, low, weak pasterns and shallow heelsare correlated with the unsoundness knownas "ringbone," a bone deposit which appearson the pastern bone.

"Sickle hocks," a term which applies to hocksthat have too much set as viewed from theside, are correlated with the hock un-soundness known as curbiness (curbs).

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IN JUDGING THE HALTER CLASS, KEEP INMIND THE PARTICULAR CLASS YOU AREJUDGING

Example: Quarter Horse Broodmares.

All sex classes, mares, geldings, and stallions,are unique in that several different factors mustbe considered for each sex class.

Mares

They must give an overall feminine appear-ance particularly in the head neck and bone size.

They must be sound and free from anyproblem which would prevent a mare fromcarrying foal to parturition.

They must conform to the "ideal" type andconformation accepted by the breed.

They should be discriminated against if theirexternal genitals show some predispositiontoward breeding unsoundness. Example: Amare with a recessed anus, exposing thevulva more prominently, will usually havefecal material lodged on and in the vulva.This will eventually cause vaginal infection.

They must be physically developed for their age.

They must have a disposition which is suitedfor a mare of her particular breed.

They should have a full spring of fore andrear ribs for foal carrying capacity

Geldings

They must display masculine characteristicswithout having a disposition similar to a stallion.

They must be sound, as geldings are of novalue if they are lame.

JUDGING THE HALTER HORSE

They must conform to the “ideal” type andconformation accepted by the breed.

Stallions

They must have masculine appearance andbe physically developed for their age.

They must be sound; otherwise they may notbe suitable for breeding and/or riding purposes.

They must have a disposition which is suitedfor a stallion of particular breed.

They should be discriminated against for nothaving properly developed external genitalsfor a stallion of that age. Example: A stallionwhich has a retained testicle.

They must conform to the "ideal" type andconformation accepted by the breed.

DESCRIPTIONS AND REGULATIONS FORDIFFERENT BREEDS

A breed of horse represents a group of animalsthat have descended from common ancestors.More importantly, this group possesses featuresand characteristics, both physical and psycho-logical, that are unique to itself.

Each breed has been developed to fulfill a par-ticular need or to perpetuate certain characteris-tics. Registration (recording) of individual animals isusually handled by the breed association or registry.

This association, registry or otherwise calledgoverning body, also describes the standard ofperfection for their breed. The descriptions ofsome of our more popular breeds follow.

Appaloosa

Type and Conformation. In general appearancethe Appaloosa horse is symmetrical and smooth.

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Weight ranges from 950 to 1,250 pounds andheight from 14 to 16 hands. The typical patternshows a dark front and white with dark spotsover loin and hips. Others may be dark in frontand solid white over the hips. Some are whitewith dark spots over the entire body or darkwith white spots over the entire body.

The three identifiable Appaloosa characteristicsare: (1) white sclera encircling the eye, (2) verti-cally striped hooves, and (3) mottled orparticolored skin.

The head is straight and lean showingparticolored skin about the nostrils and lips.The forehead is wide. The sclera of the eye iswhite, giving the eye prominence and addingdistinctiveness to the appearance of the head.The ears are pointed and of medium size.

Halter Classes. Do not sacrifice conformation,action, or anything of importance for coatmarkings, but people do expect winners andchampions to "look like Appaloosas." Coat mar-kings do contribute to Appaloosa breed typethe same as a Hereford's markings contribute toHereford breed type. Therefore, if a pair is equalin points, the nod should go to the one that is"more easily recognizable" as an Appaloosa.

Arabian

Type and Conformation. The Arabian is com-monly between 14.1 and 15.1 hands at thewithers and ranges in weight from about 950 to1,100 pounds. It has a dark skin, and the haircoat is not marked with white except for legand face markings.

The Arabian is noted for its overall stylishness.It has a relatively small, dished head, with asmall muzzle, large nostrils and large, dark,wide-set eyes. The distance between eyes andmuzzle is comparatively short, accentuating itsdeep muscular jowls. The short, thin ears add alook of alertness and intelligence. The pride ofthe Arabian is displayed in his long, archedneck, which is set high and joins into highwithers.

When viewed from the side, the classic Arabianhorse exhibits long, sloping shoulders, well-sprung ribs, long forearms and short cannons.His short back blends well into the compara-tively horizontal croup. High tail carriage isnatural and adds to the beauty of the animalwhen moving. The Arabian should movestraight, quickly and smoothly, with a highhead and tail carriage.

Entries must be serviceably sound and in goodcondition and must wear long, natural unbraidedmane and natural, unset, ungingered tail. Horsesshall be shown without artificial appliances.

Halter Classes. Horses to be shown in hand at awalk and trot, should stand on all four feet, notstretched, and be handled and shown through-out an entire class by only one and the sameperson. A suitable headstall equipped with throat-latch is mandatory. Excessive use of the whip oractions that may disturb other entries shall bepenalized. Emphasis shall be placed upon type,conformation, substance and quality; transmis-sible weaknesses and/or unsoundness to becounted strongly against breeding stock.

Morgan

Type and Conformation. The Morgan generallystands between 14.1 and 15.2 hands andweighs from 1,050 to 1,250 pounds. Its size andscale display much power and development.Noted for stamina, vigor, personality, and ea-gerness to work, the Morgan is an ideal all-around horse.

The Morgan has an alert, straight or slightlydished face with large, wide-set eyes and smallears. It has a large, prominent jaw that blendsinto a narrow muzzle with large nostrils andfirm lips. The head is carried high on a power-ful, slightly-crested neck.

The body of the Morgan also displays the powerbred into these horses. The shoulders are deepand show great angulation. The shoulders blendinto a short back with broad loins and a mus-cular, well-developed, level croup. The legs of a

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Morgan are straight and sound with short can-nons, flat bones, medium pasterns, and overallstrength and refinement.

Except for weanlings and yearlings, which mustbe shown barefoot, horses may be shod or bare-foot. If shod, shoes must be open heeled with-out bars, burn-buckles or bands.

Halter Classes. Entries are to be judged indi-vidually, by standing, then at a walk and troton the line and must be serviceably sound. Horsesmust stand squarely on all four feet. Emphasisshall be on type and conformation, with con-sideration given to horse's ability to move cor-rectly on the lead.

Paint

Type and Conformation. The Paint horse is astock-type horse. The head is relatively shortand wide with a small muzzle and shallow, firmmouth. The nostrils are full and sensitive; earsare short and active, and set wide apart. Theneck should be of sufficient length, with a trimthroatlatch and not too much thickness or depth.The girth should be deep with well-sprung ribs,with broad, deep, well-muscled quarters thatare full through the thigh, stifle, and gaskin.

Halter Classes. Horses are to be shown in handat a walk and jog. They will be judged on type,conformation, quality, substance, and sound-ness. Color will not be considered by the judge.No discrimination shall be made towards lightor dark skin or color of eyes or pattern ofhorses. Coat markings do contribute to thePaint breed type. If a pair is equal in all re-spects, the top placing should go to the onethat is "more easily recognizable" as a Paint.

Pony of the Americas

Type and Conformation. Three-year-olds andover must be at least 11.2 hands (46 inches) andshall not exceed 13.2 hands (54 inches).

Ponies of the Americas are a happy medium ofArabian and Quarter horses in miniature with

Appaloosa coloring. They should show styleand substance, beauty and symmetry. The headshould be proportionate to the body withcleancut features. The eyes should be large,kind, and prominent, and the ears medium insize, alert, and well carried. A slight dish in theprofile will help accentuate the Arabian charac-teristics. The throatlatch should be well-definedand the neck slightly arched, running back to asloping shoulder and a prominent wither. Thechest should be fairly wide; the forelegs, set wellforward, should have a muscular forearm and alean, flat cannon bone. The pastems should beset at a 45-degree angle and the feet should berounded and proportionate to size of pony. Thebody should be heavily muscled, with well-sprung ribs, back and loin short, wide and wellmuscled, but not extreme. The tail should comeout high on the croup which should be long,level, and muscular. The quarters and gaskinsshould be deep and muscular. The hocks shouldbe clean-cut and well-supporting.

A pony must show Appaloosa color at a dis-tance of 40 feet to be eligible to show. All po-nies must have white or partially white scleraand some mottled skin. Striped hooves are de-sirable, but not necessary.

Halter Classes. Ponies must be serviceably sound,in good condition, and well-groomed. Manesshould be roached or pulled to five inches; tailspulled to near top of the hock; however, this isoptional. Ponies of the Americas should be shownin halter or bridle; any other tack, artificial appli-ances, and tail setting of any kind are prohibited.

Quarter Horse

Type and Conformation. The first point to con-sider is Quarter Horse type. In general, therehave been three distinct types: the bull dogtype-an extremely heavy muscled, short, com-pact horse; the racing type-a lighter muscled,longer-legged, longer-bodied horse; and themiddle-of-the-road (or medium) type.

To be of true Quarter Horse type, a horse mustbe medium to medium-large in size (14.2 to 15.2

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hands), have a typical head, be long and slop-ing in the shoulders, long in the croup, andhave a fairly short back and strong coupling.The cannon bones should be fairly short. Witha short back, the shoulder and croup must belong and slope at a 45-degree angle to give thehorse a long bottom line, resulting in a longstride. There is a pronounced muscular appear-ance in both the fore and rear quarter.

The amount and kind of muscling are impor-tant. The points of indication of muscling arethe quarter, stifle, and gaskin, the arm and fore-arm, and the V-muscle of the chest. These musclesfirst of all should be evident in quantity, andalso should be of the right kind-that is, long,smooth, and well attached. Long tapering fore-arm and gaskin muscles that tie well down intothe knee or hock on both inside and outside arepreferred to short bunchy muscles. The QuarterHorse should be widest through the stifle re-gion as in other species; all the muscling shouldbe rippling, or well defined.

The Quarter Horse head should be moderatelyshort and broad and should be topped by smallfox- like ears. The eyes are fairly wide apart andare large and alert. The distance from the eyesdown to the muzzle should be moderatelyshort, and the nostrils should be fairly largewith small lips. The jaw should be fairly largeand suggest strength. The head should be clean-cut in its appearance.

Halter Classes. Horses to be shown in hand at awalk or jog are to be judged on type, conforma-tion, quality, substance, and soundness. Heredi-tary or transmissible unsoundness shall dis-qualify a horse.

Saddlebred

Type and Conformation. The ideal AmericanSaddlebred has a well-shaped head carried rela-tively high with small, alert, pointed ears setclose, large eyes set well apart with thin lids,and a fine muzzle with large nostrils and astraight face line. Its long neck is nicely archedwith a fine clean throatlatch. It has high with-

ers with long sloping shoulders and a shortback with well-sprung ribs. The croup is levelwith a well-carried tail coming out high. Theforearms and hindquarters are well-muscled tothe knees and hocks. Legs are straight withbroad flat bone and sharply defined tendonsand sloping pasterns. This breed has good soundhooves, open at the heels. Action should bestraight and true. The average height is 15 to 16hands and the weight is from 1,000 to 1,200pounds. Any color is acceptable, but the mostprominent are chestnuts, bays, browns, and blacks,with some greys, roans, palominos, andpintos.

American Saddlebreds must be serviceablysound and shall be shown without artificial ap-pliances, except inconspicuously applied hair inmane or tail, a tail brace, and mouth controls.Quarter boots are allowed in five-gaited perfor-mance classes and fine harness classes only. Anyartificial change of color or markings otherthan mane or tail is prohibited.

Shetland Pony

Type and Conformation. No Shetland shall ex-ceed 11.2 hands (46 inches) in height. Theheight limit for yearlings is 10.3 hands (43inches) and under, and the limit for two-year-olds is 11.0 to 11.5 hands (441/2 inches).

The head should be refined with prominent,wide-set eyes, nose slightly concave, withbroad, flat bridge carrying width to the muzzle.The ears should be short and fine and set wellon the head. The head should be carried highon a refined, well-arched neck which supports athick mane. The body should be strong andhigh, with sloping withers, a short back, andnearly level croup. Legs should be muscularwith fine flat bone. Ponies should standsquarely, and the feet should be wider at thebase than at the coronary band. There is no dis-crimination on the basis of eye color.

Halter Classes. Shetlands on entering the ringare to be lined up and worked as requested-usu-ally at a walk and trot.

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Stallions, three years old and older, to qualify inbreeding classes, must have all the fully devel-oped physical characteristics of a stallion.

All appliances, including false tails and metalbraces, are prohibited.

Thoroughbred

Type and Conformation. The typical Thorough-bred stands 15.2 to 16.2 hands and weighs from1,100 to 1,250 pounds. Overall appearancemakes the horse look taller, more lean and an-gular, with the body longer, deeper chested andmore narrow when compared with otherbreeds. The head is tapered, from large, wide-seteyes to a firm muzzle. It is small with a straight,flat face. The large, thin nostrils, good windpipeand wide, deep jaw (which gives room for thelarynx) allow maximum air exchange. The earsshould be wide set, small, and well-formed.

The neck should be lean, without coarseness orheavy appearance; length and a slight arch arealso desirable. The neck joins well into theshoulder. The shoulder should be long, well-sloped, and covered with lean, flat, powerfulmuscles. The depth of the shoulders shouldcarry through to the heart-girth.

The ribs should be flat immediately behind the

shoulders, well- rounded, and full over the ribcage. The thighs and quarter should be powerful,showing long, smooth muscling. The legs shouldbe flat and strong with long, sloping pasterns.

The entire makeup of the Thoroughbred showsquality, stamina, and durability. Temperamentis active and energetic. Thoroughbreds are con-sidered by many as one of the hotter or higher-psyched breeds of horses. Their action is char-acterized by a low-going, pointed trot, but asmooth gallop with long, easy strides.

Welsh Pony

Type and Conformation. The color of Welshponies may include any color except piebaldand skewbald. The head should be small andclean cut, well set, tapering to the muzzle; aslight dish is desirable. Eyes should be bold, setwide apart, ears well-placed, small and pointed,well up on the head. The neck should belengthy, well-carried, and moderately lean inthe case of mares, but inclined to be cresty inthe case of stallions. No Welsh Pony shall ex-ceed 14.2 hands in height.

Halter Classes. Ponies are to be shown in handat a walk and trot in halter or bridle. Emphasisshall be on breed characteristics. A naturalreaching action is desirable.

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This section will include English and WesternPleasure, Showmanship at Halter, Stock Seat Eq-uitation, English Equitation, Western Riding,English Riding, and Reining. Keep in mind thatnote taking and oral reason presentations areidentical to the halter division, with the obvi-ous exception of terminology used to describeequitation or the horse's way-of-going.

THE PLEASURE HORSE

A pleasure horse cannot be simply defined dueto differences in breed requirements. These dif-ferences complicate the job of judging; thus, afull knowledge of the breed descriptions ofpleasure horses is necessary. However, thebreeds do agree that the pleasure horse shouldgive the appearance of an enjoyable drive orride.

In general, the "ideal" pleasure horse is thehorse that gives you the appearance of the mostpleasurable and relaxed ride, a horse that youcould ride all day and enjoy every minute. Apleasure horse should look pleasant and gowith the least amount of effort from the rider.The "ideal" horse should not be mouthing thebit, wringing its tail, kicking at other horses, orexhibiting other undesirable traits.

Guides for judging the Pleasure Class

The rules of the class must be fixed in yourmind prior to and as you judge the class.

Remember, when judging the pleasure classthe rider is not being judged. Do not let arider completely influence your decision. Agood rider can make any horse give a pleas-urable appearance, mainly by sitting with afirm seat. A bouncing or loose-legged ridercan give an appearance of a non-pleasurableride. Be sure to look through the rider's faultsor complements.

Position yourself at a vantage point where

you can always keep the majority of the classbefore you. You can do this usually by stand-ing at one end or corner in the show ring.You can rapidly make comparisons of horsesthis way.

Do not speak to other contestants during thecontest. It could result in the immediatedisqualification of you or your team.

Listen for wind soundness after and duringthe performance.

If you have the opportunity, be sure to ex-amine the eyes in the lineup to make surethe horse is not blind or has impaired eyesight.

The head should not be "nosed" out norshould there be extreme flexion at the pollas a Park Horse. The ears should be erect orsemi-erect, giving a pleasant appearance.

At the walk the horse should movereasonably "free" at the shoulder. In otherwords, the horse should move without theappearance of restriction.

When advancing to the faster gaits, jog andlope, you must watch for the transitions.This means watch to see which horse easilyand quickly changes gaits without unduerestraint. Once the horse jogs or lopes, he orshe should settle back to a walk withoutproblems. The rider should not "run" thehorse into the lope. The rider should notrequire the entire length of the ring to walkthe horse from the lope. (Western Pleasureonly.) The same may be applied to EnglishPleasure, by simply re-placing Englishterminology for Western.

The reverse should be accomplished withoutthe rider using two hands turning the horse.(Western Pleasure only.)

When the horses are asked to line up in thecenter, the horses should stand quietly. They

JUDGING THE PERFORMANCE HORSE

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should not be "dancing around," ratherstanding quietly with all feet placed squarelyon the ground.

Look for faults such as wrong leads, turningthe incorrect direction on the reverse, crosscantering, throwing the head, mouthing thebit, bucking, or kicking out.

Keep in mind neck and head position as wellas the ease and freedom in the movement ofthe legs, shoulders, and rear quarters.

Never forget the pleasure horse should givean overall appearance of ease and comfort.

The horse must be sound.

Descriptions and Regulations for EnglishPleasure by Breeds (as quoted from theAHSA Rule Book)

APPALOOSA ENGLISH PLEASURE

Shall be shown at the walk, trot, and canter.

Walk: true and flat-footed for pleasureclasses.

Trot. brisk, smart, cadenced, and balancedwithout loss of form. Smoothness moreessential than extreme speed.

Canter: smooth, slow, collected, and straighton both leads with the ability to push on ifso required.

Horse shall be shown at all gaits both ways ofthe ring as directed by the judge. Special em-phasis shall be placed on a reasonably looserein at all gaits, but still maintaining contactwith mouth so that the horse is under controlat all times.

To be judged 60 percent on performance andmanners, 30 percent on type, conformation,quality, and substance, and 10 percent on ap-pointments. No martingale, tie-down, or drawreins are permitted.

ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE

In English Pleasure classes, light contact mustbe maintained with all reins at all gaits. It is im-perative that the horse give the distinct appear-ance of being a pleasure to ride. To this end, allgaits must be performed with willingness andobvious ease, cadence, balance, and smooth-ness.

To enter ring at a normal trot. To be shown at awalk, normal trot, strong trot, canter, and handgallop.

4-beat walk: brisk, true, and flat-footed withgood reach.

Normal trot (2-beat gait): to be performed atmedium speed with moderate collection.The normal trot must be mannerly, cadenced,balanced, and free moving. Posting is required.

Strong trot (2-beat gait): The strong trot isfaster and stronger than the normal trot. It isperformed with a lengthened stride powerfuland reaching, at a rate of speed which mayvary between horses since each horse shouldattain its own strong trot in harmony withits own maximum natural stride. The horsemust not be strung out behind. It shouldshow moderate collection withoutexaggeratedly high action in front. It mustpresent a willing attitude while maintainingform. The strong trot must be mannerly,cadenced, balanced and free moving. Postingis required.

Canter (3-beat gait): smooth, unhurried,with moderate collection, correct andstraight on both leads.

Hand gallop: The hand gallop is performedwith long, free, ground covering stride undercontrol. The amount of ground covered mayvary between horses due to the difference innatural length of stride. The hand gallop isnot a fast collected canter, but a truelengthening of stride, correct and straight-onboth leads. Extreme speed to be penalized.

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HUNTER DIVISION-BRIDLE PATH HACKS(HUNTER TYPE)

To be shown at a walk, trot, canter, and handgallop. To back easily and stand quietly whilerider dismounts and mounts. Emphasis shallbe placed on actual suitability to purpose.Judging percentages are left to the discretionof show management.

MORGAN ENGLISH PLEASURE

Stallions are prohibited in Ladies' and Juniorexhibitors' classes.

To be shown at a walk, pleasure trot, roadtrot, and canter, with light rein, but stillmaintaining contact with the horse's mouth.To be judged on performance and apparentability to give a good pleasure ride, withemphasis on manners and gait-60 percent;type and conformation-40 percent.

Walk: flat-footed, rapid, elastic.

Trot: square, collected, and balanced.

Pleasure trot: easy-going trot with elasticityand freedom of movements.

Road trot: balanced ground coveringform should not be sacrificed for speed.Excessive speed should be penalized.

Canter. smooth, collected, and straight onboth leads.

Easy ground covering motion is desired inPleasure and Working events. judges must se-verely penalize any horse with laboring motion,at any gait, resulting from excessive weight,or any horse that shows a tendency to pace.

QUARTER HORSE BRIDLE PATH HACK(HUNT SEAT)

Horses are to be shown at a walk, trot, andcanter both ways of the ring. Horses are

required to back. Emphasis shall be placedon actual suitability to purpose.

Horses are to be reversed to the inside (awayfrom rail). They may be required to reverse atthe walk or trot, but shall not be asked toreverse at the lope.

Horses are to back easily and stand quietly.

Horses must be brought to a flat-footed walkbefore changing gaits. Light contact with thehorse's mouth is recommended. The followinggaits and traits should be demonstrated:

Walk: true and flat-footed for pleasure classes.

Trot: brisk, smart, cadenced, and balancedwithout loss of form. Smoothness moreessential than extreme speed. Extremespeed shall be penalized.

Canter: smooth, collected, and straighton both leads with the ability to push onif so required in a hand gallop.

Hand gallop: The hand gallop should be abrisk gallop with horses under control,after which the horses will pull up (not asliding stop) and stand quietly on the railfor a few moments, before being asked toline up for final inspection.

Descriptions and Regulations for WesternPleasure by Breeds

APPALOOSA WESTERN PLEASURE

Shall be shown at the walk, jog trot, and lope.

Walk: true and flat-footed.

Jog trot: square, slow, and easy. (A groundcovering gait.)

Lope: smooth, slow, easy, and straight onboth leads.

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– Hand gallop: a real hand gallop, notmerely an extended lope, extreme speedto be penalized.

Qualifying gaits: To enter ring at walk or jogtrot at judge's discretion. To be shown at a walk,jog trot, lope, and hand gallop.

MORGAN HORSE WESTERN PLEASURE

To be shown at a walk, jog trot, and lope,with light rein, but still maintaining contactwith horse's mouth. To be judged on perfor-mance and apparent ability to give a goodpleasure ride, with emphasis on mannersand gait-60 percent; type and conformation-40 percent. (Prize lists to specify whether ornot horses are to be tested on obstacles.)

Easy ground covering motion is desired inPleasure and Working events. Judges mustseverely penalize any horse with laboring motionat any gait resulting from excessive weight, orany horse that shows a tendency to pace.

In pleasure classes horses may be asked to back.

Qualifying gaits:

– Walk: flat-footed, rapid, elastic.

– Jog trot: free, slow, easy without atendency to mix gaits.

– Lope: smooth, slow, straight, with a 3-beatcadence.

QUARTER HORSE WESTERN PLEASURE

To be judged on the performance andconformation of the horse at the discretionof the judge. Entries will be penalized forexcessive speed or wrong leads.

Horses are to be shown at a walk, trot, andlope on a reasonably loose rein withoutundue restraints. Horses must work both

ways of the ring at all three gaits to demon-strate their ability with different leads.Horses shall not be asked to extend the lope.Horses are to be reversed to the inside (awayfrom the rail). They may be required to re-verse at the walk or trot at the discretion ofthe judge, but shall not be asked to reverse atthe lope. judge must ask that horses be backed.

SHOWMANSHIP AT HALTER(ENGLISH AND WESTERN)

Showing a horse at halter is an art and shouldbe considered as such by the exhibitor andjudge. Proper halter showing testifies to the ob-vious pride the exhibitor has in the animal be-ing exhibited. This pride is evident by the con-dition and appearance of the horse and by theactions of the exhibitor and horse in the ringwhich indicate previous training to form a co-ordinated team. Conformation of the horse isnot judged since the horse is considered a meansof displaying the abilities of the exhibitor.

Technical points and minor infractions of rulesshould not be overemphasized to the extentthey outweigh an effective job of presenting aclean, well-conditioned, trained animal.

Guides for judging the ShowmanshipClass

Further details on showmanship at halter canbe found in EM4727, Performance Horse MemberManual and Class Rules.

The appearance of the horse including clean-liness, condition, grooming, and tack shouldrepresent 20 percent of the total score.

The ability of the exhibitor to properly andsafely show the horse, including ring deport-ment, correct leading, and posing shouldrepresent 70 percent of the total score.

The remaining 10 percent should include theappearance and attitude of the exhibitor

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STOCK SEAT EQUITATION

Guides for Judging Stock Seat Equitation

Further details on rules and regulations forstock seat equitation can be found in EM4727,Performance Horse Member Manual and ClassRules.

In stock seat equitation the rider is beingjudged on his or her ability to make the horseperform the routine required for the class.Judging emphasis will be placed upon seat,hands, responsive performance of the horse,appointments of horse and rider, and suitabilityof horse to rider. Good hands are paramount.

The methods used in obtaining results in theperformance of the horse are of moreimportance than the performance of thehorse itself. Conformation and breedcharacteristics are not judged in this class.

The rider should demonstrate propermounting and dismounting techniques.

The hands and arms should be held in arelaxed manner. Only one hand is to be usedfor reining and the hands should not changewhile riding. In general, the hand is to bearound the reins, with one finger betweenthe reins when using split reins. When usinga romal, no finger is permitted between thereins. The free hand and arm should berelaxed, but not sloppy.

The rider's body should always appear balanced,relaxed, and flexible. All movements of thehorse should be governed by imperceptibleaids.

The following appointments and tack arerequired:

Personal: Protective headgear, cowboy boots,belt, and long-sleeved shirt with buttons orsnaps and collar required.

Tack: Western stock saddle; western bridle

with a standard western bit of the grazing,curb-snaffle, curb, half-breed, bar, or spadevarieties; romal or split reins.

ENGLISH EQUITATION

This section will deal with saddle seat equita-tion, hunt seat equitation (not to jump), andhunt seat equitation (over jumps).

In general, judging emphasis is placed upon therider in equitation classes. Riders will be judgedon seat, hands, performance of horse, appoint-ments of horse and rider, and suitability ofhorse to rider.

The results as shown by the performance of thehorse are NOT to be considered more importantthan the methods used in obtaining them.

Unsoundness should not be penalized unless itis severe enough to impair the required perfor-mance.

The seat should not be exaggerated. It shouldbe efficient and comfortable for riding the typeof horse called for at any gait and for anylength of time. The hands should be held in aneasy position and should show sympathy,adaptability, and control. Further details onrules and regulations for these divisions can befound in EM4727, Performance Horse MemberManual and Class Rules. Several major differ-ences are apparent in these divisions. They willbe discussed below.

In saddle seat equitation the rider isrequired to demonstrate proper equitation atthe walk, trot, canter, slow gait, and rack.

Informal personal appointments include ablack, blue, gray, green, beige, or brown jacketwith matching jodhpurs (white jacket inseason), protective headgear, and jodhpur boots.

Proper tack will include full bridles (curb andsnaffle). Martingales and similar tie-downsare prohibited. Saddles shall be of the flatEnglish type.

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In hunt seat equitation (not to jump) therider is being judged on ability rather thanattire. However, riders should wear suitablehunt seat attire consisting of a coat of anytweed or melton for hunting (conservativewash jackets in season); breeches orjodhpurs; appropriate boots; and protectiveheadgear is mandatory.

Permissible tack includes regular snaffles,pelhams, and full bridles, all with cavessonnose bands. A judge may penalize a riderusing non-conventional types of bits or nosebands. Type of saddle is optional.Martingales are prohibited.

In hunt seat equitation (over jumps), therider is being judged on ability rather thanattire However, riders should wear suitablehunt seat attire consisting of a coat of anytweed or melton for hunting (conservativewash jackets in season); breeches orjodhpurs; appropriate boots; and a dark blue,black, or brown hunting helmet ismandatory.

Permissible tack is the same as hunt seatequitation (not to jump).

The performance begins as the horse entersthe ring or is given the signal to proceed afterentering ring. Except for refusals, jumping faultsof the horse are not to be considered unlessit is the result of the rider's ability.

Each contestant may circle once if desiredbefore approaching first jump. He or sheshall then proceed around the coursekeeping an even pace throughout. Threecumulative refusals will eliminate. If a refusaloccurs in a double or triple, riders shallrejump all elements of the combination.

WESTERN RIDING (CONTROL CLASS)

The rider should be judged upon the skills dem-onstrated in good Western equitation, reiningand trail. judging emphasis should be placed onthe following points: basic position in the

saddle; lightness of hands; correct and imper-ceptible use of aids; response of the horse as in-dicative of the horsemanship of the rider; thesmoothness of performance and steadiness ofthe gaits. Preference should be given to flyingchanges of lead between the markers. Confor-mation should not be considered.

Any horse not following the exact pattern shouldbe penalized. Knocking down markers or ob-stacles should not disqualify a contestant, butshould be scored accordingly.

A rider is penalized if he or she loses a stirrup,uses two hands on the reins, changes hands onthe reins (except when necessary on the gate),or touches any part of the saddle with his orher free hand.

Required appointments include protectiveheadgear, cowboy boots, belt, long-sleeved shirtwith buttons or snaps and collar; western saddle,western bridle with any standard western bit(grazing, curb-snaffle, curb, half-breed, bar orspade, etc.).

Further details on rules and regulations forwestern riding can be found in EM4727, Perfor-mance Horse Member Manual and Class Rules.

ENGLISH RIDING (CONTROL CLASS)

The rider should be judged on the skills demon-strated for good English equitation and perfor-mance. Judging emphasis should be placed onthe following points: basic position in the saddle;lightness of hands; correct and imperceptibleuse of aids; response of the horse as indicativeof the horsemanship of the rider; smoothnessof performance and steadiness of the gaits. Pref-erence should be given to proper changes ofleads between the markers. Conformation shouldnot be considered. The rider should present awork-like appearance of being with the horseand in light control at all times. An impressionof lightness and suppleness should be conveyed.

Any rider not following the exact pattern shouldbe penalized. Knocking down markers or

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obstacles should not disqualify a contestant,but should be scored accordingly.

Appointments and tack are the same as forhunt seat equitation (not to jump).

Further details on rules and regulations forEnglish Riding can be found in EM4727, Per-formance Horse Member Manual and Class Rules.

REINING CLASS

judging emphasis should stress the abilitiesof the rider in riding and handling the horsethrough the pattern. The rider and horse

should perform the pattern at a reasonablespeed and display control, agility and training.The rider should perform the routine in alight, fluent manner, indicating a composed,harmonious attitude between horse and rider.

Required appointments include protectiveheadgear, cowboy boots, belt, long-sleevedshirt with buttons or snaps and collar, westernstock saddle, and western bridle with anystandard western bit (curb snaffle, curb,half-breed, bar, or spade).

Further rules and regulations for reining canbe found in EM4727, Performance HorseMember Manual and Class Rules.

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COMPLETING THE PLACING CARD

Remember that the four horses in the class are al-ways assigned a number. Number 1 is always onyour left and Number 4 on your right as you viewthe class from the rear. In performance classes theexhibitor will be wearing an identification number.

Contest judging placement cards have space forplacing up to ten classes. At the top of the cardthere is space for your name, club, county, and

contestant number. When you receive a cardcomplete the top and write the class name inthe box provided as you start each class.

Washington 4-H judging cards require you tomark an (X) or ( /) in the space to the right ofthe placing (2-3-4-1) you choose. After markingyour card, hand your card to the group leaderto circle your selection.

John JonesJohn JonesJohn JonesJohn JonesJohn Jones Two ForksTwo ForksTwo ForksTwo ForksTwo Forks WhitmanWhitmanWhitmanWhitmanWhitman 1414141414JUNIOR 4-H JUDGING PLACING CARD

Name Club County Contestant No.

1. Write the name of the class in the box above the column.2. Mark one of the boxes within each column to show the placing you have chosen.

CLASS 1 CLASS 2 CLASS 3 CLASS 4 CLASS 51-2-3-41-2-4-31-3-2-41-3-4-21-4-2-31-4-3-22-1-3-42-1-4-32-3-1-42-3-4-12-4-1-32-4-3-13-1-2-43-1-4-23-2-1-43-2-4-13-4-1-23-4-2-14-1-2-34-1-3-24-2-1-34-2-3-14-3-1-24-3-2-1

1-2-3-41-2-4-31-3-2-41-3-4-21-4-2-31-4-3-22-1-3-42-1-4-32-3-1-42-3-4-12-4-1-32-4-3-13-1-2-43-1-4-23-2-1-43-2-4-13-4-1-23-4-2-14-1-2-34-1-3-24-2-1-34-2-3-14-3-1-24-3-2-1

1-2-3-41-2-4-31-3-2-41-3-4-21-4-2-31-4-3-22-1-3-42-1-4-32-3-1-42-3-4-12-4-1-32-4-3-13-1-2-43-1-4-23-2-1-43-2-4-13-4-1-23-4-2-14-1-2-34-1-3-24-2-1-34-2-3-14-3-1-24-3-2-1

1-2-3-41-2-4-31-3-2-41-3-4-21-4-2-31-4-3-22-1-3-42-1-4-32-3-1-42-3-4-12-4-1-32-4-3-13-1-2-43-1-4-23-2-1-43-2-4-13-4-1-23-4-2-14-1-2-34-1-3-24-2-1-34-2-3-14-3-1-24-3-2-1

1-2-3-41-2-4-31-3-2-41-3-4-21-4-2-31-4-3-22-1-3-42-1-4-32-3-1-42-3-4-12-4-1-32-4-3-13-1-2-43-1-4-23-2-1-43-2-4-13-4-1-23-4-2-14-1-2-34-1-3-24-2-1-34-2-3-14-3-1-24-3-2-1

CLASS 6 CLASS 7 CLASS 8 CLASS 9 CLASS 101-2-3-41-2-4-31-3-2-41-3-4-21-4-2-31-4-3-22-1-3-42-1-4-32-3-1-42-3-4-12-4-1-32-4-3-13-1-2-43-1-4-23-2-1-43-2-4-13-4-1-23-4-2-14-1-2-34-1-3-24-2-1-34-2-3-14-3-1-24-3-2-1

1-2-3-41-2-4-31-3-2-41-3-4-21-4-2-31-4-3-22-1-3-42-1-4-32-3-1-42-3-4-12-4-1-32-4-3-13-1-2-43-1-4-23-2-1-43-2-4-13-4-1-23-4-2-14-1-2-34-1-3-24-2-1-34-2-3-14-3-1-24-3-2-1

1-2-3-41-2-4-31-3-2-41-3-4-21-4-2-31-4-3-22-1-3-42-1-4-32-3-1-42-3-4-12-4-1-32-4-3-13-1-2-43-1-4-23-2-1-43-2-4-13-4-1-23-4-2-14-1-2-34-1-3-24-2-1-34-2-3-14-3-1-24-3-2-1

1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.

10.11.12.13.14.15.16.17.18.19.20

1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.

10.11.12.13.14.15.16.17.18.19.20

CLASS 1

CLASS 2

CLASS 3

CLASS 4

CLASS 5

CLASS 6

CLASS 7

CLASS 8

CLASS 9

CLASS 10

SCORES:

SCORING USE ONLY

REASONSScore No. 1

REASONSScore No. 2

IND. TOTAL SCORE

AWARDRank Ribbon

TEAM PLACINGRank Ribbon

TEAM SCORE

CO734

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ORAL REASONS

HOW TO TAKE NOTES

A set of short simple notes will help you orga-nize your oral reasons. Notes are to be used as astudy aid before giving your reasons to the judge,they are not to be read to him or her. Theyshould help you recall or remake a mental pic-ture of the class. Indicate anything special aboutthe animals which will help you visualize the

class later. Examples: color, markings. Do notrefer to your notes while giving reasons.

Use a small spiral-type notebook for note tak-ing. A 6- by 9-inch notebook with flexible cov-ers will be large enough and is easily carried.The following is a set of sample notes taken onthe Morgan Mare Class discussed in this publi-cation.

Morgan Mares (class 1)Morgan Mares (class 1)Morgan Mares (class 1)Morgan Mares (class 1)Morgan Mares (class 1)Placing 3-1-2-4Placing 3-1-2-4Placing 3-1-2-4Placing 3-1-2-4Placing 3-1-2-4

REASONS FOR PLACING ADMIT OR GRANT FAULTS

3/1 1/3 3/ Shorter coupled, Heavier muscled Small, dull, stylish front, in rear eyes and lacks sharper withers, muscling in leveler croup, rear cleaner in hocks, truer stride

1/2 2/1 1/ Longer neck, Refined head Steep in croup deeper in heart, more muscle in stifle, correct on front legs,

2/4 4/2 2/ Head-smaller Moves closer at Flat withers, ear, stronger back hocks, heavier toes—out in croup, flatter bone front loins

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Points to Remember When Taking Notes

Take notes quickly and accurately.

Take notes on reason classes only.

Take notes the last half of the time allowedto judge a class.

Be sure the final placement is at the top ofthe note page.

Be sure the class number and/or title is onthe note page.

Be sure the terms used are accurate andcorrect.

Be sure to use some term or terms to visualizeeach horse in the class (e.g., color, markings).

Be sure not to put more than one set ofnotes on each page.

Be sure to use comparative terms in notes.

Never use notes when giving reasons to ajudge.

HOW TO GIVE ORAL REASONS

Oral reasons are evaluated and scored in thefollowing areas:

Knowledge of subject 40%Use of appropriate terms 25%Presentation 20%Organization 15%

Oral reasons may be practiced by speaking toyourself as you look in a mirror, recording yourreasons on a tape recorder and playing themback to listen for your mistakes, or presentingyour reasons to another person. It is importantto practice reasons; you cannot wait until thelast minute and bluff your way through a contest.

Suggestions for Giving Oral Reasons

As a contestant you must have a vivid mentalpicture of the class of horses you are talkingabout. This means a mental picture of eachhorse in the class. You must develop a completevocabulary of horse terms. This can best be de-veloped through study and practice.

The reasons need not be long. Only twominutes per class is allowed in most contests.

Do not use your notes when giving reasons.Learn to visualize the horses as you saw themin the class. The notes help to get yourreasons organized and ready for presentation.

Use a logical sequence in giving reasons andgive major reasons first.

Do not learn one set of reasons, as you willfind no two horses are the same as well as notwo classes.

Place yourself about 6 to 10 feet, if possible,from the person to whom you are giving yourreasons. Look the person in the eyes andappear confident, friendly, and enthusiastic.

When giving reasons, talk in a slightly louderthan ordinary tone of voice. Use emphasisand inflection with comparative terminology.

Always start your reasons by giving yourplacement. Examples: I placed this class ofAged Morgan Mares 2-1-3-4, or I placed thisclass of Arabian Western Pleasure Horses 1-3-4-2. Then go to your reasons.

If you make a mistake or forget a point,STOP, visualize the class in your mind again.Then continue your reasons.

Do not bluff or say something that is not true.

Do not give wordy or meaningless reasons.

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Do not use indefinite words such as: better,good, best, etc. They do not explain whyone horse is superior to another.

Do not skip from one horse in the class toanother. Give your reasons on the firstplace horse, second, third, and fourth, inthat order.

Speak clearly and use appropriate terms forthe class of horses. Example: leads,transitions, gaits, colts, fillies, foals.

Be sure to compare each horse to the oneyou placed below it.

Concede or grant good points and faults,regardless of the placing of the horse.

End your reasons strongly or as strong asyou started. There is a natural tendency toend weakly.

Give a conclusion. Example: For thesereasons I place this class of Western PleasureHorses 2-3-1-4.

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General Appearance

IdealMore balancedMore symmetricalMore stylishSmootherMore refinedMore femininityMore masculinityMore Q.H. (Arabian, Paint, etc.) typeMore Q.H. (Arabian, Paint, etc.) characterLarger framedMore skeletal dimensionLarger, stouter madeMore structural correctnessMore athleticHigher qualityMore highly conditioned

FaultPoorly balancedLacks symmetry and styleCoarseRoughPlainRangyLacks Q.H. (Arabian, Paint, etc.) typeStockyShallow bodiedLacks femininityLacks masculinityLacks qualityLight-muscledBunchy-muscledLacks smoothness of musclingPoorly conditioned

TERMINOLOGY

Suggested Terminology for Halter Horses

It must be remembered when preparing reasons, you must be sure you select the most accurate andconcise terms. The terms you use do not necessarily have to come from this list. The list is intendedto aid those persons wishing to learn terms, which many horsemen and judges commonly use.

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General Appearance (Continued)

IdealMore developedMore body capacityMore heart, lung, and chest capacityMore foal carrying capacityMore broodmare potentialMore capaciousMore correct in his/her muscle structureLonger muscledSmoother muscledShows more expression of muscleShows more definition of muscleMore powerfully muscledMore expressively muscledTies in more correctlySmother blending of partsMore uniform in body lines

Head

IdealCleaner cut about the headFiner featured about the headMore chisled features about the headMore femininityMore masculinityMore refinementShows more Arabian breed character about

the headSharper, chisled features about the headShorter, broader headShorter, foxier earsWider set between the eyesLarger, brighter eyeMore intelligent, kinder eyeLarger nostrilShorter from eye to nostrilA head that tapers to a finer muzzleMore desirable head set

Head and Neck Carriage

IdealMore desirable carriage of the head and neckMore correct carriage of the head and neckMore stylish head and neck carriageMore balanced head and neck carriage

Fault

FaultCoarse-headedPlain-headedNarrow headLong headLacks femininityLacks masculinityLacking Arabian breed characterHeavy, coarse earsLong, mule earsPoorly set earsDull eyePig eyeBlind eyeClose-set eyesSmall nostrilRoman noseParrot-mouthedMonkey-mouthed

FaultHigh carriage of the head and neckLow carriage of the head and neck

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Neck

IdealCleaner through the neck and throatlatchTrimmer through the neck and throatlatchMore desirable set to the neckLonger neckCleaner neckLeaner neckMore athletic neckLonger from poll to witherNeck ties in higher to the shoulderHigher set neckNeck sets higher onto shoulderNeck blends more smoothly into shoulderLonger from poll to wither

Shoulder

IdealLonger shoulderDeeper shoulderMore sloping shoulderMore heavily muscled shoulderMore desirably sloped shoulderMore correct angle to the shoulderMore expressively muscled shoulderShows more definition of muscle to the

shoulderMore powerfully muscled shoulderExhibits more slope of shoulder

Chest

IdealWider chestShows more width through the chestWider through the chest floorDeeper chestMore muscling through the pectoral regionMore prominent VMore powerfully muscled VMore expressively muscled VStrings down into a deeper V between the

front legs

FaultNeck too longNeck too shortNeck too thinNeck too thickEwe-neckedSwan-neckedLow-set neckCresty-neckedNeck ties in lowNeck does not blend in smoothly to the

shoulderThick throatlatch

FaultShort shoulderSteep shoulderRough over shoulderLight muscled shoulderLacking depth of shoulder

FaultNarrow chestToo wide in chestNo V musclingChest lacking muscle

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Arm and Forearm

IdealLonger muscled arm and forearmMore powerful arm and forearmForearm carries farther towards kneeMore expression of muscling to armMore definition of muscling to forearmSmoother muscled arm and forearmHeavier muscled armHeavier muscled forearm inside and out

forming a more prominent V between thefront legs

Deeper armLonger forearm

Ribs, Barrel Heart-Girth

IdealBolder spring of foreribBolder sprungMore spring of foreribMore arch of foreribGreater spring of foreribDeeper heart-girthDeeper heartedDeeper barrelLonger from point of wither to the elbow

Topline, Underline and Middle

IdealMore level toplineStronger toplineA shorter topline in relation to a longer underlineLonger underlineSmoother underlineMore prominent withersCleaner withersSharper over the withersShorter backedShorter coupledStronger backedStronger coupledStronger loinCloser coupledLonger croupMore even turn to the croup

FaultLight-muscledBunchy-muscledNot tied-inShallow armShort forearm

FaultLacks spring of foreribShallow in heart-girthShallow-ribbedLacks depth of barrelStraight sided (slab sided)

FaultWeak toplineSway backLong backLong coupledLong toplineShort underlineLight middledWasp-waistedWhick over the withersMutton-witheredLow at the withersToo sharp over withersWeak loinShort croupSteep croupShort hipLow tail set

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IdealMore level croup (Arabians)Longer hipDeeper hipHigher tail setMore desirable turn over the croupDeeper flanked

Rear Quarter

IdealWider through the stifleHeavier muscled thighHeavier muscled quarterMore powerfully muscled thigh and quarterLonger muscled quarter and gaskinSmoother muscled quarter and gaskinMore powerful driving muscleMore expression of muscle to the inner and

outer gaskinMore definition of muscle to the inner and

outer gaskinTies in lower to the gaskin and hockA gaskin that ties in higher to the quarter

and lower to the hockLonger, more athletic muscling through the

rear quarterSmoother and cleaner over the hips as

viewed from the rearMore expressively muscled gaskin, stifle, and

thigh

Feet and Legs

IdealSet squarer on feet and legsStands squarer on all foursHas legs placed more squarely beneath him/ herSquarer in frontStraighter behindWider in frontStood wider behindHigher quality underpinningHigher quality boneStands on more substance of bone

FaultPot-belliedTucked up flankRoach-backedHigher at croup than withersHigher at withers than croupUneven toplineLacks prominence of withers

FaultApple-rumpedGoose-rumpedLight-muscledBunchy-muscledNot tied inRough over the hipLacks width through the stifleRafter hipped

FaultStands too close in frontStand too wide in frontStands too close behindStands too wide behindPinched between front legsBase-narrowBase-widePost-leggedCoarse boneRound bone

Lacks substance of bonePoor quality boneSplintsHigh hock and kneesLong cannonSmall knee and hockRough jointsShort forearmStraight hockSickle hocked

Topline, Underline and Middle (Continued)

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Feet and Legs (Continued)

IdealCleaner boneFlatter boneKnees and hocks set closer to the groundShorter cannon boneLarger kneeLarger hockCleaner jointsLonger from knee to armShorter from knee to pasternShorter from hock to pasternMore correct set to hockCannons set more squarely into kneeCannon comes out more squarely from kneeMore definition of tendonMore well-defined tendonsMore correct angle to pasternStronger pasternsMore desirable length of pasternMore sloping pasternsLarger, rounder footWider at heelsTougher hoofBroader knees and hocksFlatter knees and hocks

Action

IdealMoves out freer and easierMoves out with a longer strideMoves out with a bolder, more determined strideShows more flexion and action in the knees and hocksMore collected strideMoves straighter both front and rearMoves truer behindTracks straighter and truerHas more knee and hock actionIs more stylish on the moveMoves with more snap to the knees and hocksA prompter strideMore direct strideHas more style at the walk and trot

FaultCamped underCamped outCow-hockedCamped under in frontCalf-kneedBuck-kneedBench-kneedOffset cannonsBow-leggedTied in at the kneeBowed tendonKnee-sprungBog spavinBone spavinCapped hocksCurbThoroughpinKnock-kneedPuffy hocks,Toes-outToes-inPigeon-toedStocked in the legsWeak pasternsStubby pastern

FaultChoppy strideShort-stridedLacks coordinationPaddles in frontPaddles behindWings both front and rearRotates the hocksDrags the feetTravels narrow behindTravels wide in frontLameRough strideCrosses over in frontInterferes behindLacks knee and hock actionOver reaches

Coon-footedSplay-footedShort pasternsSteep pasternsCocked anklesSidebonesRingboneCapped elbowShoe boilLong, flat feetNarrow footShallow heelBrittle footClub-footedFlat-footedShallow-footedPinched at the heelsContracted heelsBoxy feetToe crackQuarter crackCoarse in the anklesCoarse in the pasternsSeedy toeBlemishes

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Action (Continued)

IdealMore coordinated strideMore flex and spring to the knees and

pasternsMoves with more animation (Arabians,

Morgans)More balanced way of goingMoves with more elasticity at the trotMore fluid strideLonger, farther reaching strideLighter on the forehandEngages the hocks to a greater degreeSteadier strideMore extension of strideBrighter and brisker walkSmoother stride

FaultPlatingForgesMoves stiffLacks collectionHeavy on the forehandSore behind

Suggested Terminology for the Pleasure Horse

It must be remembered when preparing reasons, you must be sure you select the most accurate andconcise terms. The terms you use do not necessarily have to come from this list. The list is intendedto aid those persons wishing to learn terms which many horsemen and judges commonly use.

General Appearance

IdealMore attentiveMore alertMore consistentQuieterMore relaxedMore agileMore animationMore collectionSmootherWell-manneredWillingSuppleBrighterMore finishedMore highly trainedMore stylishMore balancedMore responsiveMore athletic abilityLess anticipationDisciplinedSteadier

FaultUnattentiveUnalertLacks consistencyUnrulyNervous stiffStrung outRoughLacks finishLacks trainingLacks animationShows resistanceUnresponsiveAnticipatesLacks disciplineLacks styleLacks balanceUnwillingHigh-strung

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Head and Neck

IdealMore desirable carriage of the head and neckMore correct carriage of the head and neckMore stylish head and neck carriageMore balanced head and neck carriageMore correct flexion at the pollShows more flexion at the pollMore collectedMore natural headsetHigher set neck

Action*

IdealMore stylishMore pleasant way of goingMore balanced way of goingMoves with more animationMore supple at theFreer moving at theStrides out at theCovers more ground at theMoves more relaxed at theA brisker walkMore flat footed walkFreer way of goingMoves without undue restraintSpringierTruer strideMore coordinated moverLonger strideMoves out freer and easier at theAn easier, freer strideIs more stylish on the moveMore style at theGoes more collectedly at theMoves with more regularity at theSmoother, easier lope or canterSlow easy jogSmooth, freeSmooth, unhurriedTruer hand gallopMoves out with a freer, truer extended trotMore cadenced trot or extended trotCovers more ground at theSmoother, unhurried, more collected at theMoves with more brilliance at the

FaultHigh carriage of the head and neckLow carriage of the head and neckLacks flexion at the pollLacks collection

FaultChoppy strideToo short-stridedA short, choppy strideGoes short in front or rearLacks smoothnessRoughMoves too strongMoves too mechanicalOver animatedExcessive speed at theLacks consistency at theToo bold at theSlower transitionRougher transitionToo fastToo slowBalks at theFour beats at the lopeCross firesUncontrolledMissed a leadLacks regularityHollow backedLacks collectionCross cantersAnticipates commands or aidsLaboring motionAppears to have excessive hoof length or shoe weightMoves stifflyDisunitedHeavy on the forehandLacks balanceLacks impulsion

*Substitute in the blanks the appropriate gaits: walk, jog, trot, extended trot, canter, lope, or hand gallop.

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Aids and Responses

IdealMore rapid transitionsSmoother transitionsMore fluid upward and downward transitionsMore prompt in transitionsPicks up leads smoother and quickerSmoother lead changesStraighter backBacks more readilyMore correct backShows less resistance to the bit while backingMore desirable headset while backingQuieter with the bit on the railOn the bitWorks on a looser rein without loss of contactResponds more readily to the rider's cuesSmoother reversalsMore correct reversalsExhibits more ease of performing the reversalMoves without undue restraintRequired less rein while executing the reversalMore balanced stopMore correct stopStopped with less resistance to the bitStands quieter in line

FaultSlow transitionsRough transitionsSlow lead pick-upRough lead changesCrooked backResists the bitWringing the tailMouthing the bitGrabbing the bitBehind the bitIn front of the bitSlow backToo tight reinToo loose reinAnticipates commandsBouncy stopSliding stopResisting the aidsRough reversalsNot standing quietly in lineBuckingReversed incorrectlyMissing correct leadBreaking gaitBobbing the head

Suggested Terminology for the Equitation Classes

General Appearance

IdealSmoother performanceMore consistentLess noticeable cuesUses more legHorse and rider more coordinatedMore alertMore attentiveMore fluidMore responsiveMore willingMore highly trainedMore ring etiquetteMore correct performanceMore relaxed

FaultRough performanceInconsistent, lacked steadinessMore obvious cuesUses less leg, no leg contactHorse and rider not in rhythmDull, sluggishUnattentiveLacked fluidity of movementLacked responsivenessShows resistance, resists aidsLacked training, lacked finishLacked ring etiquette, less considerate of

other exhibitorsUnruly, nervous, stiff

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Seat

IdealDeeperMore balancedMore desirableMore correctMore relaxedTighter

Hands

IdealQuieterMore correct hand positionLighterMore supple

Upper Body

IdealStraighter backMore vertical line from shoulder to hipMore relaxedSquarer shouldersQuieter free armMore correct free arm position

Lower Body

IdealMore leg contactMore knee contactMore lower or upper leg contactMore correct leg positionHeel further downToe pointed straighter

FaultLoose in the saddle, riding on cantleUnbalancedLess desirableIncorrectMore rigid, stiff back, nervous riderTense, bouncing seat

FaultRougher, jerkingImproper hand position, less desirable hand positionHeavier, more harshLacked suppleness, showed resistance

FaultSlouching shouldersBreaks the vertical line from shoulder to hipStiff, rigid, nervousRounded shouldersMore movement of the free armLess correct free arm position, rigid, lifeless

free arm position

FaultLess leg contactLess knee contactLess lower or upper leg contact, lacked calf or

thigh contactLess correct leg position, incorrect leg positionHeels upToes pointed outward, unparallel toe position

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Movements:Back

IdealStraighterOn the bitSmootherMove readilyMore responsiveHorse more collected before backingEasier backingQuicker

Stop

IdealMore balancedMore correctMore desirable headsetLess bounceOn the bit

Lead Changes

IdealSmootherUsed more leg when asking for the left leadQuickerLess anticipationSharper, truer

Transitions

IdealSmootherMore correctOn the bit

FaultBacked crookedlyBehind the bit, in front of the bitRougher, resistingLess fluid, movement, slowerResisted the bitHorse more strung out before backing, lacked collectionRequired more rein when asked to backMore hesitation, less promptness in backing

FaultLacked balanceLess correctLess desirable headsetBouncyMouthing the bit, grabbing the bit, behind the bit, in front of the bit

FaultRougher, strung outLess promptRequired more leg when cuing for the left leadAnticipated moreCrossfiring, untrue

FaultLess prompt, less balancedSlowBehind the bit, in front of the bit

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SAMPLE ORAL REASONS

Sample Oral Reasons for Halter Horses

Morgan Horse Mares. I placed this class of Mor-gan Horse Mares 1, 2, 3, and 4.

I placed 1 at the top of this class and over 2 be-cause 1 shows more Morgan horse type, styleand balance, particularly in the head and neck.One has more muscling in the chest, arm andforearm; more prominent withers; a shorterback and a stronger coupling. One is a moreanimated mare who moves out with a truer,freer, and more collected stride. However, I willgrant 2 shows more refinement throughout,but I fault 2 for being long-backed.

In reference to my middle pair, 2 over 3, 2 is amore refined, higher quality mare. Two hasmore slope to her shoulder; is sharper over thewithers; has a shorter, stronger back; more archof rib; deeper heart-girth, and is smoother-muscled over the croup and through the thigh,stifle, and gaskin. She has a shorter cannon,and a rounder, tougher foot. I will concede 3stands somewhat straighter in front, but I criti-cize 3 for being thick over the withers and mov-ing too wide in the hocks.

Now, coming to my bottom pair, 3 over 4, 3 is asmoother-muscled, nicer-balanced mare. Threehas a more feminine head; longer, leaner neck;is shorter in the back and coupling and is nicerturned over the croup. She is cleaner in herhocks and stands on shorter, wider cannons.Three is stronger in her pasterns and has a moreshapely foot. I will admit 4 is a larger mare withmore prominent withers and moves truer be-hind; however, I criticize 4 and place her at thebottom of this class because she is off type, andlacks the muscling and balance of the mares Iplaced above her.

For these reasons I placed this class of MorganHorse Mares 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Thank you.

Sample Oral Reasons for English PleasureHorses

My placing of this English Pleasure class is 2, 1,4, and 3.

In my top pair, I placed 2, the girl on the chest-nut, over 1 because 2 had a more fluid, consis-tent, and supple performance. Two was lighteron the forehand, showed more lateral bend,and had a more desirable headset in that he wason the bit and was steadier at the trot. Heshowed more extension of stride at the walkand canter and he moved with more rearwardimpulsion. I criticize 2 for missing a lead, and Igrant 1 showed more spring and elasticity atthe trot.

Moving to my middle pair, I placed 1, the girlon the bay, over 4 because 1 was smoother,more pleasurable, and agile. Two had a moreground covering walk, showed more flexionand action to the knees and the hocks at thetrot and was more united and smoother at thecanter. He showed more flexion at the poll andwas more responsive to the bit. I criticize 1 forbeing heavy on the forehand and I grant 4 hada longer stride and worked with more impulsion.

In reference to my bottom pair, I placed 4, theother girl on a bay, over 3 because 4 was morewilling, responsive, and alert. Four had abrighter, brisker walk, a freer moving trot, andwas lighter on the forehand at the canter. Heshowed more lateral bend, was smoother in histransitions, worked with more impulsion fromthe rear and was longer and bolder in his stride.I criticize 3 for not working off the bit, and Igrant 4 had a truer three-beat lope.

I placed 4, the girl on the brown, at the bottomof the class. Granting he was quiet and relaxed,he broke gait three times, crossfired once, wasrough in his transition, and lacked the impul-sion, bend, and responsiveness exhibited by thethree horses I placed above him.

Thank you.

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Sample Oral Reasons for Stock SeatEquitation

My placing on this stock seat equitation class is4, 3, 2, and 1.

In my top pair, I placed 4, the lady on the blackgelding, over 3 as she had a more fluid perfor-mance with more coordination between horseand rider. She had a deeper, more relaxed seat,squarer shoulders, and a more correct free armposition. In addition, 4 showed less movementin the seat in the transitions, while stopping,and used more outside leg in the execution ofthe reversals. Furthermore, she had her horsestanding squarer and quieter in line. I grant 3had a tighter leg and knee position and I criticize4 as she had her horse behind the bit at the jog.

In reference to my middle pair, I placed 3, thegentleman and the bay mare, over 2 as he dis-played a more correct leg position and had lessnoticeable cues. The bay required less rein inthe execution of the reversals and while back-ing, and the rider had the horse more on thebit throughout the class. Moreover, he showed

a more consistent and desirable lower leg posi-tion with greater knee contact, toes pointedstraighter, and a more correct set to the heel. Icriticize 3 for not standing the horse squarely inline and I grant 2 displayed a more correct up-per body position.

Moving to my bottom pair, I placed 2, thegentleman on the Appaloosa mare, over 1 as hehad a smoother, more correct and fluid perfor-mance. He used more leg and as a resultshowed sharper, smoother lead changes andmore lateral bend in the reversal. Also, 2 had astraighter line from shoulder to hip, a quieterfree arm, and a more desirable hand position.In addition, he had a tighter seat, quieterhands, and was more considerate to the otherriders in the class. I criticize 2 for not gettinghis horse on the bit before backing and I grant1 had a more consistent lower leg position;however, I fault the girl on the gray mare andplaced her last as she was loose in her upperbody position and seat. Also, she lacked ringetiquette and reversed in the wrong direction.

Thank you.

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CONTEST REGULATIONS AND SCORING

TYPICAL RULES AND REGULATIONS FORA 4-H HORSE JUDGING CONTEST

Entry

Each 4-H horse judging team shall be composedof three or four members. When four are en-tered, the three team members with the threehigh scores will make up the team total. Thecontestants must be certified by the state,county, or local 4-H leader on entry blanks ei-ther the day of the contest or a specified dateprior to the contest.

Contestants and Eligibility

Contestants must be bona fide 4-H membersand approved by Cooperative Extension.

Club members who enter into academic or vo-cational training beyond high school of thecurrent year are not eligible to compete in the4-H contest.

Contestants who have served as alternates at acontest are considered as being part of the offi-cial team and are ineligible to compete a sec-ond time.

Method of Conduct

Contestants and coaches must receivepermission from the contest chair if theywish to visit the grounds prior to the contest.

All contestants will report to the chair at aspecified place and time, where they willreceive full instructions regarding thecontest. Each will be assigned a number,group and given placing cards. Allcontestants will re-main with the assignedgroup throughout the contest.

Follow the directions given by your groupleader.

No contestant shall wear any clothing, pins,or badges that will in any way reveal his or

her identity or that of the state, county, orlocal club he or she represents.

While the contest is in progress there shallbe no conferring between contestants oranyone else except as directed by the contestchair or his or her representatives.

Be aware of whether the class you arejudging is a class for placement only or forplacement and reasons. Take notes on reasonclasses only.

Sixteen minutes will be allowed contestantson classes that do not require reasons.

Eighteen minutes will be given contestantson reason classes, to make their observations,notes, and fill out their placing cards.

Two minutes will be allowed to give oralreasons to the judge.

Halter and performance classes will bejudged. The following breeds may berepresented in the halter classes: QuarterHorses, Thoroughbreds, Paints, POAs,Saddlebreds, Arabians, Welsh and ShetlandPonies, Morgans, and Appaloosas.

Performance classes may include English andWestern Pleasure, Showmanship at Halter,Stock Seat Equitation, English Equitation,Western Riding, English Riding, and Reining.

The animals will be designated by numbers1, 2, 3, 4 and numbered from left to right.

Always approach horses cautiously All horsesare capable of kicking.

Keep in a position of vantage where the classcan be seen at all times. This helps whenmaking comparisons.

Horses will not be handled by the contest-ants, but time will be provided for closeinspection by the contestants.

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Official judges

The official judges will work with each class ofhorses.

The judge shall place the classes while the contestants are working in the arena. The judgesenter their placing card, indicate the cuts to bemade, and file that card with the chair.

Contestants will be handed their placing cardsas they appear before each judging committeeto give their reasons. When the contestant hasfinished, the judge will place the official reasonscore upon the contestant's placing card.

CONTEST SCORING

The oral reasons in all contests are rated a valueequal that of placements. Thus, for a high scorethe contestant must give an excellent set of rea-sons and have properly placed the classes. Usu-ally the total possible points per class are 100-50 for placement and 50 for reasons. Oral rea-sons that are rated 40 points or more are con-sidered an excellent score.

The placement score is computed on a "cut" sys-tem. The official judge will establish by numberthe margin of difference between each of thethree pairs, that being the "cuts." The three pairsare the top pair (1-2), the middle pair (2-3), andthe bottom pair (3-4). If the official judge feelshorse 1 is an obvious first and horse 2 is veryclose to the same type, conformation, etc., theofficial judge may designate a one-point "cut." Ifthere is a great difference between horse 2 andhorse 3, a four-to-seven point "cut" may be nec-essary and if horse 4 is an obvious bottom, a

"cut" of four to seven points may be used. A to-tal of 15 "cut" points is the maximum possible"cut" per class.

The following is an example of a typical scorewith "cuts" of 1-5-6:

A scoring slide can be obtained which will helpspeed the scoring procedure. (George A. Hormeland Company, Austin, Minnesota.)

The official individual and team scores shouldbe available to each contestant at the completionof the contest. It is important for the contestantto know his or her scores so that he or she mayfind his or her areas of weakness and strengths.

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4445343328

494343313125

392838261615

2116201410

9

1234

12431324134214231432

213421432314234124132431

312431423214324134123421

412341324213423143124321

Official Placing and Score

Other possible placings and scores

Placing Score

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Adapted for use in Washington by Jerry Newman, Extension 4-H/Youth Specialist, Washington State University, from aColorado State University publication compiled by Dr. Ginger A. Rich, Extension Horse Specialist.

Washington State University Cooperative Extension publications contain material written and produced for public distri-bution. You may reprint written material, provided you do not use it to endorse a commercial product. Please referenceby title and credit Washington State University Cooperative Extension.

Issued by Washington State University Cooperative Extension and the U.S. Department of Agriculture in furtherance ofthe Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914. Cooperative Extension programs and policies are consistent with federal and statelaws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national or ethnic origin; physi-cal, mental or sensory disability; marital status, sexual orientation, and status as a Vietnam-era or disabled veteran. Evi-dence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Cooperative Extension office. Trade names have been usedto simplify information; no endorsement is intended. Reprinted July 2003. Subject code 814. D.

EM4797

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WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY

COOPERATIVE EXTENSION