Wednesday, October 8, 2014

                            *Hunt Seat and Show Hunter*

Show hunters, ideally, show many qualities that were rewarded in the fox hunting field such as manners, fluid movement, and correct jumping style. The show hunter should have a balanced frame, where they are 'round' in their top line and 'on the bit' softly. They should have a long, sweeping step that covers maximum ground per minimum effort, and have rhythmic, 12' stride at the canter. Ideally, the majority of the movement occurs from the horse's shoulder hip, and there is minimal flexion in the horses joints. The frame of the show hunter differs from that of dressage horses, eventers, and show jumpers, as it travels in a long low frame, with its head moderately extended. Its frame is more "stretched out" that horses competing in dressage, eventing, or show jumping, but the horse should not be on its forehand. The riders of show hunters often ride on a slightly looser rein than seen elsewhere to facilitate this type of movement, and the horse carriers its head just in front of the vertical.

Although the horse is a long and low frame, it should still be able to collect its stride when asked. The horse must also be proficient at lengthening its canter stride while maintaining its tempo and rhythm. 

The walk is free and ground-covering and the trot should be balanced and flowing. The canter should be moderatly collected. The gallop should be long strided, 12 feet is the expected length, but should be balanced and rhythmic.

The show hunter should possess an excellent form over jumps, with a great bascule.


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