Conference noted::equitation

    This is a tough class to describe.  In theory (although it is not
    stated in the rules) that a flashy 2nd or 3rd level dressage horse
    should do well here.  They are to ask for working, collected, extended
    walk, trot, and canter both ways of the ring.
    
    Now judging is interesting because most are not sure what to do.
    I have seen it judged well.  And then there were the Nationals.
    Very often, ex-saddleseat horses appeal to the judges because of
    the flashyness.  But I have seen it judged well also.  
    
    It is a fun class.  And if your horse can to the different gaits
    well, you have ample chance to show it off.

    Yes, I was told I would be competing against ex-saddleseat horses.
     I fear that it won't be hunter people judging this class and that
    the nature of the class will therefore be distorted.  I sincerely
    hope that it won't become another of those grey saddleseat areas
    because truly, hunter arabs need a break.  All too often these classes
    aren't attended because they take place away from the main show
    ring.  The attention therefore is centered on the saddleseat.
    I feel that because at least in the Arab world so much attention
    is placed on the saddleseat style of riding that the base of experience
    for many trainers is rather narrow (that goes for judges too)  The
    class should be strictly adhered to in that the origional premise
    is for HUNTER style of riding (appearance, movement and seat). 
    My trainer agreed that if you trained your horse to 2nd and 3rd
    level dressage that you wouldn't bother showing in a Show Hack Class,
    so we know that the exact nature of this class will not be valued
    on the extreme correct form of collection and extension, rather
    on tractability, trainsition, obedience and style.  Maybe
    this class will entice more hunters into the arena in such numbers
    that it will be judged on the merits of the hunter form not the
    ideals of the all too seen flashiness of saddleseat form...at least
    I hope so.  If not then it should be demanded.
                                                      
    hope I haven't flamed too high.
    stephanie
    

    Some shows have the "hunter" judge actually judge these classes.
    
    And yes, it is like the hunter pleasure classes--you really take
    your chances with the judging.  (I have been to shows where the
    winner of the hunter pleasure class was also the English Pleasure
    champion -- and the horse was ridden the same way in both.)
    
    However, over the years, the quality of judging in hunter pleasure has
    improved tremendously.  The quality of horses has also improved which
    makes the judging a little easier.  The judges are becoming more
    educated and most really try to do the right thing.  (And having
    been a steward a many shows, I know many of judges are nervous
    about judging these classes.)
    
    I suspect that it will be a few years before Show Hack is judged
    correctly in this country.  But in the mean time, if we want the
    class then we have to participate and be prepared to take what we
    get (and hopefully get to talk to the judge at the end of the show
    if things were really crazy!)  There are polite ways of pushing
    back.
        
    The Canadians have had this class for many years.  So the quality
    is a little more consistent up there.  
    

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Note 1346.0                     Show Hack Classes                        1 reply
SHARE::HOWLAND                                        4 lines  28-AUG-1990 16:09
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    Has anyone shown in a Show Hack class.  I am interested in this type of
    class at the Arab shows.  What are the particulars. 
    
    stephanie

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CSC32::M_HOEPNER "Standing on the edge is not the sa" 3 lines  28-AUG-1990 16:13
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    I would look at the AHSA rule book for exact class specifications.