Horse Show Disciplines

Learning the disciplines of Competing at Western Horse Shows takes knowledge, patience, and a lot of hard work. Code of the Road and I compete in Western Pleasure, Western Riding, Trail & Halter.

Understanding what each discipline requires is imperative to doing well while showing.

WESTERN PLEASURE:            

One of the most popular breed show events is Western Pleasure. Contestants compete simultaneously, traveling the perimeter of the arena, and at the discretion of the judge, are asked to walk, jog, lope and reverse the direction of the horse. Horses are evaluated on quality of movement while staying quiet and calm, traveling on a loose rein.

WESTERN RIDING:                

Judges the abilities of the horse to change leads precisely, easily and simultaneously, using both hind and front legs. Following one of four patterns consisting of a log and a series of pylons, the horse and rider must change gaits – from a walk to a jog or a lope – throughout the course. Reward is given to the horse that changes fluidly and precisely between the middle of the pylons within the pattern.

WESTERN HORSEMANSHIP: 

Designed to test the horsemanship abilities of youth and amateur riders using western tack. Divided into two sections, riders first follow a prescribed pattern of maneuvers at a walk, trot or lope. Finalists ride as a group around the perimeter of the arena. Judging focuses on the rider’s body position, seat in the saddle and ability to control the horse.

TRAIL:                                 

The trail class tests the maneuverability of the horse through an obstacle course. Mandatory obstacles include one in which the rider will open, pass through and close a gate. Scoring is based on the horse’s willingness, ease and grace in negotiating the course. The other two mandatory obstacles are riding over at least four logs or poles and one backing obstacle.

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