Glossary of Show Terms

Comment card - a card with the rider's numbers on it (1 for each class) that the juge writes comments on to help them place the riders at the end of the class. Rider's may view it after their classes, but what the judge says goes ;-).

Crossrail - a small jump (usually up to 18") that consists of 2 rails that cross like an X.

Diagonal - a horse moves it's legs in diagonal pairs when it trots. As the outside shoulder (next to the fence) comes forward the rider should be posting up. This would be the correct diagonal.

Equitation (Equ) - In shows- judged on the rider's position, how they look on the horse, and how effective of a rider they are. Proper huntseat position is: eyes up, hands still, above the withers, and together; heels down, leg still at the girth, heels-hips-ears lined up, and shoulders back.

Flying Change - at the canter the horse preforms a change of lead without trotting. (They switch their legs in the air in one stride.)

Hunter Under Saddle - judged on the horse. It should look pleasurable to ride and be moving forward as if coming home from a hunt.

Lead - at the canter a horse will stretch one front leg out farther than the other, usually the one on the inside of the turn/ring. If it stretches the right leg farther forward it is on the right lead.

On the Flat - in shows, the class is not jumping (also know as a rail class)

Over Fences - jumping

Oxer - a wide jump

Pleasure - in shows, judged on the horse. Ridden on a long rein, the horse should look very pleasureable to ride, and should be responsive. The horse should be relaxed and free moving.

Simple Change - A change of lead, by trotting a step then resuming the canter on the opposite lead.

Vertical - a jump consisting of a horizontal rail (as opposed to a cross rail)

So far: confused people have come here since 7/2/98.
What else should I add?

last updated: 7/21/98

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