Hunter trial

[Richards2000]

Hi guys,

This season I really want to get out and do some hunter trials.
I have never done anything xc competition wise so would like to know what happens from when you get there until the results.
When do you walk the course etc.
I am a very nervous person, always being judged.
Thankyou

 

[Ample Prosecco]

Hunter Trials are great fun. So first is the course walk. Allow about 45 minutes for that. Then the warm up. 15 -20 minutes is enough for most horses. You will be sent to a start box. You can walk through it, circle round near it or whatever you want. You’ll get a 1 minute, then 30 second then 10 second warming. Then 5,4,3,2,1 go. Leave the start box in a positive canter - horses can be a bit sticky at first. Then jump the course!

Watches are not normally allowed so assuming you are clear you still won’t know how you’ve gone, placings wise till results are published. Normally a sheet stuck on a wall! Online if it’s a big event.

Some HTs (eg Kelsall) make you stop if eliminated, others (eg Eland) allow you to skip a fence or accumulate refusals that would result in E but still carry on for experience.

Enjoy!

 

[Squeak]

You can do some clear round hunter trials that might be a bit less pressured if you want to ease yourself in to it. It could also be worth going to one without your horse so that you can see what it's like, how it's set up and possibly walk the course.

 

[vhf]

You can do some clear round hunter trials that might be a bit less pressured if you want to ease yourself in to it. It could also be worth going to one without your horse so that you can see what it's like, how it's set up and possibly walk the course.

If you can afford the time, volunteer at one first. You'll learn loads, meet like-minded folk, and be paying it forward for when the inevitable addiction to XC kicks in...

 

[P.forpony]

Find a nice local one and announce yourself!
My local hunt runs a few each year and I really enjoy fence judging, scoring timing etc.
The people who work hard to run these events want you to enjoy it, otherwise you won't come back!
So they're usually very happy to answer questions, soothe nerves and generally point you in the right direction.
Volunteering is a good idea as above. It may not be the case elsewhere but the bonus for my local event is volunteers get a free schooling pass around the course so we don't miss out on all the fun