What are Pairs Classes all about?!

[Illusion100]

Vet was saying that my horse is very similar to hers and we should do Pairs when mine is up and running.

Is it about how 'identical' the horses are to each other, is that how it is scored? Is it an in-hand thing or ridden?

Sorry, I am completely clueless about Showing in general!

Any education on this would be most welcome.

 

[WelshD]

usually ridden classes

Pairs must be nicely matched, if not very similar then complimenting (such as both side saddle, two coloureds, two new forests, child on a small pony led from a horse etc) To create a pleasing picture riders should be dressed similarly and try to ride as much in time and as level as possible with each other

They are a bit of an 'add on' class to do at a show, Equifest is probably the only show that goes in very heavily for pairs classes

 

[WelshD]

With regards to judging it is purely judges preference as long as the overall 'picture' is good

Pairs usually enter at trot, line up and get a rosette, its not a very complex class but can be chaos because of sheer numbers in the ring

 

[Illusion100]

Ah right, thanks for that.

So apart from the fact that it really helps if the horses comprising the pair are very similar in looks you don't necessarily compete against similar 'pair' breeds/types of horse/riding style/set routine/display......have I got that bit right?

 

[WelshD]

Sometimes the classes are split in to categories - juniors, M&M, plaited, adult and child for example, that's as close as you will get to separating out in to categories or competing against something of similar type

No set show, display etc

They are like the concours or fancy dress classes, a chance for a good laugh and the chance of a rosette since you are at the show already

As a spectator I wince that they give serious ring time to these classes, they can take ages and pack out the ring to dangerous levels but people seem to enjoy them!

 

[Illusion100]

Yeah, I'm not really sold on this Pairs thing at all. If she twists my arm, maybe, Otherwise I think I'll leave it. Not keen on packed rings.

Thanks for the info WelshD, much appreciated.

 

[cobalobM]

if you youtube pairs at equifest and watch a few videos it should give you an idea.. looks fun but i dont fancy being in the indoor there!!!

 

[Illusion100]

if you youtube pairs at equifest and watch a few videos it should give you an idea.. looks fun but i dont fancy being in the indoor there!!!

*Goes off to Youtube*

 

[Illusion100]

Ok, it's a NO from me!

Thanks for all the help.