Working Hunter Advise

[Twilight]

I am hoping to do the PB working hunter class at the Eastern Counties Conni show but I have never done workers before. What do I do?!? What tack should he wear? What should I wear? What is the format likely to be? Just thought it might be an idea to have some idea before we arrive.

Thank you

 

[Baggybreeches]

It will take the format of a normal WH, a course of rustic fences followed by conformation and individual shows.
I would try and get to an unaffiliated RC show just to introduce you pony to the format that will be expected. PLain leather and fitted numnahs are the correct turnout for the pony, boots are allowed in the jumping phase only. You should wear tweed jacket and shirt and tie.

 

[MagicMelon]

Yeah, basically you'll go in and halt in front of the judge - she'll usually say good morning and please begin. You do your round and if clear you go through to the next bit, if you get faults then the judge will decide how many she wants so listen out for your number. Sometimes they'll take 4 faulters for example if they dont have many clears. It really depends. Then you all go in and ride round in a large circle doing whatever they tell you (probably ask you to trot and canter together, possibly do a gallop up one long side). Judge will call you into the middle in an order. Then you do an individual show (walk, trot, canter on both reins & gallop). Then you get off, take saddle off and do a trot up - you just walk the horse straight away from the judge and trot back. Then get back on and walk about until she decides!

Part breds I believe should be plaited up. Just remember to take off any boots you use for the jumping phase BEFORE going back in! I have forgotten to do this once or twice at RC ones! And you're not allowed to change any tack between phases so what you jump in you MUST wear for the show part (including bit etc.)