Western Show Classes

So, you wanna show some western classes and not sure what each class involes or what to expect. Here is a few western classes to help you on your show journey and give you a better idea of each class. Don't forget to bring the BLING for you and the horse!

Western pleasure is one of the most popular classes these days. All contestants compete at the same time in the arena. Everyone rides on the rail and has to listen for instructions. You will be asked to walk, jog, lope, and reverse directions. The sequence of the gaits are up to the judges discretion. The judge would be looking for the overall quiet and relaxed horse. The horse should of a low neck and head while, moving in all gaits with slow movement.

This is an obstacle class. The class will have a specific pattern that you will have to memorize. Contestants will go out one at a time and show how well the horse and rider can maneuver through each part of the course. A few obstacles you may find in this class are poles, a square made of poles, bridges or even a gate. Different shows will have a new obstacle course for you to learn. Many people call this the most difficult class of the western world. Contestants will be scored on their ability to maneuver through each obstacle. This must look like it's being done with ease and precision. You want the horse to look relax with a low neck and head.

Horsemanship is also, a pattern class. The difference between this class and trail is the pattern involves no obstacles. This class involves different maneuvers and contestants will be asked to walk, jog, and lope in the pattern. Some judges will also have all the riders go back to the rail as a group and perform like western pleasure. The rider will be judged on their equitation and how well the horse maneuvers.

This class the contestants are on the ground leading their horse with a show halter and lead line. Showmanship is another pattern class that will be different show to show. Just like horsemanship special maneuvers have to be performed.