Expert: Shelley Evans - 9/10/2009

Question
ok, I very new to showing horses my 1st horse show is is coming up & my question is what is the difference between Open Halter vs. Showmanship Halter the horse show I'm in has Open halter & I cant find anything on youtube or forums to tell or show me the difference....PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!

Caroline

Answer
Dear Caroline,
Welcome to the world of horse shows- please remember to have FUN!!
The simplest answer to you question is that Showmanship is based on YOU (the handler) and your ability to correctly present your horse to the judge. Your turn out (both you and your horse) is very important as is your ability to follow a simple "in-hand" pattern that will test your ability to handle your horse. Expect to trot or jog, to walk, to do a turn on the forehand or on the haunches, to set your horse up to be examined (using the quartering method- this would be time consuming to explain her- but you might find a good you tube video to demonstrate it). In a showmanship class- the horse may not have great conformation nor subscribe to breed type but if it is clean, fit and well groomed and the handler does a good job- they may place above a quality horse that is poorly handled.
A halter class is based on the horse's type, quality and conformation.
I hope this helps- have a great first show!
S. Evans