HUNTER IN HAND
Definition:
Hunter in Hand is essentially a halter class for the performance horse, namely hunt seat horses. It is offered in Open, Non-Pro, and Youth divisions, and separated into stallions, mares, and geldings for all divisions, all nationally pointed. An exhibitor is allowed to show more than one horse in any of these classes. The horse is judged individually on a triangle, with 60% for movement, 30 % for conformation, and 10% for temperament.


Any horse that would be a good Hunter Under Saddle prospect, will also be a good Hunter In Hand prospect. No special training is involved, other than practicing walking and trotting the triangle, without breaking gait. Here is a picture of All Zip And Sparkle doing Hunter In Hand Stallions. Sparkle was 3rd in the nation in 2002 as a 3 yr old, and is now nearing his Superior in the event.

 

How It’s Judged
A horse is first set up for inspection at “A” in an open position, with all 4 legs visible to the judges. When the judge signals that he is done, you begin walking the first (smaller) triangle. The triangles are set up with cones, and you must walk the outside perimeter. Walk from “A” to “B” then to “C” and back to “A”.
 
Once you have completed the smaller triangle and rounded “A”, you need to trot your horse around the perimeter of the larger one. It is best to start the trot on the straightaway, after rounding “A”. Trot to “D”, then to (E), and finish at “A”. Here’s where you need to be in shape! There is 70 to 90 feet between corners. Once you finish the course, you may exit the ring.
 

You want to show your horse at a long flat hunter type walk and trot, head not high, but not too low. You want to showcase his movement to the best of his abilities. Penalties can be assessed for hitting or knocking over a cone, fall of horse or handler, or breaking gait. Watch out on that last trotting line – many horses will break into a canter here. You can also be disqualified for being off course, so make sure you follow the pattern precisely.


 

Requirements and Attire


 

Horses that are two or older must be exhibited in an English bridle, with a breed approved snaffle bit. No decorations and especially no silver is allowed. For horses one and younger, a plain leather halter and lead is mandatory. The chain can be either over the nose or under the chin, but not in the mouth. The handler may carry a crop or bat, but this is optional. If one is carried, it is usually a short dressage whip.


 

The handler must wear a conservative shirt with a collar, such as a polo shirt or dress shirt, in white or other solid color. A vest, tie and gloves can be worn, but are all optional. Pants must be loose dress pants, such as chinos, that allow room to run the course. Jeans are not allowed. Belts cannot have any silver. Shoes must be running shoes, or paddock boots. I have seen handlers disqualified for wearing western boots, and having silver belts. The following picture show an example of appropriate attire.


 

Hunter In Hand is a fun class and a great way to show off your nice moving performance horse. It’s especially good for the younger horses that aren’t ready to be ridden. Each sex division is divided into yearling & under, 2 and 3 year olds, and 4 and older. Plenty of classes to get your exercise in!