LIGHT HORSE & PONY ENTRY FORM
LIGHT HORSE AND PONY DIVISION 2026
ENTRIES CLOSE August 16th - $20.00 LATE FEE AFTER THIS DATE
Please email entry forms and e-transfer payments to: [email protected]
The Light Horse Show will run September 9th – 13th. Classes will run from Wednesday evening until Sunday afternoon (combination of indoors & outdoors). Light Horse haul out time begins at 5:00pm Sunday.
RULES OF THE LIGHT HORSE SHOW
1. Boxstall fees will be accepted by e-transfer starting at 12:00 PM (NOON) on August 1st. No stall or entry fees will be accepted prior to this date/time. Boxstalls will be assigned on a first paid basis. Light Horse boxstalls are limited – please enter early to guarantee a stall. Horses shown in line classes only MUST be hauled in and out. There will not be any tack stalls available.
2. Complete entry forms with FULL payment must be received by August 16th to hold your stall. Any pre-paid stalls that do not have completed entry forms and full payment will become available on August 17th to the wait list. Entries received after August 16th will be charged a $20 late fee.
3. Proof of NSEF Liability Insurance Must Be Provided with Entry Forms! A copy of your NSEF card is mandatory. Your NSEF number provided on the entry form is not sufficient.
4. Please see Light Horse Committee when you arrive on the grounds to enter any additional classes. All post entries must be paid for at least one hour before the class is scheduled or you will NOT be permitted to enter. NO EXCEPTIONS! The fee for post entries is $7 per regular class and $15 per Open Stake classes.
5. It is advisable that all entrants be immunized within the last six months and at least one month prior to the show. Any animal which appears ill in the opinion of a veterinarian will be asked to leave the grounds.
6. Entry fees will only be refunded upon receipt of valid doctor’s or veterinarian’s certificate.
7. Ponies will be considered as being 14.2hh and under; horses will be considered as being over 14.2hh.
8. Horses showing in Open Stake classes must be shown in at least two other classes in that division. All senior horses shown in Open Stake classes must be shown one handed in a shank bit.
9. All points, prizes, awards, and prize money will be forfeited if stalls are left unclean at the end of the show.
10. The PNCE Light Horse Division cannot be held responsible for any loss or injury to horses and/or riders and/or equipment and tack.
11. Exhibitors are expected to be on time for classes. THE SCHEDULE IS A GUIDE ONLY AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE. However, light horse classes will NOT be run before their scheduled time. If a tack change is necessary, PLEASE notify the Ring Master beforehand. DELAYS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED.
12. AS A COURTESY, please inform a member of the Light Horse Division and the light horse announcer if you are to scratch from a class. Refunds will not be given for scratches.
13. Any classes with fewer than three entries may be combined or cancelled.
14. Anyone interfering with the judge’s decision (before, during or after a class) will forfeit all points, awards, prizes and prize money and may be banned the following year. No exhibitor or family/friend may approach the judge directly with questions or comments. This may be done through the light horse committee on behalf of the exhibitor.
15. Ribbons will be awarded for 6 placings. Prize money will be paid as follows:
Prize $1st - $10.00, 2nd - $9.00, 3rd - $8.00, 4th - $7.00, 5th - $6.00, 6th - $5.00
Stake money will be paid on the following percentages:
Prize: $1st - 30%, 2nd - 25%, 3rd - 20%, 4th - 15%, 5th - 5%, 6th – 5%
16. Owners of STALLIONS, PLEASE INDICATE ON ENTRY FORM. Stallions can only be shown/handled by an exhibitor 19 year of age or older. They cannot be shown in pony or youth classes. Any stallion acting unmannerly will be asked to leave the grounds.
17. NO MARTINGALES, TIE DOWNS OR DRAW REINS IN ANY DIVISION OTHER THAN GYMKHANA. In western classes, EXCEPT OPEN STAKE CLASSES, two hands may be used on ANY aged horse or pony with a snaffle bit. Any horses or ponies shown in a bit with a shank must be shown one handed (except Smallfry division and gymkhana). Those showing aged horses in a shank bit may be placed higher than those showing aged horses in a snaffle AT JUDGE’S DISCRETION.
18. Senior exhibitors are those who will turn 19 in 2026. Youth exhibitors are those that will not reach their 19th birthday by the end of 2026. No one under 19 is permitted on a horse without a helmet while on the exhibition grounds.
19. No horse/pony can be ridden in the same class by more than one rider.
20. Points are accumulated by horse & rider/handler entry. No points will be awarded to placings won by a different rider or handler.
21. Trailer Hook-ups and Exhibitor passes must be obtained at the Main Show Office. If a trailer hook-up is required, please indicate on the entry form.
22. Haul out time for light horses begins at 5PM on Sunday. Please do not remove any stall decorations before 4PM. Any horse leaving the grounds before 5PM on Sunday will forfeit all points, awards, prizes, and prize money and may be denied entry in future years.
23. LIGHT HORSE FEES:
Office fee............................ $10.00
Fee per Class........................ $5.00
Fee per Stake Class.............. $10.00
Box Stalls............................ $20.00
Trailer Hook-up...................$100.00/week or $25.00/day
Exhibitor’s Pass………………… $15.00
Light Horse Exhibitors will be entitled to free admission passes according to the following scale: 1 free pass per horse up to a maximum of 4 passes per exhibitor. If entitled to a free pass, exhibitors may purchase an additional pass at $15.00 for each free pass. For example, if you have 2 horses entered you will receive 2 free passes, and you can purchase 2 more passes for $15 each. Any additional passes are at regular prices.
There will be no charge for back numbers. If you have your own number, please indicate on the entry form. If you don’t have your own number one will be given to you.
LIGHT HORSE CLASS LIST
1. Halter Stallions – all ages
2. Halter Geldings – all ages
3. Halter Mares – all ages
4. Pony halter (mare or gelding)
5. Senior Showmanship
6. Youth Showmanship
7. Don Mills Memorial Open Showmanship Stake
8. English Pleasure Senior
9. English Pleasure Youth
10. Open English Pleasure Stake
11. Senior English Command
12. Youth English Command
13. Road Hack Senior
14. Road Hack Youth
15. Open Road Hack Stake
16. English Equitation Senior
17. English Equitation Youth
18. Western Pleasure Senior
19. Western Pleasure Youth
20. Kenny & Marguerite Grant Memorial Open Western Pleasure Stake
21. Senior Trail
22. Youth Trail
23. Arlene Spears Memorial Open Trail Stake
24. Western Horsemanship Senior
25. Western Horsemanship Youth
26. Senior Western Command
27. Youth Western Command
28. Lead line Pleasure #1
29. Lead line Pleasure #2
30. Walk Trot Pleasure (English or Western)
31. Walk Trot Equitation (English or Western)
32. Walk Trot Trail
33. Walk Trot Command (English or Western)
34. Walk Trot Barrels
35. Walk Trot Poles
36. Smallfry Showmanship
37. Smallfry Pleasure (English or Western)
38. Smallfry Equitation (English or Western)
39. Smallfry Trail
40. Smallfry Command (English or Western)
41. Smallfry Barrels
42. Smallfry Poles
43. *FREE* Costume (walk only) ALSO OPEN TO MINIATURE HORSES
44. *FREE* Walk Trot & Smallfry Toilet Tissue Pairs (walk trot only)
45. *FREE* Senior & Youth Toilet Tissue Pairs
46. Senior Barrels #1
47. Senior Barrels #2
48. Senior Barrels #3
49. Lilli Bowen Memorial 3D Barrels
50. Youth Barrels #1
51. Youth Barrels #2
52. Youth Barrels #3
53. Senior Poles #1
54. Senior Poles #2
55. Senior Poles #3
56. 3D Poles
57. Youth Poles #1
58. Youth Poles #2
59. Youth Poles #3
60. *FREE* Walk Trot & Smallfry Egg and Spoon (walk trot only)
61. *FREE* Senior & Youth Egg and Spoon
LIGHT HORSE DIVISION RULES
Senior – A horse class open to those riders who are or will turn 19 or older in 2026. Large ponies are also permitted but must only show in horse classes for the exhibition.
Youth – A horse/pony class open to those riders turning 18 years or younger in 2026. If you turn 19 in 2026 you are a senior.
Smallfry – open to those riders turning 12 or younger in 2026 with horses or ponies. Smallfry exhibitors may show 2 handed in a curb (shank) bit in Smallfry classes. Entries are only permitted to enter Smallfry classes plus halter, costume, toilet paper pairs and egg & spoon. Smallfry classes, except barrels and poles, are walk and trot only.
Walk Trot – Open to senior and youth exhibitors with horses and ponies. Smallfry exhibitors are NOT eligible. The pair must not have competed in a loping class before. Both experienced riders with green horses and novice riders with experienced horses are eligible. Walk & jog/trot only both ways of the ring. Barrels and Poles are walk/trot only.
Gymkhana – western equipment must be used. Long sleeve shirt and cowboy hats or helmets must be worn. A fall off a horse and/or going off pattern will result in disqualification from the heat. Disqualification will also occur if the horse crosses the finish line before the course is completed. Riders may not start their run until the gate is closed. Anyone doing so will be disqualified from the heat.
Leadline – Open to riders turning 10 years or younger in 2026. To be led by a senior exhibitor. Pony/horse to be led at a walk and jog/trot only. Rider & leader to be appropriately dressed. Pony/horse to be judged on manners and suitability to leadline work. Rider to be judged on seat, hands, attire, and neatness. English or Western attire. Riders may only enter leadline classes.
LIGHT HORSE CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
Halter: A class where the horse/pony is judged upon its conformation. Emphasis is placed on well-mannered individuals in the order of their resemblance to their breed ideal and that are the most positive combination of balance, structural correctness, and movement with appropriate breed and sex characteristics and adequate muscling. Animals will walk to the judge one at a time. As the horse/pony approaches, the judge will step to the right (left of the animal) to enable the horse/pony to trot straight to a cone placed 50 feet away. At the cone, the animal will continue trotting, turn to the left and trot towards the left wall or fence of the arena. After trotting, entries will be lined up head to tail for individual inspection by the judge. The judge will inspect each animal from both sides, front and rear. Grand and Reserve Champion Halter will be presented following Class #4.
Showmanship: Will be judged strictly on the exhibitor’s ability to show a horse at halter. The horse/pony is merely a prop to demonstrate the ability and preparation of the exhibitor. The ideal showmanship performance consists of a poised, confident, neatly attired exhibitor leading a well-groomed and conditioned horse that quickly and effectively performs the requested pattern with promptness, smoothness, and precision. The showmanship class is not another halter class and should not be judged as such. It is mandatory that patterns be posted one hour before the class, and they should be designed to test the showman’s ability to effectively present a horse/pony to the judge.
English Pleasure: To be shown at a flat-footed walk, trot, extended trot, and easy canter both ways of the ring. Entries may be asked to halt and rein back as a group or individually. Entries should be suitably dressed for the class. Entries will be judged on performance with credit given to a flowing, balanced, and willing mount. The quality of movement and consistency of gaits is a major consideration.
Command: Entries shown at a walk, jog or trot, lope or canter and counter canter. An elimination class where the riders are required to do as the judge asks. Manner of performance could be a deciding factor.
Road Hack: Entries to be shown at a flat-footed walk with a reasonable loose rein, trot, extended trot, easy canter and hand gallop both ways of the arena. Only 8 horses/ponies to gallop at one time and must be controlled. Entries may be asked to halt, rein back and stand quietly on a loose rein. Class will be judged on performance, manners, substance, and conformation.
Equitation: An evaluation based on the ability of the rider to perform various maneuvers in harmony with his/her mount. The rider will be judged on seat, hands, legs and ability to control the horse/pony. Rail work may be required and consist of walk, trot, and canter both ways of the arena. Riders will be asked to perform individual work consisting of any maneuvers the judge feels necessary to determine the rider’s equitation. Pattern will be posted at least one hour before the class.
Western Pleasure: A good pleasure horse has a free-flowing stride of reasonable length in keeping with his/her conformation. He/she should cover a reasonable amount of ground with little effort. Ideally, the horse should have a balanced flowing motion, while exhibiting correct gaits that are of the proper cadence. The quality of movement and the consistency of gaits is a major consideration. He/she should be shown on a reasonably loose rein but with light contact and control, without undue restraint. He/she should be responsive, yet smooth, in transitions when called for. When asked to extend, the horse should move out with the same flowing motion. Maximum credit should be given to the flowing, balanced and willing horse that gives the appearance of being fit and a pleasure to ride. Horses must work both ways of the ring at all 3 gaits (walk, jog, lope) to demonstrate their ability with different leads. Horses are required to back easily.
Trail: Horses are to be shown in western tack. This class will be judged on the performance of the horse/pony over obstacles, with emphasis on manners, response to the rider and quality of movement. Credit will be given to horses negotiating the course with style and some degree of speed, providing correctness is not sacrificed. Horses should
receive credit for showing attentiveness to the obstacles and capability of picking their own way through the course when obstacles warrant it and willingly responding to the rider’s cues on more difficult obstacles. Horses shall be penalized for any unnecessary delay while approaching or negotiating the obstacles. The course must be designed to show all 3 gaits (walk, jog, lope). Pattern to be posted one hour before the class. Exhibitors will have 30 seconds or 3 refusals for each obstacle and then be asked to move on to the next obstacle by signal from the judge.
Western Horsemanship: This class is designed to evaluate the rider’s ability to execute, in unison with their horse, a set of maneuvers set by the judge with precision and smoothness while exhibiting poise and confidence, and maintaining a balanced, functional and fundamentally correct body position. The ideal horsemanship pattern is precise with the rider and horse working together, executing each maneuver with subtle aids and cues. It is mandatory that patterns be posted one hour before the class. A rail ride may also be asked to be performed.
*FREE* Costume Class: Judged on originality of costume and equipment of horse. Walk only. Open to everyone and riders may be led. No entry fee. Ribbons and/or prizes only. No prize money.
*FREE* Toilet Tissue Pairs: Open to horses and ponies. Shown at the walk and trot for Walk Trot & Smallfry. Youth & Seniors may be asked to lope. A piece of toilet paper will be held between the 2 riders. Exhibitors must work in unison with their partner and not break the toilet paper. No entry fee. Ribbons and/or prizes only. No prize money.
Barrels: A timed event, timed on the horse’s nose from start to finish. Consists of 3 barrels to be run around in a cloverleaf pattern. Contestants may start by going to either the left or right for the first barrel. A 5 second penalty for each barrel knocked will be incurred and going off pattern with result in a no-time elimination. Riders may compete with more than one mount. Western tack only.
Poles: A timed event, with time starting and stopping on the horse’s nose. The pattern is run around 6 poles set in a straight line 21’ apart, with the first pole being 21’ from the start/finish line. Contestants run the length of the arena alongside the poles, turn around the end pole and weave back up through them. She/he then turns the first pole and weaves back through them and again turns the end pole and continues straight back to the finish line. The pattern may be started on either the left or right-hand side of the poles. Each pole knocked down will incur a 5 second penalty added to the time. Going off pattern will result in disqualification. Rider may compete with more than one mount. Western tack only.
*FREE* Egg and Spoon: Riders will complete a pleasure class while holding an egg on a spoon in one hand. Last rider to lose their egg will be the winner. Walk and jog/trot for Walk Trot and Smallfry. Walk, trot/jog, canter/lope for Youth and Seniors. No entry fee. Ribbons and/or prizes only. No prize money.
SPECIAL AWARDS
STABLE COMPETION: To be awarded to the exhibitor for the best display in the stable, not including the quality of the horses displayed.
SPORTMANSHIP AWARD: To be awarded to an exhibitor displaying excellent sportsmanship throughout the week.
Points will be awarded as follows and will be given up to 6th place. If there are less than 6 entries in a class, they will be awarded on the number entered. Ex: 3 in class 1st – 3pts, 2nd – 2pts, 3rd – 1pt.
1st – will get 6 points
2nd – will get 5 points
3rd – will get 4 points
4th – will get 3 points
5th – will get 2 points
6th – will get 1 point
CHAMPION AWARDS
Champion/Reserve Champion English Youth - Qualifying classes: 2/3/4, 6, 9, 12, 14, 17
Champion/Reserve Champion Western Youth - Qualifying classes: 2/3/4, 6, 19, 22, 25, 27
Champion/Reserve Champion Gymkhana Youth - Qualifying classes: 50, 51, 52, 57, 58, 59
Grand Champion/Reserve Grand Champion Youth - Qualifying classes: 2/3/4, 6, 9, 12, 14, 17, 19, 22, 25, 27, 50, 51, 52, 57, 58, 59
Champion/Reserve Champion English Senior - Qualifying classes: 1/2/3/4, 5, 8, 11, 13, 16
Champion/Reserve Champion Western Senior – Qualifying classes: 1/2/3/4, 5, 18, 21, 24, 26
Champion/Reserve Champion Gymkhana Senior – Qualifying classes: 46, 47, 48, 53, 54, 55
Grand Champion/Reserve Grand Champion Senior – Qualifying classes: 1/2/3/4, 5, 8, 11, 13, 16, 18, 21, 24, 26, 46, 47, 48, 53, 54, 55
Champion/Reserve Champion Walk Trot – Qualifying classes: 2/3/4, 5/6, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35
Champion/Reserve Champion Smallfry – Qualifying classes: 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42
ENTRIES CLOSE August 16th - $20.00 LATE FEE AFTER THIS DATE
Please email entry forms and e-transfer payments to: [email protected]
The Light Horse Show will run September 9th – 13th. Classes will run from Wednesday evening until Sunday afternoon (combination of indoors & outdoors). Light Horse haul out time begins at 5:00pm Sunday.
RULES OF THE LIGHT HORSE SHOW
1. Boxstall fees will be accepted by e-transfer starting at 12:00 PM (NOON) on August 1st. No stall or entry fees will be accepted prior to this date/time. Boxstalls will be assigned on a first paid basis. Light Horse boxstalls are limited – please enter early to guarantee a stall. Horses shown in line classes only MUST be hauled in and out. There will not be any tack stalls available.
2. Complete entry forms with FULL payment must be received by August 16th to hold your stall. Any pre-paid stalls that do not have completed entry forms and full payment will become available on August 17th to the wait list. Entries received after August 16th will be charged a $20 late fee.
3. Proof of NSEF Liability Insurance Must Be Provided with Entry Forms! A copy of your NSEF card is mandatory. Your NSEF number provided on the entry form is not sufficient.
4. Please see Light Horse Committee when you arrive on the grounds to enter any additional classes. All post entries must be paid for at least one hour before the class is scheduled or you will NOT be permitted to enter. NO EXCEPTIONS! The fee for post entries is $7 per regular class and $15 per Open Stake classes.
5. It is advisable that all entrants be immunized within the last six months and at least one month prior to the show. Any animal which appears ill in the opinion of a veterinarian will be asked to leave the grounds.
6. Entry fees will only be refunded upon receipt of valid doctor’s or veterinarian’s certificate.
7. Ponies will be considered as being 14.2hh and under; horses will be considered as being over 14.2hh.
8. Horses showing in Open Stake classes must be shown in at least two other classes in that division. All senior horses shown in Open Stake classes must be shown one handed in a shank bit.
9. All points, prizes, awards, and prize money will be forfeited if stalls are left unclean at the end of the show.
10. The PNCE Light Horse Division cannot be held responsible for any loss or injury to horses and/or riders and/or equipment and tack.
11. Exhibitors are expected to be on time for classes. THE SCHEDULE IS A GUIDE ONLY AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE. However, light horse classes will NOT be run before their scheduled time. If a tack change is necessary, PLEASE notify the Ring Master beforehand. DELAYS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED.
12. AS A COURTESY, please inform a member of the Light Horse Division and the light horse announcer if you are to scratch from a class. Refunds will not be given for scratches.
13. Any classes with fewer than three entries may be combined or cancelled.
14. Anyone interfering with the judge’s decision (before, during or after a class) will forfeit all points, awards, prizes and prize money and may be banned the following year. No exhibitor or family/friend may approach the judge directly with questions or comments. This may be done through the light horse committee on behalf of the exhibitor.
15. Ribbons will be awarded for 6 placings. Prize money will be paid as follows:
Prize $1st - $10.00, 2nd - $9.00, 3rd - $8.00, 4th - $7.00, 5th - $6.00, 6th - $5.00
Stake money will be paid on the following percentages:
Prize: $1st - 30%, 2nd - 25%, 3rd - 20%, 4th - 15%, 5th - 5%, 6th – 5%
16. Owners of STALLIONS, PLEASE INDICATE ON ENTRY FORM. Stallions can only be shown/handled by an exhibitor 19 year of age or older. They cannot be shown in pony or youth classes. Any stallion acting unmannerly will be asked to leave the grounds.
17. NO MARTINGALES, TIE DOWNS OR DRAW REINS IN ANY DIVISION OTHER THAN GYMKHANA. In western classes, EXCEPT OPEN STAKE CLASSES, two hands may be used on ANY aged horse or pony with a snaffle bit. Any horses or ponies shown in a bit with a shank must be shown one handed (except Smallfry division and gymkhana). Those showing aged horses in a shank bit may be placed higher than those showing aged horses in a snaffle AT JUDGE’S DISCRETION.
18. Senior exhibitors are those who will turn 19 in 2026. Youth exhibitors are those that will not reach their 19th birthday by the end of 2026. No one under 19 is permitted on a horse without a helmet while on the exhibition grounds.
19. No horse/pony can be ridden in the same class by more than one rider.
20. Points are accumulated by horse & rider/handler entry. No points will be awarded to placings won by a different rider or handler.
21. Trailer Hook-ups and Exhibitor passes must be obtained at the Main Show Office. If a trailer hook-up is required, please indicate on the entry form.
22. Haul out time for light horses begins at 5PM on Sunday. Please do not remove any stall decorations before 4PM. Any horse leaving the grounds before 5PM on Sunday will forfeit all points, awards, prizes, and prize money and may be denied entry in future years.
23. LIGHT HORSE FEES:
Office fee............................ $10.00
Fee per Class........................ $5.00
Fee per Stake Class.............. $10.00
Box Stalls............................ $20.00
Trailer Hook-up...................$100.00/week or $25.00/day
Exhibitor’s Pass………………… $15.00
Light Horse Exhibitors will be entitled to free admission passes according to the following scale: 1 free pass per horse up to a maximum of 4 passes per exhibitor. If entitled to a free pass, exhibitors may purchase an additional pass at $15.00 for each free pass. For example, if you have 2 horses entered you will receive 2 free passes, and you can purchase 2 more passes for $15 each. Any additional passes are at regular prices.
There will be no charge for back numbers. If you have your own number, please indicate on the entry form. If you don’t have your own number one will be given to you.
LIGHT HORSE CLASS LIST
1. Halter Stallions – all ages
2. Halter Geldings – all ages
3. Halter Mares – all ages
4. Pony halter (mare or gelding)
5. Senior Showmanship
6. Youth Showmanship
7. Don Mills Memorial Open Showmanship Stake
8. English Pleasure Senior
9. English Pleasure Youth
10. Open English Pleasure Stake
11. Senior English Command
12. Youth English Command
13. Road Hack Senior
14. Road Hack Youth
15. Open Road Hack Stake
16. English Equitation Senior
17. English Equitation Youth
18. Western Pleasure Senior
19. Western Pleasure Youth
20. Kenny & Marguerite Grant Memorial Open Western Pleasure Stake
21. Senior Trail
22. Youth Trail
23. Arlene Spears Memorial Open Trail Stake
24. Western Horsemanship Senior
25. Western Horsemanship Youth
26. Senior Western Command
27. Youth Western Command
28. Lead line Pleasure #1
29. Lead line Pleasure #2
30. Walk Trot Pleasure (English or Western)
31. Walk Trot Equitation (English or Western)
32. Walk Trot Trail
33. Walk Trot Command (English or Western)
34. Walk Trot Barrels
35. Walk Trot Poles
36. Smallfry Showmanship
37. Smallfry Pleasure (English or Western)
38. Smallfry Equitation (English or Western)
39. Smallfry Trail
40. Smallfry Command (English or Western)
41. Smallfry Barrels
42. Smallfry Poles
43. *FREE* Costume (walk only) ALSO OPEN TO MINIATURE HORSES
44. *FREE* Walk Trot & Smallfry Toilet Tissue Pairs (walk trot only)
45. *FREE* Senior & Youth Toilet Tissue Pairs
46. Senior Barrels #1
47. Senior Barrels #2
48. Senior Barrels #3
49. Lilli Bowen Memorial 3D Barrels
50. Youth Barrels #1
51. Youth Barrels #2
52. Youth Barrels #3
53. Senior Poles #1
54. Senior Poles #2
55. Senior Poles #3
56. 3D Poles
57. Youth Poles #1
58. Youth Poles #2
59. Youth Poles #3
60. *FREE* Walk Trot & Smallfry Egg and Spoon (walk trot only)
61. *FREE* Senior & Youth Egg and Spoon
LIGHT HORSE DIVISION RULES
Senior – A horse class open to those riders who are or will turn 19 or older in 2026. Large ponies are also permitted but must only show in horse classes for the exhibition.
Youth – A horse/pony class open to those riders turning 18 years or younger in 2026. If you turn 19 in 2026 you are a senior.
Smallfry – open to those riders turning 12 or younger in 2026 with horses or ponies. Smallfry exhibitors may show 2 handed in a curb (shank) bit in Smallfry classes. Entries are only permitted to enter Smallfry classes plus halter, costume, toilet paper pairs and egg & spoon. Smallfry classes, except barrels and poles, are walk and trot only.
Walk Trot – Open to senior and youth exhibitors with horses and ponies. Smallfry exhibitors are NOT eligible. The pair must not have competed in a loping class before. Both experienced riders with green horses and novice riders with experienced horses are eligible. Walk & jog/trot only both ways of the ring. Barrels and Poles are walk/trot only.
Gymkhana – western equipment must be used. Long sleeve shirt and cowboy hats or helmets must be worn. A fall off a horse and/or going off pattern will result in disqualification from the heat. Disqualification will also occur if the horse crosses the finish line before the course is completed. Riders may not start their run until the gate is closed. Anyone doing so will be disqualified from the heat.
Leadline – Open to riders turning 10 years or younger in 2026. To be led by a senior exhibitor. Pony/horse to be led at a walk and jog/trot only. Rider & leader to be appropriately dressed. Pony/horse to be judged on manners and suitability to leadline work. Rider to be judged on seat, hands, attire, and neatness. English or Western attire. Riders may only enter leadline classes.
LIGHT HORSE CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
Halter: A class where the horse/pony is judged upon its conformation. Emphasis is placed on well-mannered individuals in the order of their resemblance to their breed ideal and that are the most positive combination of balance, structural correctness, and movement with appropriate breed and sex characteristics and adequate muscling. Animals will walk to the judge one at a time. As the horse/pony approaches, the judge will step to the right (left of the animal) to enable the horse/pony to trot straight to a cone placed 50 feet away. At the cone, the animal will continue trotting, turn to the left and trot towards the left wall or fence of the arena. After trotting, entries will be lined up head to tail for individual inspection by the judge. The judge will inspect each animal from both sides, front and rear. Grand and Reserve Champion Halter will be presented following Class #4.
Showmanship: Will be judged strictly on the exhibitor’s ability to show a horse at halter. The horse/pony is merely a prop to demonstrate the ability and preparation of the exhibitor. The ideal showmanship performance consists of a poised, confident, neatly attired exhibitor leading a well-groomed and conditioned horse that quickly and effectively performs the requested pattern with promptness, smoothness, and precision. The showmanship class is not another halter class and should not be judged as such. It is mandatory that patterns be posted one hour before the class, and they should be designed to test the showman’s ability to effectively present a horse/pony to the judge.
English Pleasure: To be shown at a flat-footed walk, trot, extended trot, and easy canter both ways of the ring. Entries may be asked to halt and rein back as a group or individually. Entries should be suitably dressed for the class. Entries will be judged on performance with credit given to a flowing, balanced, and willing mount. The quality of movement and consistency of gaits is a major consideration.
Command: Entries shown at a walk, jog or trot, lope or canter and counter canter. An elimination class where the riders are required to do as the judge asks. Manner of performance could be a deciding factor.
Road Hack: Entries to be shown at a flat-footed walk with a reasonable loose rein, trot, extended trot, easy canter and hand gallop both ways of the arena. Only 8 horses/ponies to gallop at one time and must be controlled. Entries may be asked to halt, rein back and stand quietly on a loose rein. Class will be judged on performance, manners, substance, and conformation.
Equitation: An evaluation based on the ability of the rider to perform various maneuvers in harmony with his/her mount. The rider will be judged on seat, hands, legs and ability to control the horse/pony. Rail work may be required and consist of walk, trot, and canter both ways of the arena. Riders will be asked to perform individual work consisting of any maneuvers the judge feels necessary to determine the rider’s equitation. Pattern will be posted at least one hour before the class.
Western Pleasure: A good pleasure horse has a free-flowing stride of reasonable length in keeping with his/her conformation. He/she should cover a reasonable amount of ground with little effort. Ideally, the horse should have a balanced flowing motion, while exhibiting correct gaits that are of the proper cadence. The quality of movement and the consistency of gaits is a major consideration. He/she should be shown on a reasonably loose rein but with light contact and control, without undue restraint. He/she should be responsive, yet smooth, in transitions when called for. When asked to extend, the horse should move out with the same flowing motion. Maximum credit should be given to the flowing, balanced and willing horse that gives the appearance of being fit and a pleasure to ride. Horses must work both ways of the ring at all 3 gaits (walk, jog, lope) to demonstrate their ability with different leads. Horses are required to back easily.
Trail: Horses are to be shown in western tack. This class will be judged on the performance of the horse/pony over obstacles, with emphasis on manners, response to the rider and quality of movement. Credit will be given to horses negotiating the course with style and some degree of speed, providing correctness is not sacrificed. Horses should
receive credit for showing attentiveness to the obstacles and capability of picking their own way through the course when obstacles warrant it and willingly responding to the rider’s cues on more difficult obstacles. Horses shall be penalized for any unnecessary delay while approaching or negotiating the obstacles. The course must be designed to show all 3 gaits (walk, jog, lope). Pattern to be posted one hour before the class. Exhibitors will have 30 seconds or 3 refusals for each obstacle and then be asked to move on to the next obstacle by signal from the judge.
Western Horsemanship: This class is designed to evaluate the rider’s ability to execute, in unison with their horse, a set of maneuvers set by the judge with precision and smoothness while exhibiting poise and confidence, and maintaining a balanced, functional and fundamentally correct body position. The ideal horsemanship pattern is precise with the rider and horse working together, executing each maneuver with subtle aids and cues. It is mandatory that patterns be posted one hour before the class. A rail ride may also be asked to be performed.
*FREE* Costume Class: Judged on originality of costume and equipment of horse. Walk only. Open to everyone and riders may be led. No entry fee. Ribbons and/or prizes only. No prize money.
*FREE* Toilet Tissue Pairs: Open to horses and ponies. Shown at the walk and trot for Walk Trot & Smallfry. Youth & Seniors may be asked to lope. A piece of toilet paper will be held between the 2 riders. Exhibitors must work in unison with their partner and not break the toilet paper. No entry fee. Ribbons and/or prizes only. No prize money.
Barrels: A timed event, timed on the horse’s nose from start to finish. Consists of 3 barrels to be run around in a cloverleaf pattern. Contestants may start by going to either the left or right for the first barrel. A 5 second penalty for each barrel knocked will be incurred and going off pattern with result in a no-time elimination. Riders may compete with more than one mount. Western tack only.
Poles: A timed event, with time starting and stopping on the horse’s nose. The pattern is run around 6 poles set in a straight line 21’ apart, with the first pole being 21’ from the start/finish line. Contestants run the length of the arena alongside the poles, turn around the end pole and weave back up through them. She/he then turns the first pole and weaves back through them and again turns the end pole and continues straight back to the finish line. The pattern may be started on either the left or right-hand side of the poles. Each pole knocked down will incur a 5 second penalty added to the time. Going off pattern will result in disqualification. Rider may compete with more than one mount. Western tack only.
*FREE* Egg and Spoon: Riders will complete a pleasure class while holding an egg on a spoon in one hand. Last rider to lose their egg will be the winner. Walk and jog/trot for Walk Trot and Smallfry. Walk, trot/jog, canter/lope for Youth and Seniors. No entry fee. Ribbons and/or prizes only. No prize money.
SPECIAL AWARDS
STABLE COMPETION: To be awarded to the exhibitor for the best display in the stable, not including the quality of the horses displayed.
SPORTMANSHIP AWARD: To be awarded to an exhibitor displaying excellent sportsmanship throughout the week.
Points will be awarded as follows and will be given up to 6th place. If there are less than 6 entries in a class, they will be awarded on the number entered. Ex: 3 in class 1st – 3pts, 2nd – 2pts, 3rd – 1pt.
1st – will get 6 points
2nd – will get 5 points
3rd – will get 4 points
4th – will get 3 points
5th – will get 2 points
6th – will get 1 point
CHAMPION AWARDS
Champion/Reserve Champion English Youth - Qualifying classes: 2/3/4, 6, 9, 12, 14, 17
Champion/Reserve Champion Western Youth - Qualifying classes: 2/3/4, 6, 19, 22, 25, 27
Champion/Reserve Champion Gymkhana Youth - Qualifying classes: 50, 51, 52, 57, 58, 59
Grand Champion/Reserve Grand Champion Youth - Qualifying classes: 2/3/4, 6, 9, 12, 14, 17, 19, 22, 25, 27, 50, 51, 52, 57, 58, 59
Champion/Reserve Champion English Senior - Qualifying classes: 1/2/3/4, 5, 8, 11, 13, 16
Champion/Reserve Champion Western Senior – Qualifying classes: 1/2/3/4, 5, 18, 21, 24, 26
Champion/Reserve Champion Gymkhana Senior – Qualifying classes: 46, 47, 48, 53, 54, 55
Grand Champion/Reserve Grand Champion Senior – Qualifying classes: 1/2/3/4, 5, 8, 11, 13, 16, 18, 21, 24, 26, 46, 47, 48, 53, 54, 55
Champion/Reserve Champion Walk Trot – Qualifying classes: 2/3/4, 5/6, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35
Champion/Reserve Champion Smallfry – Qualifying classes: 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42