 | This article relies largely or entirely on a single source. (December 2009) |
Showmanship is an event found at many horse shows. The class is also sometimes called "Fitting and Showmanship", "Showmanship In-Hand", "Showmanship at Halter" or "Halter Showmanship" It involves a person on the ground leading a horse, wearing a halter or bridle, through a series of maneuvers called a pattern. The horse itself is not judged on its conformation. Exhibitors are judged on exhibiting the animal to its best advantage, with additional scoring for the grooming and presentation of both horse and handler.
Showmanship began as a component of 4-H competition for young people, to teach them how to present a horse in-hand. Over time, it expanded into most breed competition at regular horse shows as well and has become a highly competitive event with exacting standards at the highest level. Yet, it also remains a standard competition in 4-H and other schooling shows for beginners.
Most showmanship classes in the United States use western style horses, clothing and equipment; however, English styles are also seen, depending on the breed of horse. In some breed and open competitions, both English and Western handlers may appear in the same class. The biggest difference between Western Showmanship and English Showmanship is the outfit of the handlers. In Western showmanship you are required to wear a Western hat, Western boots, button up/collared shirt, and long pants. In English showmanship, you are required to wear the same outfit you would wear for an English riding class. This consists of breeches, English boots, an English helmet, an English coat with an English shirt underneath, and gloves (optional). Spurs are not allowed to be warn in either Western or English showmanship. The style of headstall in which the horse wears will also vary between English and Western Showmanship, as well as some of the grooming done to the horse. In English Showmanship, horses often have a braided mane, tail, and forelock. The same Showmanship pattern can usually be used for both English or Western Showmanship.