USDF Youth Handler’s Symposium (continued) by Colin Gaffney helped me out with the conformation. We discussed form to function, conformation, and movement. You want to see an uphill balance, breed characteristics, masculinity (stallions), femininity (mare), development relate to age, harmony (relationship of movement to conformation), athleticism (strength and mobility), and overall condition. They should demonstrate good character, presence and temperament.
Jeanne McDonald talked about Judging-Methods and Procedures. We went over the judge’s card and the rules for showing a sport horse as well as major and minor conformation faults. The horses are judged 50% movement, 40% conformation, 10% general impression. The rest of the afternoon was spent observing the show. It was very interesting to see the different methods of handling the horses. We
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observed many different breeds and types of conformation. There were so many gorgeous horses! This was a wonderful seminar for any young person planning to test for a pony club certification, become a dressage professional, or wants to learn about sport horse breeding. It was an educational and fun two days! Thank you to USDF Breeder/Handler Committee, Krysti Wysocki, Jeanne McDonald, Mo Swanson, Bruce Griffin, Michael Bragdell, Christine Smith, Ann Snipes Moss and Scott Hassler for sharing your time and expertise. Also, thank you to Dressage at Devon, Elyssium Farm, Somewhat Farm and Hilltop Farm for sponsoring the seminar.