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Galston Equestrian Club
Hacking Handbook

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Breed Classes​

In breed classes, horses are judged according to the breed standards set by their respective Breed Society.​

Rider Classes​

Rider classes focus on the skill of the rider. Judges evaluate the rider's position and ability to control the horse in an elegant and efficient manner. The rider should appear as though every movement and transition with the horse happens effortlessly.​

Hack Classes​

Definition of "Hack" : Originating from British terminology, a "hack" refers to a refined riding horse, once commonly used for hire or casual riding. Hacks became popular as status symbols for the English gentry, which led to the modern-day show hack.

Hack Class Workouts: Workouts in this class may include various exercises such as circles, figure eights, serpentines, triangles, lengthening of stride at trot and canter, and transitions like flying lead changes and halts.

Hack Class Presentation: The aim is to present the horse and rider in the most visually appealing way, emphasizing the horse’s strengths and subtly downplaying any less favourable features. Techniques include:
 
  • Quarter Marks: Checkerboard or other patterns on the hindquarters.
  • Plaiting: Small plaits create an impression of a longer rein.
  • Tail: Pulled or plaited tails, trimmed to an appropriate length, can improve balance and appearance.
  • False Tails: Commonly used to enhance appearance.
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Hunter Classes​

Definition of a "Hunter": A hunter should be a strong, substantial horse capable of carrying a rider over rough terrain for extended periods. Hunters are shown either under saddle or in-hand, with categories for both show hunter and working hunter classes.​

Show Hunter
A show hunter is judged on type, manners, and style and is only shown on the flat, either in hand or under saddle. Although attractiveness is a bonus, a horse of true hunter type should always prevail over a horse with hack characteristics.

Working Hunter
A working hunter is a horse, at least four years old, that combines show hunter qualities with the ability to negotiate a course of natural fences.​

Show Hunter Workouts

Workouts in this class emphasize a smooth, forward movement, with the horse covering ground confidently at all paces. Required elements include a simple change of rein at the canter, a gallop, and a calm halt where the horse remains still without fidgeting. Extended trots and flying lead changes, common in hack classes, are not necessary for show hunters.​

Working Hunter Workouts​

Working hunter classes are divided into three phases:
 
  1. Jumping Phase: Includes at least two natural fences and accounts for 50% of the score.
  2. Flatwork Phase: Similar to a show hunter workout, this phase represents 30% of the score.
  3. Conformation Phase: Horses are evaluated on their physical conformation, sometimes requiring the removal of the saddle, and this phase contributes 20% of the total score. 
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Hunter Class Presentation​

Hunter competitors and horses must be neatly turned out, emphasizing practical, clean, and workmanlike attire. Conservative colours are preferred, and overly decorative elements like ribboned browbands, bright colours, or excessive makeup are not permitted. Tack should not obscure the horse’s conformation, except for plain boots allowed in the working hunter jumping phase.

 Awarding of Ribbons​

Ribbons are awarded in a hierarchical system:
 
  • 1st Place: Winners of individual classes may compete for Champion, awarded to the top competitor across hack classes.
  • Reserve Champion: The second-place finisher goes up against other winners for this title.
  • Supreme Champion: Champions from various classes compete for this prestigious award.


Resources

 
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