TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE CATEGORY
Equistar applies the Independent Judge's Association 2006 Rulebook as a guideline for descriptions of TWH classes- excerpts are set forth below. Click here to view the entire IJA 2006 Rulebook. Local and Fun classes that do not fall under divisions found in the IJA rulebook will be judged according to the Equistar Class Descriptions set forth herein. Equistar reserves the final and absolute right to interpret all rules and regulations.
This is a class list with descriptions- be advised that due to time constraints not all classes will be offered at every show. This page is for the exhibitor's and trainer's convenience to learn more about classes they may wish to enter. If a class you are interested in is not listed or offered at a show, please let us know!
TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE
PARK DIVISION
Horses in Park classes display a high degree of collection, resulting in natural motion while executing authentic walking horse gaits. The action of the horse appears airy and natural rather than mechanical or artificial. Park horses are “showy” horses. Park classes are traditional Saddle Seat classes and require Saddle Seat tack, equipment and attire. IJA TWH 115
* TWH PARK HORSE 2 GAIT OPEN
ENGLISH PLEASURE DIVISION
Horses in English Pleasure classes are natural English pleasure show horses, executing authentic walking horse gaits fashionably and freely in a forward-moving manner exhibiting pleasure horse qualities. There is no wasted motion - all effort is used for forward motion. The horse is well balanced, the shoulders roll and reach, head nod is prominent, overstride is easily observable (may be considerable) and all gaits are smooth. High front-end elevation and animated full body motion are not required elements. IJA TWH 116
* TWH ENGLISH PLEASURE 2 GAIT (TRAIL PLEASURE HORSES MAY ENTER ENGLISH PLEASURE CLASSES)
* TWH ENGLISH/WESTERN PLEASURE 3 GAIT OPEN
WESTERN PLEASURE DIVISION
The Western Pleasure horse works quietly exhibiting an exceptionally smooth, free and easy gait. The horse is ground covering, consistent and steady at all gaits. The horse exhibits a good attitude and is very calm, responsive and obedient to the rider. The Western Pleasure horse is not held in frame, but works quietly in a semi-collected frame that is slightly more collected that that of a Ranch horse. Possessing a lower head-set, the shoulder and neck are relaxed. The horse may possess shorter coupling with a muscular build and may have a shorter stride. IJA TWH 123 EQUISTAR PERMITS USE OF BOSAL, HACKAMORE, OR ROPE HALTER IN ITS WESTERN PLEASURE CLASSES.
* TWH WESTERN PLEASURE 2 GAIT
* TWH ENGLISH/WESTERN PLEASURE 3 GAIT OPEN
TRAIL PLEASURE DIVISION
Horses in Trail Pleasure classes
are using horses that are appropriate for use on groomed trails or bridle
paths. Trail Pleasure horses perform true walking gaits with an
effortlessness geared toward encouraging longevity and stamina. Trail
pleasure classes are judged on the ability of the horse to provide a safe
pleasurable ride while performing authentic walking
gaits. IJA TWH 117 EQUISTAR PERMITS USE OF BOSAL, HACKAMORE, OR ROPE
HALTER IN ITS TRAIL PLEASURE CLASSES.
* TWH TRAIL PLEASURE CASUAL 2 GAIT ENGLISH (NO JACKETS PERMITTED, OUTFIT AND TACK NOT TO BE JUDGED) (LITE SHOD HORSES MAY ENTER TRAIL CLASSES)
* TWH TRAIL PLEASURE CASUAL 2 GAIT WESTERN
* TWH TRAIL PLEASURE 2 GAIT OPEN
* TWH PARK PLEASURE 2 GAIT OPEN
EQUITATION DIVISION
* TWH ENGLISH/WESTERN PLEASURE ADULT 2 GAIT EQUITATION (MANEUVERS REQUIRED)
ALL BREED (INCLUDING GAITED)
* ENGLISH/WESTERN OPEN 3 GAITED (ALL GAITED)
* PLEASURE DRIVING (ALL GAITED)
* TRAIL PLEASURE CASUAL ENGLISH/WESTERN- OPEN- 2 GAIT- CLASS CALLS FOR THE WALK OR FLAT WALK AND BEST INTERMEDIATE GAIT (RUNNING WALK, FOX TROT, TROT, SLOW GAIT)
* WALK ONLY 8 & UNDER LEAD LINE (ENG/WEST ALL BREED)