Wednesday, November 15, 2017

A Classic Hunter Round

An amazing horse piloted by an even more amazing rider! Rhumba and John French in the

USHJA International 100k KY Hunter Derby Winner


What makes this a winning round?

•the horse's gorgeous style over fences: tight front end, beautiful bascule over the top of the fence

•a canter rhythm like a metronome that is consistent throughout the entire course; it doesn't change

•beautiful movement at both the canter and trot

•perfect distances that show off the horse's winning jumping form

•a quiet rider who is almost invisible so the horse can shine and be the focus of the ride


What is a Hunter?

Hunters are to the horse world what ballerinas are to the dance world. They are beautiful, athletic, stylish animals whose performance over fences shows off their jumping ability, flexibility, rhythmic cadenced movement and obedience to the rider. On the flat, the show ring hunter has an easy way of going with a stride that covers much ground. There is a visible rhythm at all gaits as it travels forward and a minimum of vertical movement ensuring efficiency of the stride to cover ground. Hunters appear to float effortlessly around the arena and suggest an inviting, comfortable ride.