2026 · Version 7.3 · Effective March 2026
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ESC Participant Code of Conduct
253 matching sections
ASB 3.0 Class Types TWO-YEAR-OLD, THREE-YEAR-OLD, JUNIOR, LIMIT, MAIDEN, NOVICE, OPEN: In these classes, animation, brilliance, and extreme action are key attributes sought in horses, showcased in both the front and rear. Evaluation is base…
ASB 4.0 Division of Classes Classes with more entries than specified must be divided as evenly as possible, with competition management retaining the right to adjust numbers if needed. Division methods may include alternate numbering, horse…
ASB 5.0 Gaits WALK Animated Walk: This highly collected gait is executed at a controlled pace, demonstrating excellent action and animation. It possesses snap and offers easy control, and can manifest as either a two-beat or four-beat gait.…
ASB 6.0 Pleasure Division The American Saddlebred/Half Saddlebred Pleasure Horse should embody quality, style, presence, and suitable conformation, with comfortable gaits that suggest it is a pleasant mount to ride. Desired traits include e…
ASB 6.1 English Country Pleasure Division The English Country Pleasure horse may possess less showiness compared to the Show Pleasure horse but should still embody the typical characteristics of the breed. Easy, ground-covering action is pr…
ASB 6.2 Hunter Country Pleasure Division The Saddlebred Hunter Country Pleasure Horse must be portrayed as an overall pleasurable ride, with a relaxed attitude and a lower natural neck carriage positioned with a slight pole bend. Typically,…
ASB 6.3 Western Country Pleasure Division In Western Pleasure and Trail classes, a lower head carriage should not be penalized. The Western equipment horse should be heavier bodied, especially in the rear, have prominent withers and be clos…
ASB 6.4 Show Pleasure Division The English Show Pleasure horse typically exhibits less action than the Three-Gaited, Five-Gaited, and Fine Harness Performance horses, but should remain alert and prompt in their response. Action should be na…
ASB 6.5 Park Pleasure Division The emphasis is on elegance, finesse, and polished performance across all gaits. Participation is open to both seasoned equestrian professionals and amateur enthusiasts. Horses exhibited in any class within th…
ASB 6.6 Classic Pleasure Division Open to Amateurs and Juvenile riders and drivers. Stallions are prohibited. Classic Pleasure horses must be plain shod - rim pads, synthetic or natural rubber, egg bar or a single pad are allowed. Wedge pad…
ASB 7.0 PERFORMANCE DIVISION
ASB 7.1 Fine Harness Division Entries in this division should be elegant, refined and motion should focus on animation over speed. Horses are shown with a full mane and tail. Tack & Apparel Presented with a suitable vehicle, ideally a small…
ASB 7.2 Five Gaited Division This division showcases beauty, brilliance, elegance, refinement and speed in an animated form. Entries shall be shown with a full mane and tail. Tack & Apparel The preferred bridle is a double bridle, comprisin…
ASB 7.3 Three Gaited Division The ideal horse is characterized by beauty, elegance, brilliance, refinement, and expressive qualities. Collection in stride, with energy focused on precise animation. The horse is presented with a roached mane…
ASB 7.4 Park Division The American Saddlebred and Half American Saddlebred Park Horse are expected to exhibit style, refinement, and good manners. Their performance should be characterized by animation and grace in all gaits. Horses competi…
