Saddlebred-Type Pony
ASB 8.0 Saddlebred-Type Pony The ponies in this division should closely resemble the American Saddlebred breed and possess the graceful trot and easy canter typical of the breed, regardless of whether they are registered with a breed organization. Classes in this category will adhere to the standards and specifications set forth in comparable American Saddlebred classes. Ponies must be ridden by Juvenile Exhibitors, emphasizing manners and agreeable attitudes. These classes are restricted to mares and geldings measuring 14.3 hands and under. Owners must provide proof of height. Official Measurements from other governing organizations will be accepted. Ponies must be measured according to the following rules:
● Ponies aged 5 years and under must be measured annually to participate in classes restricted to American Saddlebred-type ponies.
● A pony's height is considered permanent at 6 years of age.
● Ponies must be unshod when officially measured but may have a ¼” pad or plate (to be subtracted from measurement) left on the foot for protection.
● Registered American Saddlebred ponies may be shown in the American Saddlebred horse division only if there are no pony classes offered at that particular show.. This does not affect the pony's status for the remainder of the competition year. If ownership is transferred during the competition year, the horse/pony may be shown in either division according to the above rules. Classes may be further divided by the age of the rider or the size of the pony, with categories for those 12.2 hands and under, and those over 12.2 hands but not exceeding 14.3 hands.
SADDLEBRED-TYPE PONY CLASSES OFFERED Three Gaited Saddlebred-Type Pony Shown at a walk, trot and canter. Judged on manners, performance, presence, quality and conformation. Five Gaited Saddlebred-Type Pony Shown at a walk, trot, slow gait, rack and canter. Judged on manners, performance, presence, quality and conformation. Fine Harness Saddlebred-Type Pony Shown at a Park Trot with penalties for excessive speed, and an animated walk, displaying the ability to stand calmly. Evaluation is based on manners, performance, presentation, demeanor, and conformation. Entry to pull a four-wheeled carriage equipped with proper light harness, including a martingale, a bridle with square blinkers, and a snaffle bit. The use of an overcheck bit is discretionary. Three Gaited - Country Pleasure Saddlebred-Type Pony Participants have the option to exhibit with either English or Western gear. The trot or jog should match the type of equipment chosen. Competitors are required to showcase at a walk, trot or jog-trot, extended trot, and canter or lope. Additionally, they must stand calmly along the rail and while lined up, and readily back up when requested. Evaluation criteria consist of 75% based on manners, performance, presence, and quality, with the remaining 25% focused on conformation and the tidiness of attire. Country Pleasure Saddlebred-Type Driving Pony Participants are to be presented alongside a suitable two-wheeled vehicle equipped with proper harnessing, including a martingale and blinkers. Drivers who are under 14 years of age may be accompanied by an adult. Exhibits are required to perform a flat walk, trot, and extended trot, with penalties for excessive speed. They must also demonstrate the ability to stand quietly along the rail and while lined up, and to back up readily. The use of quarter boots is not permitted. Evaluation is based on manners, performance, presence, quality, and conformation. Three Gaited Saddlebred-Type Show Pleasure Pony Participants are to be displayed performing a flat walk, trot, and canter. They must also exhibit the ability to stand quietly and back readily while in the line-up. Evaluation criteria include manners, performance, presence, quality, and conformation.