Hackney Pony - Country Pleasure Driving Division Specifics

HCK 9.0 Hackney Pony - Country Pleasure Driving Division Specifics

1. This competition is open to registered Hackney Ponies that are 14.2 hands and under. Only mares and geldings are allowed to participate. The tails of the ponies can either be long or have the appearance of being short.

2. Both amateurs and juveniles may participate.

3. During the lineup, each pony is allowed to have one attendant without a whip. The attendant can stand the pony on its feet and must then stand at least two paces back from the pony. The attendant is not permitted to touch the pony, except for safety purposes. It is important that the ponies stand quietly, back readily, and return to the lineup. Once checked in the lineup, ponies may not be adjusted unless an additional workout is called. If a workout is called, ponies not involved in the workout may be unchecked.

4. The use of artificial appliances or devices, such as leather straps and rubber bands, is prohibited on the grounds before or during a competition. Any pony found with prohibited equipment will be disqualified from further competition and will forfeit all entry fees and winnings. However, protective equipment like non-weighted bell boots and shin boots are allowed on the grounds and in warm-up areas before entering the competition ring.

5. In all Country Pleasure driving classes, it is required for the judge(s) to walk through the lineup.

6. The Country Pleasure driving pony may not be as flashy as a Hackney or Harness Show Pleasure driving pony but should still exhibit typical breed characteristics.

7. The ponies must be plain shod, meaning they can have shoes with toe or side clips but not bands, bars, pads, wedges, lead, springs or any attachment that extends below the bottom of the shoe. The sole and entire frog of the foot must be visible. Any pony with prohibited shoeing will be disqualified from further competition at that event.

8. Transitions between gaits should be smooth and effortless while maintaining obedience and promptness. A true, flat walk with ground-covering action is emphasized. Entries will be penalized for pulling, head tossing, laboring action, and going sideways.

9. Ponies that compete in this section are not eligible to compete in any other section of the Hackney Division at the same competition.

10. Regarding tack and apparel, all class specifications can either be Single or Harness. An appropriate harness (black or russet) with a low crupper, sidecheck or overcheck, square or round blinkers, and snaffle bit is required. A martingale is optional but a checkbit is mandatory.

11. Entries must be shown with only the driver to an appropriate vehicle, which can be a two-wheeled basket-type jog cart or a road bike with a basket.

12. Braids are not allowed but switches or artificial tails may be added.

13. Participants are encouraged to wear appropriate apparel. Hackney Pony Country Pleasure Driving - Class Specifications Country Pleasure Driving Amateur/Juvenile Shown at a flat walk, pleasure trot, and road trot (showing a distinct difference in gait). Entries must halt on the rail, both directions of the ring. It is imperative that ponies stand quietly and back readily in the lineup. To be judged on manners, presence, performance, suitability, quality, and conformation. Championships, Ponies must be entered, shown and judged in a qualifying class with the same specifications. Country Pleasure Driving 4YO & Under Shown at a flat walk, pleasure trot, and road trot (showing a distinct difference in gait). Entries must halt on the rail, both directions of the ring. It is imperative that ponies stand quietly and back readily in the lineup. To be judged on manners, presence, performance, suitability, quality, and conformation. Championships, Ponies must be entered, shown and judged in a qualifying class with the same specifications.