Morgan Roadster

MGN 16.0 Morgan Roadster

1. Eligibility: Horses entered in the class must be registered Morgans. Roadster classes may have divisions based on age, gender, or other criteria. Open to professional, amateur or Juvenile Exhibitors. Shoeing toe length including pads may not exceed 5 and ¾ inches.

2. Attire: Drivers typically wear formal roadster attire, which includes a brightly colored jacket or vest, tie, white pants, and gloves and roadster cap or protective helmet for Juvenile Exhibitors. Attire should be neat, clean, and in good condition.

3. Tack: The horse should be hitched to a suitable roadster cart or sulky with a properly fitted harness. The two wheeled harness should be lightweight and specifically designed for roadster classes, providing comfort and safety for the horse. The vehicle should also be clean and well-maintained.

4. Conformation and Movement: Judges assess both the conformation and movement of the horse. Morgans competing in roadster classes should exhibit the breed's characteristic traits, including a well-arched neck, strong hindquarters, and powerful, high-stepping movement. The horse should move with speed, energy, and animation while pulling the cart or sulky.

5. Manners and Performance: The horse should demonstrate excellent manners, responsiveness to the driver's cues, and an overall pleasurable performance. This includes a controlled, high-stepping trot and possibly a hand gallop, as well as smooth transitions and obedience to the driver's commands. In a Roadster class, horses typically perform at a fast, high-stepping trot and possibly a hand gallop. The pace should showcase the horse's speed, athleticism, and style while pulling the cart or sulky.

6. Presentation: Presentation of both horse and driver is important. This includes grooming, turnout, and overall presentation of the turnout as a polished and harmonious team. The horse should be neatly groomed, with a clean and well-maintained appearance.

7. Judging Criteria: Judges evaluate various aspects including conformation, movement, manners, suitability as a roadster horse, and the overall impression of the turnout. Emphasis is often placed on speed, animation, and style. Shown the first way of the ring at the jog-trot and road gait. On the reverse, shown at the jog-trot, road gait, and “at speed.” May be asked to walk. Judged: 60% performance with proper cadence and balance, speed, quality, and manners; 40% type and conformation. Championships judged 50/50.