Classic Pleasure Driving

MGN 8.0 - Classic Pleasure Driving

1. Eligibility: Horses entered in the class must be registered Morgans, open to amateur and Juvenile Exhibitor drivers. Headers must be 16 years of age. Cross entering between Classic Pleasure and English Pleasure is permitted as long as shoeing requirements are met. Full pads are allowed. Shoeing and toe length including pads is 4 ½ inches.

2. Attire: The driver's attire is usually formal, traditional, and appropriate for driving classes. This often includes a suit or jacket, tie, gloves, and a driving hat or helmet. The attire should be neat and in good condition.

3. Harness and Vehicle: The horse should be hitched to a suitable two wheeled carriage or cart, with properly fitted harness that is safe and appropriate for pleasure driving. The vehicle should be clean and well-maintained. Driving snaffle, half cheek with over or side check configuration standard. One or two bits permitted. A running martingale must be used.

4. Conformation and Movement: Judges typically evaluate both the conformation and movement of the horse. Morgans are expected to exhibit the breed's characteristic traits, including a well-arched neck, strong hindquarters, and fluid movement with good extension.

5. Manners and Performance: The horse should demonstrate excellent manners, responsiveness to the driver's cues, and an overall pleasurable performance. This includes steady, consistent gaits, appropriate transitions, and willingness to work.

6. Judging Criteria: Judges will assess various aspects including performance, manners, suitability as a pleasure driving horse, and the overall impression of the turnout. Shown at the walk, pleasure trot, and road trot. Must not be asked back. Judged: 60% manners, performance with proper cadence and balance and gait; 40% type and conformation. Championships judged 50% performance and 50% conformation.