In-Hand
📘 Overview
In-Hand Showing is a groundwork discipline that judges horses based on their conformation, movement, and grooming. Typically featuring young or developing horses, these classes assess future potential in a competitive but accessible format. There are two major types of in-hand events on Equinox: Conformation and Showmanship.
Conformation focuses on the horse’s physical correctness.
Showmanship emphasizes the handler’s skill in presenting their horse.
Handlers walk and trot their horses on lead, then line up for judge inspection. Each class is grouped by breed, age, or gender depending on host discretion.
🐎 Breed Regulations & Stats
All breeds are eligible to enter as long as their sire and dam are properly registered as the breed being shown.
Speed: 20–45 mph
Jump: 0.00–6.99 ft
Division Eligibility: D6 to D2
Common conformation types may include:
Warmbloods, Drafts, Ponies, Stock horses, Gaited types, Baroque breeds, and more.
🧑⚖️ Judging
In-hand judging evaluates both horse and handler. Each class is assessed on breed type, symmetry, condition, handler control, and grooming.
❌ Disqualifications
No-show or arriving late
Dangerous or uncontrollable horse behaviour
Failure to follow judge instructions
Refusal to present horse or leave the arena
⚠️ Penalties
Poor grooming or dirty coat
Inability to stand still
Misaligned stance for breed type
Breaking pace or crowding other entries
Failure to lead horse properly
📊 Scoring
Horses are scored on a 100-point scale:
Conformation
40
Movement
25
Grooming & Condition
15
Handler Performance
10
Overall Impression
10
👗 Attire
Handlers must be neat and professional to reflect real-world show standards.
Handler:
Helmet or flat cap (required)
Button-down shirt or jacket
Trousers or show slacks
Clean, polished boots
Horse:
Halter or bridle (as per breed standard)
Mane styled (natural, braided, or pulled based on class rules)
Fully groomed with polished hooves
🧱 Course Building
In-hand arenas should be a minimum of 20x40 for rectangles or 30x30 for squares in size with a flat surface and clear boundaries.
Layout Tips:
Use fences or marked lines to guide spacing
Include a central inspection line for judge review
Leave adequate room between entries
Avoid obstructions or uneven footing
Judges must have an unobstructed view of all horses
🎁 Prize Pot & Entry Fees
Local Show
$10
$500
Top 3
Regional Show
$50
$2,500
Top 5
Championship
$100
$7,500
Top 8
🚫 Note: All fees and rewards must be paid in-game. Real money use is strictly prohibited and will result in a permanent IP ban for the host.
📢 Hosting Guidelines
Approved hosts must ensure events are fair, organized, and follow official breed standards. Before running a show:
Post class listings and entry instructions
Use a certified arena setup
Confirm all handlers
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