Western Riding

By Liz Kirkman

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Western Performance Events

Western performance events are governed by the New Zealand Western Riding Federation and are open to any breed unless held at a closed breed show. The NZWRF administers the sport through the affiliated clubs and associations throughout New Zealand. Some of its services include supplying and maintaining an up-to-date rulebook, collecting and recording show results and maintaining achievement records of every western rider in New Zealand.

Following are brief descriptions of some of the popular events held at shows throughout New Zealand. Most of these events are held in several divisions including Youth, Amateur, Junior Horse (horses 5 years and under) and Senior Horse (horses 6 years and over).
In all western events Junior Horses are shown in a snaffle bit or bosal and ridden two handed, while Senior Horses are shown in a long shanked bit with both reins held in one hand. Rider and horse are equipped with western attire and tack.

Western Pleasure

The horse is judged on performance, quality and substance. Horses are shown at the walk, jog and lope. Horses will be required to backup. Individual workouts are not required.

Western Riding

An individual riding event consisting of a set pattern at specified gaits. Horses are required to change leads precisely and easily (rear and front) at the centre point between markers. Multiple flying lead changes are required..
Horses are judged on riding qualities of gaits, change of leads, response to rider, manners, disposition and intelligence.

Horsemanship

Competitors ride an individual pattern set by the judge, with finalists being required to work on the rail. This is a 'rider' class with competitors being judged on their position, ability, style and control of their horse. Credit is given for smoothness and response to the rider.

Trail

An individual event where horses are judged on their ability to negotiate various obstacles ie) gate, bridge, sidepass, backthrough. Emphasis is placed on alertness, caution and obedience to the rider.

Showmanship

The competitor exhibits their ability to show and control a horse at Halter. They walk, jog and stop, showing safe techniques and allowing the judge full view of the horse at all angles.

Reining

An individual event ridden over a set pattern, mostly at speed, demonstrating circles, flying lead changes, rollbacks etc. Judged on neatness, dispatch, ease, calmness and control.

Working Cowhorse

A reining pattern is completed first, then a cow is introduced into the arena. Horse and rider must demonstrate control of the cow, including turning the cow in at least one complete circle in each direction. Judged on control, ability to show good 'cow sense' and natural cow working ability.