Hunter 'Nonsense'

The great thing about being an equestrian is being able to be myself - an opinionated but forever challenged young lady. Lady like qualities are a big part of what the Hunter’s are all about. Let me start by first explaining a little bit more about this Hunter nonsense I speak so highly of.

There once was a time when people used horses primarily for labour and transportation. Today, horses are seen as a sport, a hobby and a way of life. To me, it’s a sport and a passion. The hunters is a style of riding based upon your equitation, (the riders position while riding), and the horses conformation, (the way the horse is put together). 

In horses for dummies, a horse specifically made to be a hunter, will be one who can cover ground with a long graceful stride, a long and low head and neck set, (their head, neck and back are all level with one another), and an easy-going temperament. As for the rider, we are expected to make our job look easy while maintaining excellent posture. This means, sit up straight, shoulders back, heels down, slight bend at our hip and quiet hands, some of which sounds vaguely familiar from childhood and moms instructions of how to sit while at the dinner table.

Now, if you are a competitive rider, like myself, this involves demonstrating these qualities while performing in group classes, demonstrating different techniques instructed by the judge such as walk, trot and canter, as well as doing individual courses made up of a number of jumps set at designated heights. Each of the jumps is designed to be “natural” looking in nature using colours such as white, greens and browns and can reach up to 4ft in height and a few feet wide.

So, why the hunters? 

There is something about polishing your boots, putting on your favourite show outfit currently in style, (of which changes annually), and spending hours grooming your horse until he sparkles and shines that drives a girl wild. We hunters are constantly craving the newest trend, the latest style and the best products. We strive to look our best and represent our barn, from which we are a part of.

When I step into the show ring, all eyes are on me and my horse. First impressions are everything - and the horse knows it. I want to show him off - make him feel special. Im overcome with pride and at that moment I want to know that we both look and feel at our finest. Horses will pick up on your every emotion and feel that sense of joy. Without having to say a word, my confidence will show through him in the way he proudly struts into the ring and takes over the crowd. 

HB