and athletic capability. Performance conformation will
be judged on a scale of 0 - 20, with 10 being average.
f) Use of the circle.
Consideration will be given to how well or how poorly
the horse/exhibitor team uses the 7.5metres radius of
the lunging circle. A separate box on the scorecard is
available to indicate an overall score (from 0-3 points)
for use of the circle.
g) Circle Scores: It is the judge's responsibility to
evaluate the circles and incorporate use of the circle in
the gait scores based on the following scale:
+3 points (Good to Excellent Use of the Circle).
Horse consistently stays on the perimeter of the circle
with slight looseness in the line. Horse turns around
on the circle perimeter;
+2 points (Average use of the circle).
Horse is only slightly inconsistent in using the 7.5
metres radius of the circle
+1 point (Adequate use of the circle)
Horse is shown in a circle radius of less than 7.5
metres
0 points (General use of the circle)
Potentially dangerous slack in the line
Horse pulls exhibitor out of the circle
h) Penalties and disqualifications.
Five (5) point penalties:
Failure to demonstrate the correct lead, jog or trot for an
adequate distance to allow for proper evaluation of gait.
Disqualification will occur in the following
instances:
Evidence of lameness - judge will immediately excuse
horse from the arena
Blatant striking horse with the whip during the lunging
demonstration that causes forward or lateral movement
Horse falls - A horse is considered to have fallen when
it is on its side and all four legs are extended in the
same direction
Horse steps over or becomes entangled in the lunge
line
Improper equipment, evidence of abuse, or other
violation of AQHA rules
Failure to show at all three gaits in both directions
Loss of control of the horse to the point that the horse is
loose in the arena
94. PLEASURE DRIVING
a) A pleasure driving horse should carry himself in a
natural balanced position with a relaxed head and neck.
His poll should be level with, or slightly above the level
of the withers.
b) Maximum credit is to be given to a horse that moves
straight, with free movement, manners and a bright
expression.
c) The horse will be severely penalised if he carries his
head behind the vertical, is over flexed, excessively
nosed out, the poll is below the withers or exhibits lack
of control by exhibitor.
d) This class will be judged 80 percent on the horse‟s
performance and suitability for assuring a pleasurable
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