Hi all,
After years of not showing I am getting back into it. At the show I am doing I have entered myself into an english eq. pattern class. I understand that I have to memorize and ride a specific pattern but does anyone have any tips/ know anything about it? I really know nothing about it. Do I salute the judge? If its an eq class does that mean they care more about how I ride it then how well my horse performs? ETC…
Classes with a “pattern” are typically Western-type/Breed shows, so you may not get a lot of answers here on what you are supposed to do.
Pattern eq classes are unique to the breed and open show world. From what I’ve seen (and I haven’t seen many), all entrants are judged at the same time w/t/c on the rail, then individuals come out of the line-up to perform the pattern, returning to the line-up at the end. I’ve never seen anyone salute the judge. Eq in all forms is judged on the rider’s position and effective control of the horse, so if you cause the horse to make a mistake by under or over-riding, it will count against you. But the horse will not be judged against the other horses in terms of movement/quality.
Usually you start the class by looking at the judge until the judge gives you a nod, then you start. Same with the end…usually you halt/stand until the judge gives you a nod to let you go.
The pattern is usually posted the morning of the class, and will often use pylons as markers. Things like counter canter, turn on the forehand, rein back, halt to canter transitions, dropping/picking up stirrups and so on might be asked for. They usually aren’t long tests though.
Some pattern classes just start with the pattern and may or may not finish with a group rail class, and some start with a group rail class and finish with a pattern. This may be up to the judge or to the show manager.
Oh, and the judge is looking at your ability to ride the pattern correctly with an effective position. So a poor mover may do ok, but an inverted, lazy or rushy horse won’t, as it reflects badly on the rider.
Learn to be efficient. Some judges will require that you complete the pattern in a certain amount of time.
If you are showing hunt seat equitation, one does not need to look at the judge to start. When your number is announced you move forward and begin. You might want to glance at the judge to be sure he/she is watching and not still scoring the last ride. Same as when you finish-just leave and go back to the line up.
Patterns consist of basic flat work that any well schooled horse should be able to do. Most associations use the tests in the USEF rule book for flat patterns. You an expect at least, two canter departs and diagonal changes. Perhaps in a figure 8 or serpentine. Sitting trot, dropping the stirrups, counter canter are also common. Smooth and accurate transitions, clean canter departs, starting off on the correct diagonal are expected.
At the start of the pattern nod to the judge, that is to make sure the judge is ready and not still writing notes about the previous rider.
Most shows just have the pattern but can call you back for rail work.
Going off the pattern is often an automatic DQ but keep riding even if you realize you made a mistake because some judges will still use a rider that is only slightly off.
You are being judged but if your horse misses a lead then that goes against you.
Practice as many patterns as you can before attending the show. It just helps you and your horse become smoother about the process.
I love doing patterns because it is not about who spent the most money on the horse, it is about the hard work the rider has put into their riding skills. Plus, if going for a day end award many people do not do the eq and it is a great way to pick up points.
I always have my students do the eq when at shows.
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