What is Hunter/Jumper?

The Hunter Jumper sport consists of three main events:

Hunter:

In the show ring, hunters are judged on the beauty of their jump, the grace with which the horse moves across the ground, and how the animal reacts while being ridden. The pace in the hunter ring is slower than in the jumper ring and a main emphasis is on how suitable the horse is for the rider. A horse may not win if it "goes wild" with a child rider on its back.

Equitation:

Judged completely on the rider's performance while in the show ring. Main points are position, actions and ability to cope with unexpected movement of the horse.

Jumper:

Unlike a hunter or equitation class, a jumper class relies on the speed, endurance, and abilities of both the rider and horse. Jumper competition consists of two parts. In the first half, the horse and rider combination must complete the course without "refusing" jumps or knocking down any rails on the jumps. In the second half, the pair jumps through a shorter, more complex course while going as fast as possible. The first half of the jumper class must be completed successfully in order to advance to the second half. Jumper competitors dress formally in hunt coats or "pinks" and white britches. In informal competition they may wear casual polo shirts. Their horses, reflecting an adventuresome spirit, may sport metallic braid on their brow band or colorful polo wraps to protect their legs.