Western Show Class Categories
Classes at WES shows are grouped into categories. Each says who may enter, what tack and bits are allowed, and whether points are awarded.
Youth categories
Little Britches
For riders under 10 years old. English or western tack may be used. No points are awarded.
Youth 13 and under
Western tack, but an English saddle may be used (a western bridle with an English saddle). Horses are ridden two handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore, or one handed in a curb bit. Points are awarded.
Youth 14 to 18
Western tack only. Horses are ridden two handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore, or one handed in a curb bit. Points are awarded.
Youth all ages
Western tack only. Horses are ridden two handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore, or one handed in a curb bit. Points are awarded in the matching age categories.
Open and Amateur
Open
Open to all competitors. Horses are ridden in a curb bit. Junior horses (aged 3 to 5 years inclusive) may be ridden two handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore.
Amateur
Every competitor must hold a valid WES amateur card. Horses are ridden in a curb bit. Junior horses (aged 3 to 5 years inclusive) may be ridden two handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore.
Finding your feet
Novice Rider
For a member who had not gained 48 or more novice rider points on 1st January of the current year. The rider must hold a valid WES amateur card. Horses of any age are ridden two handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore, or one handed in a curb bit.
Novice Horse
For a horse that had not gained 48 or more novice horse points, or 36 intermediate horse points, on 1st January of the current year. Horses of any age are ridden two handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore, or one handed in a curb bit.
Intermediate Horse
For a horse that had not gained 48 or more intermediate horse points on 1st January of the current year. Horses of any age are ridden two handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore, or one handed in a curb bit.
Walk / Jog
Open to Novice (horse or rider) and every Youth category. Horses of any age are ridden two handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore, or one handed in a curb bit. No points are awarded.
Know where you fit?
Find a show near you and enter the classes that suit you and your horse.