The Perfomance Division started in the Wheeler Ring with the Fourth Level Test of Choice. In the Dixon, riders competed in the USEF Young Horse Tests for 4 year olds and the FEI Young Horse Tests 5 and 6 year olds.
According to the governing bodies, the judges are looking for:
FOUR-YEAR-OLDs should show: Natural balance and engagement. The ability to bend the joints in the hind legs Willingness to go forward with impulsion rather than just speed Willingness to accept the rider’s aids without coercion A minimum of negative tension, physical or mental An uphill tendency as a bonus, depending on the physical stage of development 2
FIVE-YEAR-OLDs should show in addition: Willingness to collect, as observed in movements where taking additional weight onto hindquarters is required or desirable Equal bend and suppleness to both sides Correct development of straightness
SIX-YEAR-OLDs should show in addition: Clear ability to collect, shown for longer periods of time, as demanded in the test Uphill balance more clearly demonstrated Increased suppleness and bending for lateral work. The quality of the lateral work and the flying changes are an important part of the assessment. Clear, consistent cadence in trot and canter Fluency and self-carriage in all work.According to the governing bodies, the judges are looking for:
FOUR-YEAR-OLDs should show: Natural balance and engagement. The ability to bend the joints in the hind legs Willingness to go forward with impulsion rather than just speed Willingness to accept the rider’s aids without coercion A minimum of negative tension, physical or mental An uphill tendency as a bonus, depending on the physical stage of development 2
FIVE-YEAR-OLDs should show in addition: Willingness to collect, as observed in movements where taking additional weight onto hindquarters is required or desirable Equal bend and suppleness to both sides Correct development of straightness
SIX-YEAR-OLDs should show in addition: Clear ability to collect, shown for longer periods of time, as demanded in the test Uphill balance more clearly demonstrated Increased suppleness and bending for lateral work. The quality of the lateral work and the flying changes are an important part of the assessment. Clear, consistent cadence in trot and canter Fluency and self-carriage in all work.
