Hunter Appointments
The shadbellies and scarlet coats seen in Derby classes these days carry on traditions from foxhunting.
Horse show hunter classes have their origins in events for recognized hunt members to compete for “best suitable to hunt” awards over outside courses that simulated the hunt field. These classes were mostly in the Working Hunter division and required riders and horses to wear “appointments,” tack and attire required by foxhunting for safety. Over time, amateur, junior, and even pony hunter divisions featured appointments, or “formal attire,” classes.
Stock ties, plain bridles, and string gloves under the saddle flap in case of rain are just a few of the field hunt details that were judged in appointments classes.
Photo: Sindy Paul and Squeaky in a Small Pony Hunter Appointments class in the 1960s. Courtesy of Sindy Paul from the “Ponies Through the Decades” exhibit.
