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Performance Classes in Working Equitation
Working Equitation is an equestrian discipline that has become increasingly popular in recent years and has its roots in traditional European working riding styles. Similar to classical dressage, Working Equitation also has a structured classification into performance classes, which differ according to age group and skill level. The seven performance classes of Working Equitation allow riders of any age to demonstrate their skills in various disciplines such as dressage, style trail, speed trail and cattle work.
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What Performance Classes Are There in Working Equitation?
In Working Equitation, riders can compete from the age of 4. For young people and adults aged 15 and over, the performance classes are divided according to skill and experience:
- WF: Lead-rein class – for children aged 4 to 10.
- WR: Rider competition – for children aged 7 to 14.
- WE: Introductory class.
- WA: Beginner class.
- WL: Light class.
- WM: Intermediate class.
- WS: Heavy class. Sometimes further divided into WS* and WS**, the master class.
The lead-rein classes allow children from the age of 4 to practise Working Equitation. — Working Equitation competitions for every age and skill level.
What Is Tested in Which Performance Class?
Performance Classes at Working Equitation Tournaments
Introductory and beginner riders take part only in dressage and style trail tests. From the light class onwards – which isn’t actually as “light” as the name suggests – then all disciplines of Working Equitation are tested:
- Dressage: Dressage movements form the foundation of Working Equitation and are tested at the start of every Working Equitation tournament.
- Style Trail: An obstacle course of gates, barrels and bridges that horse and rider must complete.
- Speed Trail: The obstacles of the style trail are completed once again, with the focus on speed.
- Cattle Work: A selected animal must be separated from the herd and driven into a pen.
Lead-Rein Classes for Children and Young People
The so-called lead-rein classes and rider competitions already allow children and young people to take part in a Working Equitation tournament. In the lead-rein class, only the style trail test is held. While the young rider’s seat and application of aids are assessed, the horse is led by an adult and can thus be additionally controlled if needed. The rider competition comprises a dressage test ridden as a group and the style trail.
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Denise B. with Doma Classica
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The saddle was fitted to my Friesian and I had the option of choosing the colours of the leather, the stitching and a decorative seam. You can be endlessly creative that way!"
The saddle was fitted to my Friesian and I had the option of choosing the colours of the leather, the stitching and a decorative seam. You can be endlessly creative that way!"
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Looking for the Right Saddle for Working Equitation?
Find your perfectly fitting saddle for Working Equitation. We are happy to visit you for advice and fitting. Write to us using our contact form or call us directly:
Hotline: 09179 / 964117
Everything About Working Equitation on Iberosattel.com
- What Is Working Equitation?
- History of Working Equitation
- Who Is Working Equitation Suitable For?
- Working Equitation Basics / Getting Started
- The Disciplines of Working Equitation
- Performance Classes in Working Equitation
- Which Horse Breeds Are Suited to Working Equitation?
- What Do You Need for Working Equitation?
- Which Saddle for Working Equitation?
- What Tournaments Are There in Working Equitation?
- Who Sets the Rules?
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