rules 2011 - British Skewbald and Piebald Association

idles – various widths of leather, styles of noseband, colours for browbands when
appropriate, stitched or plain presentation – will enhance various show animals’ heads.
Bridle fit is also crucial if the horse or pony is to be comfortable as well as correctly turned
out. Common mistakes include a browband that is too loose and sags untidily or one which is
too tight so that it puts pressure on the base of the ears and leaves a bare-looking forehead.
Sometimes, it is necessary to mix and match various parts to make up a bridle that fits perfectly.
Generally speaking, the plainer the head, the thicker the bridle leather should be.
Use the bridle in which you intend to show your horse or pony at home so that you both get
used to it. When you clean it before a show, make a note of which holes each part buckles into,
thus avoiding panic on the big day. Bits should be spotless (with a last minute wipe before going
into the ring), old saddle soap cleaned out of the holes in the leatherwork with a matchstick,
buckles kept free from grease to create a picture of perfection.
CLOTHING – Do your horse or pony justice with a well cut jacket, flattering waistcoat,
breeches or jodhpurs which fit properly, a smart but safe hat, and perfectly polished boots.
Sleeves that end above the wrist, saggy boots and a battered hat will do you and your horse
no favours in the ring. Above all, a correct turnout shows respect for the judge.
Your groom also needs to be well turned-out when he or she comes into the ring. Smart
trousers, shiny boots, a shirt and tie – preferably teamed with your own – and a jacket or
waistcoat, with maybe a hat too, make a good impression as your helper rushes forth with the
grooming kit.
When showing in-hand, choose your footwear with care – because you’re going to have to
move as well as your pony! A hat, either a riding hat, bowler or smart trilby, always completes
an outfit, as does a smart pair of gloves. A shirt and tie looks smart on both sexes, while a
waistcoat goes to prove you’ve made the effort if it really is too hot for a jacket. Don’t forget your
show cane. Smart, stretchy Showing Trousers, make ideal legwear for the in-hand exhibitor.
When choosing a jacket, try it on and sit in the riding position to make sure it is long enough
to drape elegantly. The fit must be close enough to be flattering, but ensure there is sufficient
shoulder room to ride comfortably.
Oh to have the perfect figure! For those of us who don’t, a jacket with one long centre vent
can be more flattering than double vents; well cut garments in darker colours can hide a
multitude of sins; while those who wear cutaway coats really do need the figure – and the
waistcoat – to get away with it!
ALL ABOUT ‘ELITE’
The BSPA has the following ‘Elite’ scheme for Graded Mares
and Stallions
WHAT IS ELITE
Elite status is required demonstration of success over a sustained
period of performance either as a Sports Horse or at National
Championship Show level.
Three categories are in operation:
1. PERFORMANCE ELITE – BSJA GRADE A - BHT ADVANCED - BD MEDIUM
Performance Elite is attained when a Graded mare or stallion reaches one of the above
verifiable levels in affiliated disciplines. Verification of the above levels will be required in the
form of an Official printout from the relevant governing bodies. There are also categories for
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