One of Ireland’s longest-established agricultural shows is running a bitless showing class – with a €350 (£300) prize pot, as it “embraces the growing focus on horse welfare”.
Horses and ponies in class 23a at the Iverk Show, in Kilkenny on 22 August, may not be ridden in bits, mechanical hackamores or bridles relying primarily on poll pressure.
“Sponsored by best-selling Irish equestrian author and award-winning filmmaker Elaine Heney, the class is believed to be one of the first of its kind at a major Irish agricultural show,” a spokesperson for the event said.
Permitted tack and equipment includes rope halters, side pulls, bosals and mecates. No draw reins, standing martingales, tie-downs or “auxiliary devices that restrict the horse’s natural head and neck position” are allowed.
“The introduction of the class reflects the growing number of riders choosing bitless bridles, either through personal preference or because they better suit their horses’ individual needs,” the spokesperson said.
Ms Heney, who has spent more than two decades writing books, running online courses and creating award-winning documentary Listening to the Horse, welcomed the new class.
“I’m delighted to support this new class at Iverk Show,” she said. “Every horse deserves to be ridden in equipment that is comfortable and appropriate for them as an individual. For some horses that may be a traditional bit, while for others a bitless bridle can be a better option.
“This class isn’t about saying one approach is better than another. It’s about recognising that horses are individuals and giving riders who choose to compete bitless a welcoming place to do so. I hope it encourages great conversations about horse welfare and celebrates good horsemanship above all else.”
Bitless showing: Iverk Show judging criteria
It is hoped the class, open to horses aged five and over, and standing 14hh and above, and riders 18 and over, will attract entries from across Ireland, and “showcase the growing diversity within the equestrian community”.
Cantering is optional and the judge will not ride. Judging priorities will be: Relaxation and confidence, sound, free, and regular movement, partnership and sympathetic horsemanship, correct self-carriage, with the horse travelling comfortably in front of or at the vertical, good conformation and condition, lightness and willingness and manners and safety. “Obvious tension and conflict behaviours” will be penalised.
Iverk Show’s Liam Kearns told H&H: “We are celebrating our 200th show this year and are delighted to host the Elaine Heney bitless showing class. This class is a new venture for all involved and will make a great spectacle on show day.
“All horses are different and some may really benefit from being ridden bitless.We think this class will have a big future going forward.”
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