Working Equitation
We’ve been spending a lot of time working on our horsemanship (a never ending journey) and wanted to find a fun way to put it to the test. The sport we found and are excited to be promoting throughout the Midwest is the sport of Working Equitation.
What is Working Equitation?
Working Equitation includes three to four different trials in which horse/rider team demonstrate their partnership while gaining points. Highest total combined points wins. It’s a competitive sport that’s taking hold in the U.S. Working Equitation is open to all breeds and welcomes a variety of tack/attire. You can participate at any level as well. There’s something for everyone with Working Equitation.
The Four Trials include:
Dressage Trial
Dressage is the foundation of the sport using precise movements in each test to build the horse's confidence, athleticism and obedience for the other three trials.Dressage Trial
The horse and rider complete a set pattern and are scored on how well they perform each of the required movements as well as the overall quality of the performance. Dressage in Working Equitation is the proof that the horse/rider team has the skills necessary to progress onto the Ease of Handling trial with obstacles. For details on the dressage trial (including tests at each level) see www.confederationwe.us.
Ease of Handling Trial
It's a dressage obstacle course that simulates the difficulties encountered in typical field work. Ridden with accuracy, ease and elegance.Ease of Handling Trial
This trial allows competitors to demonstrate their ability to negotiate a set course of obstacles. In this phase each obstacle is judged for quality as well as correctness. Collection, impulsion and regularity of gate all count. This trial is not timed.
Speed Trial
Obstacle course ridden at speed without course errors or penalties wins.Speed Trial
This trial is also about negotiating an obstacle course but now you are being timed. Where finesse was important before, competitors are now scored on their overall TIME to complete the course with added time faults for errors. Introductory Level riders do not compete in the speed trial.
Cattle Trial
This is a team competition with cattle. This timed trial tests the ability of each team to work cattle together and individually. It involves sorting, cutting and penning cattle.Cattle Trial
This trial is typically only offered at larger or regional competitions. The teams consist of 3-4 riders that move a designated cow individually across the arena and into a secondary pen. This is a timed event. We have practiced this phase in our cattle clinics – big fun!
Why KarMik Acres?
Fun! Fun! Fun! We have built one of the nicest regulation obstacle courses in the country and hold Clinics, Shows and Working Equitation Practice days to educate those interested in learning about the sport. Karen is a licensed Working Equitation Judge and Technical Delegate through USAWE.
Whether you want to compete or just better your horsemanship, we look forward to helping you advance. The sky is the limit. Come join the fun and challenge yourself!
If you’re looking put your horsemanship to the test without sacrificing your horse, then Working Equitation (the KarMik Acres way) is for you. Join Us!
KarMik Acres has been at the forefront of promoting the sport in the Midwest. KarMik Acres an Affiliated Organization of USAWE.org and Karen was previously the Region 5 (Great Lakes Region) Director for the Confederation and a member of the Licensed Officials Committee, she is also a Judge and a Technical Delegate with USAWE. Karen and Mike both actively compete with two or more horses each, are both Year End High Point and Breed Highpoint Award winners with multiple Championships in Levels 1 through 5. We believe in continuing to further our education along with competing in order to help others progress in the sport. We look forward to meeting new people, promoting the sport and watching it continue to grow in the Midwest.
Register now to become a Team KarMik Working Equitation Member. The Group membership gives you priority registration for all KarMik Acres’ Working Equitation events, discounts and makes you eligibile for KarMik Acres year end show series awards. Riders wanting to attend Practice Sessions at KarMik Acres must become Team KarMik members. Annual subscription is only $35 . Join as a Team KarMik Member today!
See our Calendar for scheduled WE Practice Days, Mini Clinics and Shows.
“Practice any art, no matter how well or badly, not to earn money and fame, but… to find out what’s inside you, to make your soul grow.” ~ Kurt Vonnegut