Virtual Dales Pony show example: Ridden Traditional Dales

Ponies are turned out clean and tidy as for in hand classes but with suitable tack for ridden classes, snaffle or plain mullen bit no curb or shank, hunter -type bridle with cavesson, no bling, no whip (stick only).
Riders attire is proper turnout show casual- tall boots or paddock, western boots, light or medium color jodhpurs or breeches, no jeans. Button shirt and tie encouraged but not required. Jacket optional. Spurs are not allowed even for ponies in western tack. Western tack simply saddle and bridle, no bling, no lariat, concho etc. The focus is on the pony.
Traditional-walk and trot only
A Traditional class is judged on conformation and walk/ trot. Ponies should be well balanced and very free and active, covering the ground energetically, showing that Dales movement. The entry should include a figure of eight at trot, collected on the bends but really pushing into extension across the diagonals and finishing with an extended trot on the long side of the ring before a smooth transition back to walk. You may do a rein back; the pony should step back for four paces without being hauled backwards and then forward to a square halt. Canter is not expected and a break from trot to canter will be penalized by the judge.
· Walk your pony to the ‘judge’/videographer, show right side view of pony. ‘Judge ‘walks around pony at halt filming same as in hand, all views hooves up, close up and step back.
· Pony walks squarely away from the judge showing good walk and action.
· Pony trots back towards the judge, continues past and away on a large, well defined ‘show’ which includes a figure 8 and a showy extended trot on diagonals and long side.
· Pony smoothly transitions back to walk, square halt, rider bows and walks off.
· The judge is looking for straight powerful action and the pony should be trained to trot freely immediately when asked.
W-T-C/Flat Class
The pony will be judged on the ride and conformation. The pony will be expected to display walk, trot and canter on both reins in an individual show, rider’s choice, which should include a strong trot and an extension of pace at canter.
· Walk your pony to the ‘judge’, halt.
· “Judge’ views pony at halt same as traditional carefully examining all sides of pony, close up hooves, hocks etc. and step away.
· Pony then walks away from the judge. Turns, trots back, past and away.
· Pony begins ‘show. Trot and Canter paces on both reins.
· Hand gallop long side showing a good quick, balanced pace.
· Transition smoothly to halt. You may do a rein back; the pony should step back for four paces without being hauled backwards and move forward to a square halt.
· Rider bows walk off.
· The judge is looking for straight powerful action and the pony should be trained to trot and canter moving off freely (and coming back to trot or walk) when asked.