Photoset: USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship

The United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) is holding the International Hunter Derby Championship this weekend at the Kentucky Horse Park. This relatively new division was created to bring traditional horsemanship back to the modern hunter ring.

Obstacles in hunter derby classes are based on those that would be found outdoors in the hunt field, including natural post and rail, natural foliage, logs and board fences. Horses are judged on quality, movement, jumping style, manners and way of going. Riders can earn bonus points by clearing the high option fences on course. At the national level, fences are set at 3′ with the high options at 3′ 5″. At the international level, fences are 3’6″ to 4’0″ with high options at a minimum of 4’3″.

The first round of competition at the International Championship, the Classic Hunter Round, took place on Friday, Aug. 15. The final rounds will begin at 6:30 p.m. E.T. on Saturday, Aug. 16. Admission is included with Kentucky Horse Park admission. The final rounds will also be broadcast for free online at USEFNetwork.com.

Learn more about the hunter derby programs at USHJA.org.

Liked this article? Here’s more info on hunter derbies:
Intro to the Hunter Derby
Build Your Own Hunter Derby Fences