| The term "Show jumper" is a word used to describe a | | | | horse of greater ability to compete on a more serious |
| horse or pony used in the sport Show jumping. A | | | | level. An advanced show jumper must be accurate |
| Show jumper can be any type of horse or pony any | | | | and brave to jump large obstacles as well as having |
| colour and any height. | | | | the physical ability to complete demanding courses; |
| Show jumping competitions are staged at different | | | | these talented horses need superior riders. |
| standards to cater for various levels of riding. The | | | | Many different types of horses and ponies have been |
| abilty of the rider will reflect in the standard and type | | | | successful at show jumping; there is no link between |
| of horse or pony that is used. | | | | the horse or pony's size and their ability to jump |
| Show jumping competitions are held over a course of | | | | fences. Many great show jumpers have had uncertain |
| elaborate coloured fences, often with turns and | | | | breeding, but there are certain breeds that do excel in |
| changes of direction. The intention is to complete the | | | | show jumping. |
| course within a set time without any faults; this is called | | | | The Connemara pony has been recognised as the |
| a clear round. | | | | world's leading sports pony. |
| Competitors with a clear round usually qualify for the | | | | The Connemara pony is extremely athletic and has |
| jump off, this is a shortened course that has been | | | | masses of jumping ability. |
| increased in height, the fastest clear round wins. | | | | Continental Warmblood horses are hugely popular. |
| Horses and ponies used for show jumping | | | | Warmblood horses are bred for performance and |
| Show jumpers vary in ability. A novice rider would | | | | excel at show jumping. Warmblood horses dominate |
| need a show jumper of an average ability, which is | | | | the top levels of show jumping. |
| experienced at show jumping at a novice level that is | | | | Thoroughbred horses are also seen at the highest |
| calm and patient and will be a confidence giving ride | | | | levels of show jumping; they are extremely athletic |
| which will teach the rider and improve their riding ability | | | | and strong, and have plenty of jumping prowess. |
| over fences. A more experienced rider will need a | | | | |