Watched the In Hand Trail class at QH2000 show at Grantham today. Thought it was a good idea to introduce young horses to showing - What does everyone else think?

What actually happens in this class? Im keen for my youngster to have a go this year. I think it's a really good idea of AQHA to introduce these classes as they are good fo rthe youngsters education and it gives people who dont want to ride something intersting to participate in.

Hi ZenithQH - found this article which explains what it's all about (in the US at least): http://horsecity.com/stories/040903/tra_inhand_BB.shtml
Not sure what classes if any are planned for in hand trail at shows here this year - can anyone out there organising shows post any information?

Thanks Markrm. I think we might have a go of that later this year when she loses her very woolly coat

There is, but the looks of it a "Handy/Trail Halter class for Yearlings and 2 year olds at the AQHA breed show at the end of September. I have emailed AQHAUK to ask if there is a pattern for it so if they reply I will post the info.

I would like to enter my two year old for it, as you say, it sounds like a good intro to showing..

Hello,
Tracy at AQHA has kindly emailed me back so I am posting the info as promised.
The Handy/Trail Halter 2 year old or yearling class at the Breed show in September is likely to be things like walking over a wooden bridge, backing up, poles to negotiate and maybe a gate to open and close. The pattern will be published in the show programme, which you can get once the show opens.
Good luck to everyone, hoping to meet you there!
Rachel