Judging & Awards
ANSA’s judging standards and Performance Awards reflect our commitment to fairness, excellence and the growth of the saddlehorse community.
These guidelines uphold consistency, celebrate achievement and maintain ANSA’s reputation as a trusted, respected association.
Become A Judge
Support the future of the saddlehorse community by becoming an ANSA judge.
If you’ve been an ANSA financial member for over 12 months and wish to contribute your expertise, you can apply to join our judging community and help uphold the standards that keep ANSA a respected and progressive association.
Simply complete the application form and email to ansaddlehorse@outlook.com along with your resume.
Current Judges and Classifiers
2025 Royal Judges List
Quick reference for judging ANSA events
Conformation first and foremost
Good calm temperament, goes forward and light in hand with a straight gait
Horses both led and ridden MUST display impeccable manners at all times in the ring
An ANSA horse must be a comfortable riding horse over 14.2HH.
Must be ridden and /or led with a snaffle bit only – NO CHAINS (unless directly from bit to lead in led classes- not touching the horse’s mouth)
No artificial aids
A workout – the workout to be in both directions at all paces
Additional Information
ANSA rider attire for judging ANSA events
Competitors must wear at Royal Shows (preference given at all other shows)
ANSA tie, long sleeved ANSA shirt, felt hat or helmet, fawn or light coloured stockmans cut trousers or jodhpurs, riding boots, v-neck jumper or coat optional
ANSA saddlecloth, Australian or English saddle; plain, single rein bridle with snaffle bit
No artificial aids
No twisted wire bits in any ANSA classes
Best presented ANSA Horse & Rider under saddle
The class is to be judged on the following:
Conformation and suitability
Saddlery equipment, ANSA attire, presentation, and rider’s ability
Horse paces and ability (to be ridden in both directions at all paces to show that horse is a pleasurable ride)
Our Performance Awards
High Point Awards
General Rules
Performance Period
The performance year runs from 1 December to 30 November.
Entry & Submission
Entry fee: $20 per horse
Performance sheets must be submitted to the Secretary by 14 December each year.
Local and District events receive minimum points.
Junior members riding ANSA horses may participate, provided points are gained in open competition.
Scoring
Points are taken from the six (6) best category performances.
Points may be earned at open competitions run by any organisation, as well as events conducted by ANSA and its branches.
Club-restricted competitions are not considered open and do not qualify for points.
Final Authority
The official recorder’s decision is final.
Become a member
Join ANSA today and become part of a passionate community championing the beauty, versatility and excellence of the Australian saddlehorse.