Well, a model horse show is similar to a real horse show in that there are both halter and performance classes. Halter classes are fairly simple, you place your untacked model on the table with the appropriate class and it is judges on condition, breed type, workmanship (for CM/AR models) and rarity (OF models). You might wonder how a judge decides when there are multiples of the same mold or sculpture on the table. They have to make a decision based on condition and workmanship. Say for instance, there are 2 identical models in an OF halter class. The judge would look closely and determine if one has better coloration, shading or is a bit more neatly painted. That would be the tiebreaker. AR/CM models are a bit easier, they are judged on workmanship and breed type more so than OF models are.
This is Firareth, he was Res Champ at a show and multi NAN qualified in halter.
Performance classes are a bit different. I mean, the horses can't actually PERFORM can they? The solution to this is to make your setup look as much like a snapshot of a real horse performing the activity as you can. Say you have a horse you want to show in Western Pleasure, you would need appropriate tack for a start, it needs to be on the horse correctly, the fit must be right, and the horse needs to be in a pose suited for this event. A wildly galloping model is not a good candidate. You don't really NEED anything but the horse and tack. A rider is nice, but is just another variable to either make or break your entry. If you use a rider, you must be sure it is posed correctly and is on the horse exactly right. It is also nice to have props, like an arena fence and footing, but again, not necessary. It can be as simple or complex as you want. The judge is looking for suitability of the model for the task, tack fit/correctness, doll placement (if used) and overall neatness.
Performance classes are a bit different. I mean, the horses can't actually PERFORM can they? The solution to this is to make your setup look as much like a snapshot of a real horse performing the activity as you can. Say you have a horse you want to show in Western Pleasure, you would need appropriate tack for a start, it needs to be on the horse correctly, the fit must be right, and the horse needs to be in a pose suited for this event. A wildly galloping model is not a good candidate. You don't really NEED anything but the horse and tack. A rider is nice, but is just another variable to either make or break your entry. If you use a rider, you must be sure it is posed correctly and is on the horse exactly right. It is also nice to have props, like an arena fence and footing, but again, not necessary. It can be as simple or complex as you want. The judge is looking for suitability of the model for the task, tack fit/correctness, doll placement (if used) and overall neatness.
A versatile diorama, can be used in many classes, consists of an arena base made of a shallow box with sand and an arena fence. I have used it here for a trail setup.
This is a more specific diorama, used here for a cross country jump setup, but can also be used for a natural trail or costume setup.
Most shows award ribbons for most classes, some give bigger prizes for Grand/Res as well. There is also the chance to qualify for North American Nationals, or NAN. NAN tickets are awarded to first and second place models in each class excluding Grand/Res classes. The ticket allows the horse entry at the Nationals. Horses that have won these tickets are said to have NANed and this is a large selling point in the hobby.
My (sold) Champion Performance Mare Jim's Bourbon Lady, a Kentucky Mtn. Saddle Horse
I like a lot of your horse figures, they are awesome. <3
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