ACADEMY SHOW TEAM
WHAT IS
"ACADEMY"?
Morgan horse shows offer several levels of competition, including both Academy and traditional full-suit classes.
Academy classes are specifically designed for riders who participate in a riding academy or lesson program. Academy divisions provide an opportunity for lesson students to experience the excitement of the show ring without the significant investment and level of commitment typically associated with campaigning a show horse.
In contrast, full-suit classes are part of the traditional Morgan show divisions. These classes feature horses and riders competing at a higher level of training and presentation, with riders typically wearing the formal attire associated with the Morgan show ring. Horses may be professionally trained or extensively prepared specifically for competition, and the classes can be highly competitive.
The Academy Division creates a bridge between everyday riding lessons and the larger world of Morgan horse shows. Riders can learn how to prepare for a show, care for their horse, enter the ring, and compete as part of a team—while gaining the experience and confidence they need to potentially progress into full-suit competition in the future.
Great Island Riding Academy students primarily practice English style riding, with a focus on Hunt Seat and Saddle Seat disciplines. Our riders participate in both Equitation and Pleasure classes, where Equitation classes are judged on the position and effectiveness of the rider, and pleasure classes are judged on the responsiveness and movement of the horse.
Hunt Seat vs. Saddle Seat
Both Hunt Seat and Saddle Seat use English tack and emphasize correct equitation, they have different traditions, riding positions, and styles of movement.
Hunt Seat developed from the tradition of riding with the hunt field and emphasizes a balanced, forward position. Riders generally ride with shorter stirrups and a more forward leg position, allowing them to move comfortably with the horse over varied terrain and jumps. In the show ring, Hunt Seat classes focus on a quiet, polished presentation and a horse with a smooth, comfortable way of going.
Saddle Seat is particularly associated with breeds such as the Morgan, American Saddlebred, and Arabian. The discipline showcases the horse's natural animation, presence, and distinctive way of going. Riders use a longer stirrup and a more upright position, with the leg positioned farther forward than in Hunt Seat. Saddle Seat competition traditionally highlights the horse's expressive movement and responsiveness while maintaining a polished, elegant appearance.
At the academy level, students learn the fundamentals of both styles while developing balance, position, communication, and confidence. Learning both disciplines allows riders to experience the versatility of the Morgan horse and discover the style of riding that they enjoy most.
WHAT TO
WEAR
Check back soon!
WHAT TO
EXPECT
Check back soon!
WEAR