[RC] Best conditioned awards in Australia - Splitters Creek ASHS
Kathy wrote:
I just read the article about the Australian "thrilling sprint finish
to endurance ride". It's interesting to see that they awarded a BC horse
in each of the weight divisions. Does anyone know the criteria for
being eligible to show for BC, do they have to be a top 10 finisher or
top "something" in their weight division?
Hi Kathy,
In Australian domestic rides we have a best
conditioned horse award in all weight divisions (although some states combine
similar divisions eg Junior and Lightweight). Some people also call them
'fittest horse'. The top 5 horses in each weight division are eligible to enter.
For rides under 160km the fittest horse can be judged under saddle or in hand.
For rides over 160km they are judged under saddle, typically the day following
the ride. Horses found lame are not eligible to enter. The vet inspects
each horse individually then it works out. They use an evaluation calculation
sheet which includes factors such as weight carried, time taken, heart rate,
metabolic parameters and willingness to move out etc.
Best conditioned or fittest horse is a very
prestigious award as it rewards good management rather than winning at all
cost.
