Interested in competing with your Paso Fino? You should know that there are different types of Paso Fino competition classes that your horse may be eligible to compete in. As such, it’s important that you identify which classes you can and want to compete in so that you can train appropriately.
Some of the classes Paso Finos may compete in include:
Show Classes
Gait quality, performance, conformation, manners, and overall presentation are the main emphases in show classes. Judges evaluate each entry based on adherence to breed standards, correctness of gait execution, rider position and aids, and overall harmony between horse and rider.
Classic Fino Division:
This class focuses exclusively on the Classic Fino gait, a very collected gait with rapid footfalls and minimal forward motion. The gait should be evenly spaced, smooth, precise yet animated, and engaging to watch.
Performance Division:
The performance division is dedicated to the other gaits of the Paso Fino (such as the Paso Corto, Paso Largo, and collected walk). Judges will assess horses based on their ability to maintain collection, balance, and harmony while executing (and transitioning between) various gaits.
Pleasure Division:
This class highlights gaits typically used for pleasure and trail riding, such as the mildly collected Corto, mildly collected Largo, and flat-footed walk. While precision and execution are still valued in this class, judges will also look for qualities such as willingness, responsiveness, manners and obedience, fluidity of motion, and the ability to keep a relaxed posture without losing collection.
Versatility Class:
Paso Finos in the Versatility Class will be judged on their ability to perform the Paso Corto, Paso Largo, flat walk, and canter while also navigating jumps, figure eights, and other maneuvers. Gait quality and execution will be judged, along with the horse’s conformation and the rider’s skill.
Specialty Classes:
Specialty classes are designed to demonstrate the multifaceted aptitudes of the Paso Fino horse. These classes may include gaited Pleasure Driving, Paso Fino Trail Riding (wherein the horse is asked to negotiate obstacles simulating the trail experience), Western Pleasure riding, and Paso Fino Costume or Parade classes, which showcase the horse’s Latin American heritage by asking riders to execute the gait of their choice while wearing traditional tack and regalia.
Bella Formas:
The Bella Formas class emphasizes the natural style and beauty of the Paso Fino horse breed. Horses will be judged on grooming, conformation, manners, and style in addition to the quality of their gait.
Trail and Endurance Competitions
Beyond the show ring, Paso Finos are reliable, hardy, and surefooted horses – making them ideally suited to a variety of equine performance competitions, such as:
Competitive Trail and Endurance Riding:
Trail riding competitions typically involve judging horses based on their performance outdoors. Test criteria may include everything from how easily the horse loads and unloads from a trailer to their ability to navigate hills and obstacles, pass through gates, turn on the forehand, and more.
Western Classes:
Western divisions may include Mounted Shooting, Barrel Racing, Cattle Working, and gaited Drill Team competitions. Horses will be judged based on their speed, responsiveness, agility, and how well they apply the specific skills used for these classes. Horses in Drill Teams will also be evaluated on their manners, teamwork, and coordination with other horses and riders, in addition to their crowd appeal.
Competition Requirements
To participate in a Paso Fino show, you must register your horse with the Paso Fino Horse Association and begin by competing in local shows. (Horses must accumulate at least 20 points in regional shows in one year before participating in national shows.) Always bring your PFHA membership card to shows along with your horse’s registration papers, sales papers and health records. In many cases, these documents can be sent to show officials ahead of time, expediting the check-in process. You should also review the PFHA rules before attending to ensure you demonstrate proper etiquette and attire (specific dress codes are enforced for Paso Fino riders participating in various divisions).
Have Questions About Paso Fino Competition Classes?
Contact CPFHS to get all your questions answered. The Canadian Paso Fino Horse Society has a network of professionals and experts that can guide you through the competition process. Whether you are looking for a trainer or need advice from seasoned competitors, the CPFHS can connect you with the right person to help you with your competition goals.