In pursuit elegance of

Hacks have been shown in the ring for more than 100 years, but their popularity has gradually waned, so what has changed? Tricia Johnson investigates

ORIGINALLY, there were two types of hack: the “covert hack” would carry a gentleman to the meet, and the more refined “park hacks” were paraded in fashionable places – such as London’s Rotten Row – by dashing young gentlemen and eligible ladies of the day. Gradually, the park hacks took over in the show ring while the stronger, covert types eventually found their niche in riding horse ranks.

One of the early showing supremos was Count Robert Orssich, whose elegant riding style concealed exceptional skill and served as a shining example – not only to competitors back then, but much later too.

Tim Wiggett, former president of the British Show Horse Association (BSHA) and a respected judge, recalls: “The Count was a true master of his craft and I learned a huge amount from him. He always extolled the virtues of proper self-carriage as once you achieved that – along with balance, good rhythm and a biddable temperament – you could mould the ride you wanted from the horse. He was also wonderful with difficult horses."

SOURCING hacks, however, has never been easy.

"It's always been a challenge to find the true, quality type and today, a number lack enough bone," Tim reflects.

"It's all very well having a suitable frame, great conformation, movement, and temperament, but lack of substantial enough limb often spoils the whole picture.

"However going back in time, the likes of Right Royal, Piran Pyca, Tomadachi and Formidable would give some of today's hacks a run for their money. Equally, the current Horse of the Year Show [HOYS] champion Forgeland Hyde Park would have measured up admirably back then."

Last year's HOYS ride judge Mathew Lawrence concurs.