Horse Association of Kenya

Class Grading

If you have not competed at recognized shows before and are not familiar with the concept, grading can be a daunting subject. Every nation that holds shows has some form of grading although there are a lot of different ways this is done. In essence, it is a system that ensures an as level as possible playing field so all in a class have a chance to win – it is kind of a handicapping system. If you have no intention of competing, don’t worry about this subject and read no further! All horses and ponies in Kenya need to be registered with the HAK before they participate in an HAK competition or an HAK affiliated competition. At the initial registration, the horse is given a life long competition number. This helps our hard working Grading Recorders keep track of the results of each horse or pony. Every time a horse competes in any class its results are recorded. All new horses and ponies start competing with 0 points, unless they were imported and have carried points from the country they originate from. When a horse has 0 points, it is eligible to compete at the lowest levels.

Some competitions are “non-grading”, which means that no points can be gained by winning or getting placed. If you stay at those lower levels the horse will never get any grading points or Qualifying Round Points (QRP). If you enter graded competitions and win or are placed, your horse will get points. Every level of competition has a minimum number of points that is required in order to be eligible to compete at that level. Therefore, if you want to go up the ranks you need to get points.

If you have bought or leased a horse or pony with points, which grades it at a level where you are not confident, don’t panic. There are ways to make our system work for you in all disciplines. Hors Concours (HC) is the simplest. If you enter a class H.C., you can compete in Combined Training, Eventing and Hunter Trials at any level you like below the grade of your horse. In Dressage the “Special” sections of all classes work in much the same way. In jumping there are three non-grading classes offered to both horses (0.70, 0.80, and 0.90 m) and ponies (0.60, 0.70, and 0.80 m) at each show. All horses and ponies can compete in these and all those who jump a double clear get a first rosette. Should you wish to jump your horse in a lower grade that is possible, no H.C. is needed.

If you contemplating but have not yet bought an already competing horse or pony, it is worth consulting with one of our experienced members or trainers so that you understand where your intended purchase will be eligible. If you have already bought a competing horse or pony we advice you to consult one of the following and they will help you make the correct entries for an show. Our Committee Members are always willing to help you as we encourage our members to compete. Please do ask at the HAK Office for the numbers and call: Ann Abercromby-Dick, Mary Binks, or Clare Hewitt-Stubbs or liaise with one of the listed trainers. The intention is for us all to enjoy competition and have a chance to do well but mostly have fun.