Young handler Guidelines (effective from 1st May 2025)

Clydesdale Horse Society

Guidance for Young Handler Classes (effective from 1st May 2025)

Young Handler Classes at Shows Affiliated to The Clydesdale Horse Society (CHS) are to be held under the auspices of the CHS, with the following guidelines applying.

  • Young handlers must be aged 12-16 years old on the day of the qualifying show.
  • Young handlers may compete in any number of Young Handler classes in any year, but they may only qualify once in the given year. If the Young Handler placed in the class has already qualified, then the qualifying place must go down the line to the first available non qualifier.
  • Only animals which are entered in other classes in the show at which the qualifier is taking place may be used in the class.
  • No entire colts are allowed.
  • Judging of the class is not on the merits of the animal - it is to be on the quality of the stockmanship, showmanship and handling in the showing by the Young Handler.
  • Entrants must be suitably dressed for showing.
  • Entrants will be expected to walk and trot their animals as requested.
  • If an entrant gets into difficulties during the walk and the trot only, outside assistance can be given.  It must be recognised that such assistance could affect the placing of the Young Handler in the class. 
  • Any Young Handler who qualifies within the age group described at item 1 above may still compete in the final at the Royal Highland Show although they may be aged 17 by that time.