Conformation Clinic: Performance Mares

In judging conformation, I always look at the four categories of overall balance, structural correctness, breed and sex quality, and muscling. I first notice which horses set themselves apart, then analyze what I like about them, asking myself a series of questions about each horse’s positives and negatives to make sure I’m correct in my initial impressions. The quality category, judged on breed and sex characteristics, is an important consideration, especially for classes of stallions or mares. However, that category cannot override the categories of balance and structural correctness, since athletic performance is at the core of what I’m looking for. A mare’s femininity will attract the eye, but she must have balance and correctness as her foundation. I’m still looking for the overall best combination of all four categories.