Gypsy Vanner Horse Society. Conformation and Performance Evaluation Program

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1 Conformation and Performance Evaluation Program P.O. Box 219 Morriston, FL

2 Conformation and Performance Evaluation Program TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Introduction to the II. Introduction to the Evaluation Program III. Gypsy Vanner Breed Standard IV. Evaluation Rules V. Conformation- Movement Evaluation VI. Performance Evaluations VII. Awards & Recognition Appendix A. Relevant Registration Rules & Process Appendix B. Evaluation Score Sheets & Patterns

3 I. Introduction to the - The history, goals and beliefs of the GVHS - Founded November 24, 1996, the is the world s first Registry to recognize a breed of horse developed by the Gypsies of Great Britain and the only such Registry founded on an in-depth study of British and their horses. Soon after World War II, a vision was born by the Gypsies of Great Britain to create the perfect caravan horse; a small Shire, with more feather, more color and a sweeter head was the goal. Selective breeding by the Gypsies continued virtually unknown to the outside world for over half a century until two Americans, Dennis and Cindy Thompson, noticed a magical looking horse standing in a field while traveling through the English countryside. That very horse became #GV000001F in the. His name is Cushti Bok, a name that means good luck in Romany, a language of the Gypsies. The logo of the Gypsy Vanner Horse Society is an image of Cushti Bok, the letters GVHS with an emphasized V for Vanner. The s mission begins with a commitment to bring honor, recognition and a better understanding to one of the world s most colorful, least understood societies and the horses they so dearly love and ends with a commitment to remain quality based, culturally sensitive and socially responsible. This Registry was established to protect a vision that was born over half a century ago to create the perfect caravan horse to pull the Gypsies colorful caravans. Specific goals will enable the GVHS to achieve the mission. Those goals are: THE LOOK Establish the breed with the look envisioned by the Gypsies. THE GENETICS Establish the breed with the genetics that it, identified through DNA verification whenever possible.

4 THE FEELINGS Establish the breed with the feelings of the status and pride that Gypsies feel for their selectively bred horses. I d give a thousand pounds just to walk him in front of the boys, said Tom Price (the Gypsy who raised Cushti Bok) as he described the famous stallion, The Kent Horse. We honor Tom and Gypsy breeders like him by breeding Vanner horses a Gypsy would want to walk in front of the boys. THE VALUE Establish the breed in parallel to the values that Gypsies place on their selectively bred horses. Remaining culturally sensitive requires that we understand and strive to preserve (or elevate) the British/Irish Gypsy culture s established means of making a living raising horses. THE NAME GYPSY VANNER HORSE The name GYPSY VANNER HORSE is the first name in the world to identify a selectively-bred horse raised by the Gypsies of Great Britain as a breed. The name was painstakingly chosen and has three components- the people, their vision and the species. To shorten the breed s name one would use the breed s vision word, Vanner or Vanner Horse. Compare this to the American Quarter Horse or Quarter Horse- a people, their vision and the species. Vanner, in the English Chambers Dictionary is defined as a horse suitable to pull a caravan. A Gypsy s caravan horse is a Vanner. WHAT THE GVHS BELIEVES All breeds result from a crossing of breeds by someone or some culture focused on creating a specific looking horse from their dreamed image or vision. Once the vision horse is achieved and recognized, the basic function of a breed society is to protect, perpetuate, promote and educate others about that breed. Therefore, cross bred horses are not accepted for registration into the GVHS Studbooks. The GVHS has the distinction of being the first breed society established in the age of the Internet. Due to this communication phenomenon, people seeking information may quickly become confused by multiple names and mixed messages on the Internet. Confusion is counterproductive to a breed, our Society s goals and to a breeder s ability to achieve success. Registering qualified horses solely with the is an important step toward eliminating that confusion.

5 The GVHS offers useful website guidelines designed to help our membership send the message of the. Members websites, which showcase their farm s individuality, accompanied by a sense of unity, breed clarity, and the pursuit of like-minded goals, will ensure the success of the breed, the Society and its members in this unique age in which we live. IN CONCLUSION Every ingredient described in this introduction- the look, the genetics, the feelings and the value- existed the day Cushti Bok was discovered. The heartbeat of our Society and the inspiration for its mission is founded on a desire to preserve and share those special ingredients with others. Through achieving our goals, Gypsiesone of the most colorful, least understood societies on earth- will take and extraordinary place in the annals of equine history.

6 II. Gypsy Vanner Horse Evaluation Program INTRODUCTION The Gypsy Vanner Horse Evaluation Program has been developed as an educational tool for the horse breeder, to promote thoughtful breeding of Gypsy Vanner Horses of the type as detailed in the breed standard, and for the public to educate them about the breed. The program s purpose is to help breeders and owners to educate themselves about the strengths and weaknesses of their horses so they can use this knowledge in making educated breeding and purchasing decisions. This system should be looked upon as an important tool to help preserve the wonderful characteristics of the Gypsy Vanner Horse. The conformation-movement evaluation is also an integral part of the GVHS Registration process. Horses lacking DNA verification of both sire and dam require a certain minimum conformation-movement evaluation score to move from the GVHS Pre-Studbook into the Regular Studbook. More information regarding the Registration Rules and process can be found in Appendix I. This is a voluntary program, therefore its success depends on its acceptance and use by Gypsy Vanner owners. It is a controlled system based on the Gypsy Vanner Horse Society breed standards. Each horse is scored against the breed standard, not against another horse. It is not a horse show and not judged as such. There are all ages, and the performance testing for horses age three and older in English pleasure, western pleasure and pleasure driving. A horse can be entered into any part of the evaluation program in a given year, whether it be conformation/movement alone, performance alone or any combination. GVHS APPROVED EVALUATORS Horses will be evaluated and scored by two GVHS approved Evaluators. Candidate Evaluators must have verified, relevant equine industry experience and must complete the Evaluator Training Program. Training will consist of classroom work, slides and videos, hands on training and participation as a learner evaluator. Following completion of a training seminar, potential Evaluator candidates will be identified by the Evaluation Committee to proceed through the learner Evaluator process. As a shadow Evaluator the potential Evaluator candidates must evaluate three (3) Conformation- Movement and two (2) Performance Evaluations with scores

7 within five overall points of the average of the two experienced Evaluators. The GVHS will cover $300 in travel expenses to help defray the costs for the potential Evaluator attending their first shadow Evaluation within the first year. Once granted Evaluator status, Evaluators must sign the Evaluator Agreement with the GVHS indicating that they acknowledge and agree to the following conditions: To only evaluate Gypsy Vanners within the GVHS Evaluation program and will not participate in private evaluations on farms or at horse shows unless they are part of an approved, organized GVHS Evaluation. They must not act as Judges for GVHS recognized breed shows during their tenure as an Evaluator. Evaluators are expected to maintain an up-to-date Membership with the GVHS during their tenure as an Evaluator. Ethical principles must be adhered to by the Evaluators. In every situation the evaluators should attempt to act and behave with the highest ethical standards in mind. Evaluator status will be reviewed on an Annual basis by the Evaluation Committee. During this time, the GVHS agrees to offer each qualified Evaluator equal opportunities annually to conduct Evaluations. Evaluators will be offered these opportunities based upon their proximity to the planned Evaluation location in order to allow GVHS to minimize travel expenses. Evaluators who have been actively evaluating at least one session each year may, upon review by Evaluation Committee can have their Evaluation status automatically renewed on an annual basis. Ethical principles must be adhered to by the Evaluators. In every situation the evaluators should attempt to act and behave with the highest ethical standards in mind. Evaluators have a compelling responsibility to fairly and independently evaluate each horse and to provide the horse owner with information and guidance which is clear and useful. Because some owners are novices, evaluators should take care that explanations are understandable. Evaluators are expected to be able to verbally explain their assessments in addition to the written scores and comments on the Scoresheets. Brief explanations can be given in the ring and evaluators should be available to make explanations to horse owners outside the ring and after the evaluation is finished. The Evaluator must attempt to present a positive and professional image. The Evaluator should be willing to offer helpful information and suggestions. The verbal

8 manner of an Evaluator and his/her personal behaviour is very important. The Evaluator shall be friendly and respectful while evaluating and educating. Evaluators will dress in an appropriate manner and be prompt and on schedule, while also taking enough time to sufficiently evaluate each horse. The Evaluator must never disparage a horse, its breeder or owner in any way. The Evaluator evaluates a horse only by comparison to the Breed Standard and not by the pedigree, the bloodline or the breeder/owner/handler. The Evaluator must judge a horse objectively as it is presented before them on that day. The Evaluator must ensure that handlers and riders have been given adequate instruction and opportunity to show the horse to its best potential. Any information previously received or heard, regarding a particular horse must be rejected, and the evaluation based on only what is seen at the time of evaluation. THE EVALUATION MANAGER - Prepare scoresheets for each Evaluation with complete information for the horse being Evaluated. - Collect and tally TOTAL SCORE for each Evaluator. IF the total score differs by more than 5 points, bring this to the attention of the Evaluators so that they are given the opportunity to review, discuss their scores to ensure that something was not overlooked by one of the Evaluators. Following this review, either Evaluator may have the opportunity to adjust their scores if deemed necessary. The Manager must then re-tally the TOTAL SCORE for each. - Discuss any noted concerns with the Evaluation process, the scoring and written and/or verbal communications with the Evaluators as they arise. - Ensure Scoresheets are handled and stored securely, allowing only review by the horse s owner and the Evaluators. DISPUTE RESOLUTIONS In the event it is claimed an evaluator has acted in an unethical manner, the following procedure should be followed: 1. The incident or complaint should be reported to the on site Evaluation Manager immediately. It is preferable if the matter is raised at the evaluation site. If not, there is a 30 day time limit to file the concern. 2. The Evaluation Manager will make every effort to protect the privacy and dignity of all concerned.

9 3. If the matter cannot be resolved on site it will be taken to the Evaluation Committee which is overseen by the Board of Directors of the GVHS. 4. The GVHS BOD will make final decisions in all disputes after hearing recommendation of the Evaluation Committee. CONDUCT OF OWNERS AND BREEDERS Owners and breeders are expected to present their horse in a professional manner. Breeders and owners will be respectful of the Evaluators, the other breeders and owners, and show management. Breeders and owners have an obligation to respect the view of the Evaluator. Care must be taken not to misquote evaluators, take them out of context, or disparage an Evaluator. Any issues or complaints are to be taken to the Evaluation Manager.

10 III. Gypsy Vanner Horse Breed Standard The s role in the preservation of the traditions and legacy of the breed can only be accomplished through officially recording the generally accepted characteristics and traits that make this breed unique from all other breeds of horses. A breed standard is a document created by a breed society which carefully describes the genetically acceptable inheritable characteristics and traits of the animals representative of the breed. The breed standard establishes a visual and written target for breeders to continuously replicate their horses for future generations, while placing a strong emphasis on the characteristics and traits that make the breed unique.

11 GENERAL APPEARANCE AND IMPRESSION IMAGE The first glance, impression of the breed is its stature as a small draft horse. The image is enhanced with feathering, muscular development and size. The presence and quality of the breed reflect in its personality of being gentle, cooperative and willing, yet powerful. The head is characteristically pleasant reflecting gender, with an intelligent eye. The neck comes up high and forward off the shoulder, yielding a positive set and arch to the neck. The topline is level from wither to tail head, with a slight turn to the croup to enhance the powerful abilities of the hindquarters. The muscling is balanced throughout the body with the harmonious blending of all anatomical regions. The limbs are straight and correct, of such size and definition to be proportional to height and muscular development of the animal. COAT COLOR The acceptable descriptive terms for the coat colors of the Gypsy Vanner horse are: Piebald Black and White Tobiano Skewbald - Combinations of Brown, Red and White including tri-colored Tobiano Blagdon* Solid color with white splashed up from underneath Odd Colored All other colors * Descriptive phrases used to define the coat colors of the Gypsy Vanner breed, although another term may be used by other equine organizations to describe these colors and patterns. It is important to note, the Gypsy Vanner is not a breed based on color, although the easily recognizable coat colors set the breed apart from others. MARKINGS The facial and leg markings follow the traditional descriptive terminology when it is applicable in defining identifiable true white markings. All true white markings have underlying white or pink skin pigmentation. The color of the hooves may be solid or vertically striped, depending upon the leg marking and coloration of the skin immediately about the eruption of the coronary band. White hooves or partially white hooves will have a white leg marking immediately above it.

12 HEIGHT The height as measured at the withers will normally be between 13.2 hands to 15.2 hands although there may be individuals outside this range. Simply stated, larger or smaller versions of the identical conformation profile and standards are all equally acceptable. UNIQUE CHARACTERISTIC The body, mane and tail hair coat of the Gypsy Vanner may vary from smooth straight and silky to slight waves and curl yet fine. One of the unique characteristics of the breed is the abundance of feathering found on the rear of the fore and hind legs, starting from the knee and hock and extending down and over the hooves. The natural feathering is the term to describe the excessive amounts of long hairs on the lower legs, hence the term horse feathers. The leg feathering provides natural protection to the legs from the weather and working conditions. The profound hair covering the hooves is referred to in the singular feather. The horses should have long natural flowing manes and tails, only trimmed or braided for neatness of appearance when being shown. The forelock should be full and long covering the eyes, as a natural sort of protection. The natural Gypsy Vanner may have a beard, whiskers and muzzle hairs. These are often trimmed or removed in preparation for competition in the show ring. TEMPERAMENT The temperament of the breed is reflected in its personality and willingness to cooperate with man when given tasks. Coming from a cold blooded background, the breed should be relaxed, mannerly, and respectful of its environment. Their willingness should be expressed in their innate attitude of being capable of serving as a riding and driving animal. When evaluating temperament, gender must be considered. Granted, from time to time individual horses will not display exemplary behavior, the reason needs to be determined, and if this behavior is innate, with the horse having a propensity for vicious and unmannerly behavior making it unsuitable for practical use, the individual could be considered a poor representative of the breed. GENDER The gender characteristics of the Gypsy Vanner Horse are of vital importance to maintain quality within the breed. Stallions must resemble the male, masculine characteristics within the breed, having presence [ a look at me attitude ],

13 curiosity, muscling, and pride, yet always controllable and willing. Mares must reflect the quality and highly feminine qualities. The attitude of the mare is critical in the raising of her foal, as the foal will learn by example; the mare should be easy-going, sensible, and willing. A stallion three years of age and older must have two fully descended, normally shaped testicles. The ability to observe the descended testicles may be dependent upon environmental temperatures. Stallions under the age of three may be difficult to observe due to development and maturation of the individual. HEAD The overall impression of the head conveys an image of intelligence. It s size, shape and structure is proportional with the remainder of the anatomical regions. The refinement and delineation of facial features as well as the definition and shape to the lower jaw all contribute to the image of the head. The forehead must be flat and broad. The frontal facial bone should be flat to slightly convex, as it blends into a muzzle with sufficiently large nostril openings for the free exchange of air. The lips should be tightly closed. A pleasant, intelligent head must be the trademark of the breed. EARS The size, shape and position of the ears reflect the horse s personality as well as desirable characteristics of the breed. The length and width of the ear should be proportional to the head. The shape should be moderately wide at its middle, providing adequate space for collection of noises and sounds. The originating placement of the ear should be with a slight forward slant, with the ability to rotate from a forward alert position to a backward defensive maneuver, such as pinning the ears. A mare s ears tend to be a bit longer then the stallion, whose ears are short and shapely. The ears contribute to the overall image of the horse, EYES The expression and placement of the eye convey alertness, intelligence and kindness. The eyes must be prominent, placed on the outer edge of the head to maximize the ability of the horse to see peripherally as well as with forward binocular vision. The eye should be large in its external structure and appearance. The distance between the eyes should be wider than the base of the ears, and located about 60-65% of the distance between the poll and the muzzle.

14 The color of the eyes will vary according to the color and color pattern of the horse. Partial white and dark color combinations are acceptable, along with a white sclera. BITE The point where the central incisors meet must be equal and even as viewed from the side. A slight deviation is possible without fault if the teeth vary no more than one half the width of the tooth s surface. The slight deviation could occur with either the upper or the lower jaw. The accuracy of the bite may vary according to age, and the dental maturation due to the growth and development of the pre-molars and molars. As the pre-molars and molars move into location, the alignment of the jaw could vary during this process. NECK The set, length and arch of the horse s neck are very important to its use and athletic ability. The neck serves many vital functions all associated with its ability for lifting, elevation, flexion, and lateral movement. The length of the neck needs to be sufficiently long for the horse to graze without shifting foreleg positions or standing with an offset foreleg position to enable the ability to reach the ground. Conversely, the neck should be sufficiently long enough to elevate the head for the horse to survey its surroundings, as a defensive posture. The neck should be sufficiently long enough for the horse to shift the horse s body weight into a balanced frame, thereby placing more body weight proportionally on the hind legs than normal, enabling the ability for impulsion from the hindquarters. The neck should rise upward from a well sloped shoulder, departing sufficiently above the point of the shoulder. The underline of the neck should be inwardly rounded, following a parallel line created by the arch of the upper neckline [crest] from wither to poll, while the underline tapers into the throatlatch. The definition of the jugular groove should be prominent. The upper neckline [crest] should be arched and well-muscled in both the mare and stallion, with more prominence desired and expected in the stallion. When standing at the rear of the horse, the neckline from the top of the withers to the poll must be a straight line, with only slight deviations. The upper neckline must demonstrate power, strength and flexibility. The length, shape and ability for the horse to use the neck determine its natural athletic ability. It must be remembered, the Gypsy Vanner necks tend to be shorter with more powerful muscling than many breeds, due to the genetic

15 selection for these horses to be used in draft related activities, strong necks that easily fit the philosophy of form to function. BODY The overall impression of the Gypsy Vanner s body is one of harmony and muscular proportionality with all of its collective anatomical regions. The balance and proportions go from the point of the shoulder to the buttock, point of the hip to stifle, wither to elbow, and fore-flank to rear-flank, and length of the back in relationship to the coupling and croup to tail head. All from the profile view provide a balance and proportionality, with the blending of the anatomical regions. From the front and rear views, the width of the point of the shoulders, the spring and shape to the ribs, width and development of the chest, width of the hips, width of the stifles, definition of muscling in the rear quarters and stifle region and shape to the hip and croup, contribute to the balance and harmony, and more importantly the powerful athletic ability of the horse. In viewing the body of the Gypsy Vanner, the muscle structure must convey the image of an athletically muscled horse, with smooth round muscles. Short, bunchy, bulky muscles are not desired. Likewise, the amount and size of bone should be substantial and yet, refined. The substantial bone must reflect the workmanlike image of a draft animal, to sustain loading and stress. The limbs of the horse should clearly exemplify defined joints in the leg, in proportion to the diameter of cannon and pastern bones. The knee, hock and fetlock should be very obvious junctures of the leg structure, all proportional to the substance and muscle of the body. SHOULDER The shoulder is an important attachment point of the neck and the forelegs. Therefore, it is one of the most important anatomical regions impacting upon form to function, providing a natural, home for the collar and hames, as well as the ability to flex forward for the extension and reach of the movement at the walk and trot. As viewed from the side, the shoulder should have an angle of 50 to 55 degrees, with deviations observed +/-5 degrees. The angle of the shoulder can be viewed from the most prominent [center] point of the withers with an imaginary line being drawn to the point of the shoulder. When a base horizontal line is added to the point of the shoulder, the angle of the shoulder should be apparent. The shoulder angle of the Gypsy Vanner tends to be more toward the vertical [90

16 degrees] due to the historical genetic selection of a shoulder to be easily fitted to a draft collar. In partnership with the angle of the shoulder is the arm, the bone connecting the point of the shoulder with the elbow. The length and angle of attachment of the arm to the elbow joint affects the shoulder s ability to lift and move the forelimb forward for all gaits. A long arm is more desirable, resulting with the placement of the foreleg under the center of the body, closer to its natural center of gravity. It is undesirable to have legs appearing to attach close to the point of the shoulder, as this affects stride and support of the body by the forelimb. The shoulder must be covered with sufficient muscling to protect the shoulder while allowing the horse to have the full ability to perform as a powerful athlete. WITHERS The withers are the departure point of the neck up, and forward, as well as the jointure of both shoulders [scapulae]. The withers should be prominent with sufficient muscle cover to protect this jointure. Horses with round withers are not desirable as this affects the ability to provide the proper position for harness. BACK AND COUPLING/LOIN The Gypsy Vanner s back starts at the withers and goes toward the tail, until it reaches the last lumbar vertebrae. The topline of the back must be short and strong, with a slight curvature allowing the horse the ability to become round, flexible through the middle upper body. As the back terminates at the last rib, the coupling/loin area connects the back with the croup. The coupling/loin area adds to the horse s strength and lateral flexibility of the body. The length of the coupling/loin area will vary but must be proportional and balanced to all other anatomical regions of the horse. The proportional length of the combined back and coupling/loin of a horse is important in establishing a strong, athletic topline. The length of the coupling/loin area is often confused with the observation about the horse s back. A short, strong coupling/loin is usually associated with a short back, while a longer coupling/loin is associated with a long back. When in actuality, the length of the back remains the same, the true variable is the length of the coupling/loin, hence, the descriptive terminology is incorrect. Mares may have longer coupling/loin areas than stallions, which permits greater capacity for expansion of a pregnancy, giving the mare a broody look.

17 CROUP/HIP Blending from the coupling/loin region toward the rear, the croup follows the dorsal topline to the Gypsy Vanner s tailhead. When the croup is combined with the back and coupling/loin, the three anatomical regions make-up the region referred to as the topline. The croup serves as a point for visually measuring the length of the hip and to define the amount of muscling in the hindquarters. When viewed from the side, the mid-line of the croup should be rounded, with a gentle slope and long, with a tail setting high on a powerful hindquarter. From the rear, the muscles from point of the hip over the top to the other point of the hip, coming back to the tailhead, must be round, wide and reflect powerful athletic ability. The strength of the hindquarters defines the breed as being a small draft horse, a horse designed for strength and power, but with class, presence and style. To establish the length and angle of the hip, an imaginary line from the point of the hip is drawn to the tailhead. The length of this imaginary line should be slightly longer than the overall length of the topline. The point of the hip and the tailhead should be on a horizontal line which defines the length of the hip. If the tailhead is lower than the imaginary horizontal line from the hip, the hip/croup will be approaching too steep an angle for the Gypsy Vanner. CHEST The chest must be viewed from the front, with prominent, well developed powerful pectoral muscles, providing sufficient separation of the forelegs for correct movement of the forelimbs at all gaits. The width of the chest is an important indicator of the muscular strength of the horse and the capacity of the thoracic cavity, allowing for sufficient space for heart and lungs. A horse with a narrow chest means the horse s lower forelegs will have the increased ability to interfere while in motion. Whereas, the horse with the excessively wide chest requires outward, forward rotating movement of the forelimbs, which reduces the ability to provide the continuous powerful forward movement expected for draft type horses. BARREL OF THE BODY The body of the Gypsy Vanner must be deep, and wide, reflecting the capacity to protect and provide capacity for the vital organs, including the heart and lungs. The ribs must be curved, not flat as observed from the front view. From the side view, the line from just behind the elbow to the rear flank should follow a gentle curve terminating just in front of the stifle. A Gypsy Vanner should not be

18 cut-up in the rear flank, giving the appearance of being tucked up, lacking abdominal capacity. FORELEGS From the elbow to the ground, the forelegs must be structurally, straight, correct columns of strength to support the weight and movement of the horse. Although the entire leg is additionally comprised of the shoulder and arm, it is the lower regions of the foreleg that command attention for assessment of structural correctness. When viewed from the front, the legs must be plumb and true, with front view imaginary lines passing vertically down through the center of the knee, on through the center of the fetlock joint, continuing down through the pastern to the center of the hoof. When viewed from the side, the leg follows a similar alignment, passing down the leg through the center of the knee, down the cannon through the center of the fetlock, to the heel of the hoof. Deviations from these imaginary lines are considered defects in structure and may be the cause for unsoundness of the limbs when stress, strain and concussion are applied through use. Therefore, the amount and size of bone should be substantial and yet, refined, and clearly defined. The substance of bone must reflect the workmanlike image to sustain loading and stress of a draft animal. The limbs of the horse should clearly exemplify defined joints in the leg, in proportion to the diameter of cannon and pastern bones. The knees, hocks and fetlocks should be very obvious junctures of the leg structure, with heavy to middle bone. The forearm to cannon ratio needs to be at least 55% to 45%, respectively, with the forearm always longer than the cannon. The length of the pastern needs to be proportional to the remainder of the leg. The fore-pastern and hoof angle should be equal to provide strength and support to the lower leg. The hooves of the horse must be of a size and proportion to properly support the horse in all athletic uses. The hooves must have symmetrical shape, with ample width and angle at the heels. Flat hooves with low heels are not desirable. Although the lower legs of the Gypsy Vanner are typically covered with feather, the pasterns and hooves must not be ignored and need to be correct and sound.

19 Historically in some draft breeds it was preferred that the width between the forelegs at the base should be less than the width at the chest in order to more efficiently work in furrows. Given the core genetics of the breed there may be a tendency in this direction. Care must be taken to not exaggerate the acceptance of the base narrow condition, while maintaining form to function structure. HINDLEGS The hindlegs of the Gypsy Vanner have many of the same characteristics and traits of the forelegs. Those include the definition of the bone and joints, size and shape of the hooves, length of the pastern, and the slightly base narrow leg position. When viewed from the rear, an imaginary line can be dropped from the buttock, passing over the point of the hock, down the center of the rear cannon, passing to the rear of the fetlock onto to the ground terminating in the center of the heel of the hoof. Upon viewing the hind hooves from the rear, the placement of hooves and lower leg will be slightly turned toe-out, with the horse being narrower in the placement of the hindlegs than the forelegs. When viewing the imaginary plumb line from the profile, the line will touch the point of the hock, lying parallel to the back of the cannon to the fetlock and then directly to the ground in the center of the heel. From the profile view, the leg should be plumb and true. The muscular composition of the hindleg begins in the hindquarter and buttocks, and carries downward to the stifle and onto the inner and outer gaskin. The rear view of the hindleg must reveal heavy smooth muscles in the gaskin, with the outer gaskin being large and round, whereas the inside gaskin will be less muscular, appearing flat when comparing the inner and outer gaskins. The muscular strength of the horse is defined in the area from the gaskin to the stifle up to the point of the hip and back to the buttock. The pastern and hoof angles of the hindlegs will be more toward the vertical, usually over 50 degrees, when compared to the same anatomical region on the forelegs. MOVEMENT AT THE WALK The walk for the Gypsy Vanner is a natural forward flowing four beat gait. The length of stride reflects the power of impulsion from the muscular hindquarters, with a slight over step of stride. The shoulder must move forward in

20 a free, unrestricted reach, with this motion carried down the entire length of the limb. The knee and hock action must be balanced in elevation and reach as the horse moves forward with pride. The pride in the breed is expressed in the head and neck carriage, being elevated in the movement, alert with presence, naturally shifting the center of gravity toward the hindquarters, keeping the horse in balance and form. It must be remembered, the walk is the initial gait for a draft type of horse to move their load, therefore the Gypsy Vanner must move with deliberate forward, powerful strides MOVEMENT AT THE TROT The trot for the Gypsy Vanner is a natural forward, free-flowing two beat diagonal gait. The pride of the breed is best expressed in watching these horses trot, with a snappy animated style of movement, yet with the natural ability to extend the gait when requested. The knee and hock are synchronized in their elevated, flexed and extension movement. The horse will travel with its head up, flexed at the poll, and neck carried with a natural arch. The shoulders are supple and the hocks are engaged. The animated trot of the Gypsy Vanner is a trademark of the horse s powerful fancy image. The Gypsy Vanner s conformation allows them to trot willingly and freely under a load and at liberty. MOVEMENT AT THE CANTER The canter for the Gypsy Vanner is a natural flowing three beat gait. The Gypsy Vanner is very capable of performing a natural three beat canter when the horse is collected and ridden in a balanced frame. Although the horse can perform the canter, to many of the horses, the trot is a more comfortable gait. UNACCEPTABLE CHARACTERISTICS AND TRAITS Clean legged horses are undesirable. Horses with kinky hair coats are not desirable. Horses with broken crests are not desirable. The stallion 3 years of age and older must have 2 fully descended normal testicles. No definable malocclusions are acceptable.

21 IV. Evaluation Rules A. Eligibility 1. The horse (of any age) must be registered or pending registration with the GVHS in the Gypsy Vanner Studbook. OR 2. The horse must be 3 years old or older and registered or pending registration in the GVHS Pre-Stud Book. B. Equine Health and Fitness 1. All Gypsy Vanners must provide a negative Coggins test from their veterinarian. The Coggins test date must be the shortest of one of the following date requirements: a. within 12 months of the evaluation b. in accordance with state regulation of the state where the evaluation is being held c. in accordance with the requirements of the facility. 2. Horses traveling across state lines or country borders must comply with health certificate requirements for the state or country where the evaluation is being held. 3. The Evaluation Committee is responsible to contact local veterinarians and convey to exhibitors any recommendations regarding local outbreaks or contagious diseases. 4. Cruelty or abuse of a horse by any person at an evaluation is forbidden. 5. No horse will be misrepresented by the use of drugs, surgery, medications or appliances of any type. 6. The GVHS, the committee, the evaluators and the host venue will not be responsible for any accident, injury, damage, or illness to any horse, handler, owner, spectator, or other persons or property. 7. All tack, harness and vehicles will be safe, fitted and in good working condition.

22 C. Entries D. Other 1. A completed entry form and fees must be paid and submitted to the Registrar by the closing date. 2. Entries will be accepted on first come, first served basis. 3. Number of entries may be limited depending on location, number of stalls or other criteria. 4. If the evaluation does not go forth as planned, entry fees will be refunded. 5. Refunds will only be issued for extraordinary circumstances such as sickness or injury of horse or owner. 1. All entrants are responsible to understand and abide by the rules and regulations of the evaluation process. 2. Handlers under age 18 must be supervised by an adult and are not allowed to handle stallions. 3. Substitute runners for running conformation/movement patterns are permitted. 4. If a horse presents a risk to itself, the handler, the evaluators, or the public it will be removed from the area and may be disqualified from the evaluation. 5. Once you have shown your horse in conformation or performance you cannot ask to have the score erased. Once the score has been written it stands and will be recorded. A horse can be re-evaluated at another evaluation and each score will be recorded in the record book. A horse can withdraw part way through a conformation or performance presentation if the handler deems the animal not fit to continue and the score will not be recorded. 6. The owner will be given the owners copy of the score sheet. The original will be placed in the horses file in the offices of the GVHS Registrar.

23 V. Conformation/ Movement Evaluation A. SCORING There are eight categories of conformation based on the breed standards, each worth 1-10 points. Breed type is worth 1-10 points X 2 providing a maximum of 100 points possible. Each horse will be scored by the Evaluators independently and these scores will then be averaged to compute the official scores. Numerical values given to each category reflect the following: 10 = Top quality 5 = Sufficient 9 = Very Good 4 = Non Satisfactory 8 = Good 3 = Insufficient 7 = Rather Good 2 = Poor 6 = Satisfactory 1 = Very Poor Total point scale: 0-49 Unsatisfactory Below average Acceptable Average to Good Very Good to Excellent B. CONFORMATION SCORING CATEGORIES 1. Head Length proportional Forehead flat and broad Frontal facial bone flat to slightly convex Nostrils large Ears proportional size, shape, position Eyes large, expressive, placement Bite 2. Neck Length appropriate Crest arched and well-muscled Shoulder Attachment Throat latch and neck underline

24 3. Body Shoulder angle Withers, defined, not sharp or round Back, short, strong Coupling/Loin proportional Croup round, high tail set Hip Chest, wide, developed Barrel, Girth deep with well sprung ribs Flank area deep 4. Forelegs Straight, correct Defined joints Dense flat heavy to medium bone Forearm to cannon Amount and quality of feather Pasterns length and angle Hooves Base narrow stance 5. Hind legs Straight, correct Defined joints Dense flat heavy to medium bone Gaskin Hocks, set, angle Amount & quality of feather Pasterns length and angle Hooves 6. Movement at walk Free, unrestricted Length of stride[profile] Deliberate, forward, straight Suspension Tracking [Front/Rear] 7. Movement at trot Natural, free flowing Length of stride [Profile] Use of knee and hock

25 Tracking [Front/Rear] Head and neck carriage 8. Overall Impression Image of a small draft horse Balance and harmony 9. Breed Type Presence- attitude, temperament Overall substance and bone Abundant feather Ample flowing mane and tail Gender characteristics C. CONFORMATION PRESENTATION 1. Grooming Horse is to be presented clean and groomed. Horse can be clipped or unclipped. Mane, tail and feather to be free and flowing. Tail can be slightly banged or natural. 2. Tack Mature horses to be shown in halter or bridle, reins, chain shank or lead rope. Young stock (under the age of 3) to be shown in halter, chain shank or lead rope. 3. Attire Attire should be comfortable, clean, neat, appropriate and safe. 4. Presentation Horse to be presented standing 10 feet in front of the judge. Horse will be asked to walk a triangle pattern with 40 foot sides. Then they will be asked to trot a triangle with 60 feet per side. Cones will be placed at the points of the triangles and the horse/handler will go on the outside of these cones.

26 VI. Performance Evaluations There are three disciplines, ridden under English saddle, ridden under western saddle, and driving. Horses can be entered into any combination of evaluations and tests, at any time, whether it be conformation and all performance tests, just performance tests, or any combination thereof. Tests may be retaken another time if a higher performance test score is desired. A horse cannot take the same performance test over on the same day. The purpose of performance testing is to reflect the various ways the Gypsy Vanner is shown or used. The patterns have been adapted from standard patterns that are regularly used in the various disciplines of English or Western riding and driving. The tests are designed to allow the participant to show the horse s willingness to work, obedience, quality of the gaits, and level of training. The emphasis of evaluating the horse s performance is focused on the horse s behavior. Rider/driver errors made while executing the patterns will not cause the horse to lose points for its performance. An entry may be asked to repeat parts of the test if the evaluator believes that a rider/driver error caused the horse not to perform well. Because it is best to give the horse every opportunity to show himself to the best of his capability, it is recommended that participants familiarize themselves with the tests in advance and practice them prior to the evaluation date. A. GENERAL RULES 1. Performance tests can be taken by any horse age 3 or over 2. Performance participants may be any age, however, no one under the age of 18 will be allowed to ride or drive a stallion. If the participant is under the age of 18 the entry form and release must be signed by a parent or guardian. 3. A reader is allowed for all tests without penalty. 4. A header is required for mounting and dismounting. While the horses are being mounted or dismounted the header is required to stand approximately 5 feet to the right of the horse s shoulder ready to assist with control if necessary. Points may be lost if assistance is needed. 5. Harness, saddles and bridles do not have to be show type. They must be clean, safe, serviceable and well-fitting of the proper type for the discipline

27 being tested. In the case of driving, the harness must be appropriate for the type of vehicle being used. 6. Mounting assistance for the physically challenged may be granted without penalty in advance by the Evaluation Manager. A mounting block may be used by anyone without penalty.

28 VII. Awards and Recognition A. GENERAL RULES 1. Award levels can be noted on the registration certificate. A new certificate can be ordered by returning the current registration certificate and paying the current certificate replacement fee. 2. Awards, Recognition and scores will only be published if the owner gives permission. B. STAR AWARD The Star Award is given to horses that attain qualifying scores in the Conformation/ Movement portion of the evaluation program. a Score will be given a Three Star recognition b Score will be given a Four Star recognition c Score will be given a Five Star recognition C. GOLD MEDALLION OF QUALITY Any horse with qualifying scores in the Conformation/Movement portion of the program and the Performance portion of the program will be awarded a Gold Medallion of Quality. Gold Medallion of Quality in Under Saddle-Western requires a score of 70 or more in the Conformation/Movement Evaluation and a score of 70 or more in the Western Riding performance test. Gold Medallion of Quality in Under Saddle-English requires a score of 70 or more in the Conformation/Movement Evaluation and a score of 70 or more in the English Riding performance test. Gold Medallion of Quality in Driving requires a score of 70 or more in the Conformation/Movement Evaluation and a score of 70 or more in the Driving test. D. VERSATILITY MEDALLION OF HONOR Versatility is a very important attribute of the Gypsy Vanner Horse. Because of this it is encouraged that Gypsy Vanners be trained in a variety of disciplines. The ultimate horse has good conformation, movement, and is a willing

29 partner in multiple riding disciplines and driving. Tests can be taken over a period of time as training and skill level develop. When a horse has received a Gold Medallion of Quality in all three performance tests, that horse will be presented with the Versatility Medallion of Honor. E. HALL OF FAME A Gypsy Vanner stallion or mare can also be qualified for honors, based on recognition of the quality of its offspring. To be called a GVHS Hall of Fame Stallion or a GVHS Hall of Fame Mare the horse must meet the following requirements: 1. The horse must have offspring that are evaluated in the GVHS Evaluation program. These offspring must be evaluated in Conformation/Movement and in Performance. a. A Hall of Fame Stallion must have 5 offspring that have received a Gold Medallion of Quality. b. A Hall of Fame Mare must have 3 offspring that have received a Gold Medallion of Quality.

30 APPENDIX A To be eligible to apply for advancement of registration from the GVHS Pre Studbook to the Gypsy Vanner Studbook the following minimum requirements must be met: 1. Complete an official studbook advancement application 2. Provide photographs as specified on the application 3. A score of 70 or above overall (rev 12/2012) AND a score of 7(x2) in breed type, (rev 1/2017) at an official GVHS conformation/movement evaluation. 4. Submit the proper fee[s] 5. Return the Pre Studbook Certificate The Registration Committee: a) The Registration Committee has five Committee members, plus one alternate, all appointed by the Board of Directors: i) Committee members will be appointed for a three-year term. ii) Every year, two new Committee members can be appointed by the Board of Directors for a three year term. These two include one full Committee member and one Committee alternate. The following year, the alternate becomes a full Committee Member for the remaining two years of their term. iii) There are no term limits. iv) Each Committee member must attend and complete a GVHS training seminar. v) Registration Committee members must be a general or lifetime member of the GVHS and in good standing. vi) Registration Committee members must sign the GVHS Code of Ethics. vii) A Registration Committee member must have access to high speed internet and service, and the ability to respond in a timely manner. viii) The Registrar cannot serve on the Registration Committee. ix) A member of the Board of Directors should always be on the Committee, however, there should be no more than the one Board representative on

31 the Registration Committee as the BOD must remain independent to undertake any reviews upon appeal of Registration Committee decisions. x) No Registration Committee member should be actively judging GVHS horses during their term. b) For a horse to be approved by the Committee, four of the five Committee members reviewing the horse must agree in order for the horse to be approved. c) If a committee member declines to accept the horse for registration they must convey the reason in writing ( ) to the Registrar. d) The decision of the Committee can be appealed in writing to the Board of Directors by submitting the written appeal through the Registrar s office.

32 APPENDIX B GVHS Evaluation Scoresheets and Patterns