The Headwaters Derby Series is a travelling jumper series hosted at a curated selection of unique venues across Southern Ontario, designed to give riders the opportunity to gain valuable mileage in a variety of professional environments while maintaining an approachable, relaxed atmosphere.
Each competition runs in a single ring and offers multiple height divisions, with three classes per division. Three sets of coloured markers differentiate each course, and riders are invited to walk and jump their classes within scheduled time windows. This format creates an efficient, flexible, and laid-back way to horse show — ideal for developing young horses, stepping up a level, or simply gaining quality rounds in a supportive setting.
Each show day will build towards the Feature Derby class, providing an opportunity to compete for real prize money.
All competition offerings and individual dates and venues will be listed on our dates page. We encourage riders to check back regularly, sign up for our newsletter, and follow us on social media for updates!
An optimum time is the target pace for the course, calculated based on the course length and designated speed. Riders are expected to complete the course without faults, and try to come closest to the ideal speed.
The winner is the rider with the fewest faults and a time closest to the optimum time.
* Optimum time varies by level, and will be posted on the course map
Competitors complete their first round within the posted time allowed. If the rider finishes with no faults (either knockdowns, refusals, or time) they will stay in the ring and progress to the jump off.
The jump-off is immediate. Placings are based on the fastest jump-off round with the fewest faults.
A single round ridden against the clock, where the winner is the rider with the fastest time and the fewest faults.
The course incorporates natural-style elements such as brush jumps, coops, and logs, and requires riders to jump in and out of the ring, creating a more dynamic, derby-style track.
*Always follow in-gate instructions and be mindful of horses on course.
While this is a relaxed, one-day show, a certain standard of turnout helps keep things safe, respectful, and competition-ready. Formal show attire is not required,*** riders and horses should be presented in a neat, respectful manner suitable for competition.
