Definition: Hand gallop is a four beat galloping gait, with natural head carriage sometimes asked for in hunter hack classes or other equitation or pleasure horse classes. It's meant to demonstrate the strong forward, but controllable motion of the horse. Horses traveling between fences in a jumper class may also travel at a hand gallop. Outside of the ring hunters following the hounds may travel at a hand gallop, and a short hand gallop can be fun along the trail provided the footing is safe.
Examples:
The horses in the Arabian costume class entered the ring at a hand gallop.
