Which of the following is NOT a fault in hunter under saddle?

In the context of hunter under saddle classes, faults are behaviors or characteristics that detract from the ideal performance quality of the horse. A fall, whether it involves the horse or rider, is considered far more serious and can lead to disqualification. Therefore, the presence of a fall would not be categorized merely as a fault in performance, but rather as a significant incident with serious implications for the safety of both the horse and rider.

The other options pertain to subtle performance issues that can be assessed by judges during a competition. Over-exaggeration of movement can be viewed negatively, as the ideal hunter under saddle horse should display a smooth, balanced gait without excessive or exaggerated movements. Inconsistent pacing can disrupt the flow of the performance and affect overall impressions, while breaking gaits—such as an unintended transition from a trot to a walk—also represent a clear deviation from the desired standard in this class.

Understanding these distinctions helps in recognizing the critical elements that define the performance standards in hunter under saddle and what can lead to faults during competition.