The relationship between conformational structure and function in the equine is thought to be important in the judgement of the future soundness and performance of the horse (Holmstrom et al 1990). Holmstrom et al (ibid ) demonstrated that elite dressage and show jump horses possess a more horizontal shoulder enabling the horse to demonstrate an improved forelimb technique. Holmstom et al (ibid ) further related this difference as a contributory factor to the higher levels of performance observed in the elite groups he studied. Furthermore Holmstrom and Philipsson (1993) showed a positive correlation between ‘good’ gaits and a sloping shoulder. Additionally Holmstrom and Philipsson (1993) found that those horses which had a more vertical position of the scapula and a straighter shoulder joint suffered more concussion and are, therefore, at a greater risk of developing lameness. This study investigated the relationship between shoulder angle and performance within three groups of event horses.