Western States Wild Horse & Burro Expo

 Reno, Nevada, August 15 - 17, 2008
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WESTERN STATES WILD HORSE AND BURRO EXPO

CONTENTS:

A. Mission, Goals & Objectives
Show Eligibility
Appendix Mustangs

I. Show Rules

• Participation Rules
• Liability, Refusal of Entrants, Cancellation of Classes, Prohibited Substances,
• Unsportsmanlike Conduct, Misconduct, Entrant Substitutions, Protests
• Decisions, Disqualifications, Discipline, Paddock Area Conduct, Cruelty.
• Gate Rules, Withdrawal from Class, Admission to Ring, Headers, Maximum Hours
• Show Management, Judges, Ring Steward, WSWHBE Representative
• Exhibitor Classification
  • Rider Categories: Rookie, Amateur, Open, Youth/Junior,
  • Animal: Green, In Hand, Burro; Freeze-Branded, Range-Bred, Appendix
  • Burros
• Show Awards and Scoring, Scoring Disputes, Recommended Awards, Annual Point System
• Warm Up Arena Guidelines
• Burro Rules

II. Affiliated Shows

• Approval of Schedules
• Setting Show Dates
• Show Sanctions
• Management
  
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III. Class Rules:

• In-Hand
• Trail
• Western
• English
• Driving
• Gaming
• Miscellaneous
• All-Around Horse, Mule, Burro

1. IN-HAND CLASSES:

• SHOWMANSHIP AT HALTER; Class Procedures, Performance Requirements, Faults, Attire,
• Longe Line Class Procedures, Performance Requirements, Attire/Equipment

2. TRAIL CLASSES

• Trail, Obstacles, Mandatory Obstacles, Unacceptable Obstacles, Faults, Scoring, Penalties
• Trail In Hand, Procedures, Performance Requirements, Equipment, Mandatory Obstacles
• Trail – Western or English, Conduct
• Lesley Neuman Ultimate Trail Challenge - new for 2004

3. WESTERN DIVISION CLASSES

• Division Rules, Attire, Equipment, Optional Equipment, Prohibited Equipment, For Gymkhana Exception on Prohibited Equipment, Prohibited Equipment
• Western Pleasure; Procedures, Performance Requirements, Equipment, Faults, Disqualifications,
• Western Horsemanship, Performance, Attire, Equipment
• Green Horse Class Procedures, Junior Horse Procedures
• Senior Horse Procedures
• Beginning Walk/Trot 12 and Under
• Lead Line Equitation 6 and Under
• Western Riding, Penalty Points
• Western Reining, Procedures, Performance Requirements, Faults, Disqualifications,
• Reining Pattern #1, #2, #3(OPEN)

4. DRIVING DIVISION

Classes, Attire, Equipment, Grooming, Pleasure Class Procedures, Obstacle

5. ENGLISH DIVISION

General Guidelines: Classes, Attire, Equipment, conduct, tack, attire, posting courses, judges inspection, jump offs, course, timing, committee, time limits, jumping order, violations, scoring, disobediences, knockdowns, touches, off course, ties, table of jumping faults, obstacle requirements, spread, combinations, permanent obstacles, water obstacles

• Hunter Under Saddle
• English Hunt Seat Equitation, Performance Requirements,
• Hunter Hack
• Jumpers

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6. GAMING DIVISION Classes, Rules, Procedures, Equipment

• Keyhole
• Barrel Racing
• Barrel Race
• Pole Bending
• Western Jumping
• Flag Race
• Figure 8 Stake Race
• Tomahawk Race

7. MISCELLANEOUS Classes:

• Country Pleasure
• Costume
• Americana
• Packing

8. ALL AROUND HORSE/MULE

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	To promote the education of people in the development, training, showing, and horsemanship of formerly wild horses, mules & burros.
	To encourage the adoption and use of wild horses, mules and burros following their removal from the public lands.
	To foster good sportsmanship and proper conduct among horsemen and horsewomen and to foster good fellowship among all persons interested in formerly wild horses, mules & burros.
	To encourage proper and humane handling and care of horses, mules & burros and prevention of cruelty to animals.
	To demonstrate to the public the versatility and value of the formerly wild horses, mules and burros.
	To provide funding for the preservation and enhancement of wild horse, mule and burro habitat and rescue work.
	To establish and maintain a Wild Horse & Burro Show Circuit in the Western States.

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• SHOW ELIGIBILITY: Freeze-Branded, Range-Bred, Wild-Born Non-BLM (Comstock, etc.)*

It is the intent of the Western States Wild Horse and Burro Expo (WSWHBE) to help support the adoption process of the thousands of wild horses, mules and burros that are removed from public lands each year. Because promotion of formerly wild horses, mules and burros is central to the objectives of the show, all animals participating in classes reserved for wild horses, burros, and mules must have been formerly wild.

Offspring of formerly wild horses and burros born in captivity (range bred) will be accepted if documentation shows they were bred on the range.

All entries must submit copies of identification papers issued by a federal, state, or humane organization. Exceptions will be determined by the WSWHBE show committee with documentation as requested.

Horses, mules or burros with one wild-bred parent qualify for Appendix Classes.

Some form of identification must be presented to prove parentage of one parent being a Mustang.

• Excessive use of force on any animal in a stall, runway schooling area, show ring, or elsewhere on the competition grounds before or during a competition by any person.
• Rapping the legs of an animal with the butt end of a riding crop or other implement.
• Use of any substance to induce temporary heat.
• Manual polling with any object other than a bamboo pole.
• Use of a wire or chain in conjunction with any schooling jump ,
• Use of electric device in schooling or showing.
• Use of shackles (not to be construed as rubber or elastic exercising devices).
• Showing an animal with raw or bleeding sores.
• Use of explosives anywhere on the competition grounds, except in an exhibition or if required in class competitions.
• Inhumane treatment of an animal in a stall, runway, schooling area, show ring or elsewhere on the competition grounds, by any person .

Due to a full schedule of classes, the two (2) minute limit for gates will be strictly enforced.

Exhibitors are cautioned against entering the same animal/rider in successive classes.

The gate will close two (2) minutes after the first animal enters the ring, or in the case of large classes taking more than two minutes, at the completion or final animal in the continuous string of equines/mules/burros .

It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to be sure that his/her animal is at the gate on time.

Class calls must be considered a courtesy only. NO protests will be upheld on the basis of a public address system malfunction.

Gate hold or tack change will be granted at the discretion of the gate steward and will not exceed five (5) minutes.

As a courtesy to the Gate steward, Announcer and Show Office, exhibitors are requested to notify the Show Office when it is necessary to withdraw from an entered class. This courtesy will enable the show to run more efficiently. Your consideration will be greatly appreciated by the staff. The change should take place at least 24 hours in advance.

No person will be permitted to enter the ring except participants in the class, judge, their assistants and show officials. Attendants and grooms may enter the ring only when summoned by order of the judge.

All headers must wear appropriate show attire and foot wear.

A show may not hold classes more than 12 hours out of any 24 hour period from the start of the first class to the finish of the last class, including intermissions. There must be a recess of at least eight (8) hours between the finish of the last class of any evening performance and the first class of a morning performance the following day.

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SHOW MANAGEMENT

The judge will appear at least 30 minutes before the start of show.

No judge, members of his family, or students shall exhibit or act as agents, representatives in any capacity, or handlers of a horse, mule, or burro, in any approved class at a show or contest at which he/she is officiating; nor any horse be shown under a judge if that judge has been owner, trainer, agent in any capacity, or conditioner of that horse within the previous thirty (30) days. If such a horse is entered in a show, its entry fee shall be refunded and it is not to be exhibited. A judge may be suspended from the list of approved judges for infraction of this rule at the ruling of the Executive Committee.

A judge’s decision is final. Once a sheet of placings is sent to the announcer stand, there will be no changing of the results unless an error in number was made and is obvious to the audience that such error was made with intent of placing the horses as they lined up in the standings. On all classes, 6th place must be listed on the sheet.

No judge shall determine eligibility for registration of any entry in the ring.

A judge may order or excuse any person or horse from the arena for bad conduct of one or both, or obvious lameness to horse.

A learner judge, with judge and Show Association's permission, may work with a senior judge.

A judge, upon arrival in a city in which he/she is to officiate, is to contact an official of the show and advise that official of his presence and location.

When requested by an exhibitor, through the Show Association or ring steward, the judge is urged to give his opinion courteously and sincerely. In no way should a class or show be held up due to lost time with exhibitors holding question and answer sessions with a judge.

A judge may only officiate at two (2) shows per show season PLEASE DELETE

1) The ring steward shall be referred to as Ring Steward and shall be familiar with approved WSWHBE Show rules and procedures.

2) The ring steward assembles classes promptly in order to keep judging program on schedule and eliminate delays between classes.

3) The ring steward notifies the judge when all horses are present for each class. No horses may be admitted after the ring steward notifies the judge the gate is closed.

4) The ring steward has charge of activity in the show ring.

5) The ring steward moves and places horses as judge requests.

6) The ring steward should act as mediator between the judge, exhibitors, and announcer.

7) When ring area is small and class entries are large, the ring steward should keep the horses until the judge is ready to judge them.

8) The ring steward has the authority to ask an exhibitor to remove his horse for the safety of other horses and spectators, with the permission of the judge.

9) The ring steward must not allow exhibitors to crowd up in the show ring and should try to keep the possibilities of an accident to a minimum.

10) After the ribbons are presented the ring steward may have the ribbon winners circle the ring for the benefit of the spectators if time permits.

11) The ring steward shall not advise or comment to the judge on the activities of the class. The steward will maintain a minimum distance of ten (10) feet between him/her self and the judge, unless requested otherwise by the judge.

12) The ring steward is selected to help the judge, not to advise the judge, argue with, visit with, or criticize the judge.

The representative of WSWHBE should point out in a diplomatic manner any instance where WSWHBE rules are not enforced and should immediately report to the appropriate officials any violations of the rules which might invalidate a class; should remain available to Judge and exhibitors all times to clarify the application of WSWHBE rules and investigate any situation where the rules are not upheld.

The WSWHBE Executive Committee shall appoint a qualified member of the sponsoring club to serve as the WSWHBE Representative, one of which to be present at approved shows.

The show is responsible for announcing the Representative's name prior to and during said show.

The Representative is required to check in with the show office upon arrival at said show's grounds.

If dispute arises as to color, eligibility of horse or burro, Representative will check into matter and decision is final and animal will show in the decided category for that year.

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EXHIBITOR  CLASSIFICATION

RIDER CATEGORIES:

ROOKIE CATEGORY - Open to any exhibitor showing at the WSWHBE show for the first time who is an amateur, youth/junior rider. If entered as a Rookie, the rider must not have ever won a ribbon in the division entered at any WSWHBE, breed, open, or any rated show.

NOVICE CATEGORY -  Horses & Riders who have never won three first places at any show in the particular class they are entered in.

AMATEUR CATEGORY
An amateur is a person that is no longer eligible to compete as a junior exhibitor, and who after his/her 18th birthday and has not engaged in any of the following activities within the last year which would make them a professional: accepts remuneration in accordance with USA Equestrian rules for instruction, riding, showing in hand, training, schooling, conducting clinics or seminars or accepts remuneration for selling horses/ponies.

OPEN CATEGORY - Open to all ages of horses and riders/exhibitors regardless of the ribbons, remuneration previously won, or professional status. There is no qualification required for the rider, driver, or handler other then that they must be able to safely and adequately ride, drive or handle their horse In-Hand in all gaits requested by the judge and perform any other requests by the judge particular for the class or division. The judge may at their discretion dismiss a horse and rider from a class if they deem the pair unsafe for that level of class.

YOUTH OR JUNIOR CATEGORY - an individual who has not reached his/her 18th birthday as of January 1st of the current year.

NOVICE Horses and Riders/Handlers -  Horses and/or Riders who have never won more than three first places at any show/competition in the particular class they are entered in.

For Horse Show purposes any formerly wild horse, mule or burro, is considered to be one year old on the first day of January following the actual date of foaling. The age of the animal on January 1 shall be maintained throughout the entire calendar year. No animal is allowed to be shown under saddle if less than 2 years of age for horses and mules, and less then 4 years of age for burros.

GREEN HORSE / MULE - an animal in their 1st or 2nd year of showing in a particular division. Green horses are eligible to enter Open classes as well.

IN-HAND ANIMALS – A horse/mule not yet under saddle or harness. In-Hand horse/mules may not enter in any class under saddle, mounted or in harness. This rule does not apply to burros.

BURROS - Burros will compete in In-Hand Trail classes with equines/mules. Halter classes will run concurrently with the equine/mule halter classes. There will be designated performance & riding classes for burros, as well as timed and "fun" events for burros only. See GAMES for Burro Rules

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SHOW AWARDS AND SCORING

EVENT SCORING:

To assure uniform scoring at shows, points should be awarded in each class for the following places:

• First Place: 6 points
• Second Place: 5 points
• Third Place: 4 points
• Fourth Place: 3 points
• Fifth Place: 2 points
• Sixth Place/Reserve: 1 point

In case of a tie for High Point placings, one point will be given for each horse you place over in the classes. If a tie still remains, the winner will be decided by the number of qualifying entrants competed against.

Any question or dispute in connection with the competition for these awards shall be referred for decision to the Rules Committee of The Western States Wild Horse and Burro Expo, and its decision shall be final. A final record of any Club or National Show will be kept in the files of the WSWHBE Point Secretary, and information in connection therewith will be available upon request for 60 days after Award.

• First to sixth place for each scored or timed class.
• Grand and Reserve Halter Champion for mares, stallions, geldings, and burros.
• High Point for the following divisions when offered at the show: Rookie, Youth 12 and under, Youth 13 to 17 years, Amateur, and Open riders.
• Green Horse and All-Around Champion Horse/Mule, and Burro Championship.

All-Around Champion Novice Horse/Rider classes shall consist of freeze branded or Range Bred Mustangs or mules and their riders showing in their respective age break/age division classes in Western Pleasure, Western Equitation, English Pleasure and English Equitation. Riders will show in their respective age break/age division and then the points will be tabulated to arrive at the All Around Champions.  At no point are horses/riders asked to compete out of their respective age break/age division for this award.  Must be the same combination of horse and rider to be eligible for this award.

Novice horse and rider combinations are defined for the purposes of showing at the WSWHBE show as a horse or mule and rider who have not won more than three first places at any show in any of the classes counting for points earned toward the All Around Novice Horse/Rider Championship. 
The emphasis for this award is placed almost entirely on the adult amateur and youth/junior competitors and the encouragement for them to compete in this division, and NOT the professional competitor and their horses, or those of their clients which they may be showing.
Horses/mules and riders competing for the All Around Novice Horse/Rider championship are not eligible to compete for any of the other All Around Championship awards.

Accumulation of points for annual awards will be kept by the Point Secretary of the WSWHBE for WSWHBE EXHIBITORS ONLY. Showmanship and horsemanship points will be recorded on the rider. In all other point classes the points will be kept on the animal and rider combination. The owner of the horse is defined as the person(s) whose name is on the Registration papers, legal brand certificate, and/or a Bill of Sale. Also to be considered as owner is the person with a contract showing they are the person buying or leasing the horse. (Trainers collecting fees for outside horses are not to be considered owners.)

Awards will be presented to the owners or riders of the horse, or riders in horsemanship classes earning the highest ratings in each Division listed in the current rules. Rating for Category High Point Awards will be computed in accordance with the following general regulations:

Properly marked results from the affiliated club shows or national show shall be the sole basis upon which rating will be computed, and the score thus derived shall determine the awards in each Category.

The Western States Wild Horse and Burro Expo Point Secretary will use every care to achieve accuracy in computing the ratings, but neither the Point Secretary nor the Association will be liable for the failure of any Club or National Show to file the results of their show, nor for errors or omissions in the marking thereof, nor responsible beyond the point of accuracy in computing the final ratings from the results submitted by the proper authorities of each show.

Only those points earned at approved Shows conducted under the Rules of the Association will be included in the ratings. The cumulative score earned by any entry within the respective classification shall be included in the final rating, regardless of transfer of ownership within the period of competition. The owner of the animal at the time of scoring its last point shall be the recipient of the award.

Points are not retroactive - they accumulate only from the date of approved first show within the same year.

Entrants have to show in at least two (2) approved shows to become eligible for year-end-award.

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II. AFFILIATED SHOWS

Each club organization is allowed (1) approved weekend show date per year. Two clubs may combine a show date to utilize the Double Judge Option, with each show counting as one of their approved dates. Clubs that have sanctioned show weekends from the previous year shall have first right of refusal until February 28th of the current show year. If request for show date is not received in writing by March 1 of the current year it becomes an available show date open to other club requests.

Affiliated clubs and/or any of The Western States Wild Horse and Burro approved shows must be in good standing and must comply with The Western States Wild Horse and Burro Expo rules. The show bill must be approved by the WSWHBE Secretary-Treasurer at least 45 days prior to the show or in time for the show to be listed in the club newsletter or official publication at least one time prior to the show with correct wording, description of classes, listed in order which they will be shown, entry fees, name of judge, name of show secretary, with address and telephone number, date of show, and time show is to start.

WARM-UP ARENA GUIDELINES
Taken from the NCHA Loping Pen and adapted for the WSWHBE

The warm-up arena is where horses are warmed up and prepared for the show arena. This area can be a very dangerous place. Horse people are also getting themselves prepared to show and can be nervous or simply preoccupied with the task at hand. Common sense and courtesy can help avoid accident(s) or annoying near misses. Here are a few guidelines to help keep the warm-up arena a safe and pleasant place to get horses ready to show:

• 1) Horses in the warm-up area should travel in the same direction in concentric circles whenever possible. To enter the warm-up area, merge into traffic as if you were entering a traffic circle. Look and wait for a clearing. If traveling in opposite directions, please pass right hand to right hand.
• 2) Once in, maintain the same speed as the horse in front of you. If you were to pass, look behind you so you don't crash into the horse in the other lane.
• 3) Stay to the inside circle if you want to go to slow. This is the SLOW lane.
  4) Stay to the outside circle if you want to go fast. This is the FAST lane.
  5) Try not to bunch up and talk or stand still anywhere in the traffic.
• 6) NEVER stop in traffic. If you must stop, please slow down and exit to an area devoid of traffic. This also applies to DRY working your horse. If you are going to do some pulling and spinning, please do it where you have room! When working back and forth over warm-up jumps for jumping classes, call "heads-up" when beginning your approach to the jump and look to make sure that no horse and rider are approaching the same jump from the opposite direction.
• 7) If you see someone that is looking for a way into traffic or an exit out of traffic, please be kind enough to let them in or out. Always remember to think about the other person and how you would feel in a similar situation.
• 8) When the times comes to boot up or put on chaps, or any apparel, find a safe place out of traffic. Be careful that your horse is not too close to another horse that might kick or bite. Watch your own horse for signs of rude behavior.
• 9) The warm-up arena is NOT a place for baby sitting or entertainment, nor for riding lessons. Anyone in the warm-up area, no matter what the age, should have the ability to control their horse at all times. This is for their own safety as well as for others.
• 10) Pedestrians in the loping area should yield to those people who are there to get a horse ready to show. If you must get off of your horse, please leave the arena to do so Tying horses, especially STALLIONS, in the warm-up area is prohibited . If someone ties a horse next to them, or pass too close behind them, (and –delete and) this could lead to a kicking match and severe injury to humans and/or horses. There is also the possibility of a loose horse if pull back and break whatever they are tied with.
• 11) Use the warm-up arena for exercise and to season your horses only when there is enough room. Be considerate of people in there to get their horse ready to show. People will want to change direction from time to time. Whether they want to bend their horse the other way or simply are tired of going right and want to go left, slow down, stop and turn your horse around. If you want to go another direction, simply ask someone if they would like to turn around. Do not be offended if some contestant ignores your request, it simply means their horse isn't broke and they can't do this maneuver. Remember, when traveling opposite directions to pass right hand to right hand.

III. CLASS RULES

HALTER DIVISION CLASSES

DIVISION RULES

DIVISION PROCEDURES:

All ages must be offered in Halter Classes. Animals to be shown at halter, preferably leather. Silver show halter shall not be judged over plain halters. As there is no standard for these animals scoring will be determined by lack of conformation faults, way of going and soundness and grooming. Horse/mule/burro to be judged in a stock horse manner (squared, straight legs, not stretched in any way), individually, standing, at the walk, and trot on lead line.

Mandatory dress for exhibitor shall be long sleeved shirt, boots, hat, and belt. Exhibitor will not be penalized for touching or moving the animal. Exhibitor is not to hinder a judge's view of the animal.

• Use of bats or whips is prohibited.

This class shall be judged strictly on the contestant's ability to fit and show in a halter class. This shall be a separate class from all other halter classes. Only the showman and condition of the horse is to be judged. The animal is merely a prop to show the ability of the showman. In showmanship classes the animals must be well groomed and conditioned. Hair coat is to be clean and well brushed. Hooves may be polished, left clear or have clear gloss applied. Tack is to be neat, clean and in good repair. A neat halter and lead shank will be judged the same as an expensive one.

Showman is to be on animal’s left side holding lead in right hand. The remaining portion of the lead to be held safely and neatly in left hand in a serpentine rather then round looping or coiling. A tightly coiled (wrapped around hand) or rolled lead shank will be considered a fault in showmanship and will be penalized. When posing the horse/burros, it is NOT allowed to touch any part of the animal. Kicking, whipping or petting the animal is prohibited. The animal is to stand in stock horse manner. Exhibitor is not to hinder a judge's view of the horse/burro.

The exhibitor is to be courteous and alert and is to respond quickly to requests from the judge or ring steward. Undue fussing and maneuvering is objectionable. Unsportsmanlike behavior may cause elimination.

• 1) When posing your animal, stand toward the front facing the horse/burro, but not directly in front of the animal and always in a position where you can keep your eye on the judge.
• 2) Pose horses with their feet squarely under them. Most of the showing should be done with the lead strap.
• 3) Never kick the animal’s leg into position.
• 4) Do not crowd the exhibitor next to you when in a side by side position. Do not crowd exhibitor in front or behind when lined up head to tail.
• 5) When a judge is observing other animals, let yours stand if posed reasonably well.
• 6) Be natural. Over showing, undue fussing and maneuvering is objectionable.

• 1) Failure to recognize and correct faults of horse's position.
• 2) Kicking, hitting or having actual contact with the horse.
• 3) Visiting or conversing with the other contestants.
• 4) Failure to lead properly or back a horse when requested.
• 5) Loud voice commands or over showing through unnecessary actions.
• 6) Turning a horse the wrong way (horse should always be turned to the right.
• 7) Causing the judge to move to avoid being bumped or stepped on. (i.e. running over the judge)
• 8) Improperly fitting equipment.
• 9) Hindering view of horse.

• An English Showman will show in appropriate English attire with correct English approved tack.
• A Western Showman will show in appropriate Western attire with correct Western approved tack.

This class is for equines 2 years old or younger. 1 horse/mule/burro per exhibitor allowed. Futurity to be judged in one go-round with all present judges judging. There will be no finals. The winners will be determined by the total score from the judges in the one go-round. Judges will be outside the longing circle. The exhibitor will enter the arena and await the signal. When the signal is given, the exhibitor will be allowed 1 ½ minutes to present their animal. The animals are judged 80% on their movement and 20% on manners.

If an animal’s chin or nose show signs of broken skin, rawness, or bleeding, the animal will be eliminated from the competition. No leg wraps allowed.

If the animal plays on the LONGE line, it will not count against the horse/mule/burro. The animal should be judged as though the pleasure prospect was playing in the fields. The judge at his or her discretion may penalize the animal for excessive bucking, running off, or displaying attitudes uncomplimentary to pleasure horses/burros such as ear pinning or tail wringing.

After the longing competition is completed, the animals will line up for judging. The judges may not discriminate for or against bulk, but rather look for a total picture, emphasizing balance and athletic capabilities. The judge(s) may mouth each horse/burro to determine correct age.

It is suggested that the horse or mule walk, trot, and lope in each direction, but it is not mandatory. Burros will walk and trot. It is beneficial if you show all 3 gaits in each direction. The exhibitor may begin the work in the direction (counter-clockwise or clockwise) of their choice. At half time it will be noted to the exhibitor, at the end of the one ½ minutes, the signal will be used and the exhibitor will retire from the longing area. All animals are to remain in the arena after they have been longing and should stand quietly while other exhibitors are being judged.

ATTIRE/EQUIPMENT:

Horses/mules/burros are to be shown in a halter; regular or show type is acceptable. The only attachment allowed to the halter is a LONGE line. The LONGE line may not accede 30 feet with a snap or chain attached to the halter. The LONGE line, including a chain, must hang free from the halter without touching any part of the horse. It is permissible to use a LONGE whip.

Conventional western attire is mandatory. If a horse or mule is considered a Hunt Seat prospect, then the horse or mule is to be braided and shown at the walk, trot, and canter. The exhibitor may wear Hunt Seat attire. The horse or mule shall be shown in plain leather hunt halter.

Rider shall wear western hat, long sleeve western style shirt, and western boots, unless specified differently by show or by show Association and stated on the show premium. Spurs and chaps may be worn at the option of the rider. Helmets are optional in place of western hat.

Whenever this handbook refers to hackamore, it means the use only of a rawhide braided, leather braided, or rope bosal. It does not refer to a so-called mechanical hackamore. Absolutely no iron will be permitted under the jaws regardless of how padded or covered.

Whenever this handbook refers to snaffle bit in western performance classes, it means the use of a smooth snaffle bit with broken mouth-piece (conventional o-ring, egg butt or D-ring) and the ring no larger than 4". One inch in from cheek must be a minimum of 5/16 inch diameter with a gradual decrease to center of the snaffle. Optional loose curb strap (leather or nylon only). Reins to be attached above the curb strap.

• Rope or Riata. If used, the rope or riata must be coiled and attached to the saddle.
• Hobbles-attached to the saddle.
• Tapaderos.

• Wire curbs regardless of how padded or covered.
• Any chin strap narrower than one-half inch.
• Martingales, nosebands and tie-downs.

Gymkhana - allowed to use mechanical hackamores, any type of bit, the judge may prohibit the use of bits or equipment he/she may consider severe. Gymkhana may be ridden English, (See English attire and equipment). May use tie-downs, caves on or nose bands, and running martingale.

• Draw reins and tack collar.

In all judged Western Performance burro/donkey riding classes, the following rules apply:
Two hands may be used with a curb bit, however preference will be considered with the rider riding with one hand on a curb bit, at Judge's discretion.
Both hands on reins, using any approved bit either snaffle/hackamore or curb, will be permitted, but may be penalized (i.e. Advantage goes to exhibitor whose performance is equal to a two-handed rider).
Exception: In green class using snaffle/hackamore (bosal), burro/donkey must be ridden with two-hands.

Preference will be considered with the burro using a traditional western saddle over a less conventional McClellan or Australian stock saddle.
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WESTERN PLEASURE PROCEDURES:

A good pleasure animal has a stride of reasonable length in keeping with his conformation. He carries his head in a natural position, not high and over-flexed at the poll, or low with the nose out. The horse/mule/burro should be relaxed but alert and ready to respond to the rider's commands without excessive cuing. When asked to extend the jog, he moves out with the same smooth way of going. Animals should give a smooth, pleasurable ride.

Judge may ask for additional work of the same nature from any animal. He is not to ask for work other than that listed above. Rider shall not be required to dismount except in the event the judge wants to check equipment.

This class will be judged on the performance and conformation of the animal at the discretion of the judge. Entries will be penalized for excessive speed, lack of forward motion or being on the wrong leads.

Reins shall be held in one hand during performance. Hand to be around reins. One finger between reins permitted. The tail of split reins may be carried in the free hand with a 16 inch spacing between the reining hand and the free hand holding the tails. If carrying the tails, no finger permitted between the reins.

When riding with two hands on split reins, tails of reins will be crossed over the neck of the horse. Reins must be bridged when riding in a O-ring or D-ring snaffle.

Whenever this handbook refers to "ROMAL", it means an extension of braided material attached to closed reins. This extension is to be allowed to be carried in the free hand with a 16-inch spacing between the reining hand and the free hand holding the romal. The romal shall not be used forward of the cinch or used to signal or cue the horse in any way. Any infraction of the rule shall be penalized severely by the judge. Hands should be around reins. One finger between the rein is not permitted.

FAULTS: May not necessarily be cause for disqualification:

• 1) More than one finger between reins.
• 2) Being on wrong lead.
• 3) Excessive speed (any gait).
• 4) Excessive slowness (any gait).
• 5) Breaking gait.
• 6) Failure to take the called for gait when called for.
• 7) Head carried too low or too high in accordance with the horses natural conformation.
• 8) Nosing out or flexing behind the vertical.
• 9) Opening mouth excessively.
• 10) Stumbling or falling.

• 1) Changing hands on reins
• 2) Two hands on reins. (Unless showing with a snaffle or bosal. See Burro-Specific Rules for Exceptions, above)
• 3) Touching horse or saddle with free hand
• 4) Use of spurs forward of the cinch.

A green horse is a horse that is in its first or second calendar year (January 1 to December 31) of showing in a particular performance class in any horse show (4-H, open or breed).

Judged on basis of both animal and rider performance, suitability and conformation. Green horses/mules/burros may be shown two-handed with hackamore (bosal type) or ring snaffle bit (no shank) at the discretion of the exhibitor. The tails of split reins shall be crossed over the animal's neck (bridged).

Judged on both animal and rider performance, suitability and conformation. The animal to be shown two-handed in a ring snaffle bit (no shank) or hackamore (bosal type), or in a curb bit that has a solid or broken mouthpiece, has shanks and acts with leverage.

CLASS PROCEDURES:

Judged on both animal and rider performance, suitability and conformation. The animal is to be shown in a curb bit that has a solid or broken mouthpiece, has shanks and acts with leverage. Senior horses/mules/burros not ready for solid mouthpieces, may be shown in a hackamore (bosal type) or ring snaffle bit (no shank).

Judged on the basis of the rider’s seat, hands, ability and skill in controlling and showing the horse/mule. This class is limited to youth, rookie and amateur categories. This class may, at the judge's discretion, be judged only on individual work (patterns), on the rail work, or a combination of the two. Results, as shown by performance of the horse, are not to be considered more important than the method used by the rider in obtaining them. Consideration shall be given as to Rookie and Youth 12 and under to receive easier or no pattern.

The rider is judged in this class on the ability to ride and control a horse/mule properly. Rider will be judged on basic position in the saddle, hand position, leg position, seat position and back position. A rider should sit straight, shoulders even, with their back flat. When looking down, the rider should see the point of his toe from the point of his knee.

• 1) The class will be worked at a walk, jog and lope in both directions. The judge "MUST POST THE PATTERN", (if one is to be used), at least one hour prior to the commencing of the class. It is recommended that Pattern work be done first, followed by rail work if required. Judging of the individual work will begin at the indication of the judge. Exhibitors shall return to the holding area at the signal of the steward, regardless of whether or not they have completed the work prescribed by the judge. Failure to complete the pattern will not be a disqualification but shall be scored accordingly. The judge will use the rail work, if needed, to determine the top riders. The class may be asked to extend at the jog only, mount and dismount, back the horse, work individually, and reverse at a walk or jog, but never at a lope. Riders will not be asked to change horses. Riders 12 years of age and under shall not be requested to mount and dismount.

• 2) Both hands and arms shall be held in a relaxed, easy manner. Upper arms to be in a straight line with the body, the one holding reins bent at elbow. Free hand shall not touch or rest on the saddle. When using a romal, the off-hand shall be around the romal with at least sixteen (16) inches of slack. One finger between reins is permitted with split reins but not with romal. Reins are to be carried immediately above or slightly in front of the saddle horn. Only one hand is to be used for reining and that hand shall not be changed. If riding in ring snaffle bit (no shank) or bosal, may ride two-handed. Tails of split reins shall be crossed over the horse's neck (bridged). Reins should be carried so as to have light contact with horse's mouth and at no time shall reins be carried more than a slight hand movement from the horse's mouth.

• 3) The rider shall sit in the saddle with legs hanging straight down from riders torso. The stirrup should be just short enough to allow heels to be lower than toes. Body should always appear comfortable, relaxed and flexible. Feet may be placed home in the stirrups with boot heel touching the stirrup, or may be placed less deep in the stirrup at the ball of the foot. Riding with toes only in the stirrup will be penalized. Rider to sit the jog and not post. Exaggerated shifting of the rider's weight is not desirable.

• 4) When mounting, control the horse by taking up reins in left hand and adjusting evenly with enough tension to feel the bit and hold the horse steady. Ends of the reins to hang on near side while mounting. ALWAYS check front cinch and curb strap before mounting, Place left foot into stirrup (if necessary, twist near stirrup with right hand). Grasp saddle horn with right hand. Spring up with body loose to horse and settle easily into the saddle. Slip right foot into off position and assume basic position. Ends of split reins should be carried on the side of the reining hand.
• 5) To dismount, reverse the above procedure, when using split reins, bring both down. Walk to the horse's head and stand facing the judge. Wait for acknowledgment to remount.

Clothing of rider must be clean, workmanlike and neat. Chaps and spurs are optional, no contestant shall be eliminated for not wearing them or have it count against them.

The saddle must fit the rider. Half-breed, spade, snaffle, hackamore, curb bits may be used with split or romal reins. Curb chain requirements are flat chain only (half inch) lying flat against the jaw. Mechanical hackamores, tie-downs, running martingales and draw reins are prohibited. No silver equipment shall be given preference over good working equipment.

See Burro-Specific Exceptions, above

Limited to riders 12 years and under. Riders to be asked to walk and trot and may be asked to back. Tie-downs and martingales are prohibited. To be judged on horsemanship and the ability to ride and present the horse to the judge. Horses/mules/burros are to enter the arena at a flat-foot walk turning to the right and proceeding in a counter-clockwise direction on the rail. The class to be worked at a walk and trot both directions of the arena. In the line-up the judge may ask riders to back their animals to help him/her judge the extent of the rider's horsemanship. Riders will not be asked to mount or dismount.

Remember this class is for Beginners only , not to be used as warm-up unless so designated in show premium. You may not cross enter anything other than Showmanship, Halter, Trail-In Hand or Costume. Stallions are ineligible

Riders to be suitably dressed according to tack, English or Western.

The lead line class may be ridden Western or English. The rider will be evaluated on his or her basic position in the saddle, hand position, leg position, seat position, back position and ability to properly hold the reins and aid and cue the mount. May not cross enter anything other than Showmanship or costume. Stallions and Jacks are not allowed in this class.

A lead shank should be attached to the bridle, bit or to a halter that is under the bridle so that while the rider is on the rail, the horse/mule/burro could be controlled by the person leading the mount if necessary. If the Judge asks the rider to back the horse/mule/burro in the line-up, the leader should not aid the rider.

The person leading must be at least 16 years or over. A rider in this class will be ineligible to ride in any other Equitation class. All riders will receive an award and this class will encourage very young riders in their efforts to learn about and participate in shows.

1) A trail horse/mule/burro is one that can maneuver through a course of obstacles with physical skill, expression and a good mental attitude. It should travel through and between obstacles with an inquisitive desire to go forward without compromising its calm, relaxed attitude and way of going. It should approach each obstacle squarely with authority and correct form, with its own style, yet maintaining its willingness to be dictated to completely by the rider with no apparent resistance. Maximum credit should be given to the trail horse that negotiates its way through an entire course efficiently, in a timely manner, without excessive hesitation yet showing responsiveness and willingness, with smoothness and style, in a manner that raises the degree of difficulty without sacrificing carefulness, control, and/or attitude. Ultimately, the trail horse is skillful, eye appealing, confident, and leaves one with the impression of being sure, safe and a pleasure to ride over a course of obstacles.

2) All classes are to be shown over and through obstacles at a walk, jog-trot and lope on a reasonably loose rein without undue restraint. To be judged on performance and way of going, with emphasis on manners.

3) All horses enter the arena with a score of 70. With each obstacle, the judge will assign a score as well as any appropriate penalties if one or more occurs. At the end of the work, obstacle scores will be totaled. All points for gaits and any penalties will then be subtracted to arrive at a final score. All horses are judged from the time they enter the arena until the completion of the last obstacle.

4) This class will be judged on the performance of the horse/mule/burro over the obstacles, with emphasis on manners, response to the rider, and attitude. Animals must not be required to work on the rail, however, the course must be designed to require each animal to show the three (3) gaits (walk, jog-trot and lope) somewhere between obstacles as part of its work. Enough space should be provided for a horse/mule/burro to jog at least 20 feet and lope at least 30 to 40 feet, for the judge to evaluate these gaits. Credit is to be given to those negotiating obstacles with style and demonstrating a willing response to the rider's cues and some degree of speed, providing carefulness is not sacrificed.

5) A horse/mule/burro not completing the course or completing in incorrect order of maneuvers shall be cause for disqualification. Any animal not performing over any particular obstacle but moving on to negotiate the balance of maneuvers shall not be disqualified but shall be penalized for missing the obstacle. Failure to follow exact pattern will result in disqualification. After three (3) refusals of an obstacle the horse/mule/burro must move on and be penalized accordingly for missing the refused obstacle.

6) Only one hand may be used on reins when competing in western tack and attire, unless showing in the Green Horse Trail Division and riding with a bosal or snaffle bit and split reins, and hands must not be changed, except that it is permissible to change hands to work with an obstacle. Hand to be around reins. One finger between reins permitted when riding with split reins. While the horse/mule/burro is in motion, rider's hands shall be clear of the animal and saddle. Spurs or romal shall not be used forward of the cinch.

7) If competing in english /huntseat tack and attire, two hands on the reins are permissable in being consistent with tack and equipment used in english/huntseat competition. All other rules regarding judging criteria to be applied.

8) All entered exhibitors will be allowed to walk and inspect the course with the judge and with the course designer, if present, prior to the start of the class during the time of the Judge's instructions for a maximum period of time not to exceed 20 minutes.

No time outs will be allowed.

A minimum of Six (6) obstacles will be used, with a maximum of eight (8). The three (3) mandatory obstacles listed below plus up to five (5) of the listed optional obstacles are to be used and shown on the posted pattern. The gaits between obstacles shall be at the discretion of the judge and are to be specified on the posted pattern. The course or pattern to be used must be posted at least one hour before scheduled time of the class. The course shall be reset as originally after each horse/burro has worked. Association, when setting courses, should keep in mind that the idea is not to trap a horse/mule/burro, or eliminate it by making an obstacle too difficult. If difficult courses are set, Rookies, 12 and under and green horse/mule/burro trail should be less difficult. Except where otherwise stated, obstacles may be raised no more than 12 inches. (All or any part of the obstacle may be raised.)

The judge has the right to alter the course in any manner or remove any obstacle deemed by the judge to be unsafe. All courses and obstacles are to be constructed with safety in mind so as to avoid any accidents.

• GATE - Opening, passing through, and closing gate. (Changing hands on gate or turning loose of gate is to be penalized.) Approximately 60" high with latch available at that height.
• Use a gate which will not endanger the animal or rider.
• LOGS - Ride over at least four (4) logs or poles. These can be in a straight line, curved zigzag or raised. Distance between logs or poles is to be fifteen (15") to twenty-four (24") inches for walk-overs; three feet (3') to three feet six inches (3'6") for trot-overs; six feet (6') to seven feet (7') for lope-overs and 12 feet (12') for combination lope-overs. Elevated walk-overs: Single Poles: Maximum height 14"
• Multiples: Maximum height 10". No rolling poles.
• BRIDGE - Ride over wooden bridge. Recommended size of bridge to be thirty-six (36") inches wide and six feet (6') long. Bridge must be sturdy and safe. No rolling bridge is allowed. Bridge should not exceed twelve (12") inches in height.

• Mounted: Maximum height 16"
• Lead Over: Maximum height 12"
• Minimum width between standards of a jump: 4 feet
• Combinations: 12 feet for a one stride
• 6 feet for a no stride

• Box Jumps and L Jumps: Poles must be at least 12 feet long.

• Jog overs: 3 feet to 3' 6" apart (space is measured between poles)
• Lope overs: 6 to 7 feet apart - 7 feet is preferable for most horses.

• On ground: 28" between Min.
• Elevated: 30" between Min.
• Barrels: 32" between Min.

• Single pole: Up to 24" high
• Slots: Never closer than 24" wide (space is measured between poles).

• SERPENTINES (jog-arounds)

Obstacle consisting of three (3) to five (5) markers, to be either pylons, cones or barrels. Horse/mule/burro is to jog through in either a cloverleaf or serpentine pattern as stated on pattern posted. Markers are to be spaced at least three (3) feet apart to jog through.

• WATER HAZARD

• HOBBLE OR GROUND TIE

• CARRY AN OBJECT FROM ONE PART OF ARENA TO ANOTHER

• BACK THROUGH POLES

• BACK THROUGH AND AROUND 3 MARKERS

• PUT ON AND REMOVE SLICKER

• REMOVE AND REPLACE MATERIALS FROM MAILBOX WHILE MOUNTED.
• PIVOT, LOPE-OVER OR SIDEPASS IN, OVER, OR AROUND A SQUARE
• OBSTACLE consisting of four (4) logs, rails, or lime, each being from 5 to 6 feet long laid in a square. The square can be used to either:
  • 1) Enter the square and execute a 180 degree or 360 degree turn and then leave the square or
  • 2) Lope through the square providing the rails were six (6) feet in length and were not elevated. The pattern must state which is required.

Although the shape of the side pass may be varied, recommended side passes are: rails placed in

• a) straight line;
• b) in a ( ) shape or
• c)  the obstacle consisting of three logs or rails, a minimum of six (6) feet long, set as in the diagram below, with no less than 18 inches between log ends.

Side pass Log A to right. Horse/burros front feet to pass through midpoint opening. Side pass Log B to right, stop and then side pass back to left on Log B. Horse/burros hind feet to pass through opening. Side pass Log C to left to complete obstacle.

• ANY OTHER MANEUVERS: Figure horse's wheelbase at five feet front hooves to back hooves.

UNACCEPTABLE OBSTACLES:

	Tires
	Animals
	PVC Pipe
	Water box with floating or moving parts.
	Flames, dry ice, fire extinguisher, etc.
	Logs or poles elevated in a manner that permits such to roll.
	Rocking or moving bridges
	Horse trailer.

UNACCEPTABLE RIDER MANEUVERS:

• Dismounting, except to ground tie.

FAULTS:

1) Penalties in scoring the class, but not cause for disqualification, shall be as follows:

• Unnecessary delay while approaching or attempting an obstacle;
• Exaggerated standing in stirrups and leaning forward over the animal’s neck by the rider.
• Horse/mules/burros with or displaying artificial appearances over obstacles.
• Failure to complete an obstacle;
• Rearing at an obstacle or bolting from the obstacle.
• Knockdown: When any component, element, or portion of an obstacle is displaced from its original position-by horse/mule/burro or rider.
• Balking:: Any action that results in a horse blatantly and continuously refusing a rider’s command, or any blatant action by the horse that demonstrates an unwillingness to approach, negotiate and/or complete an obstacle.
• Each complete loss of the gate.

NOTE: Any time a judge instructs an exhibitor to proceed to the next obstacle a 10 point penalty will also apply for negotiating an obstacle in a manner that does not constitute elimination, but is not in accordance with course directions.

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TRAIL SCORING GENERAL:

Each obstacle will be scored as follows:

+3 EXCELLENT: The horse approaches and negotiates obstacle in correct form with definite style. The horse performs in a an efficient manner with curiosity and athleticism, while maintaining the qualities of an ideal trail horse. The horse’s performance over the obstacle is VISUALLY IMPRESSIVE.

+2 VERY GOOD: The horse approaches and negotiates obstacle in correct form with noticeable style. This horse definitely displays many qualities of the ideal trail horse.

+1 GOOD: The horse approaches and negotiates obstacle in correct form with some degree of style. This horse lacks those qualities of the ideal trail horse, and lacks those qualities to the degree they are exhibited by the Very Good or Excellent performer.

O AVERAGE: For the most part, horse approaches and negotiates obstacle in correct form. Minimal style is exhibited. If the horse’s performance displays any qualities of the ideal trail horse they are negated by errors in form. The horse’s performance over the obstacle leaves a visually NEUTRAL IMPRESSION.

-1 POOR: The horse fails in to approach and/or negotiate obstacle in correct form. There is a noticeable void in some of the qualities of the ideal trail horse.

-2 VERY POOR: The horse approaches and negotiates obstacle, but noticeably fails to do so in correct form. There is a definite deficiency in the qualities of the ideal trail horse. Safety may have been compromised. The horse exhibits noticeable resistance.

-3 EXTREMELY POOR: The horse/mule/burro approaches and/or negotiates obstacle in unacceptable form, but avoids elimination. This horse’s performance is probably reckless, careless, and/or dangerous. The horse exhibits significant resistance towards the rider’s commands. Willingness to guide or control has been compromised.

Scoring Penalties

NO SCORE OR ZERO SCORE.

	Illegal equipment. This includes any attachment which alters the movement of or circulation to the tail.
	Abuse to the animal inside or outside the competition arena and/or evidence that an act of abuse has occurred. This includes lameness and/or fresh blood in the mouth, chin, shoulder, barrel, flank or hip areas. Includes use of free hand to instill fear or praise.
	Spurring in front of the forward cinch.
	Disrespect or misconduct by exhibitor.
	Off course
	Two hands on reins (Exception: Snaffles or Hackamore in a Green Horse Trail Class)
	More than one finger between split reins
	Fingers between closed reins
	Fall of horse or rider
	Falling off side of bridge
	Equipment failure or loss of shoe that delays completion of course.

Note: Neither a "no score" nor a "zero score" penalty may receive an award in that class.

10 POINT PENALTIES

• Temporary loss of control, stampeding, running through or jumping over entire obstacle when jump is not called for and each refusal. Each refusal. Refusals are cumulative.
• Horse misses/evades an element/component of an obstacle that is part of a series. Losing drag or object being carried.
• c) Blatant disobedience (kicking, bucking, rearing, biting, striking, horse leaving designated ground tie area). Knockdowns or obviously displacing the original configuration of an obstacle.
• d) Approaching and performing obstacle at wrong gait or lead. During transition areas between obstacles, if horse is, for instance, loping where a jog is called for, or jogging where a walk is called for, a ten point penalty has occurred.
• e) Placing two or more feet outside of a confining element or placing two feet off side or bridge. Skipping slot, double striding or adding strides or adding steps (walkovers, jogovers, lopeovers, or tires)
• f) Each time switching leads where not called for, picking up wrong leads, cross leading, or breaking of gait.

NOTE: If a horse switches leads and must be broken down to correct the lead, then two penalties have been incurred (The first for switching leads (10 points) and the second for breaking of gait (10 points).

5 POINT PENALTIES

• a) Placing one foot off side of bridge or placing one foot outside of a confining element.
• b) Stepping on an element of an obstacle.
• c) Obvious cueing or touching of horse in front of forward cinch.
• d) Pulling gate when designated to push in course directions (or visa versa).
• e) Sidepassing the wrong end of horse in slot.
• f) Failure to maintain 16 inches of rein between hands when using romal reins.

2 POINT PENALTIES

• Holding of saddle with free hand. (Exception: over a jump, elevated jog over(s) or elevated lope over(s).

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TRAIL-IN-HAND

• Opening, passing through, and closing gate. (Changing hands on gate or turning loose of gate is to be penalized.) Use a gate which will not endanger animal or handler.
• Lead over at least four logs, these being placed a minimum of 15 inches apart. The space between poles is measured. These can be in a straight line, curved, zigzag, raised, or combined with a trot over. (Trot overs: 3' to 3'6" apart.)
• Lead over wooden bridge. (Suggested minimum width shall be 36" wide and at least six feet long.)

• Hobble or ground tie horse/mule/burro at contestant's option. (Not to be used for the Rookie or 12 and Under Division.)
• Carry object from one part of arena to another. (Only objects which might be carried on a trail ride may be used.)
• Back horse/mule/burro through "L" shaped course: On ground - 28" minimum (space between poles),
• Elevated - 30" minimum (space between poles).
• Put on and remove slicker.
• Remove and replace materials from mailbox.
• Side pass (over obstacle is optional) touching allowed.
• Back through and around three markers set either in a triangle or line.
• An obstacle consisting of four logs, rails, or lime to mark the obstacle, each side 5 to 6 feet long, laid in a square as shown below. Each contestant will enter the square by stepping over log, rail or lime at designated side. When all four feet are inside the square, handler will execute a 360 ° turn (right or left), pause and depart by stepping over log, rail or lime immediately opposite side of entry.

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TRAIL--WESTERN or ENGLISH

• Out of lead beyond the next designated change area (note: this includes cross-cantering);
• Blatant disobedience including kicking out, biting and bucking.

3 Points:

• Not performing specific gait or stopping within 10 feet of designated area;
• Break of gait;
• Simple change of leads (front only or back only);
• Out of lead at or before (or after) marker prior to designated change area;
• Additional lead changes uncalled for in pattern;
• Failure to start lope within 30 feet after crossing log at jog;
• Break of gait for more than 2 strides.

1 Point:

• Break of gait up to 2 strides;
• Hitting, rolling, touching log;
• Spilling the log (log between 2 front or 2 hind feet) at the lope;
• Hind legs shipping or coming together during lead changes;
• Non-simultaneous lead changes.
• Disqualifed (disqualified) - 0 score
• Illelegal (illegal) equipment
• Willful abuse
• Off Course
• Knocking over markers
• Completely missing log
• Major refusal
• Major disobedience

Pattern:

• 1) Walk down, start jog as horse steps over log
• 2) Transition to left lead half-way across at the top of the course
• 3) First lead change
• 4) Second lead change
• 5) Third lead change
• 6) Fourth lead change and lope around end of arena
• 7) First crossing lead change
• 8) Second crossing lead change
• 9) Lope over log
• 10) Third crossing lead change
• 11) Fourth crossing lead change
• 12) Lope up center, stop and back, minimum of 10 feet.

Burro/donkey will be shown both directions of the arena either at walk/jog, or walk/jog/lope, depending on what the class calls for, on a reasonably loose rein or light contact without undue restraint.  Requesting an extension of any gait is at the option of the judge.

Reversing on the rail is done to the inside.

Judged on performance (quality of movement, attitude and correctness); the condition and conformation of the burro/donkey will not be judged directly but as a part of the overall result as presented in the performance.

Description of an ideal performance to include:

• a free-flowing stride of reasonable length in keeping with conformation;
• cover a reasonable amount of ground with little effort;
• ideally, have a balanced, flowing motion;
• carry head and neck in a relaxed, natural position, with poll level with, or slightly above, the level of the withers
• should not carry head behind the vertical, giving the appearance of intimidation, or be excessively nosed out, giving a resistant appearance
• head should be level with nose slightly in front of the vertical, having a bright expression with ears alert
• shown on a reasonably loose rein, but still have light contact and control
• should be responsive, yet smooth in transitions when called for
• when asked to extend, should move out with same flowing motion
• maximum credit should go to the flowing, balanced and willing animal which gives the appearance of being fit and a pleasure to ride.

Faults to be scored according to severity:

• 1.  Excessive speed (any gait);
• 2.  Being on the wrong lead;
• 3.  Breaking gait;
• 4.  Excessive slowness in any gait, loss of forward momentum;
• 5.  Failure to take the appropriate gait when called for;
• 6.  Touching animal or saddle with free hand;
• 7.  Head carried too high;
• 8.  Head carried too low (tip of ear below the withers for more then five strides;
• 9.  Overflexing or straining neck in head carriage so the nose is carried behind the vertical for more then five strides;
• 10. Excessive nosing out;
• 11. Opening mouth excessively;
• 12. Stumbling or falling;
• 13. Use of romel or spurs forward of the cinch;
• 14. If animal appears sullen, dull, lethargic, emaciated, drawn or overly tired;
• 15. Quick, choppy or pony-strided;
• 16. Not maintaining a true 3-beat lope;
• 17. Totting behind instead of maintaining the lope in the rear legs during that gait;
• 18. Walking behind instead of maintaining the jog in the rear legs during that gait;