United Racking Horse Owners an Exhibitors Association

URHOEA

UNITED RACKING HORSE OWNERS AND EXHIBITORS ASSOCIATION

RULE BOOK

Effective Date January 1, 2008

Revision II

SECTION I

General Information

SECTION II

Membership, Registration, and Miscellaneous Fees

SECTION III

Commissioner Qualifications and Responsibilities

SECTION IV

Judges Qualifications and Responsibilities

SECTION V

Apprentice Judge Qualifications

SECTION VI

The Racking Horse

SECTION VII

Time Outs

SECTION VIII

Racking Divisions

SECTION IX

Class Specifications and Judging Percentage

SECTION X

Status Definitions

SECTION XI

Sanctioning Shows

UNITED RACKING HORSE OWNERS & EXHIBITORS ASSOCIATION

FOREWORD

The U.R.H.O.E.A. was founded in August of 1996 for the purpose of improving and promoting the breed by sanctioning shows, establishing rules for exhibiting the Racking horses and providing pedigrees and transfers of ownership with respect to the Racking horses.

The U.R.H.O.E.A. Racking horse wears an action device in and out of the show ring in all divisions with the exception of Trail Pleasure, Country Pleasure, Country Show Pleasure, Country Saddle, and Speed Racking Horses. The U.R.H.O.E.A. is dedicated to keeping honesty in our judging process.

This rule book will not cover every situation that may arise. The ownership of the U.R.H.O.E.A. will settle any dispute arising that is not covered by the rules in this book. In case of an accident or equipment failure, spectators should ask for permission from the ringmaster or judge before entering the ring.

SECTION I

GENERAL INFORMATION

NAME: United Racking Horse Owners & Exhibitors

Association (U.R.H.O.E.A.)

PLACE OF BUSINESS: White Pine, Jefferson County, Tennessee 37890

MAILING ADDRESS:

TELEPHONE: (423)-586-RACK (7225)

SECTION II

MEMBERSHIP, REGISTRATION, AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP $40.00 (Each Year)

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP $60.00 (Each Year)

Exhibitor’s numbers are required for each exhibitor to participate in U.R.H.O.E.A. sanctioned shows. Cards with an exhibitor number on them will be issued to all paid up members each year at no charge. The card will specify whether the exhibitor is a Trainer (T), Amateur (A) or a Juvenile (J). The number will be a four digit number with a T, A, or

J following the number. If you have a Family paid up membership, a card will be issued to each family member requested.

EXHIBITOR CARDS ONLY $25.00

COMMISSION REGISTERED HORSES $40.00

HORSES ALREADY REGISTERED $40.00

Horses registered with, SSHBEA, TWHBEA, OR RHBAA (if you have a pedigree) can be automatically registered with U.R.H.O.E.A., by sending in the application for registration and a copy of the papers from the other association.

HORSE TRANSFER FEES $25.00

It is the seller’s responsibility for completion of the written transfer slip. It is the seller’s responsibility to send the transfer slip along with the correct fee to the U.R.H.O.E.A. for transfer of ownership to the buyer. The U.R.H.O.E.A. will provide blank transfer slips on request.

DUPLICATE CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION $25.00

ALTERATION AFTER CERTIFICATE HAS BEEN ISSUED $15.00

NAME CHANGE (Only if horse has not sired or produced a foal) $15.00

FURNISHING PEDIGREE (A written request required) $5.00

SECTION III

COMMISSIONER QUALIFICATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A commissioner has to be a paid up member of the U.R.H.O.E.A. and will be 18 years of age, or older. A commissioner will possess the ability to visually inspect a horse’s teeth to determine the age of the horse.

REGISTERING BY PERFORMANCE

A commissioner will inspect every horse, not having any existing papers, for registration in the U.R.H.O.E.A. In order to qualify for registration with the U.R.H.O.E.A., the horse will perform the Racking gait with an action device, with the exception of Trail Pleasure, Country Pleasure, Country Saddle, Country Show Pleasure, and Speed Racking Horses.

No horse exhibiting animated hock action will be found acceptable for registration.

If there is no licensed commissioner in your area, a videotape may be sent in along with the completed registration application to the U.R.H.O.E.A. This must show the horse from all sides, the performance of the gait, and views of the mouth that would testify to the age of the horse.

AUTOMATIC RIGHT TO REGISTRATION BY BIRTH

Any foal born of a U.R.H.O.E.A. registered sire and dam is automatically qualified to be registered without inspection by a commissioner. Registration forms are available by request from the U.R.H.O.E.A.

SECTION IV

JUDGES QUALIFICATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A judge has to be a paid up member of the U.R.H.O.E.A. and be 18 years of age, or older. A completed Judges application is required. Judges fee is $25 per year and a judge is requested to attend the annual judges’ clinic provided by the U.R.H.O.E.A. LICENSE DENIAL, REVOCATION, and OR SUSPENSION

A licensed U.R.H.O.E.A. judge may have their license denied, revoked or suspended by the ownership of the U.R.H.O.E.A. as a result of any of the following violations:

1. Acts of fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation in obtaining the license.

2. Acts of negligence, incompetence or misconduct in carrying out their duties or responsibilities as a U.R.H.O.E.A. licensed judge.

3. Willful disregard of the Code of Ethics or rules of the U.R.H.O.E.A.

4. At a sanctioned show, the judge is not permit ted to stay at the home of any person who is showing in the judges division.

5. No Racking horse can show under a judge if that judge has at any time during the past 60 days been an owner, or agent of the horse.

6. A judge cannot allow any member of his/her immediate family to represent or handle in any manner a Racking horse entered in any sanctioned show. This includes exhibiting, acting as agent, training, or owning a horse.

7. A judge will dismiss any horse whose actions threaten or endanger other exhibitors.

8. A judge cannot judge a person who has trained a horse for them in the last 60 days.

9. A judge cannot judge a person who has been a customer in the last 60 days.

CODE OF ETHICS

A judge should always be mindful that to be a licensed U.R.H.O.E.A. judge is an honor bestowed only on individuals with honesty, and integrity. No inducement of profit or personal gain can justify departure from this injunction of the Code. A judge pledges to enforce the rules of the U.R.H.O.E.A. for the betterment and growth of the Racking Horse Industry.

JUDGES ATTIRE

His/Her attire for evening performance will be coat and tie with appropriate slacks or dress. Minimum dress for afternoon performances at any sanctioned show will be shirt, tie and appropriate slacks or dress.

SECTION V

APPRENTICE JUDGE QUALIFICATIONS

1. Must be a member of the URHOEA.

2. Must be 18 years of age.

3. An apprentice, with experience judging, will apprentice two shows. An apprentice, with no experience judging, will apprentice three or more shows depending on his/her needs.

4. The URHOEA will provide an apprentice with cards to score the classes at the show and they will turn these into the URHOEA office.

5. When apprenticing, an apprentice should stand at least 20 feet away from the judge until the class is finished and the judge has turned his/her card into the show officials. Do not speak with the judge until his/her card has been turned in.

6. Attire will be the same as a licensed judge.

7. The code of ethics will be the same as for a licensed judge.

SECTION VI

THE RACKING HORSE

The Racking horse is shown at three gaits: the Show Walk, the Slow Rack, and the Fast Rack. (Exceptions to these gaits are specific classes such as Two Year Old, Style, and Juvenile 12 years and Under, Two & Three Old combinations, etc.)

THE SHOW WALK

The Show Walk is the gait in which the horse does a slow collected easy four beat gait. The horse is alert and mounted well in the bridle and displays style and grace. Minimal head motion is allowed.

THE SLOW RACK

The Slow Rack moves the horse into an easy four beat gait that stresses style and action. The horse is square and in form.

THE FAST RACK

The Fast Rack is at a higher speed, but maintains the form of the Slow Rack. Form should not be sacrificed for speed. The horse is to show action, speed, and style. The front leg action should demonstrate a curving rolling reaching motion and not “pitching & pointing”. The rear legs should have a long normal stride and no hock action. The horse should be well mounted in the bridle with minimal headshake allowed.

SECTION VII

TIME OUTS ARE TO BE CALLED FOR SHOE REPLACEMENT, EQUIPMENT REPAIR OR IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT ONLY.

The exhibitor will ride to the center of the ring to the steward or ringmaster. They will determine if the timeout is necessary and begin the timing. (If the exhibitor can make the adjustment by himself or herself, they will not be charged with a time out.)

No more than two time outs in a class by the same exhibitor, and no more than ten minutes total time will be allowed.

Time outs will begin when the exhibitor rides to the center of the ring. (If a horse has lost a shoe, the time will begin when the farrier touches the shoe.)

If a rider should fall from a horse or a horse falls with the rider, disqualification will not occur from the class, unless the fall was due to the bad manners of the horse or rider.

To be excused from a class, an exhibitor will ask permission from either the judge or the ringmaster. The exhibitor and horse may exit the ring when the other horses are called to the line up for conformation judging or if there is opportunity as the horses are reversed to the second way of the ring. Exhibitors may be excused from the class if they voluntarily dismount without the permission of the judge or ringmaster. This will be left up to the discretion of the judge.

SECTION VIII

RACKING DIVISIONS OPEN DIVISION

All classes shall be open to the Racking public except where age limitations are set upon exhibitors. This division will be open shod and required to execute the three gaits of the Racking horse. (Exceptions: Style, Two Year Old, Two and Three Year Old combinations, Juvenile 12 Years and under.) The Open Show Horse will enter the ring at a Show Walk. This horse will wear a six-(6) ounce or less action device.

When exhibiting the Racking horse at shows, there will be three-(3) minute gate call for each class.

SHOEING RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Heel/Toe Measurement: Toe length must exceed the height of the heel by one (1) inch or more. The length of the toe shall be measured from the coronet band, at the center of the front pastern along the front of the hoof wall, to the ground. The heel shall be measured from the coronet band, at the most lateral portion of the rear pastern, at a 90-degree angle to the ground, not including normal caulks at the rear of the horseshoe that do not exceed 3/4 of an inch in length. That portion of the caulk at the rear of a horseshoe in excess of 3/4 of an inch shall be added to the height of the heel in determining the heel-to-toe ratio.

2. Pad Measurement: The amount of pad, or artificial extension, permitted on any horse two years of age or older will be determined by the natural hoof length. The amount of artificial ex-tension, whether accomplished with pads, acrylics or any other material or combination thereof, must not exceed 50 percent of the natural hoof length. The natural hoof length is measured from the coronet band at the center of the front pastern along the front of the hoof wall, to the distal portion of the hoof wall at the tip of the toe. The thickness of the pad, or artificial extension, shall be measured from the distal portion of the hoof wall at the tip of the toe at a 90-degree angle to the proximal (foot/hoof) surface of the shoe.

3. Pads: Pads shall be made of leather, plastic or a similar pliant material.

4. Shoe Size: The maximum shoe size is 1 1/2 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick with a one inch turn back for a caulk. The turn back is measured from the inside of the fold.

5. Rubber Foundation: A rubber foundation used in lieu of a shoe cannot be more that 1/2 inch thick.

6. Half-Rubber Foundation: A half-rubber foundation used in lieu of a half a shoe cannot be thicker than the corresponding half-shoe.

Example: With a 3/8 inch thick shoe, rubber cannot be more than 3/8 inch thick. With a 1/2 inch thick shoe, rubber cannot be more than 1/2 inch thick.

7. Half-Metal Shoe: A half-metal shoe in front with rubber on the rear half used for the foundation must be in apposition (there can be no gap between the metal shoe and the rubber).

8. Weight Bearing Surface: The weight bearing surface of the shoe must be level.

9. Rock back Pads: Rock back pads cannot extend below the weight-bearing surface (bottom of the shoe).

10. Lead or Other Weights: Lead or other weights cannot be attached to the outside of the hoof walls, the outside surface of the horseshoe, or any portion of the pad except the bottom surface within the horseshoe. Pads may not be hollowed out for the purpose of inserting or affixing weights, and weights may not extend below the weight bearing surface of the shoe. Hollow shoes or artificial extensions filled with mercury or similar substances are prohibited.

11. Break over: The break over point of the shoe cannot be any further back than the tip of the shoe on the natural hoof.

12. All URHOEA horses are allowed bands except Trail Pleasure and Country Saddle Pleasure.

FLAT SHOD SHOW PERFORMANCE DIVISION

In the Flat Shod Division, the shoe must not exceed 1/2 inch in thickness or 1-1/2 inches in width with no weight inside the shoe. The caulk must not exceed a 1-inch turn back and the shoe must not extend more than 1 inch beyond the bulb of the horse’s heel to the ground. You will be allowed to have a 1/2 inch pad between the hoof and the shoe. This is optional. This horse will be allowed a band and will be shown with a 6 ounce or less action device.

The Flat Shod horse will enter the ring at a Show Walk and perform all three gaits. This division is open to the Racking Horse public.

PLEASURE DIVISION: Country Pleasure, Country Show Pleasure, Trail Pleasure, Country Saddle Pleasure and Amateur Show Pleasure.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Crossing over is permitted in the Pleasure Divisions. Backing your horse is required in the Country Saddle Pleasure, Country Pleasure, Country Show Pleasure, and Trail Pleasure Divisions. The horse should back up 3 straight steps on command and not struggle.

Whips and bits with shanks longer than 9 1/2 inches are not allowed, with the exception of Country Show Pleasure and amateur Show Pleasure where there is no limit on the Shank Length. Another exception is Amateur Show Pleasure where you can carry a whip. Action Device is only allowed in Amateur Show Pleasure.

No action device is allowed in other pleasure classes. The use of Spurs will be permitted in the Pleasure Division. The tack for the Country Pleasure, Country Show Pleasure, Country Saddle and Trail Pleasure horses will be either English or Western. (Appointments for Tack Definition)

English:

Bridles: Hackamores, martingales and tie downs are prohibited. Bridles should be English type with single reins. Saddles: Flat English type saddles are acceptable. Forward seat saddles are prohibited. A breast collar will be optional. No name or symbol is allowed on a breast strap. Braids: Braids shall be worn in English and Halter classes, but not in Western. Braids should be neatly attached at forelock and mane. Fancy brow bands and caveson fronts are permitted in English classes, but not in Western. All tack must be neat and clean and fit the horse correctly. Attire: The exhibitor will wear an English riding habit that is neat and properly fitted. Hats are required for men, but optional for women. Hair must be neatly styled and back numbers must be completely visible.

Western:

Bridles: Western type bridle. Cavesons are permitted. Saddles: A good stock saddle is permissible, silver equipment will not count over a good working outfit. Breast straps are optional. Attire: Exhibitors shall wear a Western hat, long-sleeved shirt with collar, a necktie, kerchief or bolo tie, trousers or jeans and boots. A vest, jacket, coat, and or sweater and chaps are optional. Hackamores, Martingales, and Tie-Downs are prohibited. Professional trainers may not show in Country Pleasure, Country Show Pleasure, Trail Pleasure, Country Saddle, or Amateur Show Pleasure Division, only Amateurs and Juveniles are allowed. Juvenile riders are prohibited from showing stallions in the Juvenile Pleasure Classes.

SHOEING REQUIREMENTS:

COUNTRY PLEASURE, COUNTRY SHOW PLEASURE, TRAIL PLEASURE, AND

COUNTRY SADDLE PLEASURE:

Trail Pleasure 3/4 x 3/8 (no bands)

Country Saddle 3/4 x 3/8 (no bands)

Country Pleasure 1 1/2 x 1/2

Country Show Pleasure 1 1/2 x 1/2

No bare plate or other weights are allowed inside the shoe. The caulk must not exceed more than 1 inch turn back and the shoe must not extend more than 1/4 inch beyond the bulb of the horse’s heel when a perpendicular line is drawn from the bulb of the horse’s heel to the ground. The use of borium is permitted on the caulk of the Pleasure shoes, but the thickness of the shoe and caulk with the borium must not exceed 1 1/8 inches. The uses of welded on clips are not permitted on Pleasure horses. Clips that are drawn from the shoe itself are permitted.

No additional weight shall be allowed on or in the hoof other than the shoe and nails. Pads are not allowed in the Lite Shod class. The Trail Pleasure Horse: The Trail Pleasure horse should carry its head in a natural and relaxed position. He must be manageable on a light rein in all gaits. The Trail Pleasure Horse will enter the ring at a Trail Pleasure Rack. Two gaits will be called for, beginning with the Trail Pleasure Walk, and then the Trail Pleasure Rack. The Trail Pleasure Horse should carry his head in a natural and relaxed position, neither excessively nosed out nor over-flexed at the poll. He is not required to have a high front leg lift. He will show evidence of being the ultimate trail horse. The rein is light and there is no evidence of any strain on the part of the horse or rider. Any indication of strain on the part of the horse or rider will be penalized. Minimal head motion is allowed.

Trail Pleasure Class may be divided into Men’s, Ladies, Juvenile, Lite Shod, Championship or Stake classes at the discretion of show Management.

The Country Saddle Pleasure Horse:

The Country Saddle Horse will enter the ring at a Country Saddle Show Walk. The horse will be required to perform three gaits: The Country Saddle Show Walk, Country Saddle slow Rack, and country Saddle Fast Rack. These gaits should be three distinctive gaits. The Country Saddle horse should be shown with its head up and set. This horse should be doing a true four beat racking gait. The Country Saddle Classes may be divided into Men’s, Ladies, Juvenile, championship or Stake classes at the discretion of the Show Management.

The Country Pleasure Horse:

The Country Pleasure Horse will enter the ring at a Country Pleasure Walk. The horse will be required to perform three gaits: Country Pleasure Show Walk, Country Pleasure Slow Rack, and Country Pleasure Fast Rack.

The Country Pleasure Show Walk is a slow 4 beat gait, with a smooth stride behind and a natural rolling motion in front. This horse is to be alert in the bridle with a well set head. Minimal head motion is allowed. Front leg lift will be higher than a Trail Pleasure Horse but below level. Excessive hock action will be penalized. The Country Slow Rack is the same Walk as the Show Walk with the exception of one more notch of speed. The Country Pleasure Fast Rack should be easily distinguished from the other two gaits; however speed is not a factor in judging. The horse and rider should present a picture of comfort that is pleasing to the eye. The rein is light. Excessive speed will be penalized. Country Pleasure Classes may be divided into Men’s, Ladies, Juvenile, Spotted, Lite Shod, Championship or Stake classes at the discretion of Show Management.

Country Show Pleasure Horse:

The Country Show Pleasure Horse will enter the ring at a Country Show Pleasure Show Walk. The horse will be required to perform three gaits: Country Show Pleasure Show Walk, Country Show Pleasure Slow Rack and Country Show Pleasure Fast Rack. The Country Show Pleasure Show Walk is a slow 4 beat gait. The horse is to be alert and well mounted in the bridle. Minimal head motion is allowed. The front leg lift shall be unlimited. The front leg lift should be more than the maximum allowed for the Country Pleasure Horse. This should be followed by a smooth striding back end with a little more stride than a Country Pleasure Horse. The rein can be with no slack, a tighter rein than Country Pleasure or

Trail Pleasure. The Country Show Pleasure Slow Rack is the same as the Show Walk with the exception of one more notch of speed. In the Country Show Pleasure Fast Rack, speed is not a factor in judging, but can easily be distinguished from the other two gaits. The horse should exhibit style with a comfortable way of going and should present a picture of comfort and style that is pleasing to the eye. Country Show Pleasure Classes may be divided into Men’s, Ladies, Juvenile, Championship or Stake Classes at the discretion of Show Management.

The Amateur Show Pleasure

The Amateur Show Pleasure Horse will enter the ring at a Show Pleasure Show Walk. The horse will be required to do three gaits: Show Pleasure Show Walk, Show Pleasure Slow Rack, and Show Pleasure Fast Rack. This horse will have a medium backend, head up with a good head set, and can not break above level. This horse shall be shown with light rein with no strain to the horse or rider and should be dependable and exhibit smoothness of ride. Whips and spurs are optional. The Show Pleasure Horse does not back on the line up. This horse is shown with pads and an action device up to 6 ounces.

Speed Division

GENERAL INFORMATION

Optional Classes:

4 Year & Under (Open Shod)

Advanced Juvenile Speed

Men’s Speed

Ladies

Flat Shod Speed

Padded Speed

Open Shod Speed

Action Devices are prohibited on Speed horses.

Shoe requirements:

Padded Speed (same shoe requirements as Open

Racking Division)

Bands are allowed

Open Shod Classes can be either padded horses or flat shod horses.

Flat Shod Speed (flat shod horses only)

Appointments for Tack Definition

Tack for the URHOEA Speed horse will be English. Hats are optional for men. Ladies hair must not obstruct back number.

SPEED HORSE GAITS:

The URHOEA Speed horse will be shown, on the rail, in 3 gaits, the show walk, slow gait, and fast gait. The URHOEA Speed horse should display Speed, Style, and Action. The URHOEA Speed horse will enter the ring in a Show walk, single file. The horse will be judged on speed, but it must hold form with out breaking gait. It is recommended that, in a small ring, that a class with 12 or more entries will be split with workouts.

The URHOEA Speed horse shall be shown on the rail except when passing another horse. Cones can be used, by show management, to prevent horses from excessive cutting of the ring. When Juvenile Class is offered Juveniles must show in this class. This will qualify them to show in championship class if offered. Riders 13 & under must wear a helmet.

GAIT REQUIREMENTS:

The Show Walk is the gait in which the horse is well mounted in the bridle with a slightly arched neck, with a rolling front end breaking just below level or above. The back end should be long and natural and should not exhibit excessive hock action. The Slow Gait should be the same form as the Show Walk with a 4 beat gait, showing a little more speed with style and action. The Fast Gait should be same form as the Show Walk and the Slow Gait. The Fast Gait should display speed, style, and action. At no time, should the horse sacrifice form for speed.

SECTION IX

CLASS SPECIFICATIONS AND JUDGING PERCENTAGE

Class Percentages

3 Year Old 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Rack, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

4 Year Old 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Rack, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Aged Horse 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Rack, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Ladies 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Rack, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Men’s 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Rack, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Amateur 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Rack, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation

15.2 Horse 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Rack, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Open 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Rack, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Juvenile 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Rack, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

2 Year Old 45% Show Walk, 45% Slow Rack, 10% Conformation.

2 & 3 Year Old 45% Show Walk, 45% Slow Rack, 10% Conformation.

Juvenile 12 Yrs. & Under 45% Show Walk, 45% Slow Rack, 10% Conformation.

Style 45% Show Walk, 45% Slow Rack, 10% Conformation.

Speed 30% Show Walk, 30% Slow Gait, 30% Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Country Pleasure 30% Country Pleasure Show Walk, 30% Country Pleasure Slow Rack, 30% Country Pleasure Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Country Show Pleasure 30% Country Show Pleasure Show Walk, 30% Country Show Pleasure Slow Rack, 30% Country Show Pleasure Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Trail Pleasure 45% Trail Pleasure Walk, 45% Trail Pleasure Rack, 10% Conformation.

Country Saddle 30% Country Saddle Show Walk, 30% Country Saddle Slow Rack, 30% Country Saddle Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

Amateur Show Pleasure 30% Show Pleasure Show Walk, 30% Show Pleasure Slow Rack, 30% Show Pleasure Fast Rack, 10% Conformation.

These classes may be divided according to the sex of the horse or the height of the horse such as 15.2 horses.

Horses to be measured in specific classes such as 15.2 will be measured at a specified place designated by the show management.

CHAMPIONSHIP CLASSES

Championship classes may be designated in any or all divisions. Removal of saddles will be the choice of the judge or show management. After a horse has been entered, shown, and judged, in a previous performance class, they are qualified for a performance Championship/Stake class. Show management will decide whether horses have to qualify for Championship/Stake classes. This will be stated on their show program. This rule applies to Open Speed Juvenile, Amateur, and Pleasure Horses.

If a horse has been shown and judged, they have executed all required gaits both ways of the ring in the original workout and in which they remained in the ring through the conformation judging, they are qualified for a Championship/Stake class.

WORKOUTS

A judge can have a workout anytime he/she desires. A judge has to call for a workout if there are 20 or more horses in a class. All of the horses will be worked a minimal amount both ways of the ring.

The judge will call the horses to line up and select several horses to go to the parked in position. The rest of the horses are to go back on the rail for more judging for no more than 1 1/2 laps. At his time, the judge may select additional horses to park in. After this, the other horses will be excused from the ring. The horses, which were parked in, will go back to the rail and the class will begin again. Workouts shall be considered a separate class. When all horses are put back on the rail, after having been worked both directions of the ring, this is called a continuance of the class.

At the URHOEA World Celebration, a class with 30 or more entries will be split into A & B classes, each class given the same awards.

SECTION X

STATUS DEFINITIONS

PROFESSIONAL: A person is a professional trainer if he/she is 18 years of age or older and receives any money for training and exhibiting horses.

Professionals are not eligible to show in Pleasure classes such as Trail, Country Show Pleasure, Country Saddle or Amateur Show Pleasure classes.

A RELATIVE OF A PROFESSIONAL: Any member of a professional’s immediate family or household who has reached his/her eighteenth (18th) birthday is a professional if he/she aids or assists in training which makes the aforesaid a professional.

The doing of clerical work, of itself, or the giving of financial aid of itself, shall not affect amateur status. Any member of a trainer’s immediate family or household specifically including his/her spouse, who has reached his/her eighteenth (18th) birthday shall be considered a professional if he and or she shows a customer’s horse, regardless of whether he/she receives any remuneration for showing the horse. This provision shall apply to exhibiting at any horse show.

In regard to this rule book for show purposes, the term immediate family or household shall mean husband, wife, parent, stepparent, child, stepchild, brother, sister, half brother, half sister, in laws of the same relation as stated above, grandparents, nieces, nephews and live-in partners. If you have any doubt about who is immediate family, please call the office.

AMATEUR: A person is an amateur if he/she is 18 years old or older and does not engage in any activities which would cause them to be classified as a professional. Amateurs may show in Amateur, Open, and Pleasure classes.

*Please note that a juvenile can still show in an amateur or open class just not Men’s or Ladies.

AMATEUR OWNED & TRAINED: Ownership on registration papers must be in the name of the exhibitor. Ownership by corporation or company is prohibited.

Co-Owners are permitted but must be in the immediate family, not professional. Horse may not have been in a professional training barn for 60 consecutive days prior to exhibition. Amateur Owned & Trained horses cannot be assisted in a physical manner with the preparation, training, or exhibition from a professional trainer or agent, thereof, for a period of 60 consecutive days prior to the show. Amateur Owned & Trained exhibitors cannot be assisted by a professional trainer or agent at the show, during the show, or on the show grounds. Amateur Owned & Trained horses cannot be transported to the show by a professional or transported with other horses that are professionally trained.

JUVENILE: A person who has not reached their 18th birthday on January 1st of the show year. A juvenile may show a stallion in open or amateur classes but not in a juvenile class. LADIES: A women who is at least 18 years old and does not qualify for the juvenile class.

MEN’S or LADIES:  A man who is at least 18 years old and does not qualify for the juvenile class.

CHANGE OF STATUS: The ownership of the U.R.H.O.E.A. will decide on changing the status of a professional back to an amateur rating. Until that approval, the person will remain a professional. The ownership may change the status of a professional if that person proves that they have been free of professional activities for at least one year. A person cannot change their status more than one time in a five-(5) year period.

SECTION XI

SANCTIONING SHOWS

Sanctioned shows are shows using a licensed U.R.H.O.E.A. judge or a licensed Walking Horse judge approved by the ownership of the U.R.H.O.E.A. and licensed DQP organization. There is no fee to sanction. The U.R.H.O.E.A. will be the governing body over rules, protests, and alleged infractions at a sanctioned show.

DUTIES OF SHOW PERSONNEL, SHOW COMMITTEE OR DIRECTORS

1. To use a qualified DQP organization.

2. Measuring horses’ height.

3. If an exhibitor makes protest of any horses height or foot length, the show committee takes the measurement and makes a decision at that time. Their decision cannot be appealed to the U.R.H.O.E.A.

4. It is their duty to disqualify any horse or rider that is known to be ineligible before protest is ever made.

5. Make final decisions on protest and charges according to U.R.H.O.E.A. rules and reporting incidents to the U.R.H.O.E.A. The Show Committee/Directors have the authority to disqualify the person who violates the rules from the show.

6. They have 7 days from date of the show to file a complaint or protest.

7. Paying premiums and other debts of the show, including managers, announcers, ringmasters, secretaries, stewards, D.Q.P.’s, judges, gate attendants, farriers, etc.

DUTIES OF SHOW MANAGEMENT:

PERSONS WHO REPRESENT SHOW SPONSORING ORGANIZATION

1. Use U.R.H.O.E.A. Judge or other licensed judge approved by the ownership of the U.R.H.O.E.A.

2. Hire DQP organization and provide proper facility to inspect horses.

3. Provide farrier on grounds during show.

4. To cooperate with the U.S.D.A. and execute the U.S.D.A. Rules.

5. To enforce U.R.H.O.E.A. rules at shows and sales.

6. To enforce decisions made by the DQP or judge. 

7. Make sure horses meet measurement requirements for specific classes.

8. A show manager may not serve as judge, ring master or steward of their own show.

9. Inform exhibitors and trainers of changes in the printed program.

10. To disqualify an entry for just cause and direct that the winnings and ribbon from the show be forfeited.

11. To help engage proper personnel to run the show.

DUTIES OF SHOW SECRETARY

1. Request sanction forms.

2. Send copy of show program to the U.R.H.O.E.A.

3. To have copy of U.R.H.O.E.A. rulebook accessible at all times during the show.

4. Mail class entry sheets to U.R.H.O.E.A. within 15 days after the show. Exhibitor card numbers along with exhibitor’s full name and address are required.

5. Provide DQP class sheets for inspection.

6. Provide judges cards.

7. Provide each exhibitor with back numbers.

PROTEST PROCEDURE

Members or non-members of the U.R.H.O.E.A. who are involved in U.R.H.O.E.A. activities will be disciplined by the U.R.H.O.E.A. for violations of rules. The following procedure should be used to file a complaint with the U.R.H.O.E.A.:

1. File a written complaint within 5 days of the show.

2. Send $50.00 with complaint (will be refunded if you win complaint).

3. Complaint must be signed.

4. Only one person per complaint.

5. Provide complete name and address of the respondent.

A copy of the complaint will be sent to the respondent by the U.R.H.O.E.A. office. After giving the respondent time to reply to the complaint in writing (15 days), the Rules Enforcement Committee will rule on the complaint. If either party is not in agreement with the committee’s decision, a hearing with the respondent and person(s) filing the complaint and the committee will be scheduled. If the ruling favors the respondent, the complaint will be dropped. If the ruling favors the person(s) filing the complaint, the respondent will be subject to censure, suspension or a fine. The owners of the URHOEA have 30 days from date of the show to act accordingly on any rule violations such as showing out of class, with no exhibitor card, unregistered horses, etc.

DEFINITIONS

Censure-Disapproval expressed either verbally or in writing to the respondent by the U.R.H.O.E.A. Suspension -Respondent would be prevented from participating in U.R.H.O.E.A. activities.

Fine -A fine of not less that $50.00 and not more that $300.00 may be imposed. Probation -Being under supervision.

PENALTIES

A) 30 days suspension.

B) 30 days suspension and $50.00 fine.

C) 60 days suspension and $150.00 fine.

2nd offense 180 days suspension, $300.00 fine, and 2 years probation. Forfeiture of ribbons and winnings. Celebration infractions will automatically be assigned the 2nd penalty.

VIOLATIONS & PENALTIES

1. An exhibitor showing in a sanctioned show and not having obtained an exhibitor card from the U.R.H.O.E.A. (B) penalty.

2. Exhibiting a Racking Horse in an incorrect age classification. (C) penalty.

3. Exhibiting a Racking Horse in an incorrect classification for that horse. (B) penalty.

4. An exhibitor committing reckless acts a horse that would endanger other people at a show or in the show ring. (A) penalty.

5. Acting in an improper manner that is of offensive. (A) penalty.

6. Making improper contact with a judge concerning a future tie at a future show. (B) penalty.

7. Being a center ring official and having a horse owned by you being shown in that show. (B) penalty.

8. A professional riding in an Amateur class under false pretenses. (C) penalty.

9. Trying to register a false pedigree. Falsifying the commissioning of a Racking Horse. (C) penalty.

10. When in debt to the U.R.H.O.E.A., or any other U.R.H.O.E.A. sanctioned event, not complying with the provisions of that indebtedness. (C) penalty.

11. Showing a horse in a U.R.H.O.E.A. class, at a URHOEA sanctioned show, that is not registered in the U.R.H.O.E.A. (B) penalty.

12. Violation of Amateur Owned and Trained rules. Division will apply to the exhibitor, professional trainer or an agent thereof, and horse involved. (A) penalty.

URHOEA will not permit malicious conduct, rude mannerisms, or disrespectful behavior either verbal or physical toward any judge at any time. Any violation will result disciplinary action as follows:

First offense - $250 fine plus 60 day suspension

Second offense - $500 fine plus 90 day suspension

Third offense - Rule enforcement committee will decide and execute further corrective actions.

Versatility Rules 2008

Shoeing

All Versatility horses must be shod in a light shod (3/4” wide and

3/8” thick) shoe.

Game Classes

There are a great many classes that meet the criteria of games and fun classes, such as Catalogue or Ride-a-buck and we encourage these, here are some rules for two common ones that everyone seems to enjoy.

The Water Glass Class

1. The object is to finish the class with more water in your glass than anyone else.

2. Each entrant enters the ring holding a full glass of water. Only one hand is used to hold the glass away from the horse & rider. They are to perform the show walk, slow rack and fast rack, both ways of the ring.

3. A noticeable change in speed is mandatory between the gaits. The horse must be excused if a distinct change of speed is not performed.

4. Class is called & water is measured at the line-up.

5. The entrant with the most water remaining in their glass wins.

6. If there is a tie, the judge will ask the riders to take the rail & resume the ride. He will then call for the fast rack. Remember - The hand may not cover the top of the glass.

Egg and Spoon

1. All riders are given an egg and a spoon. Riders are allowed to hold the egg with their thumb until all riders are supplied with an egg and taken a position on the rail.

2. When the first gait is called riders should remove their thumb and take the rail at the called gait.

3. A noticeable change in speed is mandatory between the gaits. The horse must be excused if a distinct change of speed is not performed.

4. As the riders lose their eggs they will line up by the ring master in the order of which they dropped their eggs.

5. Ribbons will be awarded down from the last to drop their egg.

Trail Obstacle

1. Trail courses are posted prior to the class. It is suggested that this class be divided into youth & adult classes, where there are sufficient entries.

2. The Judge may grade each obstacle on a one to ten basis; subtracting points for faults, refusals, excessive time, etc. Judge should request a contestant move on to the next obstacle if more than one minute is spent on one obstacle.

3. Individual horse & rider shall negotiate an obstacle course consisting of six obstacles, three of which are mandatory. Final consideration of the Judge shall include quality & smoothness of performance of the horse & neatness & ability of rider. The ideal trail horse shall negotiate the course with surefootedness; looks at the obstacles, but does not hesitate, yet does not rush along the course; moves willingly without urging of rider.

4. A time limit may be set for the course; however, timing is preferred to be used to break ties based on points.

5. Three refusals eliminate that obstacle, and no points given.

6. No horse should be placed over a horse that refuses an obstacle even if it has a better score.

Mandatory Obstacles * May choose three*

• Opening, passing through & closing gate. Obstacle is not complete unless the gate is closed. *Changing hands on the gate or turning loose of the gate is to be penalized. • Ride over at least four logs or poles. These can be in a straight line, curved, zigzag or raised. The space between logs shall be 15-24 inches; walk overs, 3’ to 3’6”; lope overs 6’ to 7’. Elevated walk overs should be a minimum of 22 inches apart. Lope overs cannot be elevated. • Ride over wooden bridge * may also be plywood set to simulate sound & appearance of bridge. Suggested minimum width shall be 36” wide & at least 6 ft long. Bridge should be sturdy & safe. Horse should show willingness to stand quietly on the bridge & not rush off. • Ground tie horse, walking a full circle around & at least 10 Ft. from the horses’ body.

Optional Obstacles:

• Back horse through L shaped course. Logs or bales of hay are suggested. On ground: 28 inch minimum space between poles; elevated 30 inches minimum between poles. • A water hazard - must be a heavy gauge tarp. Tarps should be pulled tight with poles or other weighted object.

Model Class

1. Horses Two years old & over, stallions, geldings or mares.

2. All entries are to be shown in bridle only, this can either be English or Western tack & attire but not a combination of both. With English attire a whip may be carried into the ring, it must not exceed 4 feet in length.

3. Horses are led into the ring and immediately parked for the judge. The horse’s conformation & conditioning are the most important. All horses are expected to stand quietly, as unruly entries will be dismissed from the ring.

4. Unsound or transmittable faults or weaknesses must be penalized strongly in final judging.

Pleasure Driving

1. Performance of the horse shall be paramount & in no way over shadowed by equipment turnout.

2. Horse is to enter to the right *counter clockwise* & work both ways of the ring at a pleasure walk. The horse will perform a trail pleasure walk and a pleasure gait.

3. The horse is to line up, stand quietly and one attendant is allowed to hold the horse during lineup.

4. The horse is judged with the same general qualities as the flat shod pleasure horse. The following are suggestions to be used in judging:

70% on manners, performance, condition, style & way of going

20% on fit, condition & appropriateness of harness & vehicle

10% on conformation & neatness of driver

5. Any legal bit shank length is acceptable; separate over-check bit is optional.

6. The recommended pleasure driving appointments & rules are as follows:

• Harness is traditionally black leather with square patent leather blinkers, snaffle bridle with side check or over- check, & running martingale. • A whip of length appropriate to the horse & cart. • Driving vehicle may be two or four wheel and suitable appearance & safety. Show management may choose to limit classes to two wheel or four wheel vehicles. Breeching is not used with wire wheels and is recommended with wooden wheel vehicle. Only the driver is allowed in the cart. Exception: Youth driver may have one adult attendant in cart. • Neatly attired header may enter ring at line up for safety reasons & be allowed to unfasten over-check & wipe the horse down. • Ladies shall wear conservative dress, blouse & skirt, shirt & jods with apron, saddle suit or day coat & jods. Men should wear business suit, saddle suit, sport jacket & slacks. Gloves are recommended, apron & hats are optional. • An uncontrollable horse must be immediately dismissed with assistance if necessary. The judge must excuse a competitor with unsafe vehicle or harness.

Barrel Racing

1. The course must be measured exactly. If the course is too large for the available space, then the pattern should be reduced 5 yards at a time until the pattern fits the arena.

2. Remember to leave adequate space between barrels & any obstacle.

3. The distance from barrel #3 to the finish line need not be reduced 5 yards at a time if there is sufficient room for the horse to stop.

4. Barrels should be at least 18 feet from the rail.

5. A clearly visible starting line shall be provided, either using a rope buried in the ground or marked by lime.

6. This is a timed event.

7. An electronic timer or at least 2 stopwatches shall be used, with the time of the watches used by the official timers to be the official time.

8. The Contestant is allowed a moving start.

9. Timing shall begin as soon as the horse’s nose reaches the starting line & will stop when the nose crosses the finish line.

10. The contestant will rack/run to barrel #1, pass to the left, & complete an approx. 360* turn around it: then go to barrel #2, pass to the right, & complete a slightly more than 360* turn around it; then go to barrel #3, pass to the right, & do another approx. 360* turn around it, then sprint to the finish line.

11. Or the course may also be performed to the left.

12. Knocking over barrels shall cause a 5 second penalty per barrel. A contestant may touch the barrel with his or her hand. A contestant that breaks the pattern or fails to follow the course shall be disqualified.

In the event of a tie, the horse declared the winner in the runoff must re-run the pattern within 2 seconds of its original time or the runoff must be held again.

• Competitors should wear a suitable riding helmet.

Pole Bending

1. Pole Bending is a timed event & is performed at a run/rack.

2. Each contestant will begin from a running start, & shall begin & end as the horse’s nose crosses the line. An electronic timer or at least 2 stop watches shall be used, with the time of the watches used by the official timers to be the official time.

3. The pole bending pattern is run around 6 poles. Each pole is to be 21 ft. apart & the first pole is to be 21 ft. from the starting line.

Poles shall be set on top of the ground, 6 ft. in height, & with no base more than 14 inches in diameter.

4. A horse may start either to the right or the left of the first pole & then run the remainder of the pattern accordingly. Knocking over a pole, touching the pole with the rider’s hand shall cause a 5 second penalty. Failure to follow the course shall cause disqualification.

5. In the event of a tie, the horse declared the winner in the runoff must re-run the pattern within 2 seconds of its original time or the runoff must be held again. • Competitors should wear a suitable riding helmet.

Jumping

1. Fences should be similar to obstacles found in the hunting field, i.e. poles & rails, brush, wall, gates, etc. They should have the appearance of being solid. Post & rail fences must have a minimum of two rails per fence, excluding ground line. The maximum space between rails should not be more than 12 inches. A ground line (pole as long as the jump laid on the ground just below the jump or approx. 18 inches from the base on the approach side) is recommended for all fences.

2. Jumper fences such as bull’s eyes, stripes & spreads of over 4 feet are prohibited.

3. A simple fence such as post & rail should be used for the first obstacle on any course. When setting up the distance between fences, the rule of thumb is distance divided by increment of 12, i.e. 24, 36, 48, etc.

4. Exhibitors should be given the opportunity to walk the course without their horse prior to the class.

5. A full circle of the ring before starting the course is customary, setting the hunter pace that is used throughout the course.

6. A course should have two directions with one change of lead. Jumps may range from minimum 18 inches to a maximum of 3 feet. Recommended height is 26”. A course consists of eight jumps, of at least four different obstacles. An obstacle may be jumped more than once.

7. Way of going of a consistent, even, safe gait speed, manners & soundness are emphasized. Excessive speed is penalized.

8. A safe gait speed is defined as a longer flowing canter/rack with enough speed & impulsion to meet & take each jump giving the appearance of grace & ease. It should be maintained throughout the course, including the beginning & ending circle.

9. The ideal hunter will meet each fence at the proper take off spot for a perfect arc over the obstacle. Its jump will be snappy & athletic with the forearms held at or above a parallel line to the ground. The joints of the front legs are tucked tightly in front of the chest & the neck & back arched over the fence.

10. Faults are knock downs, extra circle & refusals. Elimination is third refusals, off course, fall of the horse or riders jumping out of order, jumping before jump or jumps are reset.

11. Hard hats are required. Martingales, non-weighted rubber bell boots, polo wraps, & splint boots are permitted in jumping classes only.

Western Trail Pleasure

1. Gaits are Trail Pleasure Walk and Trail Pleasure Rack.

2. The entry shall reflect suitability of the horse as a western working horse, exhibiting qualities for ranch work. Western working qualities are to be exhibited.

3. The western pleasure horse works quietly exhibiting a smooth ride without excessive action or animation. The horse should be semi-collected and ridden with loose rein. Neck Reining is preferred. The head set should be natural, neither too high nor too low.

4. Horse can be asked too halt on the rail.

5. Stand quietly in the lineup, back from the line up and rein a 360 degree circle and return to lineup.

6. Western Attire and Tack including hat, boots and long sleeved shirt are mandatory. Chaps and spurs may be worn at the option of the rider. Cavesons are not allowed in Western Trail Pleasure.

English Trail Pleasure

1. Gaits are Trail Pleasure Walk and Trail Pleasure Rack.

2. Riders must ride with light reins and be judged on true pleasure quality and performance of the horse and neatness and ability of the rider.

3. Horse head set is slightly raised and more animated than a Western Trail Horse.

4. English Attire and Tack is required.

Criteria Western/English

Trail Pleasure Walk 30%/40%

Trail Pleasure Rack 30%/40%

Attire 10%/10%

Backing from lineup 10%/10%

Halt on rail and stand quietly 10%/NA

Turn a 360o circle 10%/NA

Judging Criteria Suggestions

Versatility Trail Class (examples)

•Each obstacle is worth 10 points for a total of 100 points.

•Each contestant will have 1 minute to perform an obstacle.

More than three refusals will have to move to the next obstacle. All challenges can also lose up to three points for what a judge decides is a loss of control by the team or lack of confidence in negotiating a challenge.

• Enter the ring at a walk ride up to bridge, walk onto bridge, and stop on bridge for a brief time and exit the other side of the bridge, stepping off sideways will result in a loss of three points.

• Ride up to gate, open gate and pass through without letting go of the gate or changing hands or turning loose of the gate each of these will be considered a three point penalty.

• Ride up to pole in front of the mail box stopping on the right side of the pole and side pass to mail box. Failure to side pass is a 5 point penalty.

• Open the mail box and remove the rain coat. Put the coat on or swing it around the riders head, placing the rain coat back into the mail box and close the door. Not standing is a 4 point loss and not putting rain coat back into box and closing door is a 5 point penalty.

• Rack from rain coat to water hazard, cross the water hazard, jumping into hazard is a 5 point penalty.

• Ride to barrels, turn around and back between each barrel going both directions, ending up in the same location where you started. Bumping barrels is a -1/2 point penalty, knocking a barrel over is a 1 point penalty. Ride past the barrels to the next obstacle.

• Drag the pole. Pick up the rope from the standard and drag the pole to the next standard and place the rope on the standard. Dropping the rope is a 5 point penalty.

• Ride into the poles and back into the T, tips of the pole will be 1/2 point penalty, moving the pole is a one point penalty. Stepping outside of the pole pattern will be a 5 point penalty.

• Cross the poles, tips of the pole will be 1/2 point penalty, moving the pole is a one point penalty.

• Ride into the box, tipping poles is -1/2 point penalty, moving poles is a -1 point penalty. Stop in the box and turn a full 360 degree turn. Stop dismount and lead horse from the arena.

Versatility Jumping

• A practice jump of ONE JUMP ONLY is permitted.

• A pattern for the jumps will be posted prior to the show, up to the rider to know the pattern.

• A rail down is a fault.

• A refusal is a fault with 3 refusals constituting elimination.

• A fall of horse or rider while on course constitutes elimination.

• Rushing shall be penalized.

• Boots or wraps shall be allowed.

• Standing martingales shall be allowed.

• The judges need to look for the horse who keeps an even pace, smooth rhythm and balance around the course with consistency in his jumping style.

• Judges will watch the take off and bascule (or the roundness over a jump as the horse goes over the fence) observing the approach, the distance of take off and landing. They will evaluate over all ride and appearance: did the horse stay the same all the way throughout the course?

• A horses jumping a clean round should place over any horse with a tip or rail down or refusal regardless of the horse’s performance. In other words, if a horse rushes horribly but goes clean, then that horse will win over the horse with the refusal or rail down. A horse with a rail down will pin over a horse with a refusal. A refusal is a stop in forward motion of a horse and horses that go off course should be penalized.

Please add these amendment’s to your rule book.  They are in effect as of February 28, 2009. 

AMENDMENTS FOR 2009 URHOEA RULE BOOK

Page 5:      The word requested be replaced with required in Section IV in regards to attendance at annual judges clinic.

Page 17:    The country pleasure horse will enter the ring at a country pleasure show walk not country pleasure walk.

Page 20:    To say SPEED RACK NOT SPEED GAIT need to have announcers say show rack , slow rack and fast rack .

Must be 13 years old to show in speed racking, and ages 13- 17 required to wear a helmet.

Amendment: AS FOLLOWS

Juveniles may not show in a class that is specific for Men/Ladies/Adult, unless there is not a juvenile class for them to show in (ie if you have only Men’s Trail Pleasure and Ladies Trail Pleasure and no Juvenile Trail Pleasure, then the juvenile may show in the Men’s or Ladies.  But if there is a Juvenile Trail Pleasure Class offered then the juvenile must show in the juvenile class.  If they show in the Men’s/Ladies then they can not go back down to Juvenile classes the remainder of the year.

A Trail Pleasure Class not specified it will be considered a Adult Class.