National Plantation Walking Horse Association
Official Rule Book

generally set forth in the Articles of Incorporation.

Incorporated in the State of California September 28, 1981

SECTION 2 SHOEING REQUIREMENTS

A. Heel/toe measurement: the toe length must exceed the height of the heel by one 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, including the shoe. 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, including the shoe, but not including the normal caulks at the rear of the horseshoe that do not exceed ½ of an inch in length. That portion of caulk at the rear of a horseshoe in excess of ½ of an inch shall be added to the height of the heel in determining the heel-to-toe ratio

B. Toe length: the toe length shall not exceed five inches. This measurement is obtained from the coronet band at the center of the front pastern along the front of the hoof wall to the ground, including the shoe.

C. Pads: the use of pads of any kind, including therapeutic rim pads, is prohibited.

D. Acrylic, Bondo, or Filler Material: the use of acrylic or other such material shall be restricted to hoof repair. Such repairs are restricted to one foot only and may not exceed more than 25% of the total surface of the foot. On a foot where an acrylic or filler repair has been made, black hoof polish may not be applied, in order to allow inspection by show officials.

E. Shoe extension: the shoe is not to extend more than ³ inch beyond the front of the hoof, nor beyond the bulb of the heel when a perpendicular line is drawn from the bulb of the heel to the ground.

F. Hoof Bands and Weights: the use of hoof bands and added weights including bars, plates, or other weight is not permitted. No additional weight shall be allowed on or in the hoof other than the shoe and nails.

G. Clips: the use of clips is permitted only if drawn from the shoe itself, so that no additional weight is added to the shoe.

H. Handmade Shoes: the use of handmade shoes is permitted if they measure evenly in width and thickness around the whole shoe.

I. Trailers: the use of trailers is permitted on hind shoes, but the trailer must not extend beyond the bulb as described in paragraph E.

SECTION 3 SHOE SIZES

A. Shoe size A: the shoe must be of one piece. It may be no thicker than three-eighths of an inch and must not exceed three-quarters of an inch in width. NO CAULKS ARE ALLOWED. Borium is not permitted on the shoe. This is the maximum shoe allowance for all four feet.

B. Shoe size B: the shoe must be of one piece. It may be no thicker than three-eighths of an inch and must not exceed three-fourths of an inch in width. The caulk may be no thicker than three-fourths of an inch, and the turn-back must not exceed one inch in length. Borium is permitted on the caulks; however, the combined thickness of the shoe, the caulk, and the Borium must not exceed seven-eighths of an inch. This is the maximum shoe allowance for all four feet.

C. Shoe size C: the shoe must be of one piece. It may be no thicker than one-half of an inch and must not exceed one inch in width. The caulk may no thicker than one inch, and the turn-back must not exceed one inch in length. Borium is permitted on the caulks; however, the combined thickness of the shoe, the caulk, and the Borium must not exceed one and one-eighths of an inch. This is the maximum shoe allowance for all four feet.

RULE V. EQUIPMENT FOR RIDERS AND HORSES FOR SHOW PURPOSES

SECTION 1 GENERAL

A. Rider/Handler Attire: riders, drivers and handlers shall be correctly attired for the classes in which they compete. The show management may, at its discretion, bar any entry or person from entering the ring if not suitably presented to appear before an audience.

B. Horses œ All entries shall be clean, neatly trimmed, in good flesh, present a healthy appearance, and be outfitted with appropriate tack.

C. English and Western tack and attire must not be mixed.

D. The rider‘s hair must be neat and well groomed. LONG HAIR SHOULD BE STYLED, SO THE ENTRY NUMBER CAN BE EASILY SEEN.

E. Horse and/or stable advertising is not permitted on the horse, rider, or handler.

F. Sidesaddle entries are allowed in any TWH class except timed and speed events and will be judged in accordance with the rules for the class. The rider's attire and tack must be appropriate to the type of saddle used. An apron may be substituted for chaps in Western classes.

G. In the interest of safety, exhibitors may wear an approved safety equestrian helmet with the chin harness fastened.

H. Mechanical hackamores, draw reins, tie-downs, running or other types of martingales, cross chain cavessons, and headstalls with studs or other protuberances concealed within the leather are prohibited.

I. Set tails, tail braces, hoof bands, boots or action devices of any kind are prohibited.

J. Boots or shoes with distinguishable flat heels (including so-called equestrian sneakers) are required while riding a horse anywhere at a NPWHA event.

SECTION 2 ENGLISH TACK AND ATTIRE

A. The following articles of clothing constitute the minimum required for English presentations:

1. A saddle-seat riding habit consisting of a coat, pants with tie-downs, (underpasses boot) a shirt with collar, and a tie.
2. Polished shoes or boots.
3. Halter exhibitors must wear pants, a collared shirt, and a tie. Hats are recommended, but not required.
4. Formal attire may be worn for Championship classes or classes held after 6 p.m., but are not mandatory. Formal attire consists of a tuxedo and top hat.

B. Acceptable attire that may be worn for English presentations:

1. Hat
2. English spurs
3. Gloves

C. Proper tack required for English classes:

1. Cutback, English all-purpose, plantation or dressage-style saddles of leather or synthetic materials for all classes considered as traditional English classes.
2. Fillis style of offset stirrups, including the Peacock safety stirrup, is acceptable on traditional English-style saddles.
3. Standard English single-rein show bridle and brow band.
1. Any standard English bit or snaffle bit may be used. Gag bits with no more than 7" shanks are permitted. Severe bits are discouraged. Shanks in excess of 8" are prohibited. Shanks are measured from the
2. very top of the metal to the very bottom of the metal, not including the rings to which the cheeks are attached (See figure for correct method of measuring).
4. English-style girths made of leather, cord, neoprene, webbing, or fabric.
5. Braids should be neatly attached at the top of the mane and the forelock. The length of the braids should approximate the length of the mane. The color should blend well with the rider's habit and the brow band.

D. Acceptable tack that may be used in English classes:

1. Saddle pads appropriate for the English division, either square or shaped, including gel pads. Pads should be black or white in color and may not have decorative elements.
2. Curb chains must be of the English style, either of chain or leather and not less than 1/2" wide. The curb chain should be attached to the bit with metal hooks. The curb chain must lie flat against the chin groove.
3. Whips or crops not exceeding one meter including the lash are permitted. Whips up to two meters are permitted in a class where the horse is driven.
4. Breast collar.
5. Cruppers are allowed if required to keep the saddle in position.

E. Tack that is not acceptable in English classes:

1. Forward seat saddles (except in Over Fences classes).
2. Double bridles (in other than upper-level dressage) and Pelham bits with two sets of reins.
3. Any wire, rawhide or other material used in conjunction with the approved curb strap or chain. Round, rolled, or braided curb straps made of rawhide.

SECTION 3 WESTERN TACK AND ATTIRE

A. The following articles of clothing constitute the minimum required for Western presentations:

1. Western-style hat
2. Long-sleeved Western-style shirt with collar completely buttoned, or a turtleneck or slinky
3. Tie, bolo, or neck ornament
4. Western-style long pants. Blue denim pants or jodhpurs may only be worn when covered by chaps
5. Western-style boots or jodhpur boots when worn with chaps
6. Belt with buckle

B. Acceptable attire that may be worn for Western presentations:

1. Chaps, half chaps, and chinks
2. Spurs
3. Coats, vests, jackets and gloves

C. Proper tack required for Western classes:

1. Western-style saddle with horn. Silver-mounted equipment may be used, but shall not be given preference over good working equipment.
2. Saddle blanket and/or pad appropriate for the Western division.
3. Western-style girths made of leather, cord, webbing, or neoprene.
4. Western-style bridle.
5. Any standard Western bit having a shank with maximum length of 8 1/2". The mouthpiece will consist of a metal bar 3/8‘‘ to 3/4“ in diameter varying from a straight bar to a curb. Jointed mouthpieces are permitted.
6. Reins may be either split or romal.
7. Junior horses, 4-years-old and under, may be shown in Western classes in a western snaffle, and the rider may use two hands.

D. Acceptable tack that may be used in Western classes:

1. Breast collar
2. Cruppers are allowed if required to keep the saddle in position
3. Riata and hobbles

E. Tack that is not acceptable in Western classes:

1. Crops, bats, and whips
2. Walking Horse bits, flat polo, full spade and spoon bits

SECTION 4 VERSATILITY TACK AND ATTIRE

A. Trail Obstacle Class: English or Western attire may be worn as described above, but may not be mixed.

B. In-Hand Attire: if the entry is shown as an English horse (English halter or bridle), English attire shall be worn as described above, except that tie-downs need not be worn. If the entry is shown as a Western horse (Western halter or bridle), Western attire shall be worn as described above. Gloves in in-hand classes are optional.

C. In-Hand Tack includes leather halters or headstalls with bits of either English or Western design (colored brow bands are permissible on English style halters or headstalls), leather lead-lines with or without attached chains and whips no longer than one meter, including the lash, for English inœhand presentations.

D. Pleasure Driving: drivers may wear conservative business attire including sport coats, ties, dress pants, and shoes with a heel, appropriate day or evening dresses depending on the time of the event, or saddle seat attire. Hats are required for gentlemen over the age of 18, and are encouraged for ladies. Lap robes may be used. Gloves are required.

E. Additional Rules: attire and tack requirements for Over Fences, Dressage or other specialty classes are contained in the class descriptions.

RULE VI. CLASS DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1 OPEN CLASSES

A. An open class is one that is open to horses of any age or sex and in which there are no limiting qualifications for the rider.

SECTION 2 AMATEUR CLASSES

A. An amateur class is one that is open to horses of any age or sex and in which the rider meets the requirements for amateur status.

SECTION 3 LOCAL CLASSES

A. A local class may be restricted to members of the Organization, and will be so stated in the premium.

B. Classes which restrict entries by state such as —Cal Bred“:

1. The sire and dam must be residents of California at the time of breeding. —Resident“ shall be defined to mean one whose home is in California and who lives there no less than nine months a year.
2. The dam must be bred in, and deliver the foal in, California.
3. Any foal that does not meet these criteria will not be eligible for the California-Bred division, but will be eligible for the non-California Bred division.
4. This definition does not preclude artificial insemination or embryo transfer, so long as the actual dam, sire and foal meet the above requirements. If there is an embryo transfer, a stallion meeting the "Cal-Bred" requirements must implant the surrogate mare, and the foal must also be delivered in California.

SECTION 4 AGE CLASSES

A. Junior Rider: for horse show purposes, a junior rider is anyone who, on January 1^st of the show year, has not yet reached his or her 18^th birthday. An exhibitor who is seventeen on January 1^st will be considered eligible for junior classes for the following show year.

B. Horse: for horse show purposes, a horse shall be considered one year old on January 1, following its foaling date and age one year each succeeding January 1. (exception œ all horses foaled in October, November, and December may compete in the same age classification with foals born the following year)

C. Junior horse: for horse show purposes, a junior horse shall be four (4) years and under. A junior horse may be ridden with a snaffle bit and may be ridden two handed by the exhibitor.

SECTION 5 OWNER’S CLASSES

A. An owner‘s class is one in which every horse entered is being shown by its owner or immediate family.

B. Amateur Owned and Trained: horses must not have been under the guidance of a trainer for ninety days prior to the show and must be owned by the exhibitor or member of his immediate family.

SECTION 6 NOVICE CLASSES

A. A novice rider is a rider who has not won a total of three blue ribbons in any performance class.

B. A novice horse is a horse that has not won a total of three blue ribbons in any performance class.

C. Eligibility of a novice entry is established as of the date of the closing of entries.

SECTION 7 LIMIT CLASSES

A. A limit rider is a rider who has not won a total of six blue ribbons in any performance class.

B. A limit horse is a horse that has not won a total of six blue ribbons in any performance class.

C. Eligibility of a limit entry is established as of the date of the closing of entries.

SECTION 8 QUALIFYING CLASSES

A. Any entry shall be qualified for a Championship Class if in an appropriate qualifying class:

1. The entry has performed the required gaits both directions of the ring and has remained in the ring until excused by the judge.
2. The entrant has completed the class.

SECTION 9 CHAMPIONSHIP CLASSES

A. The show committee must designate all qualifying classes, and may require any and all winners in qualifying classes to compete in the Championship class, provided that it is stated in the premium. Failing to comply may result in forfeiture of all winnings in qualifying classes.

B. To be eligible for a Championship Class, a horse must have been properly entered, shown and judged in an appropriate qualifying class.

C. To be —shown and judged,“ the entry must have performed the required gaits both directions of the ring and must remain in the ring until excused by the judge.

RULE VII. DIVISIONS AND CLASSES

SECTION 1 PLANTATION/WESTERN PARK HORSE DIVISION

A. The Plantation Park Horse should display brilliance and animation with a snap to its walk while performing the true walking gaits. Horses in the Park Division should have a high headset and high reaching motion with the front legs due to the extreme impulsion of the hind legs. The horse should be well balanced both front and rear. The nose should be vertical or slightly ahead of vertical with a pronounced head nod.

B. The Western Park Horse should display the same characteristics as the Plantation Park Horse with a slightly lower head/neck position and softer rein.

C. Park classes shall be open to amateur and/or professional riders in keeping with special class requirements.

D. Shoes must meet the requirements and must not exceed the maximum size allowed for "Shoe Size C" as outlined in Rule IV, Shoeing Rules and Regulations.

E. Suggested classes are:

1. Plantation Park, 3-gait
2. Plantation Park, 2-gait
3. Western Park, 3-gait
4. Western Park, 2-gait
5. Plantation Park Championship
6. Western Park Championship Note: Classes may be divided by age and/or sex of horse and/or rider.

SECTION 2 PLANTATION/WESTERN PERFORMANCE HORSE DIVISION

A. The Plantation Performance Horse should represent the ultimate show horse and should display brilliance and animation while performing the true walking gaits. Horses in the Performance Division should have the highest headset and the highest reaching motion with the front legs due to the extreme impulsion of the hind legs. The horse should be well balanced both front and rear. The nose should be vertical or slightly ahead of vertical with a pronounced head nod.

B. The Western Performance Horse should display the same characteristics as the Plantation Performance Horse with a slightly lower head/neck position and softer rein.

C. Performance classes shall be open to amateur and/or professional riders in keeping with special class requirements.

D. Shoes must meet the requirements and must not exceed the maximum size allowed for "Shoe Size B" as outlined in Rule IV, Shoeing Rules and Regulations.

E. Suggested classes are:

1. Plantation Performance, 3-gait
2. Plantation Performance, 2-gait
3. Western Performance, 3-gait
4. Western Performance, 2-gait
5. Plantation Performance Championship
6. Western Performance Championship Note: Classes may be divided by age and/or sex of horse and/or rider.

SECTION 3 PLANTATION/WESTERN PLEASURE HORSE DIVISION

A. The Plantation Pleasure Horse should epitomize the natural plantation walking horse. It should perform very

smooth ground-covering gaits on a light rein. The horse should be very showy with an alert and willing attitude. It should display more animation than a Trail Pleasure Horse. Horses in the Plantation Pleasure Division should be well- balanced both front and rear; they should display a forward-reaching motion with their front legs due to the extreme impulsion of the hind legs. The Plantation Pleasure Horse should have a high headset, and the nose should be vertical or slightly ahead of vertical with a pronounced head nod.

B. The Western Pleasure Horse should display the same characteristics as the Plantation Pleasure Horse, but with a more relaxed headset.

C. Pleasure classes shall be open to amateur and/or professional riders in keeping with special class requirements.

D. Shoes must meet the requirements and must not exceed the maximum size allowed for "Shoe Size B" as outlined in Rule IV, Shoeing Rules and Regulations.

E. Suggested Classes are:

1. Plantation Pleasure, 2-gait
2. Plantation Pleasure, 3-gait
3. Plantation Pleasure Specialty Classes
4. Western Pleasure, 2-gait
5. Western Pleasure, 3-gait
6. Western to English Pleasure Class
7. Plantation Pleasure Championship
8. Western Pleasure Championship Note: Classes may be divided by age and/or sex of horse and/or riders.

SECTION 4 PLANTATION/WESTERN TRAIL PLEASURE HORSE DIVISION

A. The Plantation Trail Pleasure Horse should represent the ideal trail horse. It should be suitable for covering ground with a minimum of effort. Horses in the Trail Pleasure Division should be extremely smooth, well-mannered, quiet, and manageable on a loose rein at all gaits. Neither animation nor excessive speed is desired. The nose should be definitely ahead of vertical but not extended with a pronounced head nod. The horse should be well balanced both front and rear with the front legs displaying minimal effort and the rear legs showing some over-stride. The head and neck are carried in a relaxed manner with the poll being carried above the withers. The judge may call for a halt from any gait or at any point in the class. The horse should stop promptly and stand quietly on a loose rein. No obstacles are required in this class.

B. The Western Trail Pleasure Horse should display the same characteristics as the Plantation Trail Pleasure Horse.

C. Trail Pleasure classes shall be open to amateur and/or professional riders in keeping with special class requirements.

D. Shoes must meet the requirements and must not exceed the maximum size allowed for "Shoe Size A" as outlined in Rule IV, Shoeing Rules and Regulations.

E. Suggested classes are:

1. Plantation Trail Pleasure, 3-gait
2. Plantation Trail Pleasure, 2-gait
3. Western Trail Pleasure, 2-gait
4. Western Trail Pleasure, 3-gait
5. Trail Pleasure English or Western AOTR
6. Plantation Trail Pleasure Championship
7. Western Trail Pleasure Championship Note: Classes may be divided by age and/or sex of horse and/or rider.

SECTION 5 VERSATILITY DIVISION DESCRIPTIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

A. Versatility classes may also be offered. These classes will be open to amateur and /or professionals. The following classes are suggested:

1. Trail Obstacle
2. Driving: a) Pleasure

b) Obstacle

c) Gambler's Choice

1. Water Glass
2. Model Horse
3. Barrel Racing
4. Pole Bending
5. TWH Over Fences
6. Belles and Beaus or Antebellum
7. Reining
8. Dressage
9. Western Riding

B. Trail Obstacle: this class demonstrates the suitability of the TWH as a working trail horse. The ideal trail obstacle horse shall negotiate the course with surefootedness; it looks at the obstacles, but does not hesitate, yet does not rush along the course; and it moves willingly without excessive urging from the rider.

1. Event

a) The horse and rider should be in appropriate Western or English tack and attire. See Rule V, Equipment for riders and horses for show purpose.

b) The class may be divided into adult, youth, amateur, open, novice, or limit.

c) The course should be posted one hour prior to the class.

d) A time limit may be set for the course, however, the time itself shall have no bearing on the final placement except as a limit for course completion.

2. Judging: this is a test of the horse's obedience and ability. Final consideration of the judge shall include the quality and smoothness of the horse's performance and the neatness and ability of the rider.

a) Horses shall enter the ring one at a time. The judge may grade on a 1 to 10 basis, 10 being the highest score, for each obstacle. Points will be deducted for faults, refusals, excessive time, etc. Credit may be given for the horse‘s willingness to respond to the rider‘s cues on more difficult obstacles.

b) The horse should be able to navigate these obstacles with caution and alertness and display a pleasurable ride.

c) The exhibitor will be asked to move on to the next obstacle after three refusals of the same obstacle.

3. Horse and Rider

a) Reins should be held in one hand and should not be changed during the performance, unless the obstacle is hand specific, then the hand may be changed to complete the obstacle and be changed back to the original hand immediately after completing the obstacle. English tack horses may be ridden with both hands on the reins.

b) Horses are not required to work on the rail, but the course may be designed somewhere between the obstacles to show different gaits (flat walk, running walk and lope).

4. Obstacles: the class is designed to have obstacles normally encountered on a trail ride. The obstacles used should be practical and realistic in order to simulate obstacles and hazards the horse and rider may encounter on the trail.

a) The course shall have a minimum of six obstacles, three of which must be from the mandatory list and at least three different other obstacles from the optional list.

b) The show management may use obstacles of their own design while keeping the safety of the horse and rider in mind.

c) If disrupted, the course shall be reset after each horse has worked. When a combination of obstacles is used, the course cannot be reset until the contestant finishes the entire course regardless of where any disruption occurs.

d) The judge must walk the course and has the right and duty to alter the course in any manner. The judge may remove or change any obstacle he/she deems unsafe or non-negotiable. If at any time a trail obstacle is deemed to be unsafe by the judge, it shall be repaired or removed from the course. If it cannot be repaired, and horses have completed the course, the score for that obstacle shall be deducted from all previous work for that class.

e) Exhibitors have the responsibility of evaluating each obstacle for both their own and their horse's ability. If they ascertain that they lack the confidence and/or experience to properly negotiate the obstacle, then they should pass on that obstacle and continue with the course.

5. Suggested mandatory obstacles are as follows: a) Opening, passing through and closing a gate. Changing

hands on the gate or turning loose of the gate is to be penalized.

b) Riding over at least four logs or poles. These can be in a straight line, curved, zigzag or raised. The space between the logs is to be measured using the path the horse is to take as the measuring point. The distance between logs shall be 15-24"; walkovers shall be 3' to 3'6"; and lope- overs shall be 6' to 7'.

c) Bridge: the bridge should be sturdy and safe. It should be a minimum of 36" wide and 6' long. The horse should show a willingness to stand quietly on the bridge and not rush off.

d) Ground tie and walk a full circle around the horse while maintaining a 10' distance from the horse at all times.

e) Hindquarter or forehand turn. The turn should be executed inside a 5' to 8' square constructed from four poles.

6. Optional obstacles

a) Back through L- or Z-shaped logs. The poles forming this obstacle should be placed 30' to 36' apart. If elevated, 30' spacing is required.

b) Back through three oil drums or nail kegs, placed 30" to 36" apart. This obstacle may be confined using poles.

c) Water hazard (ditch or small pond). No metal or slick bottom-boxes shall be used.

d) One jump not less than 14" or more than 24" high, ridden over.

e) Side pass in either direction over a log that may not be elevated more than 12".

f) Remove or place materials in a mailbox.

g) Carry an object from one part of the arena to another.

h) Serpentine obstacles (suggest 6' poles or cones) spaced close together for a walk through or back through.

i) Drag an object from one part of the arena to another.

j) Put on and remove a slicker or jacket.

C. Plantation Driving: designed to show the suitability of the Plantation Walking Horse as a Pleasure Driving Horse. The class will be judged based upon the flat walk and running walk, manners, and pleasure qualities. The horse's performance is paramount and is not to be overshadowed by equipment turnout. This is a pleasure class, not a costume class.

1. Horses should be in light harness, a snaffle bit with side check, overcheck, and a running martingale. A driving whip, not to exceed 6' in length, may be used.
2. Two- or four-wheeled carts of suitable appearance and safety are acceptable (the class may be limited to either two- or four-wheeled vehicles at the discretion of the show management).
3. The attire should be as follows:

a) Gentlemen should wear a business suit, saddle suit, or a sport jacket and slacks. A hat and gloves are recommended, but not required.

b) Ladies should wear a conservative dress, saddle suit, blouse and skirt, or blouse and jodhpur pants with an apron.

1. Uncontrollable or unruly horses should be dismissed immediately, with assistance, if necessary. Any competitor or vehicle that is unsafe should also be excused.
2. One neatly-attired attendant is permitted in the ring per entry. The attendant may enter only at the time of the lineup and may assist in parking the horse. The attendant should stand several feet away and is only allowed to touch the horse in the event of an unsafe situation.
3. The class should be judged 70% on gait, manners, condition, style and way-of-going; 20% on appropriate harness, vehicle and condition of said equipment; and 10% on the neatness of the driver.

D. Water Glass: the water glass class demonstrates the smooth ride of the Tennessee Walking Horse.

1. This class can be ridden in either English or Western attire, but the tack should not be mixed.
2. The exhibitor enters the ring and lines up in the center to receive a full glass of water. Riders then take the rail and perform the flat walk and running walk, in both directions of the ring. A noticeable change in speed between the flat walk and the running walk is mandatory.
3. The horse must be excused if a distinct change in speed is not performed. Riders must maintain proper position in the saddle and may not stand in the stirrups. The glass must be held in one hand as if the rider were going to drink from it and away from the horse and rider.
4. The entrant with the most water left in the glass is the winner. If there is a tie, the judge will ask the riders to resume the ride and will then call for the canter.

E. Model horse: the Model Horse is defined as the horse that presents a "picture" of the breed. Horses should be in good flesh and condition and immaculately groomed.

1. Model classes are offered for horses 2-years-old and over.
2. Horses should be shown in a halter or an English or Western show bridle. Handlers should be in appropriate attire; tack and attire should not be mixed. Whips up to 3 meter (including snapper) are permitted with English attire.
3. Horses shall be led into the ring, lined up as directed, then judged. Horses must stand quietly on all four feet, and be alert to their surroundings with ears forward. Unruly horses will be excused from the ring.
4. Model entries are to be judged on presentation and conformation only. Performance and way-of-going are not to be considered.
5. Unsoundness and/or transmittable faults or weaknesses must be penalized strongly.
6. No horse that has had surgical alteration for appearance may show in a Model Class.
7. Model Horse classes may be further divided by sex and/or age.

F. Barrel Racing: Western-style tack and attire is required. Helmets are encouraged. The hat or helmet must be on the rider's head when the exhibitor enters the arena. A 5-second penalty will be assessed if the hat or helmet is not on the exhibitor's person for the entire time the exhibitor is in the arena. (A hat held on the body by a stampede string is allowed.) The use of skid boots, splint boots, and polo wraps is permitted. Cavessons, whips, crops, or bats of any kind are prohibited.

1. The course must be measured exactly. If the course is too large for the available space, the pattern should be reduced five yards at a time until the pattern fits the arena. There should be adequate distance between the barrels and the ring rail to allow for turns and room to stop at the finish line. 
2. A clearly visible start/finish line shall be provided. This is a timed event. The class shall use an electric timer or two stopwatches (averaged time), to obtain official time.
3. The contestants are allowed a running start. The time starts when the horse‘s nose reaches the starting line and stops when the horse‘s nose passes the finish line.
4. At the signal from the starter, the contestant will run to barrel #1, pass to the left of it and complete an approximately 360 degree turn around it; they will then proceed to barrel #2, pass to the right of it, complete a turn around it; and finally proceed to barrel #3, pass to the right of it, complete a turn around it, then sprint to the finish line (see Barrel Racing Pattern). The course may also be run to the left.
5. Knocking over a barrel will cause a 5-second penalty. Barrels may be touched by the rider‘s hand without penalty. A contestant who breaks the pattern or fails to follow the course shall be disqualified. 
6. In the event of a tie, the horse declared the winner in the runoff must re-run the pattern within two seconds of its original time, or the runoff must be held again.

G. Pole Bending: Western-style tack and attire is required. Helmets are encouraged. The use of skid boots, splint boots and polo wraps is permitted.

1. Pole bending is a timed event. A clearly visible start/finish line shall be provided. An electric timer or two stopwatches (average time) shall be used to obtain the official time for the event.
2. The pole bending pattern is run around six poles spaced 21' apart with the first pole positioned 21' from the starting line. The poles should be set on the ground and should be 6' in height. The base of the poles should be 14" or less in diameter.
3. A horse may start to the left or the right of the poles and run the remainder of the pattern accordingly (see Pole Bending Pattern).
4. Knocking over or touching a pole will cause a 5-second penalty. A contestant who breaks the pattern or fails to follow the course will be disqualified.
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.

H. TWH Over Fences: 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 and athletic with the rider's forearms held at or above a parallel line to the ground. The joints of the horse's front legs should be tucked tightly in front of the chest, with its neck and back arched over the fence.

1. Fences should be similar to obstacles that would be found in a hunt field (poles and rails, brush, walls, gates, etc.). They should have the appearance of being solid. Post and rail fences must have a minimum of two rails per fence, excluding the ground line. The maximum space between the rails should not be more than 12". A ground line (a pole as long as the jump laid on the ground just below the jump or approximately 18" from the base on the approach side) is recommended for all fences.
2. Jumper fences such as bull's eyes, stripes and spreads of over 4' are prohibited.
3. A simple fence such as a post and 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. A course should have two directions with one change of lead. Jumps may range from a minimum of 2', to a maximum of 3'. A course consists of eight jumps of at least four different obstacles. An obstacle may be jumped more than once.
5. A fence must be at least 12' wide or have wings at least 30" wide that are 12" higher than the fence (pen jumps excluded).
6. The course shall meet the approval of the judge and be posted in advance of the class.
7. Exhibitors should have the opportunity to walk the course prior to the class.
8. The judging will start when the horse enters the arena or is within 50' of the first jump. The performance is over when the horse passes 50' away from the last jump.
9. A full circle before starting the course is customary and sets the hunter pace which is carried throughout the course. A circle may be made at the finish.
10. The judge is to penalize bad form or unsafe jumping over the fences whether the fence is knocked down or not.
11. The horse should have an even, safe hunter pace. Hunter pace is defined as a long, flowing canter with enough speed and impulsion to meet and take each jump. Excessive speed will be penalized.
12. Faults to horse and rider as follows:

a) Refusals: a horse stops in front of a jump (whether or not the jump is knocked down). First and second refusals are 4 faults each.

b) Run outs: running around the obstacle instead of jumping it. First and second run outs are 4 faults each.

c) Bolting on course: running away between fences. If an unsafe condition exists, this may be a disqualification. First and second bolts are 4 faults each.

d) Knockdowns: any part of the obstacle being knocked down by either the horse or the rider. This will be 4 faults each occurrence.

e) Cross-cantering: there is no deduction for this, but it should be noted as a performance deviation in not maintaining the proper gait.

1. Disqualifications: a) Third refusal, third run out, third bolting. b) Jumping off course or failing to complete the designed course.
2. c) The falling of horse and/or rider. d) Unsoundness as determined by the judge.
1. Proper Tack: a) The saddle should be hunt or forward seat English-style saddle, as flat seat saddles are unsafe for jumping and should not be used. b) The bridle should be hunter style and made of conservative, plain leather. c) The bit must be either a snaffle (no shanks), a Pelham or a Kimberwick.
2. d) Optional tack may consist of a hunt-type breast plate, a martingale, a tiedown, a dropped- or figureeight-noseband, a riding crop, splint boots, non-weighted bell boots, and/or polo leg wraps.
1. Proper Rider Attire: a) Hunt-style breeches with knee-high hunt boots. b) A long-sleeved shirt or a short-sleeved shirt if wearing a coat. c) A tie or choker. d) A hunt cap is required and must be a hard, safety hat.

e) Hair must be neat and contained. f) Gloves and spurs may be worn at the option of the rider.

I. Southern Belles and Beaus/Antebellum: entries to be attired in authentic costumes of the mid 1800‘s. Gentlemen shall show astride, and ladies shall show sidesaddle. They shall be judged 60% on the costume and appointments of the rider and 40% on the performance of the horse. This class is open to horses from any of the four Performance Divisions and should be judged on correctness of the head nod, reach, overstride, and consistency in the execution of the gaits. The Antebellum Class calls for a flat walk and running walk both directions of the ring. The Southern Belles and Beaus Class calls for a flat walk, running walk, and canter both directions of the ring.

1. Appropriate Attire: a) Ladies should project elegant stillness. No excessive

 

flapping lace, ruffles, dangling jewelry, or veils should detract from the elegant stillness of the lady.

b) The skirt should hang straight; it should never be draped over the horse's back. Preferred fabrics for the skirts are velvet, broadcloth, or wool of any color. They may be lined or weighted to keep them from blowing about. Skirts should be long enough to cover the lady's boots, but short enough to not interfere with the horse.

c) Hair should be styled up and contained in a net if necessary.

d) Breeches, patterned after men's riding attire, made of soft leather, muslin, or other soft fabric should be worn under the skirt. Fabric matching the habit skirt may be used on the lower part of the breeches. Plain cotton, flannel, or quilted petticoats may be worn for warmth.

e) Gloves or gauntlet gloves must be worn. Black or tan is preferred.

f) Boots should be of the Wellington type suitable for riding. High heeled "granny boots" are acceptable.

g) Hats of the period.

h) Men's costumes include: plantation attire, army uniform, traveling preacher, sharecropper, etc. Men of the 1850's wore ascots, cravats, tails, and stovepipe trousers.

1. Inappropriateness: a) Bare arms, shoulders or neck. b) Tea dresses, ball gowns, Western-style attire, off-the-shoulder styles, low necklines, or "saloon lady-type" costumes. c) Lacy pantaloons, bloomers, or petticoats. d) Button-up boots. e) Hats with extreme brims, feathers or trimmings. f) Dresses made of materials such as satin, muslin, taffeta, non-woven patterned materials, or laces
2. (other than for adornment). NOTE: The judge may ask the rider's permission to check the correctness of underpinnings.
1. Sidesaddle and Tack:

a) Sidesaddles and bridles must be of English style. Mixing English and Western tack should be penalized. A crop may be carried on the off side.

J. Reining Class: designed to show the performance of a working animal and rider. This shows the rider‘s ability to control the horse while performing a given pattern and speeds. The pattern shows the athletic ability of the horse to perform farm and ranch work. Scoring will be done on the basis of 60 to 80 points with 70 points denoting an average performance.

1. Western tack and attire are required.
2. Each exhibitor will perform the required pattern individually.
3. All exhibitors will use the same pattern.
4. Each horse will be judged on the neatness, calmness and speed at which it performs the pattern.
5. The judge may require the exhibitor to repeat any or all of his/her performance.
6. The bridle may be dropped at the judge' discretion.
7. Faults against the horse:
1. Opening the mouth excessively a) Excessively jawing, opening the mouth, or raising the head on the stop. b) Breaking gait c) Bouncing or stopping sideways d) Refusing to change leads e) Throwing the head f) Anticipating signals g) Stumbling h) Wringing of the tail
2. i) Backing sideways j) Knocking over stakes or key markers
8. Faults against the rider: a) Changing hands on the reins b) Two hands on the reins

c) Any unnecessary aid given by the rider (i.e. talking to or petting the horse, or jerking the reins) d) Touching the animal or the saddle while the horse is in motion

1. Disqualifications: a) Fall of horse or rider
2. b) Failing to follow the pattern c) Unsoundness as determined by the judge
1. Reining Pattern #1 to be ridden as follows: a) Run to the far end of the arena, stop and do 2 1/2 spins to the left with no hesitation. b) Run to the opposite end of the arena, stop and do 2 1/2 spins to the right with no hesitation. c) Run past the center of center, execute a sliding stop with no hesitation; back over slide tracks to the center, hesitate. d) Make a 1/4 pivot to the left to face the left wall, hesitate. e) Begin on the right lead and make two circles to the right, the first small and slow, the second large and fast. Change leads at the center of the arena. f) Make two circles to the left, the first small and slow, the

second large and fast. Change leads at center of arena. g) Begin a large fast circle to the right, do not close this circle but

run straight down the side past the center, and execute a sliding stop. (The stop should be at least

20' from the wall or fence.

h) Walk to the judge, stop and remain for inspection until dismissed.

12. Reining Pattern #2 to be ridden as follows:

a) Run with speed past the center marker. Stop and back up to the center of the pattern.

b) Settle your horse for approximately ten seconds. Start loping, making circles inside the end markers.

c) Ride two circles to the right, the first small and slow, the second large and fast.

d) Ride two circles to the left, the first small and slow, the second large and fast.

e) Execute a left roll back over the hocks (and past the far end marker).

f) Execute a right roll back over the hocks (and past the near end marker).

g) Stop (past the center marker). Let your horse settle, then in appropriate area of stop, do the pivots.

h) Pivot opposite direction, no more than 180 degrees.

i) Walk to the judge and stop for inspection until dismissed.

13. Raining Pattern #3 to be ridden as follows:

a) Run past the center of the arena and do a sliding stop. Immediately back to the center of the arena, then hesitate.

b) Do two spins to the right.

c) Execute two and a quarter spins to the left, then hesitate.

d) Beginning on the left lead make a small, slow circle, then begin a large, fast circle. Do not close this circle, but run straight down the side past the center marker and execute a right roll back at least 20' from the fence or wall.

e) Continue back to the center of the arena. Your horse should be on the right lead at center, make a small, slow circle to the right, and then begin a large, fast circle. Do not close this circle, but run straight down the side past the center and do a left roll back at least 20' from the wall or fence.

f) Continue back to the center of the arena. Your horse should be on the left lead at the center.

g) Make a large fast circle to the left at the center of the arena; then change leads and make a large, fast circle to the right at the center of the arena. Change leads again and begin a large, fast circle to the left. Do not close this circle, but run straight down the side past the center marker and execute a sliding stop at least 20' from the fence or wall.

h) Walk to the judge and stop for inspection until dismissed.

1. Reining Pattern #4 to be ridden as follows: a) Being work to the right. Execute the first figure eight slowly. b) Execute the second figure eight more quickly (a lead change must take place at Point A). c) Proceed from Point B to Point C at either a flat walk or a running walk. d) Begin to run; perform a sliding stop. e) Turn away from the rail and execute 1 1/2 spins with no hesitation.. f) Perform another sliding stop. g) Turn away from the rail and execute 1 1/2 spins with no hesitation. h) Perform another sliding stop i) Back over your slide marks, face the judge, and walk a few steps. j) Pivot to the right or left, no more than 90 degrees. k) Pivot the opposite direction, no more than 180 degrees.
2. l) Pivot in the direction chosen in j above, no more than 180 degrees. m) Walk to the judge and stop for inspection until dismissed.
1. Reining Pattern #5 to be ridden as follows: a) Starting in the center of the arena, make a large, fast circle to the right. b) Draw the circle down to a small circle until you reach the center of the arena and stop. c) Do a double spin to the inside of the small circle in the center of the arena. At the end of these spins, your horse should be facing the left wall (slight hesitation). d) Begin on the left lead and make a large, fast circle. e) Next, make a small circle, again drawing it down to the center of the arena. Stop--there should be no hesitation on these stops. f) Do a double spin to the inside of the circle, slight hesitation -horse to be facing the left wall. g) Begin on the right lead and make a fast figure eight over the large circles, change leads.
2. h) Run to the far end of arena and do a left roll back. i) Run to the opposite end of the arena and do a right roll back.
1. Reining Pattern #6 to be ridden as follows: a) Beginning on the right lead, complete three circles to the

j)	Run back past the center of the arena and do a sliding stop. Hesitate.
k)	Back over your slide tracks.
l)	Finish and walk to the judge for inspection and dismissal.

right: the first circle small and slow; the next two circles large and fast. Change leads at the center of the arena.

b) Complete three circles to the left: the first circle small and slow; the next two circles large and fast. Change leads at the center of the arena.

c) Run up the middle to the far end of the arena (past the end marker) and do a left rollback with no hesitation.

d) Run to the opposite end of the arena (past the end marker) and do a right rollback with no hesitation.

e) Run past the center marker and do a sliding stop. Back up to the center of the arena (or at least 10 feet). Hesitate.

f) Complete four spins to the right.

g) Complete four spins to the left. Hesitate to demonstrate the completion of the pattern.

K. Dressage: may be offered at shows if TWHBEA-approved dressage tests are used and a licensed judge presides.

1. English tack and attire are acceptable, either hunt seat, saddle seat or traditional dressage attire. Snaffle bits are required.
2. In the event a show does not offer separate classes for youth and adult competitors, only one youth and one adult may show a horse in any event.

L. Western Riding: a Western riding horse is a sensible, free and easy-moving, well-mannered animal that can provide quiet, comfortable and pleasant rides at walk, running walk and canter over trails and in open country through and over obstacles and with the handiness and athletic ability to do a variety of jobs on the farm or ranch. Western Riding is neither a stunt nor a race and is not to be confused with an equitation or horsemanship class in which the rider is judged or with a Western pleasure class.

1. Tack and attire should meet the requirements for Western Tack and Attire as described in Rule V, Equipment for Rider and horses for Show Purposes. The following equipment is prohibited in Western Riding: mechanical hackamores, draw reins, tiedowns, running or other type martingales, cavessons, nosebands, crops, bats, or whips.
2. The animal will be judged on riding qualities of gaits (walk, running walk and lope/canter), change of leads, backing, response to the rider, manners and disposition.
3. The pattern and routine should not be altered. It must be placed and judged as shown in the diagram.

a) The eight small circles represent markers (cones recommended). These should be separated by a uniform distance of not less than 30', nor more than 50'.

b) The rectangle represents an obstacle (one small log recommended) just high enough to break the animal's stride.

c) The long and sometimes twisting line indicates the direction to travel and the gaits the horse is to perform. The dotted line (...) indicates the walk, the dash line (---) the running walk, and the solid line (____) the lope.

d) Execute the routine as indicated by the pattern. Upon completion, the exhibitor should ride to the center of the pattern and back the animal as indicated.

e) The judge may require an exhibitor to repeat or reverse any part of the routine.

f) Only one hand may be used on the reins, and hands may not be changed.

g) The hand is to be around the reins. One finger between reins is permitted when split reins are used. While the animal is in motion, the rider's hands must be clear of the animal and the saddle.

4. A horse/rider may be disqualified for the following: a) Not following the exact pattern.

b) Using spurs or rein ends forward of the cinch.

c) Unsoundness as determined by the judge.

d) Equipment failure in the ring, which creates an unsafe condition.

e) Falling of horse or rider.

SECTION 6 SPECIALTY DIVISION

A. Specialty classes may also be offered. These classes will be open to amateur and /or professionals as specified by show management. The following classes are suggested:

1. Derby.
2. Matched Pairs.
3. Costume.
4. Western to English (combination class).

B. Derby Class: to be shown at a flat walk and a rack with speed. Horses breaking into a canter shall be penalized. Horses to be judged 50% on speed in the rack and 50% on overall performance and conformation. English or Western tack and attire are acceptable.

C. Matched Pairs: horses should be of similar size and color with riders in like attire. The pair shall ride side by side simulating one unit. The pair is to be judged 50% on appearance and 50% on performance. The tack and attire can be either English or Western. To be shown at a flat walk and running walk. In the event of a tie, the canter may be called for.

D. Costume: a fun class with special rules designated by the show chairman.

E. Western to English: to be shown first as a Western Pleasure Horse (see specifications) and then as a Plantation Pleasure Horse (see specifications). Only one person may show each horse. Two grooms/attendants may assist. To be judged 50% as a Western Pleasure Horse and 50% as a Plantation Pleasure Horse. Ample time is allowed for tack change.

SECTION 7 HALTER DIVISION

A. Halter class entries are presented in hand in either a halter or a show bridle as specified in the class requirements. Entries should reflect the conformation and natural ability distinctive of the Tennessee Walking Horse. Entries should be alert, and the judge shall excuse any entry that appears to be sedated or tranquilized.

B. Breeding Classes: these classes will be open to amateur and /or professionals as specified by show management. Suggested classes are:

1. Mare and foal classes.
2. Get of sire classes: three animals to be shown by same stallion. Stallion is not to be shown.
3. Produce of dam: two animals to be shown foaled by the same mare. Mare is not shown, but may accompany a suckling foal.

C. Conformation Classes: these classes will be open to amateur and /or professionals as specified by show management. Suggested classes are:

1. Weanlings
2. Yearlings
3. Two-year-olds
4. Three-year-olds and over
5. Championship classes

Note: Classes may be further divided by sex. (See Rule VI Section IV for determining the age of horse).

D. Judging Criteria for Halter:

1. Entries should exemplify the ultimate in conformation and way of going. Horses should be of good flesh, immaculately groomed and project a healthy appearance. Transmittable weaknesses shall be considered faults and will be strongly penalized.
2. The class shall be judged on overall performance, conformation and presentation.
3. In their way of moving, the Walking Horse should reflect a natural looseness with free-moving shoulders and ample overstride. Strong emphasis should be placed on natural ability and those characteristics that are passed on through breeding.
4. Entries shall be led into the ring in a counterclockwise direction at a flat walk. The judge shall call for a reverse at the flat walk, then entries will be lined up for evaluation.
5. In the lineup, the horses should stand erect in a parked position with ears forward. Entries should be alert to whatever is going on. Unruly horses shall be excused from the ring.
6. Any exhibitor, who, in the opinion of the judge, abuses the entry with a whip or any other instrument, shall be excused from the ring.
7. Whips not exceeding one meter are permitted.
8. Excessive use of a whip shall be penalized.
9. A judge shall excuse any entry posing a safety threat.
10. Weanlings and yearlings shall be shown in a show halter only and must be shown barefoot.
11. 11.Two-year-olds and over may be shown in a show bridle or halter.
12. Ribbons are optional. Note: Classes may be further divided by sex and age. All entries must be two-years-old or over.

SECTION 8 EQUITATION CLASSES

A. In the equitation class, the rider, as opposed to the horse, is judged. The junior classes are open to riders 17 years of age and under. There may be additional classes added based on specifications by show management. Suggested classes are:

1. English Equitation
2. Western Equitation Note: The awarding of prize money in these classes is prohibited.

B. Judging:

1. Any rider not having their mount under sufficient control will be dismissed from the ring and disqualified from the class.
2. A rider must remain on the same mount throughout all phases of a class until the judge requests a change.
3. No rider can be asked to perform a test on another horse before one has performed the same test on one‘s own horse.
4. Attendants are not allowed in the ring, except at the judge‘s request.
5. When additional tests are desired, the judge‘s instructions to riders are publicly announced. It is suggested that the judge go over these instructions with the announcer immediately before they are announced to assure mutual understanding of the wording.
6. Judges cannot confer with riders individually during the lineup.
7. If a posted workout is to be used, it should be posted near the gate one hour before the workout is called.
8. Numbers must be worn on the rider‘s back and must be clearly visible at all times when in competition.

C. Saddle Seat Equitation:

1. Position: a) General: judges should note that the required equitation seat should in no way be exaggerated but be thoroughly efficient and most comfortable for riding the type of horse called for at any gait for any length of time. In saddle seat equitation classes, riders should convey the impression of effective and easy control. To show a horse well, he/she should show himself to the best advantage. A complete

picture of the whole is of major importance. An exhibitor is entitled to request only one time out per class.

b) Hands: hands should be held in an easy position, neither perpendicular nor horizontal to the saddle and should show sympathy, adaptability and control. The height the hands are held above the horse‘s withers is a matter of how and where the horse carries his head. Both hands must be used and fingers grasped firmly around the reins. Reins shall be uncrossed and the bight of rein should be on the off side (right side of the rider).

1. Basic position: to obtain proper position, the rider should be placed comfortably in the saddle and find their center of gravity by sitting with a slight bend at the knees but without use of irons. While in this position, adjust leathers to fit. Irons should be placed under the ball of the foot (not toe or —home“) with even pressure on entire width of sole and center of iron. Foot position should be parallel to your horse (neither extremely in nor out).
2. Position in motion:

a) Flat walk: steady in the saddle, not leaning too far back or forward, legs straight down, intermediate calf pressure permissible, no swaying.

b) Running walk: hands slightly raised, body position same as flat walk. c) Canter: close seat, going with horse. No pumping of reins.

4. Appointments: a) Personal: exhibitors should bear in mind that at all times entries are being judged on ability. However, neatness is the first requisite regarding a rider‘s attire, and the following requirements are based on tradition and general present day customs. Judges must eliminate those competitors who do not conform. Adjustments to tack and attire for valid medical reasons are permitted provided the ring steward is notified prior to the class.

b) Informal: conservative colors are required (i.e., herringbone, pin stripes, and other combinations of color that appear to be solid). Solid colors include black, blue, gray, dark burgundy, and dark green, beige or brown jacket with matching jodhpurs, derby or soft hat and jodhpur boots and gloves.

c) Formal: even more conservative attire is required for evening classes. Solid colors include dark gray, dark brown, dark blue or black tuxedo-type jacket with collars and lapels of the same color, or dark colored riding habit. Top hat with tuxedo or derby with riding habit, jodhpur boots to match and gloves. Formal riding habits are not to be worn before 6 P.M. and are not mandatory after 6:00 P.M.

d) Miscellaneous.

• Spurs (no rowels), optional.

• Whips or crops, optional. e) Tack.

• Cutback saddle seat saddle.
• English type bridle and bit.

1. Class routine: Riders enter the ring turning to the right and proceed counter-clockwise. The class proceeds at least once around the arenas at each gait and on command will reverse and repeat. To reverse the horse, the exhibitor must halt on the rail and execute a forehand turn (towards the rail). Entries will line up on command and any or all riders may be required to execute any appropriate tests included in class requirements (see below for tests). Judges are encouraged to call for at least two tests of the top competitors. When individual tests are called for, the judge‘s opinion rests on a 50/50 analysis of the rail work and the individual tests.
2. Tests from which the judge must choose: a) Pick up reins. b) Back for not more than eight steps. c) Performance on rail. d) Performance around ring. e) Feet disengaged from stirrups. Feet engaged (in the lineup only). f) Execute serpentine at a flat walk. A series of left and right half circles off center of imaginary line. g) Circle at flat walk. h) Figure eight at flat walk.

i) Execute serpentine at a canter on correct lead demonstrating a simple change of lead. j) Circle at canter on correct lead.

k) Figure eight at canter on correct lead demonstrating a simple change of lead (This is a change whereby the horse is brought back into the walk and restarted into the canter on the opposite lead). Unless specified it can be started either facing center or away from the center. If started facing the center it must be commenced from a halt. Figures are commenced in center of two (2) circles so that one (1) lead change is shown.

l) Change lead down center of ring or on the rail demonstrating simple change of lead. In a simple change of lead, the horse is brought back to a halt and restarted into a canter on the opposite lead at a halt or walk.

m) Ride without stirrups for a brief period of time. Riders may be asked to engage stirrups at a halt or walk.

n) Demonstration rides of approximately one (1) minute on own mount. Movements must be selected from tests 1 through 13 above. Rider must advise judge beforehand what ride he/she plans to demonstrate. To be used only in championship classes. Rider must have with them two (2) copies (one (1) for the judge and one (1) for the announcer) of a written one (1) minute workout in case the judge asks for this test. The test must be stopped at the end of one minute, but the rider will not be penalized for not completing it.

o) Exchange horses, no more than three pairs of riders to exchange. Saddle can be exchanged. The attendant for each horse being exchanged must be allowed in the ring only to facilitate the change.

D. Stock Seat Equitation

1. General: a) Riders will be judged on seat, hands, appointments of horse, rider and suitability of horse to rider.

Results as shown by the performance of the horse are not to be considered more important than the method used in obtaining them.

b) Basic position œ The stirrup should be just short enough to allow heels to be lower than toes. Feet should be placed in the stirrups with weight on the ball of the foot.

c) Body should always appear comfortable.

d) Only one hand is to be used for reining and hands shall not be changed. Hand to be around reins. When ends of split reins fall on near side, one finger between reins is permitted. Rider can hold romal or end of split reins to keep them from swinging or to adjust the position of the reins, provided they are held at least 16 inches from the reining hand. Reining hand should be above the horn and as near to it as possible. Bracing against horn or coiled Riata is to be penalized.

e) When riding a junior horse with a snaffle bit, reins must be crossed and hands must be closed around the reins.

f) Position in motion: the rider should sit the flat walk and the running walk; at the lope, the rider should be close to the saddle.

2. Appointments: a) Competitors must be severely penalized for incomplete appointment, but not necessarily disqualified.

b) Clothing must be clean and neat. Western-style hat, long-sleeved Western-style shirt and neck piece, Western-style long pants, Western-style boots, chaps, belt under loops and gloves are mandatory. Spurs, coats, vests, jackets are optional. Hair must be neat and securely fastened if long so as not to cover rider‘s number.

c) The saddle must fit the rider. It may be slick or swelled fork, have a high or low cantle, but must definitely be sized to the rider. Nothing that would prevent the stirrups from hanging freely shall be added to or deleted from a standard Western saddle.

d) There shall be no discrimination against any standard Western bit as outlined in this rule book. No English equipment shall be allowed. Curb chains may be used, but must be at least ²“ in width and lie flat against the jaws of the horse. No wire, metal or rawhide device is permissible in conjunction with, or as part of, the leather chinstrap which must be at least ²“ in width.

e) Hackamores, tie-downs, running martingales and draw reins are prohibited. If closed reins are used, hobbles must be carried attached below cantle on near side of saddle; if split reins are used, no hobbles are necessary. Bosals or caveson-type nosebands are prohibited. A lariat or Riata must be carried attached to the fork of the saddle. Silver equipment may be used, but shall not be given preference over good working and clean equipment.

1. Class routine: The riders shall enter the ring counter-clockwise at a flat walk. The rider shall be judged on the flat walk, running walk and lope, when required, both ways of the ring. The order to reverse shall be executed by turning away from the rail. All competitors are required to back in a straight line during the line up in all classes. Judges are encouraged to call for at least two (2) tests to be performed by competitors being considered for an award.
2. Tests can be performed either collectively or individually but no other test may be used. Instructions must be publicly announced. Judges must post the pattern at least one hour before the class. Tests from which judges must choose:

a) Back.

b) Individual performance on rail.

c) Figure eight at flat walk.

d) Lope and stop.

e) Figure eight (8) at lope on correct lead, demonstrating simple change of lead. One figure eight (8) demonstrates two changes of lead and is completed by closing up the last circle and stopping in the center of the figure eight (8).

f) Change leads down center of ring, demonstrating simple change of lead.

g) Execute 360 degree turns (spins).

h) Roll back.

RULE VIII. JUDGES SECTION 1 RESPONSIBILITIES OF A JUDGE

A. A judge is obligated to adjudicate each class in conformity with the Rules and specifications as they appear in the NPWHA Rule Book. The judge is expected to have a thorough knowledge of the Rules of NPWHA and be proficient in judging each class.

B. An officiating judge is to arrive on the show grounds no more than thirty minutes prior to the first class.

C. A judge, by accepting an invitation to officiate the show, assumes responsibility of excusing any and all horses in the ring that are suspected of being in violation of the Horse Protection Act and NPWHA Rules.

D. A judge shall not inspect or discuss any horse entered in the show before the show unless so directed by show management.

E. Telephone calls from trainers, owners, exhibitors, etc., shall be reported to the show committee/show management. The show committee/ show management may make charges and require person(s) to appear before the show committee.

F. Exhibitors initiating conversation with the judge before, or during the show, will not be tolerated. The judge shall report these violations to the show committee/show management.

G. The judge must assume responsibility to report any and all violations to the show management and NPWHA.

H. All judges must conduct themselves in a manner reflecting credit upon the horse show, NPWHA, and the Tennessee Walking Horse.

SECTION 2 REGULATIONS GOVERNING A JUDGE

A. A judge shall not be an exhibitor, rider, or in any way connected with the show at which one is officiating.

B. A judge shall not adjudicate any show in which any member of their immediate family participates: nor in which any horse they own, or any horse trained by any immediate family member participates.

C. A judge, or his immediate family, shall not be a houseguest of any person who intends to exhibit at the show the judge is officiating.

D. No horse may be shown before a judge, which was owned, trained, boarded or shown by said judge three (3) months prior to the show.

E. No one may show before a judge who has remunerated them for board, leasing, training, schooling, etc.; nor from whom they have received the same for 3 months prior to the show. (Stud fees excluded).

F. No rider may compete in an equitation class before a judge from whom they have received training, instruction, or tutoring within 3 months prior to the show.

G. No rider may compete in an equitation class before a judge with whom they have had financial transactions connected with the sale, lease or boarding of a horse within 3 month prior to the show. (Sales or purchases at public auction are excluded)

H. Any remuneration or expenses paid to a judge for officiating at a show shall not affect his amateur status for show purposes.

RULE IX. JUDGING CRITERIA

SECTION 1 GENERAL

A. All classes will be open unless otherwise specified in the show premium.

B. No junior exhibitor is allowed to show or exhibit a stallion of any age in any class including weanlings and yearlings in-hand.

C. Bumping and pumping of the reins must be severely penalized.

D. When a horse is in a parked position, the rider shall be allowed to take one step forward prior to backing the horse.

E. In championship classes, horses may be stripped at the discretion of the judge or show management to check conformation.

F. Falls

1. A rider is considered to have fallen when they are separated from the horse in such a way as to necessitate remounting into the saddle.
2. A horse is considered to have fallen when the shoulder and haunch on the same side touch the ground.
3. The fall of a horse/rider shall not disqualify the entry unless the horse displays bad manners or the rider's safety is threatened. Exception: In equitation classes, the fall of horse or rider disqualifies the entry.
4. Horses that rear up, balk, run off, or that are being unruly, must be excused.

G. Time-outs: The rider desiring a time-out will ride to the center of the ring, remain mounted and make the request to the ring steward. The judge will ascertain the reason for the time-out and either grant or deny the request. If not granted, the entry will be ordered back to the rail or will be excused from the ring.

SECTION 2 JUDGING PROCEDURES

A. Horses shall enter the ring counter-clockwise at a flat walk. They shall continue until the gate is closed, at which time the judge will call for the performance gaits in the following order: flat walk, running walk, flat walk and canter or lope when required. When the horses are requested to reverse, they shall perform the following gaits: flat walk, running walk, flat walk and canter or lope when required. (Additionally, the judge may call for a working/dog walk in the Trail Pleasure Division classes.)

1. The horse should move freely at each gait and proceed in a smooth, fluid, rhythmic manner. The following deviations are not typical of the breed and must be severely penalized: stiff front and/or rear leg motion, stumbling, buckling knees, lack of rhythmic timing, favoring any leg, or any tendency to slick pace, pace, rack, or foxtrot.
2. The horse should be collected and respond to the rider‘s signals to perform all gaits with easy and discernable transitions between the gaits. It should back readily on command.
3. Horses shall be worked in both directions of the ring at the required gaits long enough for all horses to have performed before the judge. Horses must perform all required gaits. A horse that has not consistently performed the required gaits around the arena, when called for, shall not be placed over a horse that has consistently performed all gaits. Any deviation from the true walking horse gaits must be severely penalized.
4. The head motion of the walking horse is a pronounced, vertical nod that begins in the vicinity of the shoulder and involves the whole neck and head, not just the head alone. The horse should nod its head in rhythm with the cadence of its hind legs.

B. Gaits

1. Flat walk: the flat walk should be distinct, bold, and four-cornered with the forelegs moving straight in an elevated arc with a pronounced and cadenced head motion. The rear legs should follow through close to the ground, comfortably overstriding the front track.
2. Running walk: the running walk should be in the same general motion as the flat walk with a distinct difference in speed. However, speed must not compromise form. Twisting at the hocks and/or stiff-legged rear legs are deviations of the true running walk and should be penalized.
3. Working/Dog Walk: the working walk, or dog walk is a slow, even four-beat walk. The horse is relaxed with a lowering of the head. The reins are loose and swinging. The horse must give no indication of, nor attempt to, speed up.
4. Canter/Lope: the canter or lope in Western classes should be smooth, straight and collected on both leads, not walking behind but cantering on both ends with a three beat, rolling motion. A horse must canter on the correct lead for the direction it is going without cross-cantering.
5. Lope with extension or Hand Gallop: there should be a definite lengthening of the stride with a noticeable difference in speed.

C. Conformation: in general the Tennessee Walking Horse should have a neat, intelligent looking head; well-shaped, pointed ears; clear, alert eyes; and a tapered muzzle. The horse should have a long, graceful neck and sloping muscular shoulders. The back should be short with good coupling at the loins. The chest should be wide and of good proportion. The body should be well-ribbed and deep at the girth. The croup should generally slope, and the hips should be well-muscled. This muscular development extends down toward the hock; the legs should be flat and cordy.

D. Presentation: all entries should be cleanly presented, neatly trimmed, and in good flesh to present a healthy appearance. Each entry should be presented in appropriate, clean tack for the class. The exhibitor of each entry should also be neat in appearance and appropriately attired with properly-fitted habits, conducting themselves as ladies and gentlemen in a sportsmanlike manner at all times. All classes shall be judged on overall performance, presentation and conformation, except Model Halter, which shall be judged on presentation and conformation alone.

RULE X. RULES FOR SHOWING AND JUDGING THE SPOTTED SADDLE HORSE

SECTION 1 GENERAL

A. The following procedure and criteria applies to all classes, with exception of special classes.

SECTION 2 JUDGING PROCEDURE

A. Horses shall enter the ring and proceed to the right at the show walk, and shall continue at the show walk until the class is closed. The judge shall call for performance gaits in the following order: show walk, show gait, show walk, canter (if required), and show walk.

B. When horses are reversed, the order shall be show walk, show gait, show walk, canter (if required), and show walk.

C. Traditionally the Spotted Saddle Horse is shown Western, but may be shown either English or Western.

D. Riders may use either one hand or two.

SECTION 3 TACK AND ATTIRE

A. Horse and rider may either be Western or English, but the tack and attire may not be mixed.

B. Shoes must meet the requirements and must not exceed the maximum size allowed for "Shoe Size B" as

RULE XI. PROTESTS, CHARGES AND HEARINGS

SECTION 1 SECTION I PROTESTS

A. Protests may be made to the show committee for any violation of these rules. A form may be obtained from the show committee on the show grounds. The completed protest shall:

1. Contain a clear description of the offense and citation of the rule(s) allegedly violated.
2. Include the signature of the person making the protest.
3. State the first name, last name and address of the accused.
4. Be submitted to the show chairman within 24 hours after the end of the show.
5. Include a deposit of $50.00, which will be refunded only if the arbitration committee upholds the protest.
6. Contain a clear description of the violation including a citation of the violated rule.

SECTION 2 CHARGES

A. Charges may be made to NPWHA by the show chairman or by another club or association official for violation of the rules. The charge must:

1. Be in writing.
2. Be signed by the person making the charge.
3. Be addressed to NPWHA.
4. Include the first and last name and the address of the accused.
5. Be received with 30 days of the alleged violation.
6. Contain a clear description of the violation.
7. Cite the rule.

SECTION 3 HEARINGS

A. The President of NPWHA will appoint an arbitration committee annually to handle protests. This committee will consist of five representatives. The representatives will be made up as follows: two members from the general membership, three current board members (directors). One of these board members will be the Vice President, who will chair the committee.

B. The following actions will be cause for immediate attention from this Association‘s arbitration committee:

1. Any participant who has been expelled, suspended or given a warning notice by any recognized horse organization.
2. Actions or behavior that is unfair and unreasonable; does irreparable harm to the principles, aims and purposes of this Association; and is unacceptable to the public at large.
3. Any drugging or abusive behavior to animals and/or individuals.
4. Abuse, which is in direct conflict with the rules and regulations as spelled out by USDA and/or the Horse Protection Act.
5. Verbal or physical abuse to anyone representing show management, D.Q.P.‘s, judges, employees, or directors, while functioning in any official capacity at, or pertaining to any horse show, etc., will require an automatic appearance or suspension by the arbitration committee.

NOTE: These rules concerning violations and suspensions shall apply to the responsible person and the horse. Any infraction of the rules may result in expulsion, suspension or termination of membership, including participation at any NPWHA events and forfeiture of ALL points and awards for the year.

C. The committee will hold hearings on all protests and charges within fifteen days after notification in writing.

D. Notice of a hearing will be sent to all concerned parties. The notice will state the time, date, and place of the

hearing and will include a copy of the protest or charge.

E. Any person who initiates a protest or charge must provide proof of the alleged violations along with witnesses and personal testimony to substantiate the charges.

F. The show committee must act promptly on all protests and obtain all necessary information and evidence from witnesses, entry forms, and other sources, to either validate or deny the protest. If the protest is sustained, the deposit shall be refunded.

G. If the show committee cannot reach a decision regarding a protest against an individual, it must be referred to the arbitration committee.

H. Any charge or protest against a show must be referred to the arbitration committee.

I. The arbitration committee shall hear evidence about protests and charges, render their decision, and determine and impose penalties, if any.

SECTION 4 DECISIONS NOT SUBJECT TO PROTEST

A. The soundness of a horse when checked by a veterinarian, D.Q.P. and/or judge is not subject to protest.

B. The judge‘s decision regarding his preference is not subject to protest unless it is alleged to be in violation of the rules.

SECTION 5 PROVISIONS

A. Any violations of the rules may be cause for an entry being disqualified for the balance of the show and forfeiture of all entry fees and winnings for the entire show.

B. These rules may be changed or revised by a 2/3 vote of the eligible voting membership.

C. THESE RULES WILL BE EFFECTIVE AS OF JANUARY 1, 2003.