EQUESTRIAN JUDGES AND COMPETITORS RULES & GUIDELINES

Transcription

1 PO Box 54, WOODEND, NORTH CANTERBURY Telephone , Fax website EQUESTRIAN JUDGES AND COMPETITORS RULES & GUIDELINES The Rules and Guidelines herein are the basis of all Equestrian activities of the Royal Agricultural Society of NZ. These Rules and Guidelines cannot be reproduced in whole, or part without the permission of the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand. These Rules and Guidelines cannot be used either in principal, in whole or in part for the judging of competition unless the Organising Committee or body is an Ordinary Member of the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand.

2 CONTENTS NB: An Alphabetical Index is at the rear of these documents pages RULES Pages 1-37 Page RULES continued Page Introduction 1 Life Certificates 31 Definition of Terms 2-4 Annual Certificates 31 Method of Implementation 5-6 Youngstock 31 Disputes or Protests 6 Branding/Tattoos/Microchips 32 Penalties 7 Measuring Rules (General) Conduct of Members, Owners, Lessee, Competitors, Exhibitors 7 Measuring Appeals Care of Certificates Appeals 8 Measuring Brands 34 Judges 9-13 Measuring Miniature Horses 34 RAS Judges Register Qualification & Maintenance of Judge 9-10 Forbidden Substance Rules, Bylaws & Regulations Status 10 Forbidden Substances 35 Judges Ineligible to Judge Forbidden Substances Judicial Competitors/Horses Entries/Entry Forms/Schedules Committee Drugs or Forbidden Substances Text for A&P Schedules 14 Test Stewards 35 Text for Entry Forms 14 GUIDELINES Arrears 14 Introduction 38 Exhibitors/Owners/Competitors Judges 39 Competitors Ineligible to Compete under a Judge 16 Dressing for Judging Exhibitors/Owners/Competitors Ownership Leases Ring Stewards Announcers Class Definition & Eligibility Entries/Entry Forms/Schedules General Judges Names in Schedules 45 Hats and Safety Helmets 20 Signing Performance Cards 45 Electronic & Audio Equipment 20 Optional rules for Late Entries 46 Horse Abuse Novice & Open Classifications 47 Saddlery & Accessories 21 Jumps 48 Age of Riders 21 History of the Hack 49 Breeding Classes 21 Conformation of Ideal Show Horse Stallions 22 Manners Education Paces First Ridden Classes 23 Changes of Lead Leading Rein 24 Led Classes Mares Hack Classes Breed Societies 25 Turnout Classes Age of Ridden Animals 25 Traditional Costume Requirements Temporary Pens 25 Definitions Novice & Open Classifications A&P SHOW SCHEDULES Championships APPENDIX 1 - Procedure for Round the Ring Jumping becoming a RAS Judge Measuring Rules APPENDIX 2 - Judges Upgrading Measuring Fees 29 APPENDIX 3 - Turnout Measuring Machines Measuring Inspectors/Stewards Certificate Forms Alphabetical Index Register of Updates BREED STANDARDS

3 EQUESTRIAN JUDGES AND COMPETITORS RULES INTRODUCTION This section contains the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand rules for judges, competitors, exhibitors and owners. The basis of a good day at the Show is all about competitors, judges and administrators working together from a fair and clear set of rules that are applied equally to everyone. When showing, we all have similar expectations: We expect Competitors to compete from a level base of honesty and fair play and to observe the Rules and Regulations at all times. We expect Judges to Judge positively and to show no breed prejudice. We expect the best exhibit on the day, regardless of breeding, to be declared the winner. We expect Judges to judge based upon the correct observance of the conformation and the overall work of the horse or pony, and consequently select the best horses and ponies as set out in the rules and conditions in this rulebook. We expect all involved to be good sportsmen this means such things as fairness, courteous relations to others and graceful acceptance of results etc. With cooperation from all of those involved, we can ensure everyone has a good day at the Show! Members, Competitors and Judges Please Note: The Rules are intended to ensure that all compete against each other in competitions under the fairest possible conditions. All Members of the Royal Agricultural Society, its Affiliated and Kindred Societies competing at Agricultural and Pastoral Shows or events and functions sanctioned by the Royal Agricultural Society, and competitors at affiliated Shows and events are expected to abide by the Rules. As Members, they are bound by the Constitution, Rules and Regulations of the Royal Agricultural Society and those of the particular host Affiliated Society or host Kindred Society. Attention is drawn to the disciplinary provisions of the Royal Agricultural Society, whereby the Royal Agricultural Society has wide powers to discipline Members, Competitors and Judges in the event of failure to observe any provisions of these Rules and/or any other Rules and Regulations of the Royal Agricultural Society. Any confirmed breach of these rules will be subject to an RAS penalty. Exhibitors, Competitors and Judges are asked to read the rules carefully and to ensure the Rules are upheld. 2

4 DEFINITION OF TERMS To be read in conjunction with the rules: Business Partner A person who is party to contractual and/or verbal agreement between two or more persons carrying on a business venture. Class This is a competition advertised on an organisation/agricultural societies programme or schedule for the exhibition of horse and/or rider, led and/or ridden. This may be an individual event or a team event or any other combination. Competitor The person riding/leading the horse in competition, at an official or non-official event, run specifically for the presentation of horses under a Judge for the purpose of competition. Dry (mare) Mare not to foal during current show season (1 August to 31 July). [Gazette 190 (2005)] Employer A person employing/hiring another in a business. Exhibit The combination of horse and competitor. The competitor may be the owner, lessee, or the representative of the said owner. Both horse and competitor must be eligible to compete in the particular class. Exhibitor The person or persons owning the horse. The exhibitor will be the owner, lessee or representative of the said owner. Family Brother, sister, child, uncle, aunt, nephew, niece, parents, grandparents, grandchildren. (Including in-law, step and defacto relationships.) Knowingly Acquainted/aware of the truth. Informed of the facts. Where this situation exists it shall be presumed that any breach is intentional. 3

5 Lease Where the possession of a horse, but not the ownership is transferred to another person. Only leases registered with the RAS are recognised or, in the case of breed classes, leases registered with the Affiliated Breed Society and copied to the RAS. Owner Owner/s are the person/s named as the owner on the RAS height or performance certificates and/or registration papers issued by a Breed Society affiliated to the RAS. Representative A person not being the owner or lessee, showing the horse on behalf of the owner or lessee. Sale A horse shall be deemed to have been sold or leased when the appropriate transfer of the registration papers has been processed by the appropriate registration authority or RAS Affiliated Breed Society or when after delivery of said horse to new owners a receipt for payment in full has been issued. A sale is only recognised as fully complete when all the necessary paper work has been completed. Show Season The Show Season is from 1 August to 31 July each year. Time Allotment Months are considered calendar months. Trainer/Instructor/Tutor A person who trains and/or prepares horses and riders. A trainer may not necessarily receive reward for training and training may take place anywhere including Showground facilities. Tuition Instruction of horses and/or rider as an individual in a group of two (2) or more riders in a clinic situation. The rider and/or horse cannot compete under competition conditions under that instructor within three (3) months from the date of the last tuition or visa versa. RAS District Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand. Royal Agricultural Society District as defined by the Society. 4

6 Minutes Minutes are the documented and approved true and correct record of all meetings of any Executive, Council, Committee, Sub-Committee, Show or Affiliated Organisation. Rules and Regulations Rules and Regulations mean Rules and Regulations made by the RAS Executive or the RAS Horse Stewards Council as from time to time in force. Constitution Constitution means the Constitution of the Royal Agricultural Society. Member Member means a person admitted to membership of the Royal Agricultural Society as either an Ordinary Member or as an Associate Member under the Constitution. 5

7 RULES Note: a) Rule changes. All Members of the Royal Agricultural Society will be notified in the appropriate manner of any rule changes from time to time. Public notification will be undertaken through the media and Show schedules. b) Where the word horse appears it refers to all horses - be they ponies, park hacks, hacks, saddle (flat) hunters, round the ring jumpers, Showjumpers, dressage horses and ponies, riding horses, miniature horses or representatives of breeds affiliated to the Royal Agricultural Society or breeds not affiliated to the Royal Agricultural Society but catered for by individual Shows. c) These rules are to be considered in conjunction with the rules for Showing of any affiliated organisation or Breed Society as they may effect the management of and competition within classes and sections at A & P Shows. d) For the purpose of these Rules and Regulations, Conformation classes rank first, all other classes i.e. Paced and Mannered are considered special classes and subservient in the system. e) It is the responsibility of exhibitors, competitors and Judges to make themselves familiar with the rules. Ignorance of the rules is no excuse. 1) Method of Implementation It is envisaged that the policing of these rules will be self-regulatory. Members, Exhibitors, Competitors, Judges and Show Officials have the right to lodge a protest alleging infringement of the rules. See Show schedules for any local requirements in regard to the procedure on Show day. a) Any after Show objection or complaint should be in writing to the Royal Agricultural Society within fourteen (14) days of the date of the event giving rise to the objection or complaint. PLUS Two (2) separate letters must be received in writing to the Royal Agricultural Society from unrelated members of different families within thirty (30) days of the date of the event, giving rise to the same objection or complaint. b) The Procedures and Disciplinary or Hearing committee will decide in accordance with the rules if there is a case to answer. c) Once the Royal Agricultural Society has been notified of a protest against a competitor/exhibitor, that competitor/exhibitor is prohibited from transferring ownership under the RAS Rules of any horse or pony owned or leased by that person until determination of the protest, or completing of any suspension, which ever is the later. 6

8 d) Any penalties resulting from a protest lodged with the Royal Agricultural Society apply to the competitor/exhibitor and horse. This is irrespective of who owns the horse during the period of the penalty. e) On hearing a case the Procedures and Disciplinary or Hearing committee s decision will be FINAL; no appeal will be entered into. 2) Disputes or Protests a) Every Show shall have a Dispute or Protest Committee, which shall be appointed prior to the Show of people who will be available on the day. Reserve Members should be named so that in the event of absence the process is able to continue. b) Only the Royal Agricultural Society Horse Stewards Council Executive may hear and adjudicate on disputes concerning Judges or appoint Officers of the Society or Co-opt Members of the Community to adjudicate on behalf of the Executive. No matter the make up of the Hearing Committee, the rules of the Society shall be the base of any decision. c) A dispute or protest concerning a Judge must be received by the Secretary of the Show at which the incident took place within one hour of the finalisation of the last class of the day or be forwarded to the Executive Officer of the Royal Agricultural Society within fourteen (14) working days of the last day of the Show. Disputes or protests received by the Show Secretary must likewise be forwarded to the Secretary of the Royal Agricultural Society within fourteen (14) working days of the Show. d) Disputes or protests not linked to an actual incident at a Show must be received by the Executive Officer of the Royal Agricultural Society within fourteen (14) working days of the alleged incident that has led to the dispute or protest. The RAS Executive may make such enquiry as it considers appropriate in the circumstances and may in the exercise of its Judgement either reprimand such member or inflict upon such member such fine as the Executive may think proper in the circumstances or may require such member to tender their resignation from the Society or any affiliated Show or organisation provided always that upon such enquiry the member shall be informed in writing by registered post of the alleged breach and shall be given at least twenty-one (21) days to answer any charge that may be laid against them and to provide any explanation or evidence that they may consider desirable and an opportunity shall be afforded them of appearing before the Council to answer any charge and to furnish such evidence or explanation as the circumstances may warrant. 7

9 3) Penalties Member, Owner, Lessee, Competitor and/or Exhibitor a) Every person who commits a breach of these rules regulations and or by-laws shall be liable to the following penalties unless otherwise specified: b) A fine not exceeding $1500 or disqualification of the horse/pony, rider/handler and/or owner c) The Hearing Committee may impose costs against the defendant. d) A second offence may incur a disqualification for a period from one year to life Judges a) First Offence removal of name from Judges List for a maximum period of 1 year b) Second Offence removal of name from Judges List for a maximum period of 2 years c) Third Offence Life Suspension Note: Any dates of suspension are at the discretion of the RAS Horse Stewards Council Sub-Committee appointed to adjudicate. Any suspension is also applicable to the horse. Conduct of Members, Owners, Lessees, Competitors and/or Exhibitors a) Each member shall strictly observe and act in conformity with and not otherwise than in accordance with the Constitution and the Rules and Regulations for the time being of the Royal Agricultural Society. b) No member or registered owner shall exhibit any horse or pony recorded by the Society or any affiliated Breed Society in any Show or exhibition or advertise any horse or pony in any paper or periodical or pamphlet under any but its registered or recorded name or as having attained any wins not recorded in the results of affiliated Shows. c) No member shall so conduct themself or be guilty of such conduct as to bring the Society or any affiliated Shows into discredit or as to bring themself as an exhibitor or breeder or as a member into discredit. (Refer rule 13 Royal Agricultural Society Constitution.) 8

10 4) Appeals Any questions or dispute arising shall be open to appeal. An appeal may be submitted to a Meeting of the Executive of the RAS and the Executive shall consider all reports, statements and information submitted to it by the parties to the question or dispute and shall be at liberty to make such further investigation and enquiry as it may think fit regardless of the ordinary rules of evidence and its determination shall be final and binding on all parties to or affected by the question or dispute and they shall have no recourse to law there from. For the purpose of this clause and determination must, to be effective, be supported by at least three-fifths of members of the Executive present and voting at the relative meeting. Provided that: i) If any person desires any such question or dispute to be submitted to the RAS Executive such person shall notify the Executive Officer in writing accordingly; ii) Every notification shall be accompanied by a payment of two hundred and Fifty dollars ($250); iii) The RAS Executive may refuse to hear or to determine any question or dispute between any parties as described herein or may refer the dispute to another Judicial Body or Organisation (for example the RAS FSJC) for adjudication; iv) Each party to any such question or dispute and every person affected thereby shall furnish to the Executive whether orally or in writing (as the Executive may direct) such information and such evidence as the Executive by its Executive Officer shall require; v) Upon determination of the question of dispute the Executive may at its discretion but not otherwise direct the two hundred and fifty dollars ($250) payable as aforesaid to be refunded to the person paying the same or may declare the same to be forfeited where in the opinion of the Executive the question or dispute submitted is trivial, frivolous or vexatious. 9

11 JUDGES 5) RAS Equestrian Judges Register All Judges appointed must be listed in the Royal Agricultural Society Equestrian Judges register or in an equivalent or recognised register in their home Country. 6) Equestrian Judges already listed in the Official Royal Agricultural Equestrian Judges Register will be offered the opportunity to upgrade. 7) Deleted (Gazette 188 [2004]). 8) All Judges must attend Equestrian Seminars at least once in every two-years beginning 1st August Failure to attend Seminars (unless a reasonable explanation is received by the District Convenor) will mean the Judge is removed from the current list. Seminars will be provided by way of Royal Agricultural Society Seminar Roadshow or RAS District seminar as approved by the Horse Stewards Council. This forum is also intended to offer Judges a chance to partake through debate in the constant upgrading of the system and the Rules and Regulations. 9) Judges shall be listed as International, Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3. a) International Judges shall be those Judges already listed as International Judges, and those listed Grade 1 Judges who have subsequently been recognized by the International Community through appointments. The International appointment must have been at a major overseas Show such as a Royal Show, and the Judge must have been appointed to judge ridden classes of a similar nature to the classes known and traditional in New Zealand. A completed Report Form from this major Show must accompany any recommendation for international status, and names to go forward from Tutor Judges Panel only, for ratification at Conference. Promotion to the International List may only come from appointments. International Judging. Any Judge who receives an invitation and accepts an overseas appointment should, notify the RASNZ Equestrian Judges Panel Convenor. b) Grade 1 Judges shall be those Judges already listed as Grade 1 and those who have upgraded from Grade 2 through the upgrading process and recommendation of the RASNZ Equestrian Judges Panel. c) Grade 2 Judges shall be those Judges already listed as Grade 2 and those who have upgraded from Grade 3 through the upgrading process and recommendation of the RASNZ Equestrian Judges Panel. 10

12 d) Grade 3 Judges shall be those Judges already listed as Grade 3, those newly appointed through the sitting and passing of the written and practical examination as set by the RASNZ Equestrian Judges Panel and those Grade 3 listed Judges who do not with to upgrade. Judges will be listed as: Grade 3 09 (New Judge and date when they became listed). 10) Newly appointed Grade 3 Judges must Judge under the guidance of a Tutor Judge until three positive reports have been submitted by the Tutor Judges. Upgrading Judges must complete two positive assessments to be submitted by the Tutor Judges. A copy of all Assessments must be submitted to the District Judges Convenor. The practical application of this Rule rests with the New or Upgrading Judge who must work through the District Judges Convenor, who will arrange for a Tutor Judge to attend to the required Assessment. Any Assessment carried out without prior consent of the District Judges Convenor will be deemed invalid. Candidate Judges are required to perform Stewarding Duties at NZ A&P Shows or other NZ Shows, a minimum of four times(to be recorded and signed by the Head Steward) and spend time in the Show Ring with Senior and Tutor Judges, a minimum of four times. (to be recorded and signed by the Judge) Attend Workshops, RAS District Seminars before sitting their Written and Practical Examination. 11) Only Grade One and International Judges should be appointed to Judge at New Zealand Royal Shows and/or recommended as suitable to Judge internationally. 12) To be listed as a Royal Agricultural Judge an applicant must first become a Member of an affiliated A & P Society and maintain that membership while a listed Judge. All listed Judges must likewise maintain a current membership as prescribed from time to time by the Royal Agricultural Society. 13) Qualification and Maintenance of Judge Status a) To be listed, all candidate Judges must have first passed a written and practical Judges examination set by the Executive of the Royal Agricultural Society Horse Stewards Council or that Councils Agent. b) Deleted (Gazette 188 [2004]) c) The examination will be set in such a way as to allow the applicant to demonstrate their knowledge of the Rules and Regulations of the Society, their ability to recognise conformational excellence and paces and manners and to rank horses and ponies according to the standards of excellence set down in these general Rules and Regulations. d) A Judge shall not officiate at any Show whilst their name is removed from the panel of Official Judges as a result of an infringement of these rules. e) Any Judge on the Royal Agricultural Society Judges List or a Candidate Judge who is charged and penalised under the Forbidden Substances Regulations (RAS rules section 55a & Judges and Competitors Rule Book section 89) will be suspended as follows: - first offence is a minimum of 2 years suspension from judging - second offence is lifetime suspension from judging. 11

13 14) The Royal Agricultural Society reserves the sole right to add or delete person s names from any Judges Panel. Districts will play a role in advising the Royal Agricultural Society Horse Stewards Council Executive in such decisions. 15) Deleted (Gazette 188 [2004]). 16) A Judge is ineligible to Judge a competitor and or horse if a) The Judge is a member of the competitor s family/competitor s business partner/competitors employer. b) The competitor has leased a horse to that Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner/judge s employer, within the last six (6) months or the term of the lease. c) The competitor and/or horse have been accommodated by the Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner/judge s employer two (2) weeks prior to the day of competition. d) The competitor has been a representative under competition conditions for the Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner/judge s employer, and his horse or any part of the combination within the last six (6) months. The horse may not necessarily have been owned by that Judge at the time of representation by the competitor. e) The Judge has been employed by the competitor/competitor s family/competitor s business partner in the last six (6) months. f) Either the horse being exhibited on that day or the competitor or the combination have been under tuition by the Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner/judge s employer within the past six (6) months. 17) Royal Agricultural Society Listed Judges who are current members of the RAS or RAS affiliated A&P Association or Breed/Kindred Society, or an overseas Judge of equivalent standard, must be used at Shows and Events. A Show wishing to use a non-royal Agricultural Society Listed Judge must apply to their District Horse Stewards Council for non-compliance with this rule. This is mandatory. 18) When officiating Judges must wear a suitable named identification badge. 19) Judges may not adjudicate more than once within 200km of a Show in the same Royal Agricultural Society District within the Spring Show Season (1 August to 31 December) or the Autumn Show Season (1 January to 31 July) unless judging different sections. 20) A Judge may direct a Steward to order any person or horse from the ring and the competition for bad conduct of one or both. 12

14 21) A Judge may request their Stewards to split classes into heats. The maximum number of horses in a single heat is ) In ridden classes a Judge may call in (providing the numbers allow) two more horses than the awards require. Each of those horses called in to the centre may be offered a work out. The award book should indicate how the horses that work are finally placed. (i.e. if three places are to be awarded but five horses work out, indicate first to fifth.) 23) When an exhibitor or a competitor makes a request through the Show Manager/Ring Master/Ring Steward (see rules) for the Judge s opinion concerning a horse, it is urged that the Judge will give their opinion courteously and sincerely. The Judge should ensure that the Show Official making the request to the Judge for an interview between the Judge and the exhibitor or competitor remains present during all discussions with the exhibitor or competitor. However, there will be no fraternisation between the Exhibitor or Competitor and the Judge until the Judge has finished officiating. 24) A Judge at a Show shall not transport horses or competitors to the Show in the section that they are appointed to Judge. 25) A Judge shall be required to hold a current RAS set of rules. It is the responsibility of the A&P Show concerned that any overseas Judge be made acquainted with the Rule Book and any relevant rules. 26) A Judge may not visit the horse lines, parking areas or stables or the owners in any social situation or inspect or discuss any horse entered in the Show until after they have finished officiating. 27) A competitor/exhibitor shall not exhibit under a Judge, nor shall a Judge adjudicate when the competitor/exhibit is ineligible under the rules. 28) If a Judge judges or an Exhibitor or Competitor competes knowing a horse or pony is ineligible one or all may be held in breach of the rules. 29) The Judge s decision as to the winners and place getters in a class shall be final. Only if infringement of the rules is proved can the Show officials change the places. 30) No competitor or exhibitor or member of their family shall approach a Judge with regard to a decision unless they first obtain the permission of the Show Convenor/Manager/Ring Master or Ring Steward the most senior of whom shall carry the decision on the day. 13

15 31) A judging panel for a championship shall be drawn from amongst the judge/s who judge/d the qualifying classes for that championship. 32) If one Judge is unavailable the Chief or Senior Steward must agree that judging may commence without the full panel. 14

16 ENTRIES, ENTRY FORMS, SCHEDULES 33) The Following Text will appear in every A & P Show Schedule i) The use of tranquillisers, stimulants, or any drugs capable of affecting the performance of horses and ponies is forbidden. Competitors are advised that tests for forbidden substances may be carried out during the Show and that testing of all animals is at the owner s risk. Testing for forbidden substances will be carried out under the Royal Agricultural Society Forbidden Substance Judicial Committee (FSJC) procedures and rules (refer rule 89 RAS Equestrian Judges and Competitors Rule Book and rule 55a of the RAS General Rules and Regulations). ii) This Show supports the RAS Yellow Card system, which operates in the Equestrian Section of all RAS affiliated Shows and will be offered for any inappropriate behaviour towards Show officials, Judges, fellow competitors or any other third party connected with the Show bringing the equestrian discipline into disrepute, or cases which are of a less serious nature to the above in accordance with the Conduct of Members, Owners, Lessees, Competitors and/or Exhibitors as provide in the RAS Equestrian Competitors and Judges Rulebook and rule 13 of the RAS Constitution. Implementation of the Yellow Card will be in accordance of the RAS Rules that accompanied this Card, and full wording of the Yellow Card system is available to view on the RAS website. 34) The Following Text will appear on every A & P Show Entry Form The attention of exhibitors is particularly drawn to the conditions relating to the misuse of drugs, and the intention of the Committee to undertake testing for forbidden substances. EXHIBITOR DECLARATION: I accept the Association s conditions of entry and indemnify the Association under the provisions of Health and Safety in Employment Act My signature hereto (on this entry form) and/or participation in the competition/s denotes my acceptance of the RAS Forbidden Substance Rules and Regulations and Conditions; Signed 15

17 35) Arrears No person who is in arrears with regard to entry fees, subscriptions, or any other Show charge is eligible to compete at any A & P Show. Proof of payment will be required before any restriction will be lifted. Note: Not only is the above a rule of the Royal Agricultural Society but it is expected that this policy will be followed by every affiliated Show and that the text of rule 35 (above) will be included in all schedules. 36) All entries must be made on the official entry form of the A & P Association. These forms are to be completed and signed by the exhibitor, or by some person authorised to sign on their behalf and must be deposited with the Secretary on or before the date set down in the Schedule. Entries received after that date are subject to the terms and conditions set down in the schedule or may be declined. 37) No entry will be considered valid unless the entry form has been completed and signed. Entry in the Show entitles the Association to publish an Exhibitor s name in results reports and distribute with Exhibitor lists. The use of Prefixes on Horses and Ponies at A&P Shows must be those of the Breeder. 38) All entries are made subject to the Rules and Regulations and by-laws of the RAS and the affiliated A & P Associations. Some form of documentation must be provided to substantiate the figure when payment of equestrian levies is made. 39) Substitution of any entry can only be made at the discretion of the Show Committee. 40) The host Show Committee reserves the right to refuse or cancel any entry without adducing any reason for so doing. 41) Youngstock (all those horses and ponies under the age of three years) shall only be eligible for the Youngstock Championship and any other special award that may be stated in the conditions of the Show. 16

18 EXHIBITORS/OWNERS/COMPETITORS 42) A Competitor is ineligible to compete under a Judge if a) The competitor is a member of the Judge s family. b) The horse is owned or has been owned by the Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner/judge s employer within the last twelve (12) months. c) Any horse has been leased by the competitor from the Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner/judge s employer within the last twelve- (12) months or the duration of the lease which ever is the longer. d) That Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner/judge s employer has owned the horse being competed with, under that Judge, on that day, within the last twelve- (12) months. e) The horse being competed with was bred by the Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner/judge s employer and was sold within the last twelve- (12) months, not necessarily by this competitor. f) The Judge has been accommodated within two (2) weeks prior to the event at the competitor s residence/the competitor s family residence/the competitor s business partners residence/the competitors employers residence. g) Either the horse being exhibited on that day, under that Judge or the competitor himself, or any part of the combination have been involved in tuition by the Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner/judge s employer, within the past six (6) months. h) If the Judge has been a representative under competition conditions for the competitor/competitor s family/competitor s business partner/competitor s employer and his horse or any part of the combination within the past six (6) months. The horse may not necessarily have been owned by the competitor at the time of representation by the Judge. i) The Judge/Judge s family/judge s business partner has employed the competitor within the last twelve - (12) months. j) The competitor s horse is in the incorrect height group, or if that competitor cannot produce a current RAS height certificate on the day, k) The competitor has entered the horse in the incorrect class, the competitor entered in the incorrect age grouping of either the horse or the competitor. l) The competitor has not entered the horse under its correct registered name; markings and/or brands differ from those on the horse s registration papers/official registration papers cannot be presented on the day or within fourteen (14) days of the event. 17

19 Inevitably circumstances will arise which are not precisely covered. In such circumstances where ever possible the spirit of the Constitution and the Rules and Regulations will be followed to produce the fairest result for all. 43) Ownership All horses and ponies entered in competitive classes or ring events or parading (whether by invitation or by entry) must be entered in the name of the bona fide owner. All animals must be named at time of entry. 44) Leases A lease lodged with the Royal Agricultural Society must cover each leased horse or pony competing at any A & P Show. A lease or partnership must be recorded with the RAS on a recognised form to be acceptable. All benefits and penalties relating to a leased horse shall be attributed to the lessee. If the animal is registered with an affiliated Breed Society the lease must also be registered with that Society. All lease documents are processed directly through the RAS Head Office, not the Districts. 45) Leases or Partnerships must be for no less than a six-month period and shall commence, on receipt of confirmation from the RAS that it has been received. 46) No competitor/exhibitor shall deface or alter registration papers, height certificates or performance cards. Damaged cards certificates or registration papers are not acceptable and should be replaced. 47) Horses must be shown in their current recorded height group and classes and must hold a current height certificate issued by an official Royal Agricultural Society Measuring Steward at an official Royal Agricultural Society measuring stand. 48) Exhibitors must carry a current performance card for every novice horse and make this available in the ring upon request. 49) It is the responsibility of the exhibitor/owner to ensure that the horse and competitor are entered and Shown only in the correct classes, and that the horse is entered and Shown under its full registered name. 18

20 CLASS DEFINITION AND ELIGIBILITY All horses shall be eligible to enter classes based on their official height. When height is a pre-requisite of entry, all exhibits must have a current RAS height certificate that must be available in the judging ring at all times. 50) All equestrian classes shall be offered in height divisions. a) Pony Rings shall be split as follows: Group A Group B Group C Group D Ponies over 138cm and not exceeding 148cm Ponies over 128 cm and not exceeding 138cm Ponies not over 128cm Saddle Hunter Ponies not over 148cm Or Group A Ponies over 138cm and not exceeding 148cm Group B Ponies not over 138cm Or Pony Ring Ponies not over 148cm b) Shows may decide that ponies in these classes can be ridden in the open ring by any child under 17 years of age, however if an age restriction is imposed it shall be: Group A Group B Group C Group D Riders under 17 years of age Riders under 15 years of age Riders under 13 years of age Saddle Hunter Ponies not over 148cm, rider under 17 years of age Group E Working Pony Hunter not over 148cm, rider under 17 years. Note: Novice pony classes are open to riders of any age. Guideline for classes with height sections: 113cm, 118cm, 123cm, 133 cm, 143cm 19

21 c) Park Hacks Over 148cm and not exceeding 158cm d) Hacks Over 158cm e) Saddle Flat Hunters Over 148cm f) Round the Ring Jumping Ponies as above Horses over 148cm g) Cobs Over 148cm and not exceeding 155cm h) Working Hunters over 148cm i) Riding Horses over 148cm Once a horse or pony commences the Show Season as a Hack, Riding Horse or Saddle (flat) Hunter, or Saddle Pony or Hunter (flat) Pony, that horse or pony is not be able to transfer to another section during that Show Season. If a Show does not hold Riding Horse, Saddle (flat) Hunter and Hunter (flat) Pony classes, this ruling does not apply. 20

22 GENERAL 51) Hats and Safety Helmets a) A hard hat is generally described as a hunting cap, a bowler, protective headwear or a safety helmet. b) Wearing a hard hat is compulsory for anyone competing on, working in or schooling or riding for any other reason a horse at an A & P Show or in any area considered to be for what ever reason a part of the Showgrounds. c) All riders 16 and under must wear protective headgear, which includes a retaining harness secured to the shell at more than two points. Such headgear must be worn with the chinstrap properly adjusted and fastened when in the arena or ring, the practice area collecting rings or anywhere else within a Showgrounds. It is strongly recommended that all riders particularly those jumping horses wear protective headgear conforming to the current NZ Safety Standard or an equivalent standard and that the headgear be secured by a retention harness. Electronic and Audio Equipment d) Any electronic or audio equipment carried on a competitor deemed to be possible of outside assistance to a competitor is banned from all competitions at any RAS or Affiliated Shows, with the penalty of forfeiting all prize money, awards and qualifications and elimination from any further classes at that Show. 52) Horse Abuse Any alleged acts of horse abuse are reportable during the event to the organising body, supported by at least two other witnesses, or after the event to the Royal Agricultural Society in writing. Two separate letters must be received in writing to the RAS from unrelated members of different families within fourteen (14) days of the date of the event, giving rise to the incident. International Guidelines prescribed by the FEI for the Protection of Horses shall apply in any ruling: Article 143 ABUSE OF HORSES (FEI General Regulations) Abuse can be defined as intentionally acting in a way, which may cause pain or unnecessary discomfort to a horse. As examples an act of abuse can be any of the following; To whip or beat a horse excessively To subject a horse to any kind of electric shock device 21

23 To use spurs, or to jab the horse in the mouth with the bit, excessively or persistently To remount, or attempt to remount, an obviously exhausted, lame or injured horse To rap a horse anywhere in or outside the grounds of the event To hyper sensitise any part of a horse To leave horses without adequate food, drink and exercise. 53) Saddlery and Accessories a) Whips in ridden classes shall not exceed 76 cm in length (except adult side-saddle riders, who may carry a whip or cane no more than 1 metre in length). Competitors in led classes may carry a dressage style whip, however horses and ponies showing welts from whip abuse will be immediately dismissed from the ring and disqualified without further recourse for the remaining events at that Show. b) Saddlecloths are optional in all ridden events. It is preferred that saddlecloths used in flat classes at least are cut to the shape of the saddle. c) A false tail is permitted unless the rules of an affiliate otherwise prescribe. d) Earplugs are permitted unless the rules of affiliates otherwise prescribe. e) Bearing Reins, Running Reins or similar tackle shall not be used in led rein classes. Simple snaffle bridles with the lead attached to the cavesson are mandatory. f) Exhibitors Disability Card: An Identification Card is available for Exhibitors with a disability who require accessories or aids for competing. An application form is available from equestrian@ras.org.nz or phone (03) g) In the interests of safety, the stirrup iron and the stirrup leather (this also applies to safety stirrups) must hang freely from the bar of the saddle and the outside flap. The rider must not directly or indirectly tie any part of their body to the saddlery, unless an exhibitor s disability card is held (refer to RAS rule 53 f). 54) Age of Riders a) Novice ponies may be ridden by a rider of any age in novice pony classes only. b) Open ponies must be ridden by riders under 17 years of age except that riders turning 17 after 1 st Jan are able to ride ponies until 31 st July of the same year. 22

24 c) A pony rider eligible to compete on the first day of an event may continue to compete at that event as a pony rider. d) The minimum age for a rider in the lead rein section is 4 years at the date of entries closing. 55) Breeding Classes Sire Dam and registration number may be stated at time of entry and to allow verification a photocopy of the appropriate registration form must accompany the entry. The use of Prefixes on Horses and Ponies at A&P Shows must be those of the Breeder. 56) Stallions Stallions are permitted in all classes they are eligible for but must if led be in the appropriate harness prescribed by the Breed Society the stallion is registered with or which is prescribed by the host Show, or if ridden must be in an appropriate bridle and be in total control. A Steward will order any stallion considered out of control or to be causing undue disquiet to other horses from the ring without recourse from the stallion owner/exhibitor/competitor. It is compulsory for all stallions regardless of age, to wear an identification badge S at all Shows at all times. 23

25 57) 1. First Ridden Classes First Ridden Ponies should be safe and suitable. They should possess a good front, even gaits and not be too wide for their small riders. The stride should not be too long, as they would unseat the rider and cause the rider to lose balance. Ideally the First Ridden Pony is a little more scopey in both conformation and movement than the Leading Rein Pony, although many ponies compete successfully in both sections. a) Judged on: 60 % suitability and safeness 40% conformation and paces. b) First Ridden Ponies not to exceed 138 cm. c) First Ridden Ponies must be ridden in a bridle with a single rein. d) First Ridden Ponies to be ridden by riders under 10 years and who are not competing in the Open Sections at any A&P Shows. e) If a show does not provide a First Ridden section then it is permissible for the pony and rider to compete in the Open Section, but not to exceed 3 Shows in total.. f) Riders that have competed to the equivalent of an Open Pony section cannot come back down to compete in the First Ridden section at any A&P Show, the only exception being (e) above. g) A First Ridden Pony may compete in the Open ring with a different rider. h) No spurs to be worn. i) A cane or a whip not exceeding 68 cm in length, which includes a flap 2cm wide by 4cm long, may be carried by riders in the First Ridden Section. j) All ponies to walk and trot in company, but may be asked to canter in their individual workout. k) Before finalising the work out the Judge must ascertain that the children can all manage canter work. If the children are not confident with canter this pace should be left out of the work out. Whatever paces the workout finally contains, it must be simple and designed to show that the child can manage a change of direction and a recognisable circle as a demonstration of the control and understanding expected at this level and age. Good manners and willingness from the pony and the balance and degree of control from the rider should each be taken into account. Conformation of the First Ridden Pony should be taken into account if more than one First Ridden class is offered and if this intention is clearly stated in the class description. Notes: The same combination cannot enter in both the Leading Rein Section and the First Ridden Section, but a pony that has been entered in the Leading Rein Section can be entered in the First Ridden Section with a different rider. Riders who have competed in the First Ridden, Novice and Open Pony Sections are no longer eligible for the leading rein section. A rider is only able to compete in this section for a maximum of 24 months from the date of their first Show in the First Ridden section. 24

26 57) 2. Leading Rein Classes Leading Rein Ponies should be safe and suitable. They should possess a good front, even gaits and not be too wide for their small riders. The stride should not be too long, as they would unseat the rider and cause the rider to lose balance. Ideally the First Ridden Pony is a little more scopey in both conformation and movement than the Leading Rein Pony, although many ponies compete successfully in both sections. a. Judged on: 60 % suitability and safeness 40% conformation and paces. b. Leading rein classes are essentially classes designed for children on ponies 128cm and under. These children are those as yet unable to ride without assistance from a leader or attendant and should be judged accordingly. Most shows restrict riders taking part in this section from taking part in other sections of the show. c. Leading rein classes are restricted to riders seven (7) years of age and under led by an attendant, with the minimum age for a rider in the Lead rein section four (4) years at the date of entries closing. d. The lead must be attached to the caveson of a simple snaffle bridle. e. The leader to hold the rein with their left hand so the right hand is free to assist the rider if necessary. f. Spurs are not allowed however a small cane may be carried. g. Riders must not be asked to canter either on the circle or during a work out. h. A best on parade, best turned out or unity class is the only competition within this section when the costume or dress of the leader may also be taken into account. i. The intention of the Show to include the leader or attendant as a part of the unit must be stated in the schedule. If the intention of the Show is not properly stated it is reasonable for the connections of the pony to assume that only the pony and rider will be judged. j. If a Show wishes to include a First Ridden class in their Leading Rein Section as they are not able to run a First Ridden Section, the wording to be for combinations coming off Leading Rein. 58) Mares Mares Shown in Brood Mare Classes must have a foal at foot or present a veterinary certificate of pregnancy that includes a projected foaling date. Dry mare is a mare not to foal during current show season (1 August to 31 July). 25

27 59) Mares Shown in the summer season without a foal at foot, would be expected (before Christmas) to be late foaling in the summer or autumn, or (after Christmas) to have weaned an early foal and be back in foal with a spring due date. Mare falling into either of the above categories should prove their eligibility with a veterinary certificate. Anything less will be unacceptable. Breed Societies Breed Societies affiliated to the Royal Agricultural Society are entitled to expect the following: 60) Horses and ponies entered in classes designated as Breed Society classes must be registered in the official studbook of that society. The use of Prefixes on Horse or Pony entries at A&P Shows must be those of the Breeder. 61) Breed section classes must be run under the rules for Showing of the designated Breed Society. 62) Judges appointed within the Breed Sections must be qualified to Judge the Breed. 63) Age of Ridden Animals Animals under three years of age are not permitted in any ridden or driven (harness) class no matter what the rules of any affiliated Breed Society or Kindred Society may prescribe. 64) Temporary Pens Pens constructed of electric fence tape and electric fence standards are not permitted at affiliated shows. 65) Novice and Open Classifications A novice horse or pony or rider is one that has yet to win six classes in any division within the competitions provided at any A & P Show. 66) Novice animals are eligible for open classes but Shows that offer novice championships may exclude novice winners from the open championship unless (obviously) that animal has won its way into the open championship by way of an open class win. 67) All wins in novice classes within each division count and must be recorded on the Royal Agricultural Society Performance & Measuring Card. Should a Novice horse win an open conformation class including Ladies and Gents classes, these wins must also be recorded. The number of Novice wins is to be counted at the time of the Show, not the time of entry. If a Novice entry has gained the permitted number of wins by the day of the Show, the competitor must advise the Secretary s Office and change to an Open class, or if no class remains to enter, a refund will be actioned after the Show. 26

28 Once a horse has achieved 6 wins in conformation classes, this horse is not eligible to return to Novice status should it change Sections at the beginning of a new Show season. Once a horse has achieved 6 wins in paced and mannered classes, this horse is not eligible to return to Novice status should it change Sections at the beginning of a new Show season. This ruling excludes Lead Rein & First Ridden. Winners failing to produce their card when requested by the Steward forfeit their awards on the day. Special Note: The Royal Agricultural Society and all affiliated A & P Associations recognise the NZ Equestrian Federations Horse of the Year Show Showing classes including led breed classes for all intents and purposes as A & P events. Wins at this Show will therefore be recorded on the Performance Card. 68) At all times only first placed horses; ponies and riders may parade for champion judging. The second placed horse to the selected champion must be allowed to parade for reserve and be given the same consideration as the other animals in the ring. 69) The only exception to this rule is when a Show offers Champion Hunter (round the ring jumping) to be competed for by virtue of payment of a fee to start in a specifically designed and described class. 70) Championships a) Ring Championships are judged from winners in the conformation classes. Paced and Mannered Championships may be judged from the winners of the paced and mannered classes in any section or ring at the Show or within any section or ring at the Show. b) Reserve Championships are judged from the eligible winners and the second placed horses or ponies to the champion. CHAMPION AWARD c) When judging of all eligible classes within the division has been completed, all the first place winners should return to the ring. The Judge should then select the champion. (The Horse or Pony competing for Champion, Reserve Champion or Supreme Champion must be ridden by the rider who qualified the horse or pony or have had dispensation from the Chief Steward to substitute the rider. Dispensation will only be granted in the event of illness or because the original rider is competing in another ring). 27

29 RESERVE CHAMPION AWARD d) The Steward should then call in the second place winner of the class or classes from which the champion has been selected, and place it in line with the first place class winners. This horse must receive the same consideration as the first place class winners and be judged equally for the title of reserve champion. SUPREME CHAMPION e) Judged according to the Show schedule. The schedule should clearly list which divisions the Judges and the exhibits for the supreme champion shall come forward from. Judges, independent of each other, are to place horses 1 st to last. (The Chief Steward can then award points to determine the winner. E.g. 1 st = 10 points, 2 nd = 8 points, 3 rd = 6 points and 4 th = 4 points etc.) In the event that Supreme Paced and Mannered, Supreme Rider and Supreme Novice classes are scheduled, they will be judged under rule 70 (e). f) In the situation where a horse or pony misbehaves, fails to workout or goes uneven during the Championship judging, regardless of how many first prizes won, it is the Judge s prerogative to be able to place it accordingly. RECORDING g) For Show information only - Stewards are to note only on Judging Sheets, the Judges placings of those horses/ponies that are runner-up to the Supreme, or runner-up to the Reserve Champion. 71) Round the Ring Jumping In the interest of safety and in fairness to competitors Each District must appoint one or more Main Ring Inspectors whose duty shall be to assist and advise where necessary with (for example) distances between jumps, height and safety of jumps and ring conditions. All matters of concern to the Main Ring Inspector must be reported to the Head Steward who has the final jurisdiction. However, failure of a Show and the Head Steward to act on recommendations of the Main Ring Inspector should be reported in writing to the Executive Officer of the Royal Agricultural Society who will report the incident and supply the written documents to the Executive of the Horse Stewards Council 28

30 72) The maximum jump heights must be specified in the schedule for Round the Ring Jumping. The maximum distances for Doubles are: 10metres (33 feet) for horses 8.5metres (27 feet) for ponies over 138cm and up to 148cm 7.5metres (24 feet) for ponies not exceeding 138cm The minimum distances for One Stride Doubles are: 8.5metres (27 feet) for horses 7.5metres (24 feet) for ponies over 138cm and up to 148cm 6.5metres (21 feet) for ponies not exceeding 138cm 73) Jump heights are not to exceed: 125cm for horses 105cm for ponies over 138cm and up to 148cm 85cm for ponies over 128cm and not exceeding 138cm 70cm for ponies 128cm and under. 74) The height of the brush above the top board to be a minimum of 25cm to a maximum of 30cm, with a recommended packed depth width of 15cm. It is mandatory that brush jumps be pinned. 29

31 Royal Agricultural Society Measuring Rules These rules are the Measuring Rules of the Royal Agricultural Society and may only be revised by resolution of the Horse Stewards Council of the Society. The rules are issued in conjunction with Equestrian Sports NZ, the NZ Pony Clubs Association, and all affiliated Equestrian Breed Societies and in consultation with the NZ Veterinary Association. Definition of Measuring Terms; Approved Measuring Stand RAS organizations and Pony Clubs that have measuring stands and have been approved by the RAS Executive to act as an agent for the Society for measuring purposes. Approved Witness An RAS Measuring Steward or RAS Head Office personnel or the administrative staff of the host grounds of the measuring stand or a committee member of an RAS affiliated organisation, or a person authorised by the host grounds of the measuring stand for the specific purpose of witnessing measures. The host grounds of the measuring stand would need to authorise a person via proper meeting procedure e.g. moved, seconded,carried and minuted. A witness cannot be the owner/lessee of the horse/pony being presented for measuring. Council Horse Stewards Council of the RAS being appointed delegates from A&P Associations and Equine Breed/Kindred Societies affiliated to the RAS. District Council Regional Horse Stewards Council representing A & P Associations and Equestrian Breed/Kindred Societies in a District, with delegates appointed to Council. HS Council Executive Horse Steward s Council Executive of the RAS: the Executive Member with the Equestrian Portfolio, the Horse Stewards Council Chair and the National Forbidden Substance, Judges and Measuring Convenors, who will act as an advisory body to the RAS Executive. HS Executive Appeal Committee - Executive Member with the Equestrian Portfolio, the Horse Stewards Council Chair and the National Measuring Convenor. Measuring Stewards Measurers nominated by Districts and approved by the RAS Executive to operate the Metcalf measuring machines. Measuring Stewards are responsible to the RAS Executive for the implementation of the measuring rules and the issuing and completion of RAS Certificates. RAS Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand RAS Executive President, Vice President and four elected members as per the RAS Constitution. RAS Certificates RAS issued Annual or Life Height Certificate or Horse/Pony Identification Form (issued from 1 August 2011) RAS Inspectors Measuring Stewards nominated by Districts and approved by RAS Executive, who are responsible for the approval of the installation of Metcalf Measuring Machines. M1 General Measuring Rules a) Council has established rules for the issuing of RAS Certificates and in order to retain the confidence and support of owners, A&P Associations and affiliated Societies throughout NZ, has laid down these measuring rules. b) Equipment must comply with the standards as described in the rules and be thoroughly checked and in good working order. Accuracy must be certified with the official checking stick provided with the machine. 30

32 c) All measuring shall be on smooth, level concrete and swept clean. d) The spirit level must be checked for accuracy before each operation e) Handling The horse or pony to be measured shall be handled quietly and allowed a reasonable time to settle down. f) Stance The horse or pony shall stand squarely on all four legs, head in its aural, relaxed position. The poll shall not be lower than the highest part of the wither. g) The measurement shall be taken at the highest point of the wither. h) If the line on the moveable part of the measuring machine is even slightly above the line on the set scale, the reading shall be taken to the nearest 0.5cm above i) If, in the opinion of the Measuring Steward, the horse or pony has been improperly prepared for measuring it shall not be measured. j) Annual and Life Measures issued strictly in accordance with RAS Measuring Rules for Horses/Ponies, shall be accepted by all A&P Associations, Pony Clubs, Equestrian Sports NZ and any other affiliated organizations. k) Annual or Life Measures which fail to comply with RAS Measuring Rules for Horses/Ponies are invalid. l) An RAS Certificate must be issued for every measure that takes place, irrespective of the owner/lessee accepting the measure or not. m) Once a horse or pony has been measured at any Approved Measuring Stand within any District and that measurement is endorsed on the RAS Certificate, that horse or pony may not be measured again during the validity of the RAS Certificate unless the Appeal process is followed refer to Rule M11. n) Any person who presents a horse or pony for measuring which is found to have had administered to it or ingested by it, any forbidden substance, commits a breach of these rules. The person may be charged under the Forbidden Substance Rules Regulations and By-laws of the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand. o) Where a horse is considered a danger in the measuring stand, and a previous height is known, the National Measuring Convenor may approve the issue of an RAS Certificate on the following grounds: 1. danger of injury to the handler 2. danger of injury to the measuring stewards 3. danger of injury to the horse 4. danger of damage to the measuring equipment, provided that all other requirements are met. p) Horses/Ponies (excluding miniatures) 3 years and over are required to be presented for measuring in a bridle and shall have a bit in their mouth. The reins or the lead shall be connected to the bit. q. Horses/ponies are not to be presented for measuring wearing rugs, hoods etc. Any leg wraps or boots shall be removed if requested by the measuring steward. M2 Measuring Fees The following measuring charges, inclusive of GST, shall apply nationwide: Annual Certificates $10 Young Stock Certificates $5 A charge of $10 will be made for replacement certificates for each animal. A surcharge may apply for measuring outside advertised measuring days. 31

33 M3 Measuring Machines a) The Metcalf Measuring Machine, because of its accuracy and simplicity of operation, is the official measuring machine of the Royal Agricultural Society. A laser beam measuring system, as an alternative official method of measuring Horses and Ponies may be used in conjunction with existing calibrated Metcalf Measuring Machines. b) All Metcalf Measuring Machines must be permanently installed on smooth level concrete, braced against a substantial wall and must be approved by a RAS Inspector. c) Following approval and calibration, RAS Measuring Stewards in accordance with these rules may issue RAS Certificates. d) A checking stick, complying with the NZ Standard specifications is supplied with each machine. e) Organizations, Societies or Clubs contemplating the permanent installation of a fixed Metcalf Measuring Machine must obtain the approval of the RAS Executive. f) Information on the purchase and installation of a Metcalf Measuring Machine must be obtained from the RAS Head Office or National Measuring Convenor. g) An official body must calibrate Metcalf Measuring Machines no less than two yearly, and the rules in full of measuring and the calibration certificate must be posted at all certified RAS Metcalf Measuring Stands M4 RAS Inspectors a) A list of the RAS Inspectors will be maintained by RAS Head Office. b) RAS Executive may rescind the appointment of RAS Inspectors at any time. M5 RAS Measuring Stewards a) Council shall appoint a National Convenor, with the approval of the RAS Executive. The National Measuring Convenor shall oversee the training of all Measuring Stewards of the Society. b) A list of Measuring Stewards will be maintained by their RAS District Secretary and a full list held by RAS Head Office. c) RAS Measuring Stewards must be competent with horses and be completely impartial in the performance of their duties. d) RAS Executive may rescind the appointment of RAS Measuring Stewards at any time. e) All RAS Measuring Stewards will carry an Official Identification Card or badge, which must be displayed, when the Steward is conducting official duties. f) Each measurement at whatever height MUST be recorded on the day and counter signed by a witness. g) All Listed RAS Measuring Stewards of Official RAS Measuring Stands must attend a Measuring Seminar at least once in every two-years beginning 1st August Failure to attend Seminars (unless a reasonable explanation is received by the National Measuring Convenor) will mean the Steward is removed from the current list. M6 Certificate Forms a) RAS Head Office shall hold supplies of RAS Certificates. b) RAS Certificates shall be issued only to RAS Measuring Stands and shall only be used in conjunction with calibrated Metcalf Measuring Machines. M7 Life Measure 32

34 a) A RAS Life Measure may be issued to horses/ponies eight years old and over, or upon attaining a height of 168 cm (except where otherwise described in these rules) provided they have been suitably branded and/or micro-chipped. (See M10 b) and M10 c)) b) Measuring is to be carried out by a RAS Measuring Steward in the presence of another RAS Measuring Steward, both of whom shall sign the RAS Certificate. c) Applicants must produce a completed RAS Life Measure Form, completed by a practicing Veterinarian. d) Applicants requiring a RAS Life Measure must have the Horses/Ponies shoes removed and the hooves trimmed. e) The top copy of the completed Life Measure Form to be forwarded to RAS Head Office and the first carbon copy of the Life Measure Form shall be forwarded for registration to the District Secretary, immediately following issue. The second carbon copy to be filed at the Approved Measuring Stand. M8 Annual Measures a) Measuring days for Annual Measures will be organized by Approved Measuring Stands, which as in all cases to do with measuring horses and ponies, has been granted RAS permission to act as agents for the Society and which have calibrated measuring machines available. b) All measuring stands acting as agents for the RAS must hold a minimum of two advertised or scheduled measuring days for annual measures between the 1 August and 31 December and a minimum of one advertised or scheduled measuring day after 1 January. The dates of the measuring days must be appropriate to the show/event dates within the District the stand is within. c) The age of Horses/Ponies is calculated from August 1. d) The Annual Measure is from 1 August until 31 July the following year. Note: All Horses and Ponies measured within that period must renew their RAS Certificate on August 1 st or thereafter. e) These measures will be issued by a RAS Measuring Steward and must be signed by an approved witness (refer to definitions for who can act as a approved witness). f) Annual Measures must record the Horses/Ponies name, sex, year born, colour, any distinguishing markings, brand/microchip/id/breed (if any), section nominated, date of measure, signatures of measurer and witness, and owners and lessee s (if applicable) full contact details. g) If shoes are fitted, 0.5cm allowance only shall be made. No allowance shall be made for thin or worn racing plates or shoes. h) Horses/Ponies under three years of age are deemed Youngstock and are not eligible for Annual Measures. M9 Youngstock Measures Youngstock measures are specifically designed for youngstock ponies and miniature horses, as they are entered in classes relating to their height at maturity. The Pony Breeders Society of NZ, the NZ Riding Pony Society and the NZ Miniature Horse Association have issued the RAS with a height for age guide. It is deemed that youngstock that will mature to be a horse can mature to any height, therefore height as a yearling and two year old are irrelevant, unless a breed society requests height for age in their schedules. 33

35 a) Youngstock are granted specific exemptions to the rules. Youngstock Measures issued to a pony or Miniature horse under the age of three years after August 1 st will be valid until January 31 st of the following year. b) Measures issued or endorsed after January 1 st will be valid until the end of the current Show season i.e. July 31 st. c) Youngstock Measures must be issued and signed by an RAS Measuring Steward and approved witness and carried out on an approved Metcalf Measuring Machine. d) All measuring stands must hold a minimum of one advertised or scheduled measuring day after January 1 st and before the end of the current show season. This day can be in conjunction with an annual measuring day. The timing of the measuring day to be applicable to the show/event dates within the District the measuring stand is within. M10 Branding/Micro Chips a) Life Measurement endorsement shall only be allowed if a horse or pony can be suitably identified. It is a requirement under these rules that proper identification includes the provision of a brand, or microchip. It is a further requirement that whatever the form of identification accepted, it must be clear and readable. b) Branding may be on the shoulder, neck, under the saddle area or on the thigh c) Freeze or fire branding is equally acceptable, as is a microchip placed in the crest halfway between the poll and the wither on the near side. d) Identification by microchip will only be accepted for a Life or Annual Measure if a scanner is produced or available to read the microchip at the time of measure. M11 Measuring Appeals a) Any dispute relating to these measuring rules or the issue of a RAS Certificate will be subject to an appeal to the HSC Executive Appeal Committee. b) Such appeal must be lodged in writing with RAS Head Office and shall state the full grounds of the appeal. c) The appeal shall be heard by the HSC Executive Appeal Committee or a minimum of three members of Council appointed by the Chairman of the HSC Executive for that purpose. They shall be known as the Hearing Committee. d) As soon as practical on the receipt of an appeal, the RAS Head Office shall; 1) Notify the appellant and any other person known to be interested in the appeal of the time and place for the hearing of the appeal 2) Notify the appellant that he/she may be liable for all expenses incurred in connection with the appeal and that a deposit of $500 is required to be paid before the date of the hearing of the appeal. e) If the appeal is upheld the deposit may be refunded. f) The appellant and such interested persons as are notified by the RAS Head Office and any other persons may give evidence verbally and in writing for consideration of the Hearing Committee. g) If in the opinion of the Hearing Committee, a re-measure should take place, not withstanding Rule M1 m) and M11 i) it will be conducted either at the Stand where the measure in question was issued, or at such other stand as the Hearing Committee shall nominate. The measure shall be conducted by current listed measurers appointed by the Hearing Committee. If the re-measure attains the same height as the original RAS Certificate, whether it be an Annual or a Life, then that RAS Certificate needs only to be ratified by the Appeal Measurers. If it does not attain the same height then a NEW RAS 34

36 Certificate, whether it be an Annual or a Life measure, must be issued and signed by both parties, measurers and witness, and the invalid RAS Certificate be CANCELLED. If the NEW RAS Certificate is a Life, the Vet certificate/life Measure Form relating to the queried RAS Certificate, must also be signed by both parties noting the change in height, and a copy forwarded to the District Secretary and RAS Head Office as per rule M7 e). This measure shall be final and binding. No further action shall be entered into. h) The Hearing Committee shall submit a written report of the findings to the RAS Executive. i) Once a horse or pony has been measured at any Approved Measuring Stand within any District and that measurement is endorsed on the RAS Certificate, that horse or pony may not be measured again during the validity of the RAS Certificate, even in another area except - i. When an owner considers a horse or pony has grown out of the height class and requests a re-measure. ii. When an owner is a holder of a valid and current annual measure and requests a life measure this may be issued subject to all rules and fees being complied with. Any re-measure will be conducted under the appeal rules. M12 M13 Care of RAS Certificates a) RAS Certificates should at all times be kept in a safe place and carried by owners/lessees/riders/handlers in all competitions, where an RAS Certificate is required. b) A name change for a horse or pony will require a replacement RAS Certificate. Application for this is to be made through RAS Head Office. A fee may apply. c) If a date, or the height or name of horse/pony is found to have been altered on an RAS Certificate that RAS Certificate will become invalid. Any application for a replacement certificate must be made to RAS Head Office. d) If an Owner/lessee/rider/handler loses his/her horse/pony s RAS Certificate, he/she should immediately contact RAS Head Office and on receipt of a signed declaration, RAS Head Office, in consultation with the RAS National Measuring Convenor, may issue a replacement RAS Certificate. Brands Stud or Vet Brands may be used. M14 Miniature Horses Miniature Horses are measured according to the rules of the RAS: a) Royal Agricultural Society measurement is in centimetres and is taken at the last true hair of the mane of Miniature Horses. b) At RAS affiliated Shows/Events only RAS Certificates issued by approved RAS Measuring Stewards and on an official forms will be recognized. c) All young stock must be presented with the area around the last hair of the mane clipped to ensure that the last true hair is readily identifiable. Notwithstanding the premeasurement clipping, the RAS Measuring Steward shall be the sole arbiter of which hair in fact is to be the last in the mane. 35

37 Royal Agricultural Society Forbidden Substance Rules Forbidden Substances (FS) The Rules of the Royal Agricultural Society in regard to Forbidden Substances Apply. Definition of Forbidden Substance Terms; Council Horse Stewards Council of the RAS being appointed delegates from A&P Associations and Equine Breed/Kindred Societies affiliated to the RAS. District Council Regional Horse Stewards Council representing A & P Associations and Equestrian Breed/Kindred Societies in a District, with delegates appointed to Council. Forbidden Substance - Any substance capable of affecting the speed, stamina, courage or conduct of a horse, pony, donkey or mule by its action upon the central or peripheral nervous system or the cardio-vascular, respiratory, alimentary, digestive, muscoskeletal or urogenital systems. Forbidden Substance Judicial Committee (FSJC) - Executive Member with the Equestrian Portfolio, the Horse Stewards Council Chair and the National Forbidden Substance Convenor. Forbidden Substance National Convenor A person nominated by the Council and approved by the RAS Executive to fulfill this role. Forbidden Substance Steward A person appointed and approved by the RAS Executive to act and require that a horse, pony, donkey or mule is tested for Forbidden Substances. That person will have attended the two yearly seminar as required. HS Council Executive RAS Executive Member with the Equestrian Portfolio, the Horse Stewards Council Chair and the National Forbidden Substance, Judge and Measuring Convenors, who will act as an advisory body to the RAS Executive. Person/Person Responsible Means any exhibitor, owner, lessee/lessor, rider, handler,driver or person, resident of New Zealand or otherwise, in charge of any horse, pony, donkey or mule exhibited at a Show or Event affiliated to the RAS. RAS Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand RAS Executive President, Vice President and four elected members as per RAS Constitution. Shows/Events All Shows or Events who are affiliated with the Royal Agricultural Society of NZ, that run under their rules and regulations. FS1. These rules shall apply to all equestrian events, including Donkey and Mule Sections, at all Shows and events held by A&P Shows and affiliates to the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) and be binding on:- a) All Shows/Events and every other body having approved Shows/Events on any of its programmes and the Stewards Committee and Officers, Officials and Servants of every such Show/Event. b) All persons working in or about any Show/Event, stable or associated with the management, care, control or superintendence of Show Horses, Ponies, Donkeys and Mules and their handling, training, riding or driving. c) All owners, lessees, exhibitors, riders, handlers, drivers and all persons entering or nominating any horses, ponies, donkeys, mules for any Show or Event whether such owners, lessee/lessor, exhibitors, riders, handlers, drivers or persons in charge be resident in New Zealand or otherwise. d) If a conflict should occur when a competition or class is held under the jurisdiction of the Equestrian Sports New Zealand Rules and Regulations the ESNZ Rules and Regulations shall take precedence. 36

38 e) A Forbidden Substance Steward must carry out any testing for forbidden substances with the exception of d) above. f) Every person who aids, abets, counsels or procures a breach of these rules and such person shall be liable to the same penalty as is provided for the actual breach. g) Every person who so acts as to bring himself/herself within the purview of these Rules. FS2. FS3. FS 4. All Listed Forbidden Substance Stewards and their Trainees must attend a Forbidden Substance Seminar at least once in every two-years beginning 1st August Failure to attend Seminars (unless a reasonable explanation is received by the National Forbidden Substance Convenor) will mean the Steward is removed from the current list. a) From the time any horse, pony, donkey or mule enters the ground of any Show, measuring stand or event or competes in any class or event a Forbidden Substance Steward shall have the powers to order: i) that any person take and maintain possession of any horse, pony, donkey or mule at any place for such period and under such conditions as the Forbidden Substance Steward specifies: and/or ii) that the horse, pony, donkey or mule be examined and/or tested and/or have any sample taken from the animal, including a sample of its urine and/or blood. iii) that any horse, pony, donkey or mule selected for a drug test be held under supervision for a urine sample for a maximum 1 hour after the forbidden substance testing procedure begins at the testing facility, thereafter a blood sample becomes mandatory. b) Any such sample ordered to be taken shall as far as practicable be taken in accordance with the swabbing instructions or any other directions (if any) as approved by the Council or FSJC and RAS Executive in force at the time of the order. c) Any such sample taken shall be sent to the NZ Racing Laboratory for analysis of the sample. d) Failure to comply with these rules or any swabbing instructions or any other directions shall not invalidate the analysis of any sample or any procedure related thereto, if in the opinion of the FSJC or the Hearing Committee there has been substantial compliance with the Rules and/or any such swabbing instruction or other direction. e) Neither a Forbidden Substance Steward, nor the Forbidden Substances Judicial Committee, nor the Show/Event or Stand, nor the Royal Agricultural Society, nor the RAS Executive, nor any person authorized by any of them to act under these Rules, nor any employee or agent of any of them shall be liable in damage to the Owner, Lessee, Rider, Handler or Driver of any such horse, pony, donkey or mule or to any other person subject to these Rules at the time when the alleged cause of action arose by reason of the exercise of the powers conferred hereby or by any other Rule. When any person presents a horse, pony, donkey or mule for competition, or at a measuring stand, which is found to have had administered to it or ingested by it any forbidden substance, that person and/or other person who was in charge of such horse, pony, donkey or mule at any relevant time, commits a breach of these rules unless he/she can satisfy the FSJC or Hearing Committee that he/she had taken all necessary precautions to prevent such administration or ingestion. 37

39 FS5. Every Person Responsible (PR) and Horse/Pony/Donkey/Mule who commits a breach of these rules and by-laws of Section 55(a) shall be stood down immediately from showing or competing at any RAS affiliated Show/Event from the date the positive analytical report has been served to the PR, and the PR be liable to penalties unless otherwise specified: (a) A fine not exceeding $10, and/or (b) Disqualification of any horse/pony/donkey/mule/person from competing in Shows or events under the control of the RAS or its affiliates for a period not exceeding two (2) years. (c) That when penalties are considered for a breach of these rules, the FSJC or the hearing committee may order the forfeiture of prize monies, ribbons, sashes, rosettes and trophies awarded at the event where the breach was committed. (d) The FSJC or Hearing Committee may award costs against the Defendant (e) A second offence of Horse, Pony, Donkey, Mule or Person may incur a disqualification from one (1) year to Life (f) These penalties are in force for the time being but may be reviewed from time to time by the FSJC and confirmed by the RAS Executive and approved by the Council. (g) Where a breach of these Rules is committed, the FSJC may adjudicate or may appoint a hearing committee of a minimum of three persons to act and hear the charges. They (FSJC or Hearing Committee) shall decide if a breach has been committed and have the power to impose penalties and/or costs (h) The FSJC may, at its discretion (or no less than three members thereof), impose penalties and/or costs in the case of a guilty or no contest plea (i) The Appeal process as detailed in the FSJC Procedures shall apply (j) That the publication of the decision where penalties have been imposed will be mandatory unless ordered otherwise by the FSJC. (k) Test results will be published stating the result of the test, Person Responsible, and the name of the Horse/Pony/Donkey/Mule tested. FS6. FS7. FS8. Every person is an accessory after the fact to a breach of these Rules who, knowing any person to have been a party to, or have committed a breach of these Rules receives, comforts, or assists that person or tampers with or actively suppresses any evidence against him/her, in order to enable him/her to avoid prosecution under these Rules. Any horse, pony, donkey or mule may be tested for Forbidden Substances at any Show/Event under the By-Laws and Regulations adopted by the Royal Agricultural Society, its affiliates and the Procedures adopted by the FSJC, approved by the RAS Executive and confirmed by the Council. Exhibitors or persons entering or competing at Shows and Events affiliated to the RAS shall be deemed to accept and be bound by these By-Laws, Regulations and Procedures. Any person who refuses to permit a sample or samples (of blood or urine) to be taken from any horse, pony, donkey or mule commits a breach of these rules. The refusal of the person or their representative to sign as a witness to the test shall be treated as a refusal to submit the animal for examination. Where a person commits a breach of this rule, the penalty shall be disqualification from one year up to life of the Horse/Pony/Donkey/Mule/Person or both from competing in RAS or affiliate events. 38

40 EQUESTRIAN JUDGES AND COMPETITORS GUIDELINES AND GENERAL INFORMATION INTRODUCTION This section contains guidelines and general information for judges, competitors, exhibitors and owners and represents the preferred option of the Royal Agricultural Society. They do not attract a penalty and will not be adjudicated upon. However, while these guidelines do not attract a penalty if breached, compliance with them helps to ensure the basis from where all competitors, judges and administrators work together to ensure a good day at the Show. 39

41 JUDGES Official Judges should make every effort to ensure they are up to date with the Rules and Regulations of the Royal Agricultural Society. Obligations to maintain your listing are covered elsewhere in this manual, please read carefully. Ignorance of the rules is no defence. Judges who are still competing must perform with integrity at all times. Rudeness and criticism of co-judges is not acceptable. Removal from the RAS Equestrian Judges list may be appropriate. An invitation to judge should be met with a prompt reply within a week or within a period agreed upon when the invitation was issued. A lengthy delay in making a decision to accept or decline is unacceptable. Your reply enables the Show organisers to know where they stand and hopefully avoid a last moment hunt for a replacement Judge. All discussions in regard to expectations over expenses must take place during the invitation period. If a Judge is unable to keep a judging appointment it is their duty to notify the Show as soon as the change in circumstances is known. A Judge may not send a substitute Judge. A Judge shall be reported to the Royal Agricultural Society for failure to attend a Show to which he or she is committed, to adjudicate in assigned classes, or appear on the Showground in time for the advertised commencement of their section without good reason. In halter or led classes the Judge shall make an individual examination and check the action of all horses (or ponies) brought into the class. Each entrant must therefore work out. A Judge shall avoid any action that might indicate to the audience or the other competitors that s/he has found a fault with the horse or pony. For this reason Judges are discouraged from touching horses prior to the selection of the prize winner. 40

42 Dressing For Judging It is expected that anyone judging at a Show be attired in a clean, neat and tidy fashion in either riding or neat street attire. Clothing should be practical, suitable, comfortable and appropriate for the prevailing weather. A Judge may dress in riding habit/costume or in suitable street clothes. If you are to Judge formal classes you must dress to the level of the competition. A hat should be worn and is also important for its practical implications; however, a sensible approach is needed. The hat must fit well and be firmly secured. It should not be outlandish in size. Hair should be neat and tidy. It is wise to be prepared for changes in the weather. Remember to be covered sufficiently to avoid sunburn. Shoes are to be comfortable and practical. High heels are impractical as they sink into the ground and restrict movement. Flat or very low heels are advisable. A man should wear a collar and tie, trousers and a coat. Moleskins that are of a dress trouser type are acceptable but never jeans. Dress smartly and practically so that you are comfortable and enjoy your day, while maintaining the esteem expected of a Judge. 41

43 EXHIBITORS/OWNERS/COMPETITORS It is up to the Competitor to make sure they are eligible for the classes they are entering. Read the rules of each Show as some local rules may arise. Should a mistake happen, in the interest of fair play, it is best for the mistake to be admitted as soon as it comes to notice, so that placings may be rectified immediately. Treat Officials, Judges, other Competitors and Spectators as you would like to be treated yourself. Bad language and unsportsmanlike behaviour is inappropriate and unacceptable. Competitors shall at all times behave in a proper and respectful manner to Judges, Show Officials and their fellow Competitors. Accept your placing in good light. Always congratulate other Competitors. Thank the Judge as the ribbon is being placed on your horse. A few words may be exchanged but not a long conversation as time is important and in any case anything more than a pleasantry is out of place. The Judges decision is final. Even if you disagree violently with the decision you must accept the placings. Under no circumstances must you threaten or verbally abuse the Judge in or out of the ring. The same goes for Stewards and all Show Officials. If you are eligible to compete in an event such as a Championship but decide against starting it is polite to tell the Steward before hand. If you are a second placegetter it is protocol that you stand by for a call into the ring if the horse standing above you in the class is awarded the Championship. It is etiquette for placegetters to follow the winner when leaving the ring unless you are holding up another ring. It is etiquette for boys and men to remove their hats when the Judge speaks to them or is tying a ribbon. Girls and ladies should merely nod their head in acknowledgment. If you wish to make officials aware of a Competitor s ineligibility to compete in a class or for an award, you should go through the appropriate channels in lodging a protest. Approach the Ringmaster or Head/Chief Steward about your intentions and have any corroboration for your protest on hand. It is good manners and safer, to enter, leave or go between rings at a walk. Exceptions are classes such as Arabian Classes, which may specify that entrants enter at a trot. If a Steward requests you to line up in a certain area, do so and remain in line until instructed otherwise. A fractious horse may be permitted to walk in a small circle, behind the line. 42

44 It is usual to take the left rein on first entering the ring unless instructed otherwise. The Judge will usually allow for a warm up period. On being asked to walk you will understand that judging will commence. Ring layouts usually involve some type of markers or in some instances Stewards indicate the perimeters. Riders should take care not to cut inside the indicated circle or oblong. Common sense should be used if the grounds are small and a number of rings are close to each other. It is usual to wait for commands to trot canter and change the rein. If your horse is misbehaving so badly that it is a danger or unsettling to other horses it is advisable to retire from the ring. If your horse is badly behaved in the work out and you feel it is best to retire, report back to the Steward or in the Stewards absence the Judge and indicate your intentions politely before leaving the ring. If you have a clash of event, inform the Steward who can confer with the Judge so arrangements can be made if at all possible to include you in the process. If clashing of events causes you to miss a class you must accept the situation not every instance can be catered for and abuse of Officials will not be tolerated. If the Steward and the Judge indicate that they will do their best to help you, you should also take every chance to speed up the interchange. This might require friends to assist by holding the horse near the ring entrance etc it is not the Stewards job to help in this way. In usual circumstances, the Judge selects competitors while they are still cantering or trotting, so think of other Competitors and Officials as you come into ring centre. Enter the line up at a walk. If you are the first one called in, go to the position directed by the Steward. If there is no direction from the Steward, go to a position that is safe and allows the other Competitors to line up on your left hand side. When called in, it is etiquette to line up in the order in which you are called. If you are unsure of your position ask the Steward. If the Judge calls in a number of Competitors together, for example for Champion, then each Competitor should line up, in turn, to the left of the person taking the first position. While lined up, try and keep your horse standing still within the allocated space (do not allow your horse to kick, bite or lean on other Competitors). As you are lining up, warn Competitors next to you if your horse needs more space and allow enough room for the Judge to walk between exhibits. It is extremely unsportsmanlike to pass remarks out aloud about other Competitors or horses or yourself whilst judging is in progress. 43

45 RING STEWARDS Ring Stewards are a vital and much valued member of a Show Committee. To be effective Ring Stewards are required to know the Royal Agricultural Society Rules. Each Steward should be introduced to the task by working first with an experienced Steward or at least alongside an experienced Judge at a smaller Show. Each RAS District is encouraged to educate Stewards so that everyone involved is comfortable in the job and able to represent the Show and the Royal Agricultural Society in a friendly but business like manner. Stewards must observe the rules of dress as prescribed by each host Show. The rules of the Society apply equally to Stewards as to any other Judge, Exhibitor or Official of Shows and the Royal Agricultural Society. A good ring Steward makes the work of the Judge much easier by relieving the Judge of details. If the class is too large, which under the rules of the Agricultural Society become so when more than fifteen exhibitors start in a class, the Steward will inform the Judge of the final starting numbers. The Steward will work with the Judge to make an even split of the starters to ensure that each has unobstructed opportunity in the ring. The Steward is responsible to check that each competitor is properly entered, that each is properly and safely attired and that in a saddle horse class on the flat, each horse has its own rider (one rider per horse). The Steward will indicate to the Judge that all horses are present and eligible before Judging may begin. The Ring Steward must have in mind that they have been selected to help the Judge not advise him/her. Stewards shall carefully refrain from discussing or seeming to discuss the horses or exhibitors with the Judge. Stewards shall not take part or seem to take part in any of the Judging. When a Steward is not actively engaged in any of their duties, they shall place themself in such a position as not to interfere with the judging and the view of the spectators. Stewards must not allow the exhibitors to crowd the ring or arena and should, at all times, endeavour to keep the possibility of accidents to a minimum. 44

46 The Ring Steward has charge of the activity in the ring and/or the arena. They should act as mediator between the Judge and the exhibitors. The Judge may request the Steward to move and place horses in the line up as s/he advises. In addition to the management of the ring and/or the arena the Ring Steward has charge of result books, ribbons and sometimes prize money. The Steward must also check height certificates and performance cards prior to judging and add wins to performance cards at the conclusion of each novice class. The Ring Steward will have had a part to play when the timetable was planned and should do their utmost to keep to the prescribed guidelines. They should note reasons why a timetable was inadequate. The Head Steward is responsible for the comfort of the Judges and the Stewards making sure that meals and tea breaks are taken, that seating and shade or weather protection is provided and comfort stops are facilitated. ANNOUNCERS Announcers, no less than Stewards, must understand the Rules and Regulations of the Society. Announcing is a skilled profession and can make or break a Show. Announcers should be encouraged to explain to the audience the Rules and Regulations peculiar to each class as it comes in front of the public. Announcers should never make it known through their statements on air any personal relationship they may have with competitors or any knowledge of an animal or the rider or exhibitor that may prejudice the results. However an Announcer who knowingly allows a Competitor to break the rules or regulations of the affiliated organisation he or she is serving is breaking the rules of the Society and is subject to the same penalties as Judges, Stewards, Committee Members and Competitors. Any knowledge of infringements should be relayed to the Head Steward promptly but obviously privately, off air. Depending on the gravity of the infringement, a written statement may also be required. An announcer must not Judge the event for the Judge by making definitive statements about the performance of any animal or exhibitor in the ring and must make every endeavour to learn to pronounce correctly the names of competitors and the animals entered at the Show. 45

47 ENTRIES, ENTRY FORMS, SCHEDULES Printing of Judges Names in Schedule Judges names should be printed in the Show schedule along with the classes they have been allocated to Judge if possible. Judges names should, if possible, be printed in the schedule of events. In the event of a cancellation or late withdrawal of an appointed Judge the Committee must make every endeavour to appoint a replacement Judge who will not inconvenience the entered competitors. (By making them ineligible under the rules to compete.) Obviously exemption must be considered when last moment alterations are made to the judging panel of a Show. Signing Performance Cards It is recommended that the signing of performance cards be completed by the Steward rather than the Judge to ensure the smooth continuance of the Show, however the signature of the Judge or the Steward will indicate that the place awarded to the horse and indicated on the performance card was given on the day and will count in any points competition or towards open status. All the local conditions must be clearly stated such as where to park, (a map in the schedule is highly recommended) overnight facilities, cost of using those facilities, explain what criteria is applied to the allocation of stables. Make very clear how many passes come with entries and that if payment at the gate for other people accompanying the horses applies; state how much this will cost. State parking charges if these apply. A map of the grounds Showing where trucks, cars with floats and accompanying vehicles may park should be in the schedule. State clearly when entries close. If late entries are allowed explain any penalties or restrictions. For example, state clearly what time exterior gates to the Showground will be open for access and what times the Showground might be secured at night. Any local rules pertaining to permission to tie to trucks and floats or compulsion to use yards should be clearly stated. An approximate timetable that states that starting times will be mandatory and that all other start times are approximate must be included. When horses or ponies are entered in more than one class and the starting times clash, the Exhibitor must elect which class they will start the horse or pony in. Programmes will not be held for horses or ponies competing in another ring. Horses or ponies arriving at the ring after the judging has commenced will be disqualified. 46

48 The Show reserves the right to amalgamate under-subscribed classes. All jumping classes will be run over courses and fences suitable to the description of the class and will be explained to each competitor prior to the start of the class. The opinion of the Judge and the decision of the Steward are final except where a protest is upheld by the Judiciary, Disputes or Hearing Committee of the Show. Where age of rider is a deciding factor in making an entry, a photocopy of the appropriate birth certificate must be attached to the entry form. Where the age of a horse or pony is the deciding factor in making an entry, a photocopy of the appropriate registration certificate must be attached to the entry form. Where breed registration is the deciding factor in making an entry, a photocopy of the appropriate registration certificate must be attached to the entry form. Shows may list the breeding wherever accurate details are available in ring catalogues. Where pregnancy is a deciding factor in making an entry, a photocopy of a Veterinary Certificate of Pregnancy that can be linked* to the mare in the ring must be attached to the entry form. (*A form of identification must be shown on the form.) Optional rules if late entries are allowed: If alterations to entries lodged by closing time are made after the closing date, a 25% loading shall apply. If late entries are accepted from competitors who have missed the closing date and have no prior entries lodged, a 50% loading shall apply. Late entries accepted on the day shall also attract a 50% loading and no refunds will be made for the cost of access to the Showground. 47

49 NOVICE AND OPEN CLASSIFICATIONS A novice horse or pony or rider is one that has yet to win six classes in any division within the competitions provided at any A & P Show. Divisions may be Pony Hacks, Pony Hunters on the Flat, Pony Round the Ring Jumpers, Cobs, Park Hacks, Hacks, Saddle (Flat) Hunters, Riding Horses, Paced and Manners Classes in each of the preceding divisions, Round the Ring Jumping (ponies and horses) Rider Classes. Novice classes may typically be offered as Novice no wins, Novice 0 2 wins and Novice 0 5 wins. Note: To clarify further - upon achieving the sixth win in a division a pony horse or rider thereafter must compete in the appropriate open classes within that division. Many competitors are interpreting the 0-3 wins incorrectly by still competing in this class when they already have 3 wins, or are saying it is at time of entry; which is incorrect. To clarify this, the conditions could read not to have won three firsts or not to have won 6 firsts, OR 0-2 wins and 0-5 wins. Once a horse/pony/rider has 3 wins they are no longer eligible and can only go in the 0-5 win class. Once they have 6 wins, they can no longer enter in novice classes in that section. 48

50 JUMPS As these competitions emulate the hunting field, obstacles should appear as natural as possible, rustic and/or white rails and fences are preferable. The obstacles must be well filled and appear inviting. Ground-lines are mandatory. A distance of 135 to 145m (44ft to 48ft) must be employed, allowing for four non-jumping 7.6 to 7.8m (twelve-foot) strides between single obstacles. The course must be set in such a way as to encourage a flowing round. Guide: m = One Stride, 10-11m = Two Strides. Jumps may be set out on the perimeter of the arena and be jumped if required more than once in each competition. It is preferable to have alternative obstacles up or across the centre of the ring to allow the introduction of a figure of eight course. Note: Jumps must be constructed with safety in mind and appear inviting to jump. Jumps such as gates should be constructed so that should a foot end up between the rails it can be easily withdrawn. The use of wings is encouraged. Brush jumps are measured to the top of the top board. Brush filling should be generous and changed from time to time. It is recommended that all jumps be pinned down to avoid the jump rolling on impact. These classes are judged on style and it is recommended that each fence be marked positively from the possible ten points. A mark for manners and paces should be added to the total jumping points. All changes of direction should be achieved with flying changes. Simple changes should be penalised at the Judges discretion. Doubles set according to the prescribed distances should preferably be jumped allowing one stride between each hurdle. More than one stride should be penalised according to the awkwardness of the jumping style demonstrated. It is considered to be a greater fault if a horse or pony raps a fence with the front feet than a rap with hind feet. Normally a horse that stops would not be included in the awards. However numbers entered in the class and the quality of the jumping of the remainder of the field might leave a Judge with no option but to place (certainly not first) a horse that has stopped but continued to complete the course in an exemplary fashion. Clear clean smooth jumping in which the horse actually halves the fence is the desirable base from which to Judge. It is expected that riders completing a round should demonstrate their control over their mount by turning into the centre and reducing pace smoothly within a short time. In the interest of maintaining timetables riders are not expected to salute Judges either prior to beginning a jumping round or at the completion of the round. Riders should accept their starting orders from the Steward in charge of the event. 49

51 THE HISTORY OF THE HACK The definition of the word hack according to most dictionaries is: a horse kept for common horse or adapted for general work, especially for ordinary riding The word hack is essentially British in origin and denotes a refined riding horse. In days gone by, a hack was a horse used for hire and later was used as a mount by the English Gentry as a status symbol when riding to a hunt (not on the hunt please note) or a social gathering. It is from this origin that the modern Show hack has developed. A Hack, Park Hack, Pony Hack, should show quality, elegance and gaiety with very good paces. Each must be well mannered without a loss of natural exuberance and be capable of giving a rider a pleasant easy ride. A Saddle Hunter and a Pony Hunter Judged on the flat should have substance, be active and well mannered with strong easy paces. These horses and ponies must be capable of carrying weight is relevant allocations for long distances over varied country. Each must have excellent galloping paces, which must be demonstrated in the work out. A Riding Horse is a Saddle Horse, which does not fit the criteria of a Show Hack or Saddle Hunter, but is of a type between the two. It is still a quality Show Horse of excellent conformation, soundness, and manners with free forward-going even paces; with less elegance and a little more bone and substance than a Show Hack but less than a Saddle Hunter. It is capable of carrying a Lady or Gentleman rider pleasantly for longer journeys. The Riding Horse should be judged: Type and Conformation 60%, Manners & Paces 40%. The workout should include walk, trot, canter, gallop (conditions permitting), standing still and obedience to the leg. These horses and ponies are therefore beautiful, comfortable, well mannered and educated riding horses, being sound in wind and limb. The horse should be excellently presented and give the appearance of quality being a pleasure to handle a pleasure to watch and a pleasure to ride. A Showing event is essentially a beauty contest for the horse under saddle, and to this end, the rider works the horse in the manner in which it appears most attractive and biddable. The ratio for Judgement of Show horses and ponies is 60/40. 60% being conformation and soundness, 40% being manners, paces and education. It should be noted that first and foremost a Show horse is a quality animal. 50

52 CONFORMATION STANDARD OF THE IDEAL SHOW HORSE Head The head should be in proportion to the body, not over large, well set on with defined features, the forehead broad, tapering to a finer muzzle with large open nostrils. The eyes should be clear and bold, Showing an intelligent expression and denoting calmness. The ears should not be too large but well shaped, very alert and carried forward. Neck The Show horse should have what is commonly termed a good length of rein It should be graceful and supple whilst forming a natural arch from the withers to the poll and be in proportion to the size of the animal. Shoulders A good sloping shoulder with a well-defined wither is desirable, as the horse with this build will usually give a good ride, while a straight shoulder inevitably produces the opposite. Chest The chest should be well developed. The ribs well sprung with a deep girth. Back & Body The back should be relatively short and strong. There should be plenty of width from the point of hip to the croup with the tail well set on. The back should not be hollowed, dipped or roached. Hindquarters Should be rounded, well developed with a strong second thigh. Limbs The forelegs should be well set, not too wide apart nor too close. They should be clean and free from any puffiness or signs of faulty bone conformation. The elbow defined and standing clear of the body. The knees should be flat and pronounced, not round or small. The cannon bone should be strong, wide from front to back and not too long. The tendons should be well defined, the fetlock wide and clean. The pasterns should be of medium length and slope. 51

53 The hind legs should follow a vertical line from the point of the buttock to the point of the hock to the back of the fetlock. The hocks should be large, strong and clean cut. The hooves should be neither too large nor too small with a regular slope to the wall of each foot; the heels should be strong, wide and deep. The soles should be clean well defined with a pronounced frog. Note: Splints are a healing process and should not be interfered with. They can be unsightly and may increase in size if a horse is kept in work after the splint begins to form. Horses should not be discriminated against because of splints. Faults such as off set knees, bench knees calf knees and back at the knee can all be contributing factors in the appearance of splints. If a horse is put down with splints the contributing conformation defect must be the reason for this decision. Splints that are not accompanied by conformation defects should not be taken into account unless a Judge is unable to decide between two top class horses that have shown exemplary workouts. Scars are not the fault of the horse and provided that they do not impinge on the movement of the horse and provided that the scar is relatively unsightly no penalty should be imposed. The locomotion of a horse must be true; deviations in the extreme are not acceptable. While few horses and ponies are dead straight we are looking for a horse or pony that strides out freely and briskly with relatively straight action. 52

54 MANNERS EDUCATION PACES The Show horse should be obedient and well mannered. However, over exuberance or disobedience for a few strides may be forgiven. These horses should not be compared with dressage horses. A hack should always display a willingness to go forward, be controlled, bright and interested in its work. The Show horse is not expected to perform any true collected movements such as collected walk, trot or canter, nor expected to perform advanced movements such as multiple flying changes etc. PACES The hack should display good forward movement. It is essential for all paces to be regular and even. Any form of irregularity should be penalised. All paces should be straight and true without any noticeable deviations. The Walk Natural and ground covering, regular even four beat gait. The hind feet should at least cover or ideally overstep the print of the front feet. The action should be loose, the sequence being lateral. Walk On A Long Rein The sequence and action stay the same as the walk, however a longer contact being given on the reins allows the horse to lower the head, lengthening the frame and the stride. The Trot Is a rhythmical two beat gait, the limbs should move in a diagonal sequence separated by a moment of suspension. The trot should be well balanced, the horse should move forward with impulsion, the steps light, with good hock action. Lengthen Trot The rhythm and sequence should remain the same as the trot. The frame of the horse should lower and lengthen allowing more reach from the shoulders and impulsion from behind. The moment of suspension increases, producing a distinct lengthening of stride. The Canter Is a three beat gait, where at canter to the right for instance, the footfalls follow one another e.g. left hind, left diagonal (i.e. left fore & right hind), right fore followed by a moment of suspension of all four feet in the air before the next stride begins. The horse should go forward freely with balanced light steps with obvious impulsion coming from the hindquarters. 53

55 Lengthen Canter The horse goes forward covering more ground but maintaining the same rhythm. The strides should be long and even and the movement well balanced. The horse may reach a little more forward with the neck and be a little more in front of the vertical. The Gallop Is a four beat gait in which the horse must cover plenty of ground with great impulsion from the hindquarters. Whether it is a full or hand gallop, it should always be controlled. At its conclusion, the downward transition should be light and easy. CHANGES OF LEAD Simple Change This is a movement where the horse is bought back from canter to trot and after a few (two or three) steps is re-started into canter with the other leg leading. A simple change may also be performed through the walk. Flying Change The flying change of leg is executed in close connection with the moment of suspension, which follows each stride of the canter. The horse should remain calm and straight, maintaining the same rhythm. The flying change is not encouraged in A & P Show workouts. The Rein Back This is a movement where the feet are raised and set down almost simultaneously by diagonal pairs i.e. left fore right hind etc. The horse should be straight and any resistance to or evasion of the hand or deviation of the quarters from the line should be penalised. Three to four steps are normally required, with the horse immediately walking forward to regain ground. Keep in mind that in dressage horses are not asked for rein backs at novice levels. The Halt The horse should stand attentive, motionless and straight with the weight evenly distributed over all four legs. The neck should be raised with the poll high and the head slightly in front of the vertical. On The Bit In all its work, even at the halt, the horse must be on the bit. A horse is said to be on the bit when the neck is raised and arched, according to the degree of training and the extension of the pace. The head should remain just slightly in front of the vertical. 54

56 Acceptance of the Bridle The horse must accept the bridle, whether it is a snaffle or a simple double bridle. It should go forward without resistance, accepting a soft contact. The horse may lightly champ the bit but the mouth should not be open or the tongue over the bit. On The Line The horse is moving on the correct line when it is perfectly straight from the tip of the nose to the tail when going forward on a straight line and is flexed through the poll and bent through the body when on a curve or when on a circle. SUMMARY The Show horse should be judged on the following principles: 1) Quality and Presence a well-conformed horse or pony, clean and well presented with eye-catching appeal. 2) True and correct paces the paces are even and regular. Constantly irregular or hurried strides should be penalised. However, occasionally a few irregular steps may be noticed this can be caused by tension or a distraction and may disappear when the horse settles. 3) Forward and straight going forward on one track i.e. the hind legs following in the steps of the forefeet on all straight lines and curves. 4) Manners a Show horse or pony should be well mannered and obedient but never mechanical and boring. Minor errors such as a wrong lead immediately corrected, breaking whilst lengthening stride at trot, exuberance corrected, restlessness at the halt all may be forgiven keeping degrees in mind. Bad manners such as kicking, rearing or bolting must be penalised. 5) Outline the horse or pony goes forward in a rounded frame, not above the bit or on the forehand. 6) Transitions all transitions either upward or downward must be executed smoothly and without resistance. 7) Athletic Ability is the ability to perform various movements whilst maintaining balance and self-carriage. 8) Acceptance of the aids the horse or pony is going forward happy to accept the rider s aids and responding well to any command. 55

57 LED CLASSES Showing horses and ponies in led classes, whether in a specific Breed Class or in an Open Led Class involves considerable preparation and training. Except where Breed requirements differ, horses and ponies should be presented as they would be for a ridden Show class clean, well conditioned and well groomed with mane and forelock plaited, tail either pulled or plaited, with all the intricate details of grooming such as quarter marks etc being acceptable. The attire of the handler can vary from standard riding habit to practical street clothing, however at all times, clothing should be neat, tidy, suitable for handling and Showing a horse or pony and also in accordance with any dress requirements set by the Show Society or the Breed Society involved. Led hack and led pony classes are usually divided into the same or similar height divisions as the ridden section and may include segregation according to sex (i.e. mare, gelding stallion). The classes can be contested by any breed or type of horse or pony, however in open led classes preference is normally for a horse or pony suitable for riding. Correct conformation, movement, soundness and type are qualities assessed in a led class. Consideration of conformation faults is usually standard, regardless of breed. Some characteristics are relevant to height a pony should display pony characteristics and should not look horsy, whereas a hack over 152cm should generally be of thoroughbred type, however the riding attributes of other breeds can enhance the qualities required in an ideal hack. The park hack can display an influence from either end of the height scale or ideally show a balanced combination of both pony and thoroughbred, while the worldwide influence that the Arabian has made to most breeds of the riding horse should also be considered. Regardless of height, the led horse or pony should display quality, substance, and balance and be true to type. Conformation and movement are of major consideration is assessing the led horse or pony. Good Judgement is important in assessing conformation. To what degree a fault may affect the soundness of a horse or pony can be contentious. Very few horses or ponies have perfect conformation but some have fewer faults than others do. It is this comparison, together with the evaluation of good qualities that should determine a Judge s selections and consequent placing in a class. 56

58 Good conformation should produce good movement (Refer: section on conformation and paces) providing the horse or pony is sound, although care should be taken not to prejudge conformation before studying the horse or pony in motion. The horse or pony should parade in a led class in a tractable manner, the age of a horse or pony can play a part regarding behaviour, however bad manners are a fault and should be taken into consideration, after all, temperament plays a major role in the usefulness of any horse or pony. In led classes horses and ponies are required to walk, trot and stand. The method of conducting a led class can vary. Usually the entrant is required to parade around the ring clockwise where the Judge selects the entrants required for further selection, including a work out. Some Shows insist that each horse or pony is considered equally and the rules should be checked before judging commences. (To consider each equally every horse or pony must be offered the same work out) Workouts for led classes are fairly basic. The horse or pony should be required to move away, across and towards the Judge to allow appraisal of movement and correctness of action. When standing the horse or pony should be observed from both sides, from the rear and the front. In Breed Classes the Judge should be familiar with the Breed Standard or in some cases on the Breed List. The Judge must take into account both the standard and the fact that (with the exception of geldings) the animals up for judging are to be used for breeding purposes. Some Breeds do have quite different characteristics and type that are particular to that breed, some may be presented differently, some Breeds do not require manes to be plaited or the horses might be shown quite correctly in a head stall instead of a bridle, although at all times suitable gear should be used to ensure safe control of the horse. With some breeds the attire of the handler may differ as with the Western Breeds etc. Led classes have always been a tradition in the hack and pony ring. At most Shows, they are usually the first classes in the day s program and can provide an excellent avenue to introduce an inexperienced horse to the Show ring. Led classes are enjoyable to Judge and watch. They offer a great deal of satisfaction to the successful competitor and anyone who enjoys the appraisal of a wellconformed horse or pony. 57

59 HACK CLASSES A Judge should fully understand the degree of difficulty involved when planning and setting a work out. The work out should be set to suit the class he or she is judging. Novice Hack A novice hack should only be asked to perform basic manoeuvrers at walk, trot and canter with adequate time for progressive transition. Open Hack An open hack class should have a set work out, which allows you to consider the horse s paces manners and athletic ability. The work out should be designed to show the Judge how a horse can perform. A Judge would be wise to set a flowing work out without any abrupt transitions. The work out may include circles, serpentines, and lengthening of stride at trot and canter and walk through or trot through changes. Because of the degree of difficulty, lengthening of trot on a straight line is more suitable. Long and intricate workouts may not only provide a poor display but may also show a Judge to be inexperienced. Vary your workouts figure of eight workouts are an acceptable base but are over done. Other bases can be triangles and other manoeuvres such as two or three loop serpentines and lengthening diagonally at trot and canter. At the conclusion of the work out often a halt 20m away and walk back on a long rein followed by another halt is an interesting alternative if time allows. At some Shows the work out will be pre set and published in the schedule and catalogue your input on how the work out helped or hindered the final result should be welcomed by these Societies. Try not to penalise a quality horse for minor errors such as a wrong lead corrected; jog in walk, breaking in trot for a few strides etc. Due consideration should be given to the effect of any outside distraction (i.e. wood chopping, Show jumping nearby sideshows etc). Look for positive qualities you like about a horse when you are judging rather than counting all its errors. 58

60 Lady s Hack Gentleman s Hack A lady s hack would be expected to show impeccable manners without any displays of exuberance. A lady s hack must stand still at the end of the workout or may even be requested to stand for 5 seconds at some time during the work out. The horse must give an appearance of being particularly safe and dependable. A gentleman s hack should be more robust while still demonstrating the impeccable manners we expect of lady s hacks. A gentleman s hack might be one that would have to jump forward on command to catch a wayward horse or save a potentially dangerous or difficult situation while out hacking or be a horse that would not object to carrying objects such as two rain coats etc. It is expected that gentleman s hacks might look to be up to carrying the full range of height, shapes and sizes of gentlemen riders. JUDGE FROM A POSITIVE BASE NOT A NEGATIVE BASE Riding Classes When judging a riding class a Judge should consider the ability of the rider to maintain a correct, well balanced, deep and supple seat, with the rider being in perfect harmony with the horse. The rider should demonstrate the ability to apply the aids of leg, hand and body accurately and effectively upon request. To quote the FEI rule book: All the movements should be obtained without apparent effort of the rider. He/she should be well balanced with loins and hips supple, thighs and legs steady and stretched downwards. The upper part of the body easy, free and erect, with the hands low and close together without, however, touching one another or the horse and with the thumbs as the highest point, the elbows and arms close to the body, enabling the rider to follow the movements of the horse smoothly and freely and to apply the aids imperceptibly. This is the only position making it possible for the rider to school his/her horse progressively and correctly (end quote) The Seat The seat of the rider is very important. If the rider is not balanced and relaxed on the horse s back, the horse cannot be influenced correctly. The rider should sit well down in the deepest part of the saddle with the weight evenly distributed on both seat bones. The Head The head of the rider should be carried well above the shoulders so that the weight flows straight down through the spine. Any movement of the head, either forward or backwards or sideways would affect the balance of both horse and rider. 59

61 The Shoulders The shoulders of the rider should be carried square and parallel to the horse s shoulders. The rider should maintain a vertical position and when viewed from the side, a line could be drawn from the rider s ear, shoulder, elbow, hip and heel to the ground. The Upper Body The upper body of the rider should be carried tall and erect with the weight going down the spine and evenly distributed on both seat bones. The rider should sit tall without becoming stiff and should maintain the suppleness of the lower back. The rider should not allow his/her body to tilt forward in front to the vertical, as the weight would be removed from the seat bones. Nor should the body lean back behind the vertical, as this would place too much weight on the horse s back. The Lower Back & Lower Spine The lower back and spine of the rider, together with the hips and loins play a very important role in riding as they act as a shock absorber and absorb the movements of the horse. If this part of the body is not supple, the rider will be quite uncomfortable on the horse, in both sitting trot and canter. The Hands The hands of the rider should be held above the wither so they form a straight line from the horse s mouth to the riders elbow. The thumbs should be held almost uppermost with the hands close together but not touching one another or the horse. The upper arm and elbow should be relaxed at the rider s side, with the upper arm, elbow and forearm almost forming a right angle. The hands should remain steady but not ridged and they should always follow the movements of the horse. The Legs The legs of the rider should be in contact with the horse, with the knees closed but relaxed and the lower leg stretched well down with the heels just below the toes. The lower leg should maintain a light but permanent contact just behind the girth, without gripping and they should be allowed to do their job of feeling, communicating and creating impulsion. The ball of the foot or the toe should rest on the stirrup irons with the toe almost parallel to the horses shoulder. Common Faults Collapsed hip Drawing up of the lower leg and knee Toes pointed downwards or out Upper body too stiff or slumped Leaning forward or back (in front or behind the vertical) Rider not in the rhythm of the horse s movement In-correct diagonals 60

62 Gripping with the back of the calf Hands too flat Rider looking down Rider round shouldered Workouts for Rider Classes Workouts should be suitable for the class. Consideration should be given to the Standard of the competition and the experience and or age of the competitors. A Judge should be thoroughly conversant with the principals of the correct riding position and the workouts should allow the Judge to assess the riders before him/her in accordance with those principals. A Judge should be aware of how the various paces should be ridden; for example, rising trot the rider must ride on the correct diagonal (when the outside fore leg of the horse is on the ground the seat of the rider must be in the saddle). A change of direction is accompanied by a change of diagonal. Lengthen canter the rider must sit well down in the saddle and push the horse forward with seat and legs. Hand gallop the rider should shorten the reins, take the weight out of the saddle into the forward seat, with slightly more contact with the knees. Simple workouts are recommended for riders under twelve years of age. Junior riders twelve to seventeen years should have developed a firmer seat and they should be capable of applying the aids more effectively. They should be expected to show several transitions, walk or trot through changes, sitting trot and lengthening of stride at trot and canter and with discretion - a rein back. Adult riders should be able to perform any workout, including sitting trot, lengthening of stride at both trot and canter, extended canter, hand gallop, both walk and trot through changes and rein back. They should be able to ride circles, serpentines and straight lines with correct flexion and bend and they should be capable of applying the aids correctly and effectively. 61

63 TURN OUT CLASSES The turnout class is very much a traditional event where the complete picture of horse, rider, saddlery and clothing is judged. There is a long accepted standard as to what is traditional and expected as correct turnout. Best on parade is when the horses simply come into the ring, line up and are judged without a performance element. This type of class is discouraged these days in favour of classes taking into account a total picture. When taking into account the total picture the horse is judged as in a hack class, the rider as in a riding class, with the horse and rider fastidiously groomed, clothing and saddlery correct, clean and well fitted, with all presenting an overall pleasing picture. In judging turnout classes points are usually allotted for the following categories: Conformation and soundness Manners and paces Riding ability Costume of rider Saddlery Overall general appearance of horse and rider At major Shows (i.e.-royal etc) the turnout classes are usually judging by more than one Judge, with each officiating in one or a combination of the above categories. In recent times, points of view may differ regarding some minor costume and saddlery deviations from tradition. This depends on the Judges personal opinion of what he/she considers is acceptable, without the competitor being penalised. However, both Judge and competitor should keep in mind the comfort of the horse and rider, along with tradition when considering turnout classes. There are several different categories of turnout classes. Formal adults only Semi-formal also adults only Informal for children and in some instances, adults The major difference in each of the above categories being the costume of the rider. In major events the riders costume may be judged with the rider unmounted. 62

64 Unity Class: Turnout: This is an individual class usually held in an enclosed arena, judged by one or more judges, who scores the unit within listed categories. This class may run all morning with competitors fitting their turn in between other classes. This is judged as stated above and includes the horse, rider, saddlery and clothing and competitors can be required to work. Best on Parade or Best Presented: This is judged standing in a line. Shows must state exactly which category they want and it is up to their horse committee to clarify this. Note: A turnout class takes longer to judge than a best presented class. 63

65 TRADITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR COSTUME Formal Adults only A hard safety type black bowler with a lanyard correctly attached to the bowler and hooked inside the coat on a loop. A hairnet is appropriate for ladies. A collarless white shirt with stud holes at the front and the back of the neckband. The studs connecting the neck of the shirt and the stock should be gold topped with the flat piece at the back and placed through the shirt hole and attached to the loop of the stock. The shirt cuffs should be doubled and lightly starched with holes for cuff links. Plain gold cuff links, preferably with a chain. White starched stock, preferably of Swiss Marcella fabric, neatly tied (not ready tied) in a hunting stock knot. The knot should be square with the flaps each side neat and fastened with gold safety pins t the shirt or with ties round the body. A plain gold stock pin, just visible above the vest, placed horizontally, also attached the stock to the shirt. Waistcoat, preferably of woollen Tattersall check must not have a false back and should be barely visible under the lapel of the coat, with all the buttons above the waistline fastened. The riding coat should be of woollen Cavalry twill fabric, dark in colour (black is most popular although deep navy is acceptable), single vent at back, the lapel edges hand picked with a buttonhole in the lapel. In Memorial events, a flower, preferably white, should be worn on the lapel. The coat lining preferably black or discretely matching the coat colour. All the buttons above the waistline should be fastened. Breeches should be woollen cavalry twill wool blend or a good quality stretch fabric are also acceptable) beige, yellow or cream in colour with hand picked stitching along the thigh and knee seam, with matching suede or doe skin knee strapping. The breeches to have an opening below the knee, fastened by small buttons, with only three buttons visible above the top of the boot and the boot garter strap sitting between the second and third button. Black leather top boots with garter straps stitched and lined with a colour matching the breeches or the same colour front and back. 64

66 Spurs should be plain stainless steel dummy type sitting level with the seam of the boots and black doubled stitched straps with keeper and buckles matching the boot garter straps. Gloves fastened at the wrist by a small button, string cotton back and leather palms and matching the colour of the breeches. Hacking cane plaited or plain pigskin to match the colour of the saddlery. Both formal and semi formal are acceptable in Gentlemen s turnout classes. Semi Formal Adults Only Bowler or velvet covered hunting cap. Collared shirt with cuff and tie plain gold tie bar and cuff links. All remaining attire the same as required for formal classes although coats may be in different colours such as grey and brown and of different fabrics. Stretch fabric machine finished breeches should not be penalised. Informal and Children s Velvet covered hunting cap in colour to blend with clothing. Collared shirt with cuffs preferably white or cream plain gold cuff links. Tie of a colour to blend in with the clothing, attached to the shirt with plain gold tie bar. Waistcoat of a discrete check or plain colours, although not too dark and not black. Riding coat of a wool or wool blend fabric in tweed or plain colour although not too dark and not black. Jodhpurs should be woollen Cavalry twill, wool blend or a good quality stretch fabric, beige, yellow or cream in colour with hand picked stitching along the thigh and knee seam, with matching suede or doe skin knee strapping. They should fasten on the outside of each ankle coming down over the top of the Jodhpur boots. Short leather Jodhpur boots, either brown or black. Gloves and cane as for formal attire. Spurs should be stainless steel dummy types with straps matching the colour of the boots. Spurs are not essential for riders under twelve years of age. In assessing costume, it should be noted that jewellery should not be a worn and loud colour avoided. All clothing should be colour coordinated, fit well and be well made from good quality fabric. 65

67 General Appearance: The horse should be well presented as for a hack class, well conditioned, clean and well groomed. The mane and forelock should be plaited and stitched and the mane plaits in an uneven number. The tail should be either pulled or plaited. The horse s make-up should be minimal, quarter marks such as checks or shark s teeth are NOT to be applied in turnout events. False tails are optional and are not to be penalised. As well as presenting an overall correct, tidy and well-groomed picture, the horse and rider should suit each other in relation to size and display a unified picture when in motion. In summing up, the judging of and competing in Turnout Classes requires considerable expertise, as there are many fine points to be considered. The smallest of detail can win or lose a Turnout Class, however the challenge of presenting a traditionally correct horse and rider combinations in today s modern world makes the Turnout Class a prestigious, rewarding and interesting event. Saddlery All saddlery must be clean, well cared for and in good condition. The saddle quality supple leather, hacking or dressage style. All D s and studs covered. The stirrup leathers and girth should match the colour of the saddle. It must be a suitable size for the rider and fit the horse, sitting level and close to the horse whilst allowing the centre channel to be clear with no pressure over the horses wither. The fit should be assessed with the rider mounted. Traditionally the turnout saddle should have three short girth points, however, in recent times, long points with a two buckle girth has become acceptable. The saddle should be secured with an appropriate girth, buckling evenly on both sides, with sufficient holes to allow the girth to be loosened or tightened. Stirrup leathers must be supple with the end of the leather passing through the saddle flap keeper without extending beyond the saddle. The stirrup irons should be stainless steel, English type with the stirrup bars roughened (rubber treads may be marked down in formal classes but are allowed in informal and children s classes) 66

68 A saddlecloth (numnah) is optional and should blend with the colour of the saddle (brown or black) being unobtrusive as possible. The bridle quality plain supple leather, finely stitched and matching the colour of the saddle. The width of the bridle straps may vary to suit the horse s head, however, the fit must be correct. The buckles attaching the headpiece should be level with each other, sitting comfortably around or just above the horse s eye. All connections to the bits should be by stud billets. The snaffle bit, or bit and bridoon, (both are acceptable for flat showing classes), should fit the horses mouth with the curb chain having adequate adjustment sitting flat in a block leather cover with lip strap. It is generally considered that the bridle should be of flat leather, however in Junior Turnout Classes, a raised brow and noseband may be acceptable on a pony. Coloured or metal brow bands are not acceptable. Important considerations when selecting saddlery are: Correct Fit: Ill fitting gear can create problems with the horse, for example too tight or small will exert uncomfortable pressure on the head of the horse while a saddle sitting too low on the wither or unevenly on the back will cause soreness. Purpose: Style or type of gear should be determined by the proposed use for example, led novice, open or turnout classes. If necessary be guided by a reputable person who understands your level of expertise and competition needs. Upgrades are easier than taking on unnecessary financial burdens. Quality and care: Careful selection of good quality saddlery followed by regular attention paid to the cleaning and dressing will determine the amount of use you will enjoy from your saddlery. The cleanliness, suppleness and good order of saddlery is paramount when being assessed in competition. (See turnout classes above) Appearance: Saddlery for competition should be selected to be compatible with and compliment the appearance of the horse eg: colour and style to add to the overall visual appeal. A flat brow band and cavesson noseband may neaten a not so dainty head while a plain headed horse may be improved by the use of decorative brow bands, studs etc. Saddlery s purpose is more than anything else, functional. Selection should be based on this aspect with comfort of the horse and rider taken into consideration with the points above. 67

69 Martingales, any kinds of gadgets (bearing, side, running or balance reins etc) any kinds of boots or bandages, any form of blinkers are forbidden in competition. Numerous gadgets (for training) are available; all should be treated with caution and only used by experienced people. Most are meant to be used whilst the horse is lunged or in hand NOT when being ridden and definitely NOT in the Show ring. Unsafe, cruel, ill fitting or unsuitable gear or saddlery must be replaced or removed at the request of the Judge, Ringmaster or a Show Official. Failure to comply may result in disqualification. SUMMARY The saddle horse should be judged on the following principles 1) Quality and presence a well-conformed horse clean and well presented with eye-catching appeal. 2) True and correct paces the paces are even and regular. Constantly irregular or hurried strides should be penalised. However, occasionally a few irregular steps may be noticed this can be caused by tension or a distraction and may disappear when the horse settles. 3) Forward and straight going forward on the one track i.e. the hind legs follow in the steps of the forefeet on all straight lines and curves. 4) Manners a hack should be well mannered and obedient but never mechanical or boring. Minor errors such as a wrong lead immediately corrected, breaking whilst lengthening stride at trot, exuberance corrected, restlessness at the halt all may be forgiven depending on degree. Bad manners such as kicking, rearing, bolting or refusal to stay in line (as opposed to restlessness when standing) must be penalised. 5) Outline the horse goes forward in a rounded frame, not above the bit or on the forehand. 6) Transitions all transitions either upward or downward must be executed smoothly and without resistance. 7) Athletic ability is the ability to perform various movements whilst maintaining balance and self-carriage. 8) Acceptance of the Aids the horse going forward happily accepting the riders aids and responding well to any commands. 68

70 DEFINITIONS Hack Park Hack over 148cm and up to 158cm and Hack over 158cm. The ideal hack should be a sound quality animal with good confirmation and an even temperament. A top class hack will also Show elegance and gaiety and demonstrate very good movement. The stride is expected to be long, straight and light covering a lot of ground with some extravagance. Exaggerated knee action is not desirable. The hack should possess the qualities of a good riding horse, presence, elegance and free movement. It is these qualities that catch a Judge s eye. Ladies Hack A Ladies Hack should be a very elegant horse suitable for the size of the lady riding it therefore a ladies hack should give the general appearance of being a good match with the rider rather than a smaller horse as is commonly thought. The horse should be well mannered and obedient but never dull or mechanical. Gentleman s Hack A Gentleman s Hack should be a quality animal with substance and bone. A horse with an appearance of strength without loosing quality with powerful steps and one that carries his rider with ease and pride. The rider and the horses should appear a good match. Thoroughbred Hack When judging a horse showing thoroughbred type the class description states the base requirement. This class does not require a horse to appear as if he or she is ready to race. Riding Horse This is a quality Show Horse of slightly less elegance and gaiety than a Show Hack, over 148cm. It has more bone and substance than a Show Hack but is not as heavy as a Hunter; with workman-like strong even paces, excellent conformation, manners and temperament, and capable of carrying a Lady or Gentleman rider pleasantly over longer journeys than a Show Hack. Cob Cobs are over 148cm and up to 156cm. Although the original native horses and ponies of Wales include the classification of Welsh Section C and Welsh Section D, Show Ring Cobs may be any breeds. A cob is a deep-bodied horse with generous hindquarters. The body is underpinned with more bone than desirable on a hack. The deep body gives the appearance of shorter legs. 69

71 The head on cobs is handsome rather than pretty and the general appearance is of a utility animal with a relatively high tail carriage. Since docking was outlawed it has been acceptable to bind and or plait the tail although a pulled banged tail is equally correct. The cob should appear to be a jaunty jolly type offering a comfortable ride. The conformation criteria laid down for hacks apply. Saddle Hunter Over 148cm. The ideal Hunter under saddle should have substance, be active and well mannered, with strong easy paces. Saddle Hunter be it horse or pony must be capable of carrying weight for long distances over varied country. A hunter is described as handsome rather than beautiful as one would describe a winning hack. Flat hunters are expected to gallop in their work out and the gallop must play a large part in the decision of the Judge. Pony (Hack Type) See Hack description. Ponies should have definite pony type and characteristics. Pony (Hunter Type) See Saddle Hunter description. Ponies should have definite pony type and characteristics. Working Hunter Over 148cm. Working hunters are required to demonstrate jumping ability and be of good strong conformation with good manners, sound paces and be a comfortable ride over long distances. 70

72 STANDARD SCHEDULES FOR A&P SHOWS Note: Royal Show Host Associations must abide by the Royal Show Standard Schedule. Please note the standard schedule is presented as the basic or minimum number of classes to be offered. Shows are encouraged to add classes as local conditions and level of entries dictate. Examples of additional classes are; Best on Parade, Novice no wins, led Mares, Led Thoroughbreds, Pairs and Teams Classes, Sash Classes such as the Pony Breeders Society of NZ (Inc) Ridden Sash etc. Only conformation classes qualify horses and ponies for championships in the rings. A separate Champion Paced and Mannered Horse or Pony of the Show is mandatory. Shows may open this offer up and schedule separate Pony and Horse Paced and Mannered Championships. A Show may offer as many further classes based on height within each section or ring as deemed appropriate, but may never offer less than the standard schedule. The ideal schedule would offer no less than three classes to novices and three to open horses and ponies in each division or section. Park Hacks Note: A horse may only be entered in the Show Hack or Riding Horse or Saddle Hunter section. Over 148cm and not exceeding 158cm Novice Park Hack 0-2 wins Novice Park Hack 0 5 wins Novice Champion and Reserve Champion Park Hack (To be judged from winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx, second placed horse to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Novice Paced and Mannered Park Hack 0 5 wins Open Park Hack over 148cm and not exceeding 153cm Open Park Hack over 153cm and not exceeding 158cm Open Lady s Park Hack Lady Riders (conformation class) Open Gentleman Park Hack Gentlemen Riders (conformation class) OR Open (Ladies or Gentleman s Hack on Type offer one or the other) May be ridden by a Lady or a Gentleman (conformation class) Open Paced and Mannered Park Hack OR Open - best paces to be Judged Open - best manners to be Judged Champion and Reserve Champion Park Hack (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx second placed horse to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) 71

73 Hacks Note: A horse may only be entered in the Show Hack or Riding Horse or Saddle Hunter section. Over 158cm Novice Hack 0 2 wins Novice Hack 0 5 wins Novice Champion and Reserve Champion Hack (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx second placed horse to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Novice Paced and Mannered Hack 0 5 wins Open Hack over 158cm and not exceeding 163cm Open Hack over 163cm Lady s Hack to be ridden by a Lady (conformation class) Gentleman s Hack to be ridden by a Gentleman (conformation class) OR Open (Lady s or Gentleman s Hack of Type offer one or the other) May be ridden by a Lady or a Gentleman (conformation class) Open Paced and Mannered Hack OR Open best paces to be Judged Open best manners to be Judged Champion and Reserve Champion Hack (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx second placed horse to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) RIDING HORSES Note: A horse may only be entered in the Show Hack or Riding Horse or Saddle Hunter section. Over 148cm. For Horses under saddle, not entering the Show Hack, Park Hack or Saddle Hunter classes, to be ridden by a lady or a gentleman rider. DEFINITION: A Riding Horse is a horse who may not be a true Show Hack, Park Hack or Saddle Hunter in type but fits somewhere in between; still possessing the qualities of conformation, manners and paces that are desirable in a showing horse (see pages 19, 49 & 68 of the rule book) Note: The Novice status of the horse from previous Show Hack, Park Hack or Saddle Hunter competitions will apply to this Riding Horse section. Novice Riding Horse, 0 2 wins Novice Riding Horse, 0 5 wins Champion Novice Riding Horse and Reserve Champ. Novice Riding Horse (1 st placegetters from classes xxx, xxx to be judged; 2 nd placed horse to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winner for reserve) 72

74 Novice Paced & Mannered Riding Horse, 0 5 wins Open Riding Horse, over 148cm, not exceeding 158cm Open Riding Horse, over 158cm but not exceeding 163cm Open Riding Horse, over 163cm Champion Riding Horse and Reserve Champion Riding Horse (1 st placegetters from classes xxx, xxx, xxx to be judged; 2 nd placed horse to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Open Paced & Mannered Riding Horse Riding Horse, suitable for a Lady, ridden by a lady or gentleman, cannot enter class xxx Riding Horse, suitable for a Gentleman, ridden by a lady or a gentleman; cannot enter class xxx. Saddle (flat) Hunters Note: A horse may only be entered in the Show Hack or Riding Horse or Saddle Hunter section. Over 148cm OR OR Novice Saddle (flat) Hunter 0 2 wins Novice Saddle (flat) Hunter 0 5 wins Novice Champion and Reserve Champion Saddle (flat) Hunter (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx second placed horse to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Novice Paced and Mannered Saddle flat) Hunter 0 5 wins. Open Saddle (flat) Hunter over 148cm and not exceeding 158cm Open Saddle (flat) Hunter over 158cm and not exceeding 163cm Open Saddle (flat) Hunter over 163cm Lady s Saddle (flat) Hunter to be ridden by a Lady (conformation class) Gentleman s Saddle (flat) Hunter to be ridden by a Gentleman (conformation class) Open (Lady s or Gentleman s Hunter on Type offer one or the other) May be ridden by a Lady or Gentleman (conformation class) Open Paced and Mannered Saddle (flat) Hunter Open best paces to be Judged Open best manners to be Judged Champion and Reserve Champion Saddle (flat) Hunter (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx, second placed horse to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) 73

75 Cobs Note: Cob classes are supported in some regions and unknown in others; the classes below are the minimum to be used if a Cob Section is included. The Cob Section is not a REQUIREMENT of any show and should only be included if local demand is evident. Novice Cob 0-2 wins Novice Cob 0-5 wins Novice Champion & Reserve Champion Novice Cob (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx & xxx second placed cob to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve Novice Paced & Mannered Cob 0-5 wins Cobs over 150cm and not exceeding 155cm (capable of carrying 95 kgs) Cob up to and including 150cm (capable of carrying 83 kgs) Open Paced and Mannered Cob Champion and Reserve Champion Cob (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx & xxx second placed cob to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Working Hunters Working hunters are required to demonstrate jumping ability and be of good strong conformation with good manners, sound paces and be a comfortable ride over long distances. They will be required to jump a minimum of two and a maximum of 5 hunter type fences. Jumping style and ability 40%, conformation 30%, paces and manners 30%. Horses will be required to gallop within the confines and constraints of the venue involved. Novice Working Hunter 0 2 wins Novice Working Hunter 0 5 wins Open Working Hunter over 148cm and not exceeding 158cm Open Working Hunter over 158cm and not exceeding 163cm Open Working Hunter over 163cm Champion and Reserve Champion Working Hunter (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx second placed horse to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) 74

76 Saddle Ponies on the Flat Note: (Secretaries see rule 58) 1) All novice classes offered for ponies on the flat are open to riders of any age. 2) The Hunter (flat) Pony Section and the Riding Pony Section may be split into height sections or rings: For example: Group A (Hunter (flat) Pony or Riding Pony) over 138cm and not exceeding 148cm Group B (Hunter (flat) Pony or Riding Pony) over 128cm and not exceeding 138cm Group C (Hunter (flat) Pony or Riding Pony) not over 128cm Or; Offer the group A as illustrated above and combine groups B & C as one ring Further restrictions based on age of rider may be applied see rule 62. Should these divisions be offered the minimum height classes would be: Group A; (Hunter (flat) Pony or Riding Pony) over 138cm and not exceeding 143cm (Hunter (flat) Pony or Riding Pony) over 143cm and not exceeding 148cm Group B; (Hunter (flat) Pony or Riding Pony) over 128cm and not exceeding 133cm (Hunter (flat) Pony or Riding Pony) over 133cm and not exceeding 138cm Group C; (Hunter (flat) Pony or Riding Pony) not exceeding 123cm (Hunter (flat) Pony or Riding Pony) over 123cm and not exceeding 128cm All Royal Show schedules to included (as per Gazette 190 (2005) and as requested by NZ Riding Pony Society): Ridden Class for ponies up to 148 cm, registered with NZ Riding Pony Soc. 75

77 Hunter (flat) Ponies Note Competitors may enter the Pony (hack) Section or the Hunter (flat) Pony Section not both Novice Hunter (flat) Pony 0 2 wins Novice Hunter (flat) Pony 0 5 wins Champion and Reserve Champion Novice Hunter (flat) Pony (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx & xxx second placed pony to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Novice Paced and Mannered Hunter (flat) Pony 0-5 wins Open Hunter (flat) Pony not exceeding 128cm Open Hunter (flat) Pony over 128cm and not exceeding 138cm Open Hunter (flat) Pony over 138cm and not exceeding 148cm Open Paced and Mannered Hunter (flat) Pony Champion and Reserve Champion Hunter (flat) Pony (To be judged form classes xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx, second placed pony to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Riding Ponies Note: Competitors may enter the Pony (flat) Section or the Hunter (flat) Pony Section not both Classes if only one ring offered Novice Riding Pony 0 2 wins Novice Riding Pony 0 5 wins Champion and Reserve Champion Riding Pony (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx & xxx second placed pony to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Novice Paced and Mannered Riding Pony 0-5 wins Riding Pony not exceeding 128cm Riding Pony over 128cm and not exceeding 138cm Riding Pony over 138cm and not exceeding 148cm Open Paced and Mannered Riding Pony Champion and Reserve Champion Riding Pony (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx second placed pony to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) 76

78 Leading Rein Ponies Both Leading Rein and First Ridden Ponies should be safe and suitable. They should possess a good front, even gaits and not too wide for their small riders. The stride should not be too long, as they would unseat the rider and cause the rider to lose balance. Ideally the First Ridden Pony is a little more scopey in both conformation and movement than the Leading Rein Pony, although many ponies compete successfully in both sections. Combinations in this section may not enter any other section. Riders must be 7 years of age and under. Ponies to be led by an Adult with the leading rein attached to the noseband of a snaffle bridle. Ponies will be asked to walk and trot no cantering under any circumstances. Running or bearing reins or similar tackle are not allowed. Lead Rein Ponies to be judged on: 60 % suitability and safeness 40% conformation and paces. Best on Parade Grooming, condition and cleanliness of saddlery, dress of rider and handler and general appearance to be taken into consideration. Novice Lead Rein Pony not exceeding 128cm 0 5 wins Lead Rein Pony not exceeding 118cm Lead Rein Pony over 118cm; not exceeding 128cm Champion and Reserve Champion Lead Rein Pony (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx second placed pony to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Novice Paced & Mannered Lead Rein Pony not exceeding 128cm 0-5 wins. Paced & Mannered Lead Rein Pony not exceeding 118cm Paced & Mannered Lead Rein Pony over 118cm; not exceeding 123cm Paced & Mannered Lead Rein Pony over 123cm; not exceeding 128cm First Ridden Classes A rider is only able to compete in this section for a maximum of 2 show seasons. The same combination cannot enter in both the Leading Rein Section and the First Ridden Section, but a pony that has been entered in the Leading Rein Section can be entered in the First Ridden Section with a different rider. The age limit in the First Ridden Section is under 10 years. If a Show wishes to include a First Ridden class in their Leading Rein Section as they are not able to run a First Ridden Section, the wording to be for combinations coming off Leading Rein. Rider Class under 10 years Novice First Ridden Pony 0-5 wins Open First Ridden Pony Paced and Mannered First Ridden Pony 77

79 Riding Classes Cass xxx Note: These classes could be added to the appropriate ring according to the manner in which the sections have been divided and how the timetable is set or Rider Classes could make up a separate ring. The classes below are a minimum with males and females competing against one another. Shows are encouraged to offer separate classes for males and females wherever possible Novice Rider 12 years and under 0-5 wins Novice Rider years 0-5 wins Note: The novice rider classes may be further split and a champion offered if local conditions dictate. Recommended Best Rider 8 years of age and under Best Rider 9 & 10 years Best Rider 11 & 12 years Best Rider 13 & 14 years Best Rider 15 & 16 years Minimum Best Rider 10 years and under Best Rider & 13 years Best Rider 15 & 16 years Champion and Reserve Champion Junior Rider (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx. xxx second placed rider to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Best Rider 14 years and under over fences Best Rider 15 & 16 years over fences Champion and Reserve Champion Junior Rider over Fences (To be judged from winners of classes xxx, xxx, second placed rider to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Novice Rider 17 years & over 0-5 wins Youth or Girl Rider 17 and under 21 years of age Gentleman Rider 17 years and over Lady Rider 17 years and over Champion and Reserve Champion Adult Rider (To be judged from winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx second placed rider to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Novice Adult Rider over fences 0-5 wins Youth or Girl Rider 17 and under 21 years of age over fences Gentleman Rider over Fences 78

80 Lady Rider over fences Champion and Reserve Champion Senior Rider over Fences (To be judged from winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx second placed rider to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Round the Ring Jumping Jumping classes may be divided into sections identical to the flat classes, should this be undertaken the recommendations for the further division of the classes within height sections is listed in the introduction to the Riding Pony classes. Champion classes in this division may be offered as an additional class where all comers may start or may be offered as in all other divisions to winners only with the second placed jumper to the champion Judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve. Ponies (not exceeding 148cm) Novice Pony Hunter over fences 0-2 wins Novice Pony Hunter over fences 0-5 wins Open Pony Hunter over fences 128cm & under Open Pony hunter over fences over 128cm and not exceeding 138cm Open Pony Hunter over fences over 138cm and not exceeding 148cm Pony Wire Jump, Ponies not exceeding 138cm Pony Wire Jump. Ponies over 138cm and not exceeding 148cm Horses (over 148cm) Novice Hunter over fences 0-2 wins Novice Hunter over fences 0-5 wins Open Hunter (over fences) over 148cm and not exceeding 160cm Open Hunter (over fences) over 160cm Lady s Hunter over fences to be ridden by a lady Gentleman s Hunter over fences to be ridden by a gentleman Open Wire Jump 79

81 BREED SECTIONS ARE GOVERNED BY THE STANDARD SCHEDULES SUBMITTED BY THE AFFILIATED BREED SOCIETIES Led Pony Classes Minimum Standard Schedule (Submitted by the Pony Breeders Society of NZ and the NZ Riding Pony Society) Best Presented Grooming, Halter or Bridle and Dress of Handler to be Judged. Pony Stallion not exceeding 133cm Pony Stallion over 133cm and not exceeding 148cm Champion and Reserve Champion Riding Pony Stallion (To be judged from the winner of classes xxx, xxx second placed stallion to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winner/s for reserve) Pony Brood Mare not exceeding 133cm (see conditions for Broodmares) Pony Brood Mare over 133cm and not exceeding 148cm (see conditions for Broodmares) Champion and Reserve Champion Pony Brood Mare (To be judged from the winners of classes xxx, xxx second placed brood mare to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winner/s for reserve) Pony Yearling not exceeding 133cm Pony Yearling over 133cm but not exceeding 140cm Pony Two-Year-Old not exceeding 136cm Pony Two Year Old over 136cm but not exceeding 146cm Pony Three-Year-old not exceeding 148cm Young stock (Led Ponies) Champion and Reserve Champion (To be judged from winners of classes xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx, xxx second placed pony to the champion to be judged alongside the remaining winners for reserve) Please note: When splitting Young stock into more than one class, the following heights must be used: Yearlings a) Under 123cm b) Over 123cm not exceeding 133cm c) Over 133cm not exceeding 140cm Two Year Olds a) Under 125cm b) Over 125cm and not exceeding 136cm c) Over 136cm and not exceeding 146cm Three Year Olds a) Under 128cm b) Over 128cm and not exceeding 138cm c) Over 138cm and not exceeding 148cm 80

82 Arabian Classes Judging should be in accordance with the NZ Arab Horse Breeders Society Rule Book. Comparative system to be used. A recognised Judge MUST be used. a) Purebred Halter The Judge must be on the NZ Arab Horse Breeders Society Senior Judges List or must be on a recognised International Panel of Arabian Judges. In the event that the criteria is not met, an A Class Show shall automatically be downgraded to B Class and a B Class Show shall be downgraded to C Class. b) Performance Classes A variety of performance classes are available to Purebred Arabian Horses. However Judge s accredited in particular fields for Western, Harness, Sporting, Dressage, Costume etc may be used. An RAS listed A & P Judge is suitable for general ridden classes where breed type is not a factor. Minimum Schedule: Text to appear; (Submitted by the NZ Arab Horse Breeders Society (Inc) Note: Only Purebred Arabian Horses registered with the New Zealand Arab Horse Breeders Society (Inc) can compete in this section. Proof of Registration (a photocopy of the certificate must accompany the entry form) must be produced on Show day if requested by the Steward. All classes are conducted under the NZ Arab Horse Breeders Society Rules for Showing in conjunction with the Royal Agricultural Society rules, regulations and by-laws. All Championships are judged from the winner in each section. The second placed horse to the champion must parade for the judging of reserve champion. Purebred Arabian Gelding 2 years & under. Purebred Arabian Gelding 3 years & over Champion & Reserve Champion Purebred Arabian Gelding Purebred Arabian Filly 1 year old Purebred Arabian Filly 2 year old Purebred Arabian Colt 1 year old Purebred Arabian colt 2 year old Junior Champion and Reserve Junior Champion Purebred Arabian Purebred Arabian Mare 3 & 4years Purebred Arabian Mare 5 years and over Purebred Arabian Mare Broodmare (RAS Conditions for Broodmares applies) Champion and Reserve Champion Purebred Arabian Mare 81

83 Arabian Stallion 3 & 4 years of age Arabian Stallion 5 years of age and over Champion and Reserve Champion Purebred Arabian Stallion Supreme Champion Arabian Purebred Arabian Gelding under saddle Purebred Arabian Mare under saddle Purebred Arabian Stallion under saddle Arabian Costume Ridden Class Smaller Show Minimum Standard Schedule: Arab Gelding 2 years and under Arab Gelding 3 years and over Champion and Reserve Champion Purebred Arabian Gelding Purebred Arabian Filly 1 & 2 years Purebred Arabian Colt 1 & 2 years Junior Champion and Reserve Junior Champion Purebred Arabian Purebred Arabian Mare 3 & 4 years old Purebred Arabian Mare 5 years and over Champion and Reserve Champion Purebred Arabian Mare Purebred Arabian under Saddle Arabian Costume Ridden Class. 82

84 Hackney Classes (Submitted by the NZ hackney Society of NZ Inc) For Ordinary 1 Day, Spring-Autumn A&P Shows Best Turnout (Turnout points: Horse 50, Harness 20, Vehicle 20, Driver 10) Note: Novice horse or pony not to have won more that 5 firsts in Harness Open Horse/Pony Best Action Horse/Pony Champion and Reserve Champion Harness Horse/Pony When an A&P Show has Royal Event status, the NZ Hackney Society donates a ribbon for Champion Action. For Royal Shows All Hackneys to be registered with the NZ hackney Society Inc Stallions, Mares, Geldings eligible. In Hand Section Best Presented Hackney & Handler Hackney Stallion or Gelding any age Hackney Mare or Filly any age Champion & Reserve Champion In Hand Hackney Harness Section Best Turnout (Turnout points: Horse 50, Harness 20, Vehicle 20, Driver 10) Novice horse or pony not to have won more that 5 firsts in Harness Open Horse/Pony Best Action Horse/Pony Champion and Reserve Champion Harness Horse/Pony Champion Action Hackney Ribbon donated by NZ Hackney Society 83

85 Side Saddle Classes (Submitted by the New Zealand Side Saddle Association) All Side Saddle Classes to be judged on NZSSA rules. Catergory A Best Side Saddle Turnout Best Side Saddle Rider Best Side Saddle Mount with emphasis on a mount that gives a safe and comfortable ride with impeccable manners Best Paced and Mannered Catergory B to be considered if you wish to reduce the number of classes: Best Side Saddle Combination Class (Combine Best Side Saddle Rider and Best Side Saddle Mount) Concours d Elegance The NZSSA also recommends that ALL classes including Turnout be eligible for Champion, with 1 st placegetters and 2 nd placegetters on standby for judging. The New Zealand Side Saddle Association also recommends that the wording on ribbons reads: Champion Side Saddle 84

86 Welsh Pony and Cob Classes (Submitted by the Welsh Pony & Cob Society of NZ Inc) Note: 1) All ponies and cobs MUST be registered with the Welsh Pony & Cob Society of NZ (Inc). Proof of registration must be given on the Show Entry Form and produced on Show day of requested by the Steward, Chief Steward or Judge. 2) Registered Purebred Welsh Ponies and Cobs must not be plaited in In-Hand Classes unless exhibited in Ridden and Driven classes on that day. 3) At the Spring Royal Show a Gold Medal donated by the Welsh Pony & Cob Society of New Zealand (Incorporated) will be awarded to the SUPREME CHAMPION PUREBRED WELSH EXHIBIT. 4) At the Spring Royal Show the V.M.H. Nichols Memorial Salver will be awarded to the SUPREME CHAMPION PURE OR PARTBRED WELSH EXHIBIT. 5) As from 1 August 2003, all partbred Welsh Ponies exhibited must be 25% Welsh or more and registered with the Welsh Pony & Cob Society of NZ. Purebred Welsh Ponies & Cobs Stallion Section A, four years and over Stallion Sections B, C & D, four years and over Champion and Reserve Champion Stallion Mare Section A, four years and over visibly in foal or with foal at foot. Mare Sections B, C & D, four years & over visibly in foal or with foal at foot. Dry Mare Section A four years and over. Dry Mare Sections B, C & D four years and over. Champion and Reserve Champion Mare Yearling Section A colt, filly or gelding. Two & Three Year Old Section A colt, filly or gelding. Yearling Section B colt, filly or gelding. Two & Three Year Old Section B colt, filly or gelding. Yearling Sections C & D colt, filly or gelding. Two & Three Year Old Sections C & D colt, filly or gelding. Champion and Reserve Champion Youngstock 85

87 Partbred Welsh Stallion Partbred four years and over Mare Partbred four years and over visibly in foal or with foal at foot Dry Mare Partbred four years and over Yearling Partbred colt filly or gelding Two & Three Year Old Partbred colt filly or gelding. Note: Fillies in this class are NOT to be in foal in the current breeding Season Champion and Reserve Champion Partbred Welsh In Hand Welsh Gelding Gelding Purebred three years and under Gelding Purebred four years and over Gelding Partbred three years and under Gelding Partbred four years and over Champion and Reserve Champion Gelding The champion from this section is eligible to go forward for the V.M.H. Nicols Memorial Salver. 86

88 Royal Agricultural Society Equestrian Judges Equestrian Judge Procedure (EJP) The following outlines the procedure to become a RAS Equestrian Judge. EJP 1. PRE NOMINATION a) Obtain a copy of the RAS Equestrian Competitors & Judges Rule Book and Guidelines b) Copy of the Red Judges Manual Both are available from the RAS Head Office. EJP 2. JUDGES NOMINATION FORM a) Apply through your District Judge Convenor or the RAS Equestrian Coordinator (who will consult with, and inform the District Judge Convenor) for an RAS Equestrian Judges Nomination form. Note - The Nomination Form is valid for two years only from date of issue. b) The Nomination Form includes a Candidate Judges Record sheet. Keep a record of the following requirements on this Form- I. Stewarding Duties you have performed at NZ RAS affiliated A&P Shows /Events a minimum of four times. II. Time spent in the Show Ring with Tutor or Senior Judges, a minimum of 4 times - include which Sections. III. Ensure that these appointments are signed off by the Head Steward or Judge. IV. Attendance at NZ RAS Seminars and Workshops. V. Any other relevant information. ie Judging or Stewarding at Pony Club Shows, Ribbon Days etc VI. Include a brief CV of experience in Showing, Breeding and/or Producing horses/ponies VII. Include a brief explanation of why you wish to become a NZ RAS Judge. Retain this Candidate Judges Record Form for your own Records. EJP 3. NOMINATION PROCEDURE Note - The applicant must be a current financial member of the RAS affiliated A&P Association / Society where they reside. a) The Applicant must complete, sign and date the nomination form and return it to the Judge Convenor of the District they reside in. b) The Nominator must be a NZ RAS Tutor Judge. Dispensation may be given to a nomination made by a Grade 1 Judge, with approval from the District Judge Convenor, providing that this Grade 1 Judge is current with Seminar attendance. c) The applicant must attend NZ RAS Equestrian Seminars and Judges Pre-Exam Workshops prior to sitting the Written Paper & Practical Assessments. d) Minimum age for a Judge to sit a Written Paper and be listed is 20 years, but training may begin at any time. EJP 4. PRE EXAM WORKSHOPS These Workshops are held for those people who have been nominated and approved for judging, and who intend to sit the judge examination. These Workshops are very busy and user friendly. They allow time for discussion on Judges ethics, the Rule Book, Judging procedures and responsibilities at all times, eg. Conformation and movement, workouts. judging riders, different sections to be judged and planning for a days judging etc. Candidate Judges and Upgrading Judges will be notified of upcoming Workshops and forwarded a programme and registration form for the day. 87