Application for the Equine Comeback Challenge at Rocky Mountain Horse Expo Barn/Business Name: Trainer Name: Physical Address of your barn: Mailing Address: Phone Number: Email: Website: Shirt Size: The mission of the Equine Comeback Challenge is to bring attention to rescue horses all over the country. Rescues horses will be placed with trainers for 90 days to demonstrate their abilities and trainability. A Home for Every Horse as well as Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance will be visiting locations of the horses with trainers to help bring attention to the program. We invite you to tell us why you would be a great trainer for the Equine Comeback Challenge at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo. Application Requirements: Detailed trainer biography (must provide digital copy) Trainer Photo (must provide digital copy) Address of where the horse will be kept (required) If this is your first time participating in the Equine Comeback Challenge, please provide the following: o Written submission answering the following questions: Why would you be a great trainer for the Equine Comeback Challenge? What are you training methods? Why do you think training rescue horses is so important to the equine industry as a trainer to help them find their forever home? Three professional references Video submission may be submitted if trainer feels the submission would be beneficial If selected for competition you will be required to submit a weekly social media post. It is HIGHLY suggested that you create a training page for A Home for Every Horse to use to reference the training with your Equine Comeback Challenge Horse Please also read through the following pages for details about the Equine Comeback Challenge, A Home for Every Horse, and the rules and regulations for the event. Each section needs a signature of understanding. These signatures are final with submission of the application and will be used during the duration of the event. Please contact us with any questions regarding this application: Mariah Hammerschmidt ahfeh@equine.com (970) 685-8062 Dawn Brunetti dbrunetti@live.com (303) 968-8381 *Trainers must have their application and ALL required materials turned into ahfeh@equine.com no later than October 31 st, 2017 **Trainers will be notified of selection no later than November 15, 2017*
PURPOSE: The Equine Comeback Challenge (ECC) is a program design to promote the usefulness of the unwanted horse. Through the help of local trainers and Colorado rescues, the Equine Comeback Challenge hopes to train and rehome horses that have been deemed unusable by their previous owners. This program is sponsored by A Home for Every Horse (AHFEH), a program that helps connect rescue horses in need of homes, in over 600 rescues across the United States with people looking for horses and The Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance (CUHA), a nonprofit organization formed to reduce the number of Colorado horses that are abandoned every year without food, water, shelter or care. OVERVIEW: The Rocky Mountain Equine Comeback Challenge is produced by A Home for Every Horse in partnership with the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance with the support of Purina, Tractor Supply, ElectroBraid, Merck, WeatherBeeta and the Unwanted Horse Coalition. Interested trainers must complete and submit the Trainer Application on or before October 31, 2017. A copy can be e- mailed, mailed or downloaded from www.ahomeforeveryhorse.com as needed. The rescue horses will be as uniform in size and age as possible. Horses will have current vaccinations, deworming, hooves trimmed (within two weeks), and teeth done (within 6 months). Trainers must meet all requirements listed below for hauling and stabling their rescue horse. Trainers will be responsible for all veterinary care during the horses training if necessary. Trainers will have from the day they pick up their rescue horse until the day of the event to train and work with their rescues. During the event rescue horses and trainers will be assessed by a panel of accomplished horsemen and -women. Participation in this event is by invitation only based off of application; therefore, A Home for Every Horse and the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance has the unqualified right to determine eligibility and can, at any time, remove an applicant or contestant from the Equine Comeback Challenge and/or competition for any reason or for no reason. Failure to adhere to the Regulations and Competition Rules listed in this document may result in disqualification from current and/or future AHFEH or CUHA competitions and programs. GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS: 1. STEWARDS: A Home for Every Horse may (at any event) designate one or more individuals as a Steward to support the efforts of show officials and A Home for Every Horse and Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance Boards. The Steward s responsibilities may include but are not limited to: a. Monitor show grounds for inhumane treatment of horses and unsportsmanlike conduct; b. Investigate complaints and issue warnings; and c. Assist show officials and board in any capacity. 2. Fulfill all requirements related to hauling, stable facilities, care and training. 3. All trainers must complete the application and postmark by October 31, 2017: a. Dawn Brunetti, 13818 Harrison Street, Thornton, CO 80602 or dbrunetti@live.com b. Mariah Hammerschmidt 5720 Flatiron Parkway Boulder, CO 80301 or mhammerschmidt@aimmedia.com 4. Trainers must be 18 years of age or older as of date of entry. 5. Only an approved substitute trainer by A Home for Every Horse will be allowed. Substitution approval is not guaranteed and is at the discretion of AHFEH and CUHA. 6. Trainer selection will be made based on experience, references, facility approval and geographic location. Alternate trainers will also be notified should one of the selected trainers is unable to pick up their horse.
7. Horses used in the Equine Comeback Challenge competition will be as uniform in size and age as possible. Age of horse is deterred by a vet assigned by AHFEH and CUHA and health papers will comply with the industry standard of changing age on January 1. 8. Trainers will be made aware of the training that the horse has received at the rescue. Rescue CANNOT guarantee the full extent of the training that each horse has had. 9. Any selected trainer may be removed from the selection process or competition at any time if found to have any alleged history of cruelty to animals or humans. Removal of any trainer from the application process or competitions is at the discretion of AHFEH and CUHA. 10. A Home for Every Horse and the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance may at any time conduct a criminal background check on applicants or remove any applicant from the process for any reason or for no reason. 11. Trailer requirements: You must provide transportation for your rescue horse from the pick- up location to your facility. a. While someone else may transport the animal, all trailers must meet these minimum standards: covered top, sturdy walls/floors, and a smooth interior free from any sharp protrusions; ample head room; removable partitions or compartments to separate animals by size and sex, if necessary; floor covered with a non-skid material; and, adequate ventilation. 12. Facility requirements: Facility can consist of a corral/paddock/stall/round pen. Facility must be a minimum of 400 square feet (20 feet x 20 feet) and have fences at least 6 feet high. Facility must be sturdy and constructed of materials such as poles, pipes or planks (minimum 1.5-inch thickness) without dangerous protrusions. Barbed wire materials are unacceptable for fencing. You must provide shelter from inclement weather and temperatures. Shelters must be a two-sided structure with a roof, well drained, adequately ventilated and accessible to the rescue horse. The minimum two sides need to block the prevailing winds and need to protect the major part of the bodies of the horse. Tarps are not acceptable rescue horse protection. 13. Feeding and Care: Horses will be body taped prior to leaving horse pick-up. Each trainer must weight tape their horse every 30 days and send picture to AHFEH. Providing an adequate amount of FEED and providing a BLANKET is REQUIRED. In winter and during a training program horses burn a lot of calories. Make sure you are feeding enough so that your horse continues to gain weight. Blanketing is also important so that they are not burning extra calories just trying to stay warm. 14. Rescue Horse training must be humane and compassionate. Least resistance techniques are encouraged. At all times, the humane care and best interest of the horse are paramount. For Equine Comeback Challenge events and A Home for Every Horse programs, the trainer is responsible for the well-being and humane treatment of any rescue horse entrusted to their care. Contact A Home for Every Horse staff or management to report any health issues with your horse so that proper veterinarian care can be administered. Any suspected inhumane treatment of horses should be reported to management immediately with potential consequences as outlined in our Humane Treatment Policy. 15. While responsible for care of the animal in a reasonable and humane manner, each trainer is liable for all veterinary care, however, will not be pursued by A Home for Every Horse, the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance or associated rescue. If the horse becomes seriously injured during ownership of the horse, and question of if the animal s quality of life may be affected the trainer must contact A Home for Every Horse, and the rescue the horse originally came from. The trainer may choose to release the horse back to the rescue for further care of the injury and the option must be presented to the rescue. a. Trainers will be responsible for routine maintenance, any minor veterinary care (up to $150) anything above and beyond will have to contact ECC and rescue for further discussion, any elective treatments including but not limited to specialized dental work, acupuncture, chiropractic work, etc. 16. Trainers are required to submit a signed release with their application so that all photos and filming may be used to promote the event and will be the property of the Equine Comeback Challenge and A Home for Every Horse. 17. Trainers are required to provide a digital head shot photo of themselves and short bio 18. Trainers are responsible for all care-related costs from the day the rescue horses are picked up through the competition. Trainers may be provided with sponsor incentives during the 90 days of training.
19. Should the rescue horse be deemed untrainable, the trainer must notify CUHA board member Dawn Brunetti (303)968-8381 no later than 30 days after the horse is picked up by the trainer. 20. Trainers that notify A Home for Every Horse that they are not participating in the event as a result of an injury to trainer or rescue horse will be required to return the horse to the rescue within 10 days following the notification. If horse is unable to compete due to lack of equine care/training and excused from competing; the rescue horse will be returned to the rescue WITHOUT a refund from A Home for Every Horse, Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance, nor the rescue. 21. For any and all reasons, the trainer is responsible for returning the rescue horse to horse s original rescue organization if the trainer is unable to complete the training and participate in the competition. 22. The purpose of this event is to showcase the talent and trainability of rescue horses and to provide an opportunity for trainers and horses to engage in safe competition for awards. Therefore, all horses entered into the competition should be gentle and safe to maneuver through the show grounds. Upon entry onto the show grounds, should a rescue horse be deemed unsafe by A Home for Every Horse and the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance that horse may be excused or uninvited to participate in the competition and adoption. The goal is for all trainers and horses to participate in the event as long as the horse is safe to do so. If there is a concern regarding the horse s training status, please call A Home for Every Horse at (970) 685-8062 prior to the competition. 23. Upon entry onto the show grounds, the trainer must provide current health certificate paperwork for all competing horses. In addition, if the horses are traveling from out-of-state the exhibitor must also provide a current Health Certificate as well as Coggins. 24. Upon entry onto the show grounds, competing rescue horses will be examined by a veterinarian or knowledgeable individual to determine the health and condition of the horse. Should a rescue horse be deemed in poor condition by a veterinarian or knowledgeable individual that rescue horse may be excused or uninvited to participate in the competition. Horses in poor body condition will NOT be able to compete. Upon being excused, the trainer will be required to surrender horse to the original rescue without a refund. 25. At the end of the competition the horse will go through an adoption sale. If the trainer wishes to adopt the horse, and failed to notify AHFEH and CUHA by January 1, 2018, the trainer must participate in the sale with all other potential adopters. Horses that do not receive the minimum bid will be returned to the rescue facility from which they originate from. It is the rescue facilities responsibility to provide transportation in this situation. 26. At least two bags of shavings and one stall per competing horse will be provided free of charge. Additional shavings will be available for purchase. One shared tack stall will also be provided free of charge (tack stall may be shared with up to three other individuals). All horses will be stalled together in the same area. Trainers are not allowed to place locks on horse stalls. 27. Exhibitors are responsible for bringing all tack, feed and supplies needed during the competition. 28. An arena will be available for warm up and scheduled practices. 29. Competition and demonstrations schedule to be announced. Class times and schedule are subject to change at any time, include day of competition. CONDUCT: Conduct shall be orderly, responsible, sportsmanlike and humane in the treatment of rescue horses, such as to promote the implementation of the event and fair competition. This includes, but is not limited to: conduct while trainers have rescue horses in their possession; conduct on the show grounds; conduct while trainers are wearing Equine Comeback logo wear off the show grounds; and includes the conduct of individuals traveling with trainers, spectators or event managers and all other person being present on show grounds. Any alleged unsportsmanlike or irresponsible conduct or any form of misconduct, such as illegal, indecent or profane, and inhumane treatment of horses are prohibited and shall be grounds for the disciplinary action against offending individuals. Further, event management may immediately expel offenders from the competition or show grounds in order to preserve the decorum of the show.
EQUINE COMEBACK CHALLENGE TREATMENT POLICY: Every rescue horse and all animals shall, at all times, be treated humanely and with dignity, respect and compassion. Any participant using abusive or excessive training techniques or being inhumane to a rescue horse in his/her care (determined excessive or abusive by a panel assigned by the Equine Comeback Challenge and A Home for Every Horse and consisting of a panel of licensed equine veterinarian(s) and/or respected horse industry professionals) may be removed from the contest and/or all future contests and training programs. If a participant s horse at any time presents a horse with questionable training/care related injuries (determined excessive or abusive by a panel assigned by the Equine Comeback Challenge and A home for Every Horse and consisting of a panel of licensed equine veterinarian(s) and/or respected horse industry professionals) the participant may be removed from the contest and/or all future contests and training programs. This policy is in addition to our event rules which are stated above. Signature of the Equine Comeback Challenge trainer application provides recognition of the Humane Treatment Policy. The following list, while in no way exhaustive, includes examples of unacceptable behavior and training techniques: No horse which appears to be emaciated, drawn or injured may be exhibited. Use of inhumane training techniques or methods such as striking horse with objects, excessive spurring and/or excessive jerking of reins. Any inhumane treatment which results in wounds. If a participant s horse at any time is presented with questionable training/care related injuries leading to a dismissal from the Equine Comeback Challenge training/competition; the rescue horse will be returned to the rescue WITHOUT a refund from A Home for Every Horse, Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance or the rescue. SPONSORSHIP: Equine Comeback Challenge as well as A Home for Every Horse has entered into corporate sponsorship agreements with a variety of companies. The Foundation asks that trainers honor those sponsorships. 1. Equine Comeback Challenge and A Home for Every Horse may supply shirts with sponsor logos for trainers to wear during the event. Trainers will be required to wear Equine Comeback Challenge event shirts during the actual competition, and will also be required to wear shirts during promotional and adoption events. a. During the freestyle competition, trainers will not be required to wear AHFEH supplied shirts 2. Trainers will be restricted from wearing apparel or equine products during the competition that have logos that are larger than 4 inches wide and 2 inches tall. 3. Trainers may have small banners and brochures or small printed materials in their stall area ONLY to promote their training business during the event. Exhibitors may not hang banners of any size in the common event areas promoting sponsors.
HORSE SELECTION AND PICK-UP DAY: Horse rescues in Colorado will nominate horses that they have available. These horses will then be transferred to Adams County Fairgrounds for overall physical condition evaluation. Horses of sound mind, body and of physical stature able to withstand a 90-day training program will then be available. All horses eligible for the program MUST meet the following criteria: Halter broke, able to lead and pick-up feet, at least two years in age, mare or gelding (stallions must be gelded at least 90 days prior). Horses that have NOT been started under saddle are preferred, but all levels of training will be considered. o The level of training that each horse has received at the rescue MUST be disclosed. An attempt to have all horses at the same level of training will be made, but cannot be guaranteed. December 2, 2017 at 10:00am, El Paso County Fairgrounds, Calhan CO There will be a trainers meeting on December 2 nd at the fairgrounds. Here trainers will be shown each horse that is available for the program. Lunch will be served during a question and answer session and then a lottery system for picking horses will take place. After this session each trainer will have to 15-20 minutes to review the horses they are interested in and then make a choice. This will continue until all trainers have chosen. Once a trainer selects a horse the following will be done: Brand Inspection (to remain in the name of the rescue, C/O the trainer. Pink travel copy goes with trainer, blue ownership copy goes to A Home for every Horse), weight taped, all promotional items received. COMPETITION GUIDELINES AND RULES:
The Equine Comeback Challenge event will be held at the National Western Complex in conjunction with the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo event in Denver, CO, beginning March 8, 2018. During the competition horses and trainers will be assessed by a panel of accomplished horse men and women. Preliminary classes will include a Pattern, Trail and a Working Cow Class. A finals competition consisting of Compulsory Maneuvers and a Freestyle Performance will be held for the top-10 highest scoring competitors. $15,000 in cash will be divided and awarded to the Top 10 Finalists. The prizes below are a minimum and additional money and/or prizes may be added. 1 st $5,000 2 nd $2,750 3 rd $1,750 4 th $1,500 5 th $1,250 6 th $1,000 7 th $750 8 th $500 9 th $300 10 th $200 1. Rescue horses must compete unless deemed unable to compete with proper paperwork completed and submitted to A Home for Every Horse by a licensed veterinarian. 2. Trainers are REQUIRED to stay and present their horse during the event. Trainers are asked to present their horse in a manner consistent with the appearance and level of training demonstrated during the competition. 3. Horses may not leave show grounds at any time after check in. 4. Trainers are encouraged to meet the adopter of their horse and are asked to leave food and water in the horse's stall prior to departing. 5. Rescue horses may be exhibited in English, Western or other appropriate equine styles and equipment. Exhibitors are asked to wear appropriate attire and head gear, which reflects the style of their riding. Silver on your saddles or sequins on your shirts will not earn you any extra points. 6. ILLEGAL equipment that will result in automatic disqualification from the class in which equipment was used in (regardless of discipline) includes: a. Snaffle bits with mouthpieces smaller than 5/16" and/or consisting of non-smooth material (such as twisted material), and b. bosals made of anything but rawhide, leather or rope with a flexible core (no metal of any kind). Use of any bit or equipment determined severe by the judges will not be allowed and will result in disqualification from the class in which it was used. c. Tie downs, martingales, mechanical hackamores, spade and high port bits are not allowed. The judge or steward may prohibit the use of any bit or equipment they consider inhumane or would tend to give a horse/rider an unfair advantage. d. National Snaffle Bit Association and American Quarter Horse Association rules are resources for preferred equipment including the diameter of mouthpieces, length of shanks and use of curb straps or chains. e. These rule are for the preliminary classes. In the Freestyle the use of tie downs and martingales will be allowed. Points may be deducted as the judges discretion for use of these training devices. 7. Horses may be shown with two hands in a snaffle bit or bosal or one hand in a curb, shank-type, correction bit or double bridle (also called a full bridle) no matter the age of the horse. Showing a horse with two hands when using a curb, shank-type, correction bit during the preliminary classes will not result in a zero but may result in a deduction in points. This rule overrides the AQHA, ASHA, NRCHA and RNSC bridle/bit regulations.
8. Training aides (whips, sticks, treats, and the tail end of lead rope, etc.) will not be restricted, although trainers should realize that horses shown with the use of training aides will be scored lower than those that do not use training aides. Any excessive use of a training aid (including striking the horse) will result in an automatic 10- point deduction from each judge in the class. 9. Excessive spurring or jerking on the reins or lead line during the competition will result in an automatic 10-point deduction from each judge off the overall class score. 10. Standard horse show courtesy to other contestants shall be displayed at all times during the event. No special props or training tools can be used by any trainer during warm up or open arena time that may negatively affect another trainer or horse. 11. Trainers will be given specific competition courses. Trainers will have an opportunity to walk through the course with the judges, without their rescue horses, prior to the competition. 12. No person shall alter, change or attempt to hide the natural marking and/or rubbed or raw skin of a horse by surgery, dye, powder or in any other manner. Trainers may clip/trim horses, or leave mane, tail, ears, muzzle and fetlocks natural. Use of false tails or extensions of the mane or tail are prohibited during the preliminary competition and will result in an automatic 10-point deduction from each judge off the overall class score. Costume-related tail/mane decorations will be allowed during the finals freestyle performance. Alteration of tail function (tail blocking, dead tails, etc.) is prohibited at any and all points during the competition and will result in disqualification. 13. No person shall administer ANY AND ALL drugs internally or externally to a rescue horse, either before or during the Equine Comeback Challenge competition or adoption. Any medication, drug, mechanical device or artificial appliance, which is of such character as, could affect or enhance the rescue horse s performance or appearance at the event is prohibited. If a rescue horse is receiving medication for therapeutic purposes, the trainer must submit a letter from their veterinarian to A Home for Every Horse event manager as to the reason for the medication and the prescribed amount. AHFEH AND/OR CUHA MANAGEMENT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO DRUG TEST ANY RESCUE HORSE IN THE COMPETITION. Positive tests may result in removal from the event, removal of reimbursement and prize money, return of a rescue horse to the appropriate rescue should the adopter wish to return the adopted rescue horse. In regard to herbal/natural supplements, trainers are cautioned against the use of medicinal preparations, tonics, pastes and products of any kind, the ingredients and quantitative analysis of which are not specifically known, as many of them may contain a forbidden substance. PRELIMINARY CLASS DESCRIPTION & SCORING A total of 220 points will be awarded for the three preliminary classes. 70 points for the pattern class, 100 points for the trail class and 50 points for the working cow class. Ranch Riding Pattern Class (70 Points) This class is intended to show the horse s willingness and ability to complete a pattern of generic horsemanship maneuvers. The class will follow the rules and scoring system of the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) and the pattern be chosen from the AQHA s Ranch Riding patterns. Judge will assess exhibitors showing in Western discipline accordingly. For example, the pattern may call for a 360 pivot judges will expect a horse shown under Western equipment to attempt to spin. A horse will be given credit for traveling with his head held in a natural position, ears alert and moving at a natural speed for the gait requested. Credit will also be given for making a smooth transition between gaits and for keeping the correct lead. Each rider will enter the arena with a preassigned score of 70 points. The rider and horse can then earn extra points for clean maneuvers or maneuvers that show a higher degree of difficulty and/or horsemanship skills. Points may be lost if the horse refuses, does not complete maneuver or has a hard time starting, preforming or completing each maneuver. See AQHA handbook for full class judging and scoring rules found at www.aqha.com. *Bit/Bridle rules will NOT follow AQHA handbook. See Competition Rules 5. See attached patterns and scoresheets for reference/sample.
Maneuvers may include but are not limited to: 1. Walk, Trot, Lope/Canter 2. Change directions while on the rail 3. Stop 4. Back 5. Pivots or turns to right and left 6. Lead Change (Flying or Simple) *More credit will be given for flying 7. Two-track 8. Side-pass 9. Maneuver over poles Trail Class (100 Points) This class is designed to show a horse's ability and willingness to perform several tasks that might be asked of him during the course of a normal trail ride or work day. Exhibitors will be asked to ride their horse through a course of generic obstacles and maneuvers. Exhibitors will be able to walk thru the course with the judge prior to the class. Each rider will have the ability to earn up to 10 points for each obstacle they encounter. The rider and horse will earn a higher score for clean maneuvers or maneuvers that show a higher degree of difficulty and/or horsemanship skills. Points may be lost if the horse refuses, does not complete maneuver or has a hard time starting, preforming or completing each maneuver. See ASHA handbook for full class judging, scoring and course set-up rules found at www.americanstockhorse.com. *Bit/Bridle rules will NOT follow ASHA handbook. See Competition Rules 5. See attached patterns and scoresheets for reference/sample Horses are not allowed during the walk-thru. The course and scoring will follow the rules of the American Stock Horse Association (ASHA) and will include but may not be limited to: 1. Walk over logs/poles 2. Trot over logs/poles 3. Lope over log/pole 4. Opening, Passing Through, Closing Gate 5. Ride Over Wooden Bridge 6. Side-Pass Obstacle 7. Back Through Obstacle 8. Rope Drag 9. *Additional elements may be added such as brush, artificial foliage, rain slickers, etc. Working Cow Class (50 Points Total) This class is intended to show the horse s willingness to work cattle. The course and scoring will follow the rules of the American Stock Horse Association Working Cow Horse Class for Novice (ASHA). Cow Horse Pattern (20 Points) - The rider will enter the arena and perform the cow horse pattern. After completing the cow horse pattern, the rider will face the cow end of the arena and call for a cow. Boxing (30 Points) - The rider will have 1 minute to work the cow. Time starts when the cow enters the arena. The cow shall be controlled on the entry end of the arena. See ASHA handbook for full class judging, scoring and course set-up rules found at www.americanstockhorse.com. FINALS DESCRIPTION & SCORING:
1. The top 10 Horses with the highest combined total scores from the preliminary classes will return for a finals competition that includes compulsory maneuvers and a freestyle performance. 2. Competitors will come into the finals with a clean slate. No previous scores will be counted toward the final placing. 3. Trainers will have up to 4 minutes to complete their freestyle performance music and time will start when competitor enters the arena. The time will end when the music that the competitor uses ends or 4 minutes, whichever comes first. For example, if the song you use runs 3:42 seconds your time will end at 3:42. If you use a song that runs 4:35, your time will be called at 4:00 and the music will stop at that point. 4. The completion of the compulsory maneuvers will take place within the freestyle performance. 5. For the freestyle performance, trainers will have four minutes to stage or set the arena. 6. Trainers must provide their own props and assistance for arena set up and tear down - it is the trainer's responsibility to make sure all props are cleared from the arena immediately following the conclusion of the freestyle performance, including hay, confetti, etc. 7. Props of pyrotechnic nature including fireworks, flares, firecrackers, rings of fire, etc. are not allowed and will result in disqualification. 8. Live "voice-overs" and/or commentary from the trainer and/or trainer representative are not allowed during the performance and will result in disqualification. 9. Music is a required component of the freestyle performance if the trainer does not turn in music during the finalists' meeting at the event, management may select music for him/her. Music must be submitted at least one week prior to the event in the form of an mp3 file. All music is subject to review and approval by CUHA staff. 10. Cattle will NOT be provided for the freestyle. 11. Other animals (dogs, additional horses, additional cattle, etc.) will NOT be allowed in the arena during the finals performance for any reason and will result in disqualification. 12. Other people (including children) will NOT be allowed in the arena during the finals performance for any reason other than to drive a vehicle to be used during the performance. If someone other than the trainer is driving a vehicle in the performance none of the occupants of the vehicle will be allowed to exit the vehicle while in the arena and the windows must be rolled up at all times (the vehicle, if driven by someone other than the trainer, must be closed-cab; gators, golf carts, ATV s, etc. will not be allowed and will result in disqualification). Other people are NOT allowed to act as props, ride or come in contact with the horse at any point during the performance and will result in disqualification. Other people may hand props to the trainer from outside the arena. 13. Horses are not allowed to trot or lope onto or into any moving or covered vehicles/trailers/props of any kind and will result in disqualification. 14. Horses are not allowed to trot or lope through any moving vehicles/trailers/props of any kind and will result in disqualification. 15. During the performance, once the horse s feet leave the arena floor (i.e. if the horse gets on top of a trailer, vehicle or any other obstacle) the trainer must either dismount or remain seated on the horse. The trainer is NOT allowed to stand, kneel, etc. on top of a horse that does not have all four feet on the arena floor and doing so will result in disqualification. 16. Trainers must wear appropriate footwear during the freestyle performance bare feet are not allowed and will result in disqualification. 17. Judges and/or CUHA staff may stop any performance deemed unsafe, dangerous or otherwise inappropriate. 18. Ties will be broken by the combined preliminary class scores 19. All items/props are subject to final review and approval by CUHA staff. A. Execution of Compulsory Maneuvers 45 total points per judge Contestants will be judged on the execution of 9 compulsory maneuvers. Each maneuver is worth five points. This score will reflect completion of the maneuver as well as the horse s level of willingness to execute the maneuvers in a relaxed and confident manner. The following maneuvers will be mandatory: 1. Stop and back
2. Lope/canter one full circle to the right 3. Lope/canter one full circle to the left 4. Lead change right to left 5. Lead change left to right 6. Pivot or spin 360 degrees to right 7. Pivot or spin 360 degrees to left 8. Side pass to the right 9. Side pass to the left Incorporation of maneuvers and their degree of difficulty (10 points). These maneuvers would include but are not limited to: side-pass, two tracking either direction, pulling or dragging, jumping, serpentines, rollbacks, roping, mounted shooting, lead changes, circles with variance in size and speed, stops, etc. B. Freestyle Performance 55 total points per judge: The freestyle portion of the finals competition encourages trainers to choose music, costumes and props which permit them to show the athletic abilities of their horse in a crowd appealing way. During the freestyle performance, contestants will be scored based on the following: C. Overall Horsemanship - 30 points per judge: Communication/partnership between horse and rider and the horse s overall willingness to perform and execute maneuvers correctly in a controlled, relaxed and confident manner (15 points). D. Artistic Interpretation - 30 points per judge: Components of Choreography the composition and arrangement of the ride in relation to the music and its rhythm, as well as the use of maneuvers, costumes, and/or props to enhance the performance (15 points). The WOW Factor level of originality and the overall entertainment value (15 points).
ADOPTION AUCTION GUIDELINES: Horses will be run through a sale at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo immediately following the freestyle. The minimum bid on each horse is $1,000. If this bid is not meet the horse will be returned to the rescue facility where it will be available for adoption. It is the rescue facility s responsibility to provide transportation in this situation unless other arrangement have been made. If the minimum bid is met or exceeded the proceeds will be divided 50/50 between the rescue facility and trainer. Fees from the brand inspection, auction fees and any additional cost will be subtracted from the total sale price. All adopters MUST complete an adoption application and contract prior to taking the horse home. Adopters/bidders will be bound by the adoption contract. If the winning bid refuses to fill out this required paperwork, then the adoption of that horse will be null and void and the horse will be returned to the rescue. Horses may be excluded from the sale for the following reasons only: The horse is not fit to go through the competition. This may include but not limited to body condition, lameness or injury. A representative of AHFEH or CUHA has the authority to remove any horse from the sale for any reason. The trainer feels that the horse may not be ready for the public, etc. still bucks, runs off or other behavioral issues. Horses in this situation MUST be returned to the rescue for further training. The trainer may then work with the rescue directly on helping with the adoption of the horse. If horse is returned to rescue, trainers are not eligible to receive compensation for training period. The trainer has found an adopter or is choosing to adopt the horse him/herself. If this is the case the deadline for notification of this is January 1, 2018. The price for the adoption may be worked out between the trainer and rescue, but is not to exceed $1,000. The deadline must be met with a completed form signed by both the trainer and the rescue. All individual adoptions must be approved by the rescue. There will be absolutely NO exceptions to this rule. ALL horses in the program that have not be opted out by this date MUST run through the sale.
By signing below, you agree and understand all of the above (pages 2 14) terms and conditions of training and competing in the Equine Comeback Challenge Printed Name Signature Date For more information on Equine Comeback Challenge events, please call: Mariah Hammerschmidt (970)685-8062 Dawn Brunetti (303)968-8381
Photograph & Video Release Form I hereby grant permission to the rights of my image, likeness and sound of my voice as recorded on audio or video tape without payment or any other consideration to A Home for Every Horse, the Equine Comeback Challenge, and Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance. I understand that my image may be edited, copied, exhibited, published or distributed and waive the right to inspect or approve the finished product wherein my likeness appears. Additionally, I waive any right to royalties or other compensation arising or related to the use of my image or recording. I also understand that this material may be used in diverse educational settings within an unrestricted geographic area. Photographic, audio or video recordings may be used for the following purposes: conference presentations social media to promote event informational presentations By signing this release, I understand this permission signifies that photographic or video recordings of me may be electronically displayed via the Internet or in the public educational setting. There is no time limit on the validity of this release nor is there any geographic limitation on where these materials may be distributed. This release applies to photographic, audio or video recordings collected as part of the sessions listed on this document only. By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have completely read and fully understand the above release and agree to be bound thereby. I hereby release any and all claims against any person or organization utilizing this material for educational purposes. Full Name Street Address/P.O. Box City Prov/Postal Code/Zip Code Phone Fax Email Address Signature Date
Competition Agreement I,, agree to the following agreement: 1. I understand that by competing in the Equine Comeback Challenge and completing a brand inspection for the rescue horse used in the Equine Comeback Challenge I am legally responsible for the humane care and well-being of the horse and I am responsible for all costs associated with the care of this animal. 2. I understand the horse has been admitted from conditions that may affect its health, behavior and personality. 3. I understand that A Home for Every Horse and the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance warrants that it has no knowledge of any vicious or destructive tendencies on the part of the horse. I acknowledge and understand that animals by nature are somewhat unpredictable, and that the animal may cause damage to persons or objects associated with the caregiver or caregiver s premises. I nevertheless agree to assume that risk. 4. I understand that A Home for Every Horse and the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance will not incur any sort of liability, expense or injury associated with any illness or disease my animals or neighboring animals may contract from the rescue horse I have adopted. 5. I understand that A Home for Every Horse and the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance will not incur any sort of liability or expense associated with any illness, disease or injury any person may contract from the horse I have adopted. 6. I understand that A Home for Every Horse and the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance must be contacted if any veterinary procedures are required during the 90 days of training on this adopted horse. I understand that any veterinary costs will be at my own expense. 7. Farrier care is my responsibility while this horse is in my care and can be performed by a farrier of my choice. 8. While responsible for care of the animal in a reasonable and humane manner, I am liable for all veterinary care, however, will not be pursued by A Home for Every Horse, the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance or associated rescue 9. I understand that A Home for Every Horse and the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance is not responsible for any injury caused by the horse I have adopted. 10. I understand and give permission to A Home for Every Horse and the Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance, its employee(s) or agent(s) the right to inspect where the rescue horse will be housed to assure proper facilities are in place for the animal. I also give permission for ongoing inspections. 11. I understand that during the 90 days of training if the horse has major medical related issues that occurred previous to the 90-day training period that deem him a companion horse that the horse will need to be surrendered back to the rescue and a brand inspection must be completed. 12. If the rescue horse is deemed untrainable, the trainer must notify CUHA board member Dawn Brunetti (303)968-8381 no later than 30 days after the horse is picked up by the trainer. 13. Horses will be body taped prior to leaving the horse pick up day. Each trainer must weight tape their horse every 30 days and send picture to AHFEH Printed Name Signature Date
Application Checklist o First page of application completed in its entirety o Biography submitted o Trainer photo o Written submission for application o Signed rules and regulations page (page 13) o Completed and signed photo and video release form (page 14) o Completed and signed competition agreement (page 15) If any of these items are not turned in, you will not be considered for this event. Once you have completed this application please feel free to return your application by October 31, 2017 to: By Mail: A Home for Every Horse c/o Mariah Hammerschmidt 5720 Flatiron Parkway Boulder, CO 80301 Or by Email: mhammerschmidt@aimmedia.com or Dawn Brunetti 13818 Harrison Street Thornton, CO 80602 Or by Email: dbrunetti@live.com