MIDLAND ASSOCIATION OF RIDING CLUBS Rules

A full printed copy of these rules is available at £2.75 including PP
Please send your cheques to the address below

The Midland Association of Riding Clubs
Greenfield House, Station Road, Wombourne, South Staffs WV5 9EL

The Midland Championships
Event Managed by Midarc

2009 RULES

Introduction
In preparing these rules, we have taken the basics from the major Equestrian Associations and Breed Societies.
We have then made some adjustments to achieve what we consider to be acceptable for our level of competition and competitors.
Most shows today do have Public Liability and Employers Liability Insurance, although it is strongly recommended that competitors have their own accident and public liability insurance and make sure that their horses/ponies are also adequately insured for the type of event that they are competing in as in the majority of cases, show liability insurance will not cover accidents caused or involving the horses and their riders.
It is also the Competitors responsibility to carry with them at all times their Horse Passport and Vaccination Certificates (if required) , Shows and Show Organisers cannot be held responsible if there are any spot checks by Trading Standards and you do not have them with you
Child Protection & Awareness
As an Association we have a duty to protect our younger competitors, and it is for all of us to be aware and take action to protect children.
Various associations now recommend that Judges do not touch the animal or the rider whilst judging a class. In certain classes, we cannot see how a judge can do the job properly without lifting saddle flaps, picking up ponies/horses feet etc.
If any competitor / owner / parent feels that they do NOT want to be judged in this manner, they must state this to the ring steward before the class commences, so that the judge may judge the whole class in a similar manner.
If it is felt that a Judge or steward has acted in an inappropriate way then the witness to this should the put details of the incident in writing and hand it into the Show Secretary within 30 minutes of the incident. The disciplinary committee will then investigate the matter after further statements have been taken.
We guarantee that confidentiality will be maintained at all times.

Amended April 12th 2009

The Midland Association of Riding Clubs (M.A.R.C.) is a privately owned Company

1. The affairs of M.A.R.C.
Are directed by its Chairman, Secretary and Directors as elected by the the shareholders
2. Financial Year
The Financial year will run from 1st March of the current year - 28th February of the following year
3. Executive Committee
a) The Executive Committee will be made up of the Chairman, Show Director,
Championship Show Manager, Secretary, Business Development Officer, Show Liaison Officer, and the Stewards of the Association.
b) The Stewards of the Association are appointed for a period of two years and are voluntary representatives from M.A.R.C. member Clubs and / or shows.
c) There is no maximum period for which a steward may serve
d) The Stewards will meet a minimum of three times per year.
e) A Meeting of the Executive Committee may take place with a minimum of three stewards, and the Chairman and Secretary in attendance.
4. Powers and Duties of the Executive Committee
a) The Stewards will debate and rule on Rule Changes, Disciplinary Matters and other matters pertinent to the successful running of the Association.
b) The Stewards will also have the power to advise and rule on matters arising, when they are in attendance at any Association Club member Show and if approached by the Show Secretary for their help and / or advice.
c) Stewards will not be able to advise or rule on any matter unless so invited.
d) At any events organised and run solely by M.A.R.C the stewards may offer their help or advice if such an occasion occurs and without invitation.
e) Their decision in these matters will be endorsed by the Executive Committee at the earliest possible opportunity.
5. Shows and Competitions
For the purpose of these Rules
a) A show is regarded as such by whatever name it may be called, for example; horse show, gymkhana agricultural show etc
b) An affiliated show, is a show for which the show organising committee has received affiliation to M.A.R.C. Any Show whether it is a one off event or a regular event may apply to affiliate to the Association.
c ) A Show may be organised by any Riding Club, Pony Club, Riding School, Livery Yard, group of friends or an individual
6. Affiliation of Shows
a) Applications for affiliation must be submitted on the official affiliation form to reach the M.A.R.C. office by 1st April for all summer show dates.
b) Affiliations received after 1st April will be granted if that show date or dates proposed do(es) not clash with a show registered before 1st April of that year.
c) In all Cases, Affiliation will be withheld on the grounds that the show date or dates proposed clash with the date or dates of another show or event being held within a 25 mile radius of the proposed event.
d) In all cases the affiliation of shows will decided on a first come first served basis.
e) On acceptance, an Affiliation Card will sent to the Show Secretary, and should be displayed so that all competitors can view if required
f) By the 7th of April for all pre April 1st Affiliations, all qualifying cards will be dispatched to the show secretary
g) Qualifying Cards for late Affiliations will be dispatched within 7 days of acceptance of the affiliation
7. Affiliation Fees
a) Affiliation to M.A.R.C will be charged at the rate of £20 per annum for multi show dates and £15 per annum for single show dates
b) The Affiliation Fee must accompany the Affiliation Form
c) If the Show Dates are not acceptable, then the fee will returned with an explanatory letter within 14 days of the application
d) All Affiliated Clubs will have their show dates displayed on the MARC web site, a home information page, and either their schedule published on the web site or a link will be providedto their own web site
8. Individual Membership
This Scheme has been postponed until further notice
9. Schedules
a) A Draft Copy of the Show Schedule should accompany the Affiliation Form. If this is not possible, then a draft should be sent to the M.A.R.C Office at least two months preceding the actual show date
b) The following information should be included within the show schedule
Name of the show
Date or Dates of the Show
Venue
Name, address and telephone number of the show secretary
Conditions for each competition being held, including entry qualification and reference to any specific M.A.R.C. Rules
General Show Conditions, Regulations and Rules, Entry Fees
c) A Final schedule should be sent to the M.A.R.C office when available, but not less than 14 days before the first show date.
d) The M.A.R.C. website at www.midarc.co.uk is available for schedules to be published. To take advantage of this free service, clubs should submit their schedule as either a Word document via e- mail or by disk, or alternatively in the body of an e-mail.
Technical help is available for anyone just making their way into this area of web technology.
If Clubs wish to submit hard copy, a fee of £25 will made for inputting on to the web site. All hard Copy should be clearly typed or in legible handwriting.
10. Show Judges & Officials
a) It is important in the interests of providing the competitor with a true and fair competition, to find well recommended and respected judges for all disciplines.
b) The Association now publishes on the web site a list of approved and trainee judges, the association encourages member clubs and shows to use these judges where they can.
The Marc Recommended Judges are graded as follows;
Assistant Judge - A probationary Judge is one who is learning the Trade, should work with a well qualified Judge or one of our Supervisory Judges, or they are allowed to work with either another Assistant, Associate Judge or Judge. These probationary Judges should not be asked or allowed to judge on their own without special dispensation from the Association
Associate Judge - After the first years training, Assistant Judges on approval by the Judges committee, move up to Associate Judge. An Associate Judge may act on their own but not for MARC qualifying Classes. They may Judge these when accompanied by a Supervisory Judge or Judge.
Judge - This is someone who has successfully completed our Training Course, and has been approved by our Senior Judges Panel. These Judges may Judge all MARC Showing Qualifiers without an Assistant, but may also work with Assistant Judges to help them with their training.
Supervisory Judge - This is someone who has completed the Judges Training or has over 5 years experience in Judging to the Standards expected by the Association. These Judges may Judge at the Championships and at all Qualifying Shows. A panel of three Supervisory Judges will empowered to assess all Assistant Judges, Associate Judges and Judges
When Booking we do recommend that all Judges and Officials are paid a minimum of 45p mile for expenses
Judges should be provided with a copy of the MARC Rule Book in order that the can familiarize themselves with the current MARC rules
Judges with a minimum of 3 years judging experience or currently registered on any recognized board ie; BSPS, Ponies UK, Chaps etc may apply to the Association for inclusion on the approved Judges List
a) Ring Stewards should have some knowledge of what is expected of them in and around the ring they are stewarding. The Show Secretary or other appointed person should provide this information either verbally or in writing before the show starts.
b) Judges of any grade are not allowed to officiate in a ring in which a member of their family is
competing, or have produced or helped produce any pony / horse that is competing in that ring that day
M.A.R.C. will be running a short course for budding Ring Stewards and Trainee Judges each spring. All Affiliated shows are encouraged to send along suitable recruits. Details of these courses will be sent out with the M.A.R.C. Newsletter.
11. Conduct and Discipline
Every show member and its officials of the Association have, by completion of their membership / and or entry agreed to abide by the Rules of the Association, and not to behave in a manner which could deemed as bringing the Association or Sport into disrepute
12. Conduct of Riders, Parents & Owners
No Show Official, Rider, Parent, Owner competing, or any spectator at any show affiliated to the Association shall;
a) Conduct themselves in a manner which is offensive to other Riders, Parents or the general public
b) Argue at a show with a judge or with a show official or use abusive or threatening language or behave with incivility or contempt towards a judge or show official
The Midland Association of Riding Clubs have adopted a Zero Tolerance approach to the type of abuse as in Rules 12a & 12b. Any club should report any such abuse to the Association. The Association will then report this fact to all the clubs and shows signed up to support the Zero Tolerance Initiative, the show official, member, rider, competitor, owner will then be automatically suspended from all events organized by these clubs. The matter will then be referred to the Stewards Committee in the normal manner. The show official, member, rider, competitor or owner will remain suspended until such time as the Stewards Committee haveresolved the issue
c) Ill treat in any way a horse or pony at a show whether inside or outside the ring areas
d) Misuse or use excessively a whip or spurs
Allow a Horse or Pony in the collecting ring on or in the vicinity of the showground to;
1. Be rapped
2. Jump a pole or obstacle that is held by hand
3. Jump a Fence in the wrong direction
4. To be worked in for a Junior or Lead Rein Class by an Adult (17yrs & over)
e) Unreasonably fail or refuse to assist the Association Stewards, Officials or Show Officials in their investigation of complaints of misconduct by members of the Association.
f) Compete as a Rider or an owner in a competition for which the Horse/Pony and or rider are not
eligible
13. Complaints of Misconduct
Any person wishing to make a complaint of misconduct by another rider, owner, parent or member show, must do so in writing to the Association.
If after preliminary investigation the Association then considers that a fair case does indeed exist which cannot dealt with under the current rules, the matter will then be referred to thenext meeting of the Stewards committee for consideration.
14. Notice of Complaint
Notice of the time and place of the Stewards meeting will be sent to the member, rider, owner, parent or show against whom the complaint has been made at least three weeks before the hearing date,
together with the details of the complaint and the names of any witnesses
15. Rights of Riders, Owners, Parents and Shows at Stewards Meetings
a) A show official rider, owner, parent or show against whom a complaint has been made may appear in person to answer the complaint against him, and may present oral, written or visual evidence and may call witnesses in their defence.
If the person or show against whom the complaint has been made fails to appear, then the stewards may reach a decision and impose a penalty in their absence
16. Powers of the Stewards to impose Penalties
If after considering all the evidence the Stewards decide that the complaint is justified, they are
empowered to impose any or several of the following penalties
a) The rider, owner, parent or show be reprimanded and cautioned as to their future conduct
b) That the rider, owner or responsible parent shall have their rights of entry to any event organised by the Midland Association of Riding Clubs withdrawn for a specified period
c) That any horse/pony belonging to a rider, owner or parent against whom a complaint has been
justified be barred from any event organised by the Midland Association of Riding Clubs for a specified period
d) That the rider, owner or parent against whom a complaint has been justified be barred from
competing in Midland Association of Riding Clubs qualifying competitions.
e) All details of such complaints will be made known to all member clubs to enforce such penalties, and will also be made public on the Association's web site
17. Notice of Appeal
Any rider, owner or parent who is dissatisfied with the decision of the stewards, may, within 21 days make a written appeal to the chairman of the association who will then call a meeting of four member clubs to review the case and the stewards decision. Rules 13, 14 will apply
18. Indebtedness to the Association
Any rider, owner or parent who fails to pay their entry fees at any event organised by the Association or who has made payment by cheque which is subsequently dishonoured, will be given 21 days to settle the outstanding account in full plus an administration fee of £20.
If they fail to do this, then they will be automatically suspended from any further events organised by the association and any awards made at any events will be withdrawn. Details will then be notified to all member clubs, and posted on the association web site
19. Indebtedness to Affiliated Shows
A Rider, Owner or Parent should not leave a showground owing money to the host show, or if a cheque issued is subsequently dishonoured, not take immediate steps to reimburse the show for the outstanding amount and their out of pocket expenses.
The show will be entitled to make a complaint to the association; the association will then notify the rider, owner or parent of the outstanding debt.
Perpetual Challenge Trophies and Awards which are not returned to the relevant clubs - clubs will be entitled to charge to cover the costs of replacing Trophies not returned plus a reasonable amount to cover any recovery costs involved.
If this is not paid, then the Show will be entitled to make a complaint to the association; the association will then notify the rider, owner or parent of the outstanding debt.
Where the Association becomes involved, the amount due should be settled within 21 days through the Associations office.
If they fail to do this, then they will be automatically suspended from any further events organised by the association and any awards made at any events will be withdrawn. Details will then be notified to all member clubs, and posted on the association web site
Failure to abide by Rules 18 & 19 may affect your ability to compete at any affiliated show

The General Rules & Conditions which are in force at all events organised by the Midland Association of Riding Clubs

We advise that you read the current Rules and Conditions

20. General Disclaimer
The Committee shall not be held responsible for any incident pertaining to any animal, person or
property whilst competing at the Midland Championships or at other qualifying shows held throughout the year. It is deemed a condition of entry that each entrant shall indemnify thepromoters or committee against any legal action arising from such an incident.
21. Schedule Changes
The Committee reserve the right to amend the schedule as may be required and without prior notice
22. Judges Decisions
In all Classes the Judges decision is final, the only exception to this will be where scores have been added up incorrectly, times have been misread, or by proven cheating by a competitor. We cannot under any circumstances overturn a Judges decision where the awards are based upon an opinion eg: Showing or Dressage Classes.
23. Hard Hats
Hard Hats to the current British Standard should be worn and chin straps fastened at all times whilst mounted. Failure to do this may result in the offender being asked to leave the show ground.
Beaglers, Toppers and Bowlers may be worn when in ridden classes. It is however, a condition of entry that all competitors riding in Beaglers, Toppers and Bowlers do so at their own risk, and should be covered by their own personal accident and public liability insurance.
24. Competition Rules
Showjumping - the Rules of the British ShowJumping Association will be used as guide-lines. Where the rules of MARC differ, then these will take precedence
Showing - all showing - In hand and Ridden - is run under the Rules as devised by the Association.
In all circumstances the Association will have used the Rules of various Breed Societies and other Associations as a basis, but the M.A.R.C. rules will always take precedence.
Dressage - The Rules of the British Dressage Society will be used as guide-lines, where the rules of MARC differ, then these will take precedence.
Footnote : The rules to all classes have been laid down to try and achieve a fair level of competition for all.
25. Dogs
All Dogs must be kept on leads and be under control at all times
26. Refusal of Entries
The Committee reserve the right to refuse any entry to any class by any competitor without reason
27. Withdrawal from the Championships and cancellation of the Championships
The Committee understands that things do go wrong, illness of Horse or Rider etc and accepts that sometimes Riders will have to withdraw for a variety of reasons.
Withdrawals should be made no later than 7 days prior to the Championship.
Refunds will be made to all Competitors who withdraw more than 7 days before the event. However, a charge of £5.00 per class will be made to cover administration costs, and all refunds are made approximately 14 days after the Championships to allow for cheques received to go through the Bank Clearing system.
If Stables have been booked, a charge of £10 per stable will be deducted from the total stable charges including deposit, then refunds are made approximately 14 days after the Championships to allow for cheques received to go through the Bank Clearing system,
Because of the Costs involved, unfortunately Competitors who withdraw within the 7 day period will not receive a refund unless either a Doctors or Vets Certificate is received within 10 working days of the end of the Championships
Competitors who subsequently cancel their cheques will be expected to re-imburse the Association for the Cheque Cancellation Fee incurred, which currently stands at £25 plus the Administration Fee of £5.00 per class.

Cancellation of Championships - if for any reason it is necessary to cancel the Championships, refunds will be made within 28days of the Championships. There will be an administration charge of £5 per class deducted, and £10 per stable booked. The directors also reserve the right to make any further charge to ensure the financial future of MIdarc is not placed in Jeopardy.

28. Riders Ages
Riders ages are taken at the 1st January of the year in which they are competing.
Lead Rein Riders are 8 years & Under
Junior Riders are 16 years & Under
Riders 13 years and over may compete on Horses in Horse Classes except where stated
Seniors are aged 17yrs & over
Ponies may only be ridden in Pony Classes by Riders of the correct age for that class unless otherwise stated
29. Lead Rein Riders
Must be aged 8 yrs & Under on January 1st of the year in which they are competing
Lead Rein Riders may only compete in Lead Rein, First Ridden & Tiny Tots Best Rider Classes.
No Child under the age of 3 years will be allowed to compete except for Lead Rein Turnout
30. Pony and Horse Measurements
Ponies are 14.2hh & Under, except where the class restrictions differ, and may not compete in any Horse Showjumping Competition.
Horses are over 14.2hh.
A recognised Height Certificate will be requested to confirm the height of the Horse/Pony if a complaint is made against that Horse & Pony. Horse Passports to be carried at all times and produced if requested
31. Horse / Pony Age
All Horse and Ponies must be aged 4 years & over to compete in Ridden Classes, ages will be taken from the 1st January of the year in which they are competing.
32. Stallions
Entries for Stallions for both In Hand and Ridden Classes will be accepted, providing that the Secretary of the Qualifying Show provides a written statement regarding the behaviour of the Stallion and the conditions of the Class allow for such entries.
When competing with Stallions, the owner and / or rider must wear a orange armband, and if possible a stallion bridle disc on the horse or pony
Children under the age of 17 will not be allowed to ride Stallions in any class.
Only Seniors (over 16yrs) may show Stallions in an In Hand Class, and should also wear protective head gear.
33. Outside Assistance
Any form of outside assistance is not allowed, this includes giving instructions both verbally and by sign from the ring side, passing competitors whips etc. The Show Officials, Judges and Ring Stewards have full authority to give verbal warnings, and if not heeded disqualify that competitor from the class and also ask the perpetrators to leave the showground.
34. Warming Up of Ponies
If Parents or any older Competitor are found to be warming up a Pony before a Class other than the Rider entered, therefore giving the Rider a possible unfair advantage over their fellow competitors all entries for that Rider will be cancelled, the Competitor disqualified and no refunds will be given.
Horses and Ponies must only be warmed up in designated warm up areas if provided by the Show Organisers. This rule applies for all shows and qualifying events
35. Trophies
All trophies should be returned, cleaned and engraved by the 31st July of each year. Failure to do this will result in the Association ordering new Trophies and the relevant competitor being charged for them at a minimum charge of £75.00
Competitors who fail to return their trophies may also be disqualified from receiving future trophies and their entries for future Association organised events may be refused. Under no circumstance is the practice of returning the trophies on the day acceptable.
At the Championships, a deposit of £15 per trophy will be required before the competitor will be allowed to take the trophy off the showground.
This deposit will be forfeited if the trophy(ies) is (are) not returned by the 31st July.
36. Prizes & Prize Money
At the Championships Prize Money and / or prizes may be awarded to all In Hand & Ridden Section Champions. But the Prize and / or Prize Money will be withheld if the Competitor fails to come forward for the Overall Championship at the end of the day.
37. Fall Of Rider and / or Horse in Showing Classes
Following a fall of Horse and or Rider in any Showing Class, the Competitor - at the judges discretion may be asked to retire and will not be considered in the final judging, this also applies for voluntary dismounts for whatever purpose.
38. Mucking Out
Lorries and Trailers must not be mucked out on the showground
39. Riders Dress and Equipment
Proper Dress to be worn at all times, if in doubt please check the MARC guide-lines on the web site.
All competitors with hair longer than shoulder length, must either wear a hair net or have securely tied and look tidy. No jewellery allowed
40. Bitless Bridles for Ponies
Bitless bridles not allowed in any class for ponies, unless a vets certificate is provided with the entry stating that it is necessary to use one for medical reasons
41. Hors Concour
In all Showjumping, Dressage and Showing Classes, no horse/pony will be allowed to compete Hors Concours, and then subsequently compete in that ring at a later stage the same day
42. Clashes of Classes
Whilst the organisers will do everything within their power to avoid any clashes of classes for competitors, it is inevitable that this will occasionally happen.
At the Championships, the following rules will apply
a) Once a Class has started, no competitor will be allowed to enter or leave the ring until the Class has been finished being judged.
b) If a Competitor misses their Class because of a Clash of Classes, there will be no refunds
43. Class Restrictions
Class restrictions as specified in the schedule must be observed at all times.
No Rider may ride more than one Horse / Pony in any one Showing Class
No Horse / Pony may be ridden by more than one Rider in the same class.
No Rider may ride more than three Ponies in any Pony Showjumping class
No Rider may ride more than four Horses in any one Horse Showjumping class
44. Objections
Any objections must be brought to the Organisers attention within 48 hours of the incident, and be
supported by the complaint in writing, and a £30 deposit which will be refunded if the objection stands.
If there is an objection raised as to the age of the Rider, age or height of Horse /Pony and its eligibility for that class, then the result of the class in question will not be confirmed until such time that the Owner / Rider can provide the organisers with proof that they do indeed meet the criteria laid down for competing in that class.
The Organisers also reserve the right to raise objections if they believe there is an infringement of the Rules, in this instance the Rider / Owner will be informed in writing. A reply will be expected with 21 days, at which time the organisers will make a decision on the outcome of the complaint.
If the Organisers cannot make what they believe to be a fair and unbiased decision, then the matter will be presented to the first available meeting of the organising committee. Their decision will be notified to the Rider / Owner as soon as possible afterwards and certainly within 10 days by post or e-mail.
At no time will the organisers reveal the identity of the complainant.
Only under very exceptional circumstances, ie new evidence etc, will an appeal be allowed against the decision of the organising committee.
Any appeal will be heard by a minimum of three members from member clubs who have not been involved at the previous hearing.
At the Midland Championships a ground Jury consisting of an Executive Chairman and two elected members from MARC Member Clubs will be sitting on the day, to hear all complaints. These must be brought to the Secretary's attention within 30 minutes of the incident, and be supported by the complaint in writing and a £30 deposit which will be refunded if the objectionstands.
Complaints may only be made by the owner of the horse/pony, rider of the horse/pony, or parent of the child competing in the class for which the complaint is made.
45. Association Web Site - www.midarc.co.uk
The Association Web Site will be used to display the results of the Championships. The Web Site may also be used to display the results of any complaints and also the names of those competitors who are in debt to the Association or any of its member clubs and shows. These will be displayed until such time as the debt has been honoured. All Clubs and Shows willalso be provided with this information, and entries may be refused by these clubs.
46. Midland Championship Rules
The Rules appertaining to each individual class may not be printed in full in the Show Schedule,
however a complete copy is available on the web site and can be requested by e-mail, fax or letter.
Each Individual Club / Show Secretary will also have a copy of these rules that can be viewed on the showground.
47. Midland Championship Qualification Details
a) Advice The number of qualifying places awarded per class is as follows;
Up to 5 starters 1 qualifying place
6 - 10 starters 2 qualifying places
11 - 15 starters 3 qualifying places
16 - 20 starters 4 qualifying places
then 1 qualifying place per extra 5 starters
a) In all Showjumping Classes, qualifiers must have jumped clear in the first round, in the event of there being no clear rounds, the eventual winner will be the only one to qualify.
b) If Competitors have already qualified, then places must be passed down the line, but no awards should be made past sixth place - except when Rule 47a applies
c) On qualifying the Competitor will be handed a qualifying certificate that must be completed and returned to the Associations office within 14 days of the event, or may be completed on line at www.midarc.co.uk
d) It is essential that all the relevant information should be filled in, e-mail addresses should be printed and be clear. The organisers will have no responsibility for any incorrect e-mail addresses.
e) Competitors qualifying after the 1st August 2009 must ensure that their qualifying cards are returned within 5 days.
f) Competitors qualifying at any shows on the 15th -16th August, must e-mail the organisers with the details on the day following the qualifying show, the qualifying certificate must be sent the same day by first class post.
g) On receipt of the qualifying certificate, the show office will allocate a Rider Number for each rider / horse or pony combination. These details will be posted on the internet within 7 days of receipt, this will enable competitors to check if their cards have been received
h) On or around 1st July 2009, all riders who supplied e-mail addresses will be notified by e-mail, the web site where they can view their rider number and download a schedule and entry form. Following this, all subsequent cards received will be notified on a weekly basis until 10th August, following this date, notification will be done on a daily basis.
i) After 19th August no information will be sent out at all. There will be no exceptions to this rule.
j) Riders who have not supplied an e-mail address but have provided a Stamped Self Addressed envelope will receive their schedule and other information around the 22nd July. Following this date, any further schedules requested in this way will be dealt with on a daily basis.
k) Entries will be only accepted with the correct entry fee and on the correct entry form.
All Postal and / or E-Mail Entries to the Midland Championship will close on at 5pm on Thursday 20th August 2009
l) Entries may be paid by the following methods;
Cash, Cheque, Internet banking or Pay Pal- if Internet banking is used then an e-mail must be sent informing us of this method of payment, the Rider number must also be quoted along with details of the riders entries.
The correct entry form must also be sent via e-mail or post.
If Pay Pal Banking is used, please let us know by e-mail so that we can send you a Pay Pal Invoice. Payment by this method must be made within 5 days, failure to do this will render your entry null and void.
m) Late Entries will not be accepted under any circumstances
There will be in 2009 a Late Entry Show, which will be held on Sunday 23rd August 2009 at South Staffs, Prestwood Park Near Stourbridge.
This show is being held for those competitors who wish to qualify for extra classes, and for those who have forgotten to post or mislaid their previous qualification slips or entry forms.
Only qualifications awarded on the day will be eligible for a late entry at the Championships. So, if you not sent in your qualifications or entry forms, please do not ask us
n) The Association accepts no liability for qualifying certificates not being received within the time scales laid down, nor does it accept any liability for entry fees and / or entry forms not being received at its offices.
We in particular offer the following advice.
On receipt of your card at a qualifying show, read it, complete it, and send it off first class post the
following day.
If you do have any queries, now is the time to ring us.
If you are going on holiday or even if you think you will not be able to attend the Championships, for whatever reasons it is still in your interests to return your card and register.
We will not accept late registrations, and most important do not rely on someone else to post it for you, make sure you do it yourself
Approx 14 days later, go to the web site at www.midarc.co.uk and check that you have been allocated a rider number, if it is not there then contact us immediately.
However, no matter what the circumstance, legitimate excuse etc, we will not accept any qualifying cards after the 20th August 2009 except in the exception of those awarded on the23rd August 2009 Late Qualifying Show
Cards received for qualifying shows after the 16th August will automatically included as a Winter Qualifier

Competition Rules which are used at all events organised by the Midland Association of Riding Clubs

Showjumping for Ponies and / or Horses
These rules will be used at the Midland Championships for Teams and Individuals, and should also be used by all Clubs and Shows in their Qualifying Classes
48. Dress
a) Competitors must at all times wear correct riding clothes
b) Long Hair - hair may be in a net or if not, must not hang lower than the shoulder line, long hair may be tied into plaits or bunches, but must look tidy.
c) Hats - all riders must wear protective headgear at all times when mounted, this should include a retaining harness secured to the shell at more than two points. Chinstraps should be properly adjusted and fastened.
All Hats should conform to the current BSI standard
d) Jackets - should be either a plain colour or a Hacking Jacket
e) Shirts - White or Pastel Coloured shirts with white collars and ties or hunting stocks.
Ladies / Girls may wear white or pastel coloured showjumping shirts with high white collars, no tie need be worn with these.
f) Pony Club members may wear their Pony Club Ties
g) Breeches/Jodhpurs - must be white, pale yellow or fawn in colour
h) Boots - Riding or Jodhpur boots, plain black leather, not suede. Gaiters cut in the traditional riding boot style may be worn
i) Gloves - optional
j) Body Protectors - optional, however in extremely hot weather, judges may allow riders to compete without jackets providing they are wearing a body protector
k) Chaps & Half Chaps - not permitted
l) Prize Giving - riders are required to parade mounted and properly dressed to receive their awards.
Failure to do so may incur disqualification
m) Spurs - of an excessive and severe design are not to be worn. The necks should not exceed 3cms long.
Spurs should also be worn in the traditional manner. The misuse of spurs is an offence under Rule 11.c, but riders should also take care that members of the public or other riders and owners do not take offence at the misuse of spurs which would be contrary to Rule 11a
n) Jewellery - should not be worn at any time whilst mounted.
49. Saddlery and Equipment
a) No item of Saddlery or equipment is to be misused in any way
b) Martingales - the only martingales allowed in the ring are standing and / or running martingales.
c) Only standing and running martingales may be used on ponies anywhere at the show site
d) Snaffles - a gag snaffle may be used. A Market Harborough rein may be used, but only with a plain snaffle or gag. All other running or check reins are prohibited in the ring.
e) Whips - should be no longer than 75cms nor less than 45cms.
Whips with the ends missing are forbidden
50. Practice Area
a) A practice area should be provided close to the competition ring.
If possible two fences, 1 upright and 1 spread fence should be provided.
If two Main Showjumping rings are used, then there should if possible be a practice area for each ring.
If this is not possible then the practice area should be made as large as possible
Practice Areas should be roped off, and a notice providing a warning to the public of the dangers of entering the area
b) Practice Fences should be marked in red on the right hand side and white on the left, so they are jumped the right way. Practice Areas should be checked by a show steward frequently during the day to ensure this rule is not being ignored. Riders caught jumping fences the wrong way may be
disqualified from the competition they have entered
c) The height of the practice fences should not exceed the height of the jumps for the competition in progress
51. The Course
a) For each competition should consist of between 8 and 12 fences for all qualifying classes.
The fences should be inviting and varied in their overall shape and appearance.
b) At the Midland Championships (unless stated in the schedule), the first round heights and spreads will exceed the qualifying classes by a minimum of 3".
c) Jump Off Fences - may be increased by approx 3" from the heights used in the first round
d) Clear Rounds - If there have been no Clear Rounds in the first round of the competition, then the fences used in the jump off to determine the placings should not be raised.
e) Course Plan - should be available to all riders at the ring entrance or from the ring
steward. The plan should show the course to be taken and also the jump off fences to be used.
f) Start and Finish - the start should be no more than 25m nor less than 4m from the first obstacle, the finish should be no more than 25m nor less than 8m from the last obstacle
g) Jump Off - should consist of a minimum of 6 fences, of which a minimum of three fences should be raised, unless rule 48d is enforced.
h) Not happy with the Course - if a rider or owner, having walked the course, is not happy with any aspect of it, they should represent their concern to the Judge and / or Course Builder
i) Course incorrectly built - after the signal has been given to the rider to start the course, if they then subsequently jump clear an obstacle incorrectly built, the rider will not be penalised.
j) Resiting Fences - if during a competition, the ground due, to whatever reason deteriorates, the judges may instruct the course builder to move the fence to a safer area of ground. If this is not
possible then the fence may be taken out of the competition. If this happens then the scores of all
competitors at that fence will cancelled and their overall score adjusted accordingly.
52. Electronic Timing
Electronic Timing - all qualifying classes must be run with automatic (electronic) timing. Failure to do so may result in all qualifying places for that competition being declared null and void
a) Time Limits and Time Faults - qualifying classes will not have time limits nor will time faults be awarded.
However at the Championships or Team Championships, time limits will be set, and times faults will be awarded. Time Limits will be displayed on the course plans.
53. Communications
a) The bell - means any form of device that the show uses, bell, whistle, horn etc
b) The bell is rung:
1. To instruct competitors, owners and parents walking the course to leave the arena
2. To give the signal to start
3. To stop a competitor during the course of their round
4. To give the competitor a signal to restart their round
5. To eliminate a competitor
6. To disqualify a competitor
c) Public Address
Should not to be used to caution or admonish competitors. If such action is warranted then the
competitor should be requested to report to the judges box.
In the event of a foolish error that warrants elimination or disqualification, the competitor should be allowed to complete their round, they should then be asked to report to the judges box and then told gently that they have been eliminated and, most importantly, why.
54. Penalties
Fences knocked down - 4 penalty points per obstacle where the top line level has been
lowered, or is out of its cup
What is a disobedience? - Refusals, Run Outs, Resistance, Circles
1st disobedience - 4 penalty points
2nd disobedience - 8 penalty points
3rd disobedience - Elimination
Refusals
1. Refusals - It is a refusal when a horse stops or fails to take off at an obstacle, whether or not the obstacle is knocked down or displaced.
2. It is a refusal if the horse / pony when stopping slides through the obstacle and knocks it down. If the horse/pony slides completely through the obstacle then it is treated as a knock down.
3. Stopping in front of the fence without knocking it down, followed immediately by a standing jump is
NOT penalised as a refusal.
Run Out
1. It is a run out when the horse / pony or any part of it passes to one side of the fence to be jumped.
2. It is also a run out if the horse / pony jumps the wing of the obstacle, whether or not the wing is knocked down
3. Following a run out, the rider must return and attempt the complete fence again, failure to do so will result in elimination
If the run out is in the middle of a combination, then the rider must attempt to jump the combination again one more time.
Resistance
a) It is a resistance when the horse / pony for whatever reason ceases to go forward, halts, rears, bucks, turns on the spot or steps back.
b) Uninterrupted resistances are penalised as a single resistance, but if after retaking the track the horse again resists, this is penalised as a separate disobedience.
Circle
b) It is a circle if the competitor deviates from the course and in doing so crosses over his/her previous track. Following a circle, further circles made without retaking the track are not penalised, but after
retaking the track if the competitor again circles, this is penalised as a separate disobedience.
Fall of Rider and / or Horse
One Fall incurs 8 penalties, the second fall incurs elimination. The Rider may not attempt another fence, but must leave the arena immediately. Remounting after the first fall is only be at the Judges discretion.
a) A Rider is considered to have fallen when he/she is separated from his horse / pony and touches the ground, or finds it necessary to use some sort of support to get back into the saddle.
b) A rider who dismounts for any reason since entering the ring until going through the finish will be eliminated, also Riders must remount to leave the arena.
55. Other Penalties
a) Outside Assistance - at any time after the signal to start has been given, any outside assistance to a competitor which in the judges opinion might improve the competitors performance will incur elimination at the judges discretion.
The exceptions to this are;
Medical or Veterinary Assistance
Assistance given to prevent danger to competitors or the public
Picking up or handing back to a mounted competitor his / her headgear or spectacles.
b) Knocking the Timing Equipment - any part of the automatic timing equipment knocked by horse or rider coming into direct contact, except as a result of contact with the cable only, during a round, that cause the equipment to malfunction will incur elimination
c) Improperly Leaving the Arena - A competitor / horse / pony leaving the arena before completion of their round including prior to starting will incur elimination
d) Finishing - To complete the course, the competitor must cross the finishing line mounted and in the correct direction. Failure do so incurs elimination
e) Leaving the Arena - Having completed the course, the competitor must leave the arena mounted by the designated exit. Failure to do so incurs elimination
Pony Showjumping Championship Classes
56. Ponies
All Ponies 14.2hh (148cms) & under, must be ridden by Juniors aged 16yrs & under, unless the
schedules states otherwise. They must also be eligible for the Class they are competing in
57. Diddyman Championships
Open to all Riders 16yrs & under, Ponies 14.2hh & under
Pony/Rider combination not to have won a 1st Place in any showjumping competition held before the 1st April 2009
Fence heights are 2'0" in the qualifying rounds
Ponies in this competition will not be allowed to enter Classes run under Rules 61 or 62
58. 10 Years & Under Qualifiers
This Class is open to all Riders 10 Years & under, Ponies 14.2hh & under
Fence heights are 2'0" - 2'3" in the qualifying rounds
59. 12 Years & Under Qualifiers
This Class is open to all Riders 12 Years & under, Ponies 14.2hh & under
Fence heights are 2'3" - 2'6" in the qualifying rounds
60. Novice Pony Qualifiers
This Class is open to all Riders 16 Years & under, Ponies 14.2hh & under
Ponies not to have won £100 in prize money
Fence heights are 2'6" - 2'9" in the qualifying rounds
61. Small Open Pony Qualifiers
This Class is open to all Riders 16 Years & under, Ponies 14.2hh & under
Fence heights are 2'9" - 3'0"" in the qualifying rounds
62. Open Pony Qualifiers
This Class is open to all Riders 16 Years & under, Ponies 14.2hh & under
Fence heights are 3'0" - 3'3" in the qualifying rounds
Horse Showjumping Championship Classes
63. Horses
Must be over 14.2hh (148cms) & over, and ridden by Seniors aged 17yrs & over or Juniors aged 13yrs & over, unless the schedule states otherwise. They must also be eligible for the Class they are competing in
64. Senior Freshman Championships
Rider / Horse combination not to have won a 1st Place in any showjumping competition held before the 1st April 2009
Riders 13yrs & over
Fences are 2'0" in the qualifying rounds
Horses in this competition will not be allowed to enter Classes run under Rules 69 or 70
65. Very Novice Horse Qualifier
Open to Horses not to have won 5 1st Places in any Showjumping competitions held before the 1st April 2009
Riders 13yrs & over
Fences Heights are 2'0" - 2'3" in the qualifying rounds
66. Young Horse Qualifier
Open to Horses aged 7 yrs & under, Riders 13yrs & over
Fences Heights are 2'3" - 2'6" in the qualifying rounds
67. Novice Horse Qualifier
Open to Horses not to have won £100 in prize money, Riders 13yrs & over
Fences Heights are 2'6" - 2'9" in the qualifying rounds
68. Young Rider Qualifier
Open to Horses of any grade, Riders 21yrs & under, but 13yrs & over
Fences Heights are 2'9" - 3'0" in the qualifying rounds
69. Small Open Horse Qualifier
Open to Horses of any grade, Riders 13yrs & over
Fence Heights are 2'9" - 3'0" in the qualifying rounds
70. Open Horse Qualifier
Open to Horses of any grade, Riders 13yrs & over
Fence Heights are 3'0" - 3'3" in the qualifying rounds
71. The Joker Class
Open to all Riders, Horses or Ponies, to be entered into their correct corresponding Class
The Course will consist of between 8 to 10 fences, each competitor, will start off with a total of 50 Points. The round will be one round and timed.
The Rider will be given faults as follows
10 Penalties for each fence knocked down, these penalties will be deducted from the starting score of 50 points.
Refusals will not penalised, this will just add to the time taken, however, three refusals will mean
elimination
At the very last fence on the course, an alternative fence known as the Joker Fence will be provided. This will have a Value of 30 points, and will be considerably higher than any other fence on the course.
The Rider has the choice of which fence to jump, if they take the Joker they will score an extra 30 points, if they knock it down they will lose 30 points.
The winner will be the rider with the highest number of points, in the event of a tie, then the fastest time will be declared the winner.
Dressage Championship Classes
72. Freshmans Walk & Trot Test
Horse & Rider Combination not to have scored more than 65% in any Qualifying Walk & Trot Dressage Competition.
Once this score has been achieved, the Horse & Pony / Rider combination will still be allowed to
compete at the Championships in this Class, but the following year, the combination must compete at a higher level
At the Championships, Riders will be expected to compete in two Walk & Trot Tests
Copies of all MARC Walk & Trot tests can be downloaded from the MARC website - www.midarc.co.uk
73. Novice
Horse & Rider Combination not to have scored more than 65% in any Qualifying Prelim Dressage Competition.
Once this score has been achieved, the Horse & Pony / Rider combination will still be allowed to compete at the Championships in this Class, but the following year, the combination must compete at a higher level. At the Championships, Riders will be expected to compete in two Preliminary Tests
74. Junior
For Riders 16 years and under, 13 years and over riders may compete on horses.
Qualifying Classes to be any Preliminary Tests
At the Championships, Riders will be expected to compete in two Preliminary Tests
75. Intermediate
Qualifying Classes to be High Grade Preliminary or Lower Grade Novice Tests
At the Championships, Riders will be expected to do two tests, one Preliminary Test and one Novice Test
76. Young Rider
Open to Riders 21 Years & Under
Qualifying Classes to be High Grade Preliminary or Lower Grade Novice Tests
At the Championships, Riders will be expected to do two tests, one Prelim and One Novice
77. Open
Qualifying classes to be any Novice Tests
At the Championships, Riders will be expected to do two Novice Tests
78. Use of Callers
Callers may be used in Qualifying Classes, however at the Championships the use of a caller will incur 20 penalty points per test
79. Whips & Spurs
Use of Whips & Spurs at both qualifiers and the Championships are allowed
80. Bit Guards, Fly Fringes etc
Any other deviation of British Dressage Rules will incur elimination
In Hand Showing
81. Tack
a) A show halter, leather head collar or show bridle may be used, colts and stallions should be adequately bitted.
b) The handler should be neat and smartly dressed, and carry a cane not more than 30ins long.
c) No jewellery allowed.
d) Handlers aged 16yrs & under should wear protective head gear
e) Any animal deemed by the judge or organisers not to behaving in a proper manner will be asked to leave the ring and show ground.
f) All Stallions and Colts must be handled by Seniors 17yrs & over, hard hats and gloves should be worn, all
stallions should be adequately bitted.
g) A Orange Armband should be worn by the handler of all Stallions and colts being shown
82. Any Age, Any Breed
Open to any Pony/Horse of any Height or age.
Manners 20%, Conformation 60%, Overall Presentation 20%
83. Arabs Pure/Part Bred
Open to Arabs and Part Bred Arabs, of any age, if numbers warrant class may be split at the show organisers discretion
Animals to be shown unplaited or with Arab plait
Correctness of breed type and Conformation 60%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
84. Best Turned Out
Open to any Pony/Horse, Handler any age appropriate for the animal
Overall View 40%, Pony/Horse 30%, Handler 30%
85. Coloured Horse
Open to horses 148cms & over
Colour 20%, Conformation 40%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
86. Coloured Pony
Open to Ponies 148cms & under,
Colour 20%, Conformation 40%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
87. Driving Type
Open to animal suitable for Driving but NOT to be shown in harness
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 30%, Conformation 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
88. Handler Senior
Open to handlers 17 years and over
To be judged on showmanship and presentation of the handler
Showmanship 50%, Overall Presentation 30%, Individual Show 20%
89. Handler Young
Open to handlers 16 years & under
(May be split into 2 sections 12 yrs & under, and 13yrs to 16 yrs )
Showmanship 50%, Overall Presentation 30%, Individual Show 20%
90. Mountain & Moorland - Small Breeds
To include Welsh sections A & B, Exmoor, Dartmoor, Shetland and other Native Breeds Mountain & Moorland from outside the British Isles are allowed to compete, but must be entered into the correct section for their breed type
Correctness of Breed Type & Conformation 60%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
91. Mountain & Moorland - Large Breeds
To include Welsh Sections C & D, Dales, Fells, New Forest, Highland and other Native Breeds Mountain & Moorland from outside the British Isles are allowed to compete, but must be entered into the correct section for their breed type
Correctness of Breed Type & Conformation 60%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
92. Shetland
Open to Shetland Ponies (Standards & Miniatures) of any age
Ponies not to exceed 40" at 3 years of age, and 42" at maturity
Overall impression should be of Vitality, Presence, Stamina and Robustness
Class may be split if numbers warrant into Young stock & 4 years & over
Correctness of Breed Type & Conformation 60%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
93. Spotted Horse
Open to Horses over 148cms
Colour 20%, Conformation 40%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
94. Spotted Pony
Open to Ponies 148cms & under
Colour 20%, Conformation 40%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
95. Stallion & Colts
A Orange Armband should be worn by the handler of all Stallions and colts being shown
No handler under the age of 17 years of age allowed in this class
Breed Type 20%, Conformation 40%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
96. Veteran
Open to Ponies and Horses, 15 years of age & over
If numbers warrant then the Class will be split into two sections
a) Ponies & Horses 15yrs - 21yrs b) Ponies & Horses over 21yrs
Condition 50%, Performance & Manners 25%, Overall Presentation 25%
+ age of the animal to be added to score
The Age, where possible should be displayed on the bridle
97. Welsh Classes
Open to all Welsh Sections, of any age, if numbers warrant class may be split at the show organisers discretion into Youngstock (3yrs & under) and Mature (4yrs & over), and if further numbers warrant, will be split into sections, A,B,C,D
Correctness of Breed Type & Conformation 60%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
Lead Rein Showing
98. Lead Rein Ridden Showing
Open to Riders 8 Years and Under as at 1st January 2009, Ponies 12.2hh - 128cms & under
Riders in these classes are not allowed to compete off the Lead Rein with the exception of the First Ridden Class & Tiny Tots Best Rider
Ponies to be shown in a Snaffle Bridle, with the Lead Rein attached to a Cavesson Noseband.
No jewellery allowed and hair should be securely tied back
Lead Reins must not be asked to dismount, and Ponies not be stripped.
Lead Reins will not be asked to Canter, No Spurs, and No Stallions Allowed
Lead Rein Handlers must be 16yrs & Over
99. Lead Rein Best Turned Out
In this Class Only - Riders under the age of 3 are allowed to compete
NO martingales, Breast Plates, Boots or Bandages allowed
Pony and Rider should be spotlessly clean, Ponies Manes plaited, and tails plaited or pulled, legs free from feathers, and Head, Whiskas, muzzle and under jaw area trimmed
Overall View 25%, Turnout of Pony 25%, Turnout of Rider 25%, Tack 25%
100. Best Lead Rein Rider
Position of Rider 20%, Correctness & Effectiveness of Aids 20%, Individual Show 30%, Overall Presentation 30%
101. Lead Rein Pony
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 30%, Conformation 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
102. Lead Rein Show Hunter Pony
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 30%, Conformation 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
103. Lead Rein Mountain & Moorland
Should be shown in their natural state
Breed Type 30%, Performance & Manners 25%, and Conformation 25%,
Overall Presentation 20%
104. First Ridden Pony
Ponies 13.2hh & under, to be ridden in a Snaffle Bridle, Riders 12yrs & Under
Lead Rein Riders are allowed to compete in this Class off the Lead Rein
Ponies are not to be stripped and Riders are not to be asked to dismount
No Spurs, No Stallions allowed
In individual show, Walk up, Trot back, cantering optional,
Riders will not be marked down for not cantering
Competitors in this class will not be asked to canter collectively
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 30%, Conformation 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
105. Riders 12yrs & under, (Tiny Tots)
Ponies 13.2hh & under, to be ridden in a Snaffle Bridle
Lead Rein Riders are allowed to compete in this Class off the Lead Rein
No cantering to be allowed collectively, however, competitors will be required to provide a simple show incorporating a few strides of canter
No Spurs, No Stallions allowed
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 30%, Conformation 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
Junior Showing
106. Junior Ridden Showing
Open to riders 16 years & under, Ponies 14.2hh - 148cms & under. Ponies to be shown in a suitable
bridle, but no Gags or Hackamores
No Jewellery, No Spurs
107. Junior Best Turned Out
Pony and Rider should be spotlessly clean, Ponies Manes plaited, and tails plaited or pulled, legs free from feathers, and Head, Whiskas, muzzle and under jaw area trimmed
Overall View 25%, Turnout Pony 25%, Turnout Rider 25%, Tack 25%
108. Junior Best Rider - Open & Novice
This Class may be split into the following sections at the Championships. However, separate qualifying classes for these may be held at each clubs discretion
a) Tiny Tots - 10yrs & under, see Rule 105
b) Best Rider 16yrs & Under
Open to Riders 16yrs & under, Ponies 14.2hh & under
Position 20%, Correctness & Effectiveness of Aids 20%, Individual Show 30%,
Overall Presentation 30%
For all Novice competitions, Riders are not to have won 3 x 1sts in any best Rider Classes up to 1st April 2009, Ponies should be ridden in a snaffle
109. Riding Pony - Open & Novice
Open to Ponies 14.2hh & under
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 30%, Conformation 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
For all Novice competitions, Ponies are not to have won 3 x 1sts in any best Riding Pony Classes up to 1st April 2009, Novice Ponies should be ridden in a snaffle
110. Show Hunter Pony
Open to Ponies 14.2hh & under
Manners Way of Going 60%, Conformation, Type & Freedom of Action 40%
Senior Ridden Showing
111. Senior Ridden Showing
Open to Riders 17yrs & over, riding Horses or Ponies, Any Suitable Bit and correct dress for the Class
No jewellery
112. Best Turned Out Senior
Riders 17years & over, Horse / Pony and Rider should be spotlessly clean, Ponies Manes plaited, and tails plaited or pulled, legs free from feathers, and Head, Whiskas, muzzle and under jaw area trimmed
Overall View 25%, Turnout Horse 25%, Turnout Rider 25%, Tack 25%
113. Best Senior Rider - Open & Novice
Riders to be 17 years & over, Open to Horses and Ponies
Position 20%, Correctness & Effectiveness of Aids 20%, Individual Show 30%,
Overall Presentation 30%
For all Novice competitions, Riders are not to have won 3 x 1sts in any best Rider Classes up to 1st April 2009, Horses should be ridden in a snaffle
Utility Ridden Showing
114. Utility Ridden Showing
Open to all breeds that are eligible to compete in that class,
Riders must be the appropriate age for the
Horse / Pony they are riding. Any suitable Bit and correct dress for the Class.
No jewellery
115. Arab Pure/Part Bred
Riders to be of appropriate age for animal.
Any suitable Bridle may be worn. Spurs allowed on animals exceeding 148cm
Breed Type 30%, Performance & Manners 25%, and Conformation 25%,
Overall Presentation 20%
116. Ridden Cob
To be split at the Championships into Traditional and Show Cob
Riders 13 yrs & Over, Cobs should be over 14.2hh and not exceeding 15.3hh
Traditional Cobs should be shown in their natural state, Show Cobs should be shown with Hogged Manes and pulled tails and generally clipped out
To be shown in Double or Pelham Bridle, Novices should wear Snaffles
Judges may ride animals, and have them stripped
Type 30%, Performance & Manners 25%, and Conformation 25%, Overall Presentation 20%
117. Coloured Horse
Open to Horses over 14.2hh, Riders 13 years & over.
To be shown in Double or Snaffle Bridle.
Judges may ride animals, and have them stripped
Ride, Manners & Way of Going 40%, Type & Conformation 40%, Colour 20%
118. Coloured Pony
Open to Ponies 14.2hh & under, Riders to be of appropriate size for animal.
Ride, Manners & Way of Going 40%, Type & Conformation 40%, Colour 20%
119. Mountain & Moorland
To include all Native Breeds Mountain & Moorland from outside the British Isles are allowed to compete, but must be entered into the correct section for their height
Riders to be appropriate age and size for the Breed
Breed Type 30%, Performance & Manners 25%, and Conformation 25%,
Overall Presentation 20%
120. Mountain & Moorland - Turnout
Open to all Mountain and Moorland breeds, riders to be appropriate size for animal. Ponies to be shown in natural state, with trimming allowed as per the individual breed societies
Lead Reins accepted, No Stallions for lead Rein, Lead Rein to be attached to Cavesson Noseband.
Overall View 25%, Pony 25%, Rider 25%, Tack 25%
121. Pairs
Horses & Ponies, Riders to be appropriate size for their animal
To be judged on compatibility 30% , content of show 35% and synchronisation 35%
122. Riding Club Horse
Riders 13 years & Over, Horses 14.3hh & Over
May be ridden by Judge and Horse may be Stripped
May be expected to jump 3 - 4 fences, suggested height for qualifying classes 2' 0" at Championships will be 2' 3"
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 25%, Overall Presentation 25%, Jumping 20%
123. Riding Club Pony
For ponies 14.2hh and under, riders appropriate to size of animal, Ponies may be stripped
May be expected to jump 3 - 4 fences, suggested height at Qualifying classes 2' 0" at Championships
will be 2' 3", Judges take into account height of ponies and adjust height accordingly.
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 25%, Overall Presentation 25%, Jumping 20%
124. Spotted Horse
Open to Horses 14.3hh and over, riders 13 years & over
Colour 20%, Conformation 40%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
125. Spotted Pony
Open to Ponies 14.2hh & under, riders appropriate to size of animal
Colour 20%, Conformation 40%, Manners 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
126. Riding Horse - Open & Novice
will be split into Small - 15.2hh & under, and large - over 15.2hh at the Championships
Open to Horses 14.3hh & over, Riders 13 years & over
To be shown in Double/Pelham Bridle
Judges may ride animals, and have them stripped
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 30%, Conformation 20%, Overall Presentation 20%
For all Novice competitions, Riding Horses are not to have won 3 x 1sts in any best Riding Horse Classes up to 1st April 2009, Novice Horses should be ridden in a snaffle
127. Veteran Horse
Open to Horses over 14.2hh, and 15 years of age and over. Riders 13 years & over
Section A - Ponies and Horses 15yrs - 21yrs Section B - Ponies and Horses 22yrs + over
The Age, where possible should be displayed on the bridle
Condition 40%, Performance & Manners 30%, Overall Presentation 30%, and age of animal to be added to score
128. Veteran Pony
Open to Ponies 14.2hh & under, and 15 years of age and over, riders appropriate to size of animal
Section A - Ponies and Horses 15yrs - 21yrs Section B - Ponies and Horses 22yrs + over
The Age, where possible should be displayed on the bridle
Condition 40%, Performance & Manners 30%, Overall Presentation 30%, and age of animal to be added to score
129. Utility Horse or Pony
Open to all Riders, Horses or Ponies, This Class will be judged solely on the suitability of the horse / pony and the ridden show. Knocks and blemishes will not be taken into account
Suitability 40%, Manners 30%, Ridden Show 30%
130. Family Horse & Pony
Open to all Horses & Ponies, Riders of any age
At the Championships, should be ridden by two members of the same family (ie two sisters, parent & child, cousins etc)
Suitability 40%, Manners 30%, Ridden Show 30%
131. Hack
Open to all Horses exceeding 14.2hh but not exceeding 15.3hh, Riders 13yrs & over
Movement 30%, Conformation 40%, Overall Presentation 30%
132 Ex Racehorse
Open to all Horses that have competed at least once National Hunt, Flat or Point to Point
Riders 13yrs & over
Performance & Manners 50%, Ridden Show 25%, Conformation 25%
Working Hunters
133. Working Hunter
Bitless bridles are not allowed. But any other suitable bit is allowed as are Martingales and noseband, however, the judge may take into account the effectiveness of these aids
Scoring for all Working Hunter & Hunter Classes
Jumping Phase worth 50 Marks in Total with penalties as follows :-
Knockdown 10 penalties, 1st Refusal 15 penalties, 2nd Refusal 20 penalties
3rd Refusal or Fall Elimination
Style and Manners whilst Jumping 10 Marks
Showing Phase Manners 10 Marks
Conformation 30 Marks Total possible Marks 100
134. Ridden Hunter Horse or Pony
will be split into Pony - 14.2hh & under, Small - 15.2hh & under, and Large - over 15.2hh at the Championships
Open to Horses & Ponies, Riders 13 years & over for Horses
Ponies may be ridden by riders of any age
No jumping in this class. Horses may be ridden by the Judge, and stripped
Suitability 30%, Performance & Manners 30%, Conformation 20%,
Overall Presentation 20%
135. Working Hunter Pony Cradle Stakes
Open to Ponies 13.2hh & under that have not won a 1st in any Working Hunter Class as at 1st April 2009. Riders 14 years & under
Fence height for qualifiers 1'6", height at Championships will be 1'9"
136. Working Hunter Pony Nursery Stakes
Open to Ponies 14.2hh & under that have not won a 3 x 1stst in any Working Hunter Classes as at 1st April 2009. (except Cradle Stakes)
Riders 14years & under
Fence height for qualifiers 1'9", height at Championships will be 2'0
137. Working Hunter Pony Novice
Open to Ponies 14.2hh & under that have not won a 6 x 1stst in any Working Hunter Classes as at 1st April 2009. (except Cradle or Nursery Stakes)
Riders 16 years & under
Fence height for qualifiers 2'0", height at Championships will be 2'3"
138. Working Hunter Pony Intermediate
Open to Ponies 14.2hh & under that have not won any Open Working Hunter Classes as at 1st April
2009.
Riders 16years & under
Fence height for qualifiers 2'6", height at Championships will be 2'9"
139. Working Hunter Pony Open
Open to Ponies 14.2hh & under, Riders 16 years & under
Fence height for qualifiers 2'9", height at Championships 3'0"
140. Working Hunter Horse Novice
Open to Horses that have not won 6 1st prizes in any Working Hunter Classes as at 1st April 2009
Open to Horses over 14.2hh, Riders 13yrs & over
Fence height for qualifiers 2'3", height at Championships 2'6"
Horses may be ridden by the Judges, and stripped
141. Mountain & Moorland Working Hunter Horse or Pony
Open to any Mountain & Moorland Horse or Pony, to be ridden by Riders of the correct age for the size of the Pony
Fence height for qualifiers 2'3", height at Championships 2'6"
142. Working Hunter Horse Intermediate
Open to Horses over 14.2hh that have not won any Open Working Hunter Classes as at 1st April 2009.
Fence height for qualifiers 2'6", height at Championships 2'9"
Horses may be ridden by the Judges, and stripped
143. Working Hunter Horse
Open to Horses over 14.2hh, Riders 13 years & over
Horses may be ridden by the Judge and stripped
Fence height for qualifiers 2'9", at Championships 3'0"
Horses may be ridden by the Judges, and stripped
Miscellaneous
144 Spirit of the Sport
These rules have been written to try and ensure fair competition in all disciplines, and that Riders, Owners, Parents and Spectators enjoy the sport to which so much time and effort is put in. In the event that any of our Rules do not cover a mishap then please refer to Rule 145.
145. Every Eventuality
It must be appreciated that it is impossible to write a Rule to cover every eventuality. Where the decision cannot be found in these Rules or the Rules of the Relevant Show or Breed Society, then the Judges or Organisers will attempt to find a solution that accepts the spirit of the Competition.
Where this happens there will be no appeal.