Are shows are for ALL breeds, sizes and riders, but a breed association hosts these shows. Like most associations, we have specific sets of rules everyone weather you are a member or just participating for community, fun, or practice, to maintain fairness everyone needs to follow the rules of our association.

​If you have shown in any other associations, you probably already know some of the rules. We understand that it can be challenging to remember all the rules from all the different shows, to understand if you’re new to showing or to our shows.

​However, we have done what we can to help summarize the rules and explain everything here. Information is divided into Class Style → Class type with pg # → Explanation of the class. Each Class Styles will have a basic detail of Tack and Attire before explaining the class type in more detail. Keep scrolling to see each class or download the PDF here. 

​For more detailed information please check out the National Hand Book  which will take you to the website where you can review the style or class rules in more depth. If you find you still have questions after looking over this information, we’re more than happy to answer your questions.

If you see a class on this page that does NOT automatically mean that we will be providing this class at our shows. It is a class that can be, has been or will be provided. Our class lists change from show to show and year to year. 

​High Points categories and shows will change every. Please review the HIGH POINT page to see what this years High Point Categories and shows are.

English 

attire requirements 

Exhibitors must be neatly dressed in hunt coats of traditional hunt seat style and conservative color (Black, navy brown or green, Patterns are allowed as long as they are minimal and not distracting), breeches of traditional shades of buff, gray or rust (or jodhpurs), high English boots or jodhpurshoes. A tie or choker is required. Gloves are recommended. Black, navy blue, brown or green hunting caps are mandatory. Long hair must be neat and contained in a net or braid. ASTM/SEI approved protective headgear with fastened harness is REQUIRED for all youth classes on the flat and classes requiring over fence work.

Tack requirements 

In all classes, an English snaffle (no shanks), Kimberwick, pelham and/or full bridle (with two reins), all with cavesson nosebands and leather brow bands must be used. A port must be no higher than 1-1/2” (3.8 cm) Saddles must be of black and/or brown colors. Hunt seat saddles or forward seat type may have an insert on the skirt. Saddle pads must be of the classic style and composition. Pads with extensions designed for show numbers are acceptable. Event pads and pads of nontraditional colors are acceptable only for Open Jumping.

Hunter in Hand

Hand Book page 92

​Ponies will be judged individually on the triangle (see PDF for pattern) following a posted order. Each pony will approach the judging area (A) and set up for inspection in the “open” position (i.e., an offset stance with all four legs visible by the judge standing on either side). At the judge’s request, the pony will then walk the small triangle ABCA. The pony will continue on at a trot following the large ADEA. At the completion of the judging, the handler will lead the pony away from the judging area.
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As one pony leaves, the next one will enter the judging area promptly. When all ponies in the class have completed the triangle, they may be lined up for judges to place, or “ringing” (walking in a large group circle around the judge) may be used.  Scoring 60% movement, 30% conformation, 10% temperament.

Hunt seat equitation

Hand Book page 109-110

Exhibitors can be judged on the rail and/or exhibitors may be asked to work a posted pattern individually. Rider should have a workmanlike appearance, seat and hands light and supple, conveying the impression of complete control should any emergency arise. The judge may recall either all of the exhibitors or only the finalists for rail work.

Hunter Under Saddle 

Hand Book page 160
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​Ponies should be suitable to purpose and should move with long, low strides reaching forward with ease and smoothness, be able to lengthen stride and cover ground with relaxed, free flowing movement, while exhibiting correct gaits that are of the proper cadence. The quality of the movement and the consistency of the gaits is a major consideration. Ponies should be obedient, have a bright expression with alert ears, and should respond willingly to the rider with light leg and hand contact. Ponies should be responsive and smooth in transition. When asked to extend the trot or hand gallop, they should move out with the same flowing motion. The poll should be level with, or slightly above, the withers to allow proper impulsion behind. The head position should be slightly in front of, or on, the vertical.

hunter Hack 

Hand book page 109-110
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​Hunter Hack should move in the same style as a working hunter in Hunter Over Fences. Ponies should be obedient, alert, responsive and move freely. The class will be judged on an even pace and style over fences, flat work, manners and way of going. The purpose of Hunter Hack is to give ponies an opportunity to show their skill over low fences and on the flat. The poll should be level with, or slightly above the withers, to allow proper impulsion behind. The head should not be carried behind the vertical, giving the appearance of intimidation, or be excessively nosed out, giving a resistant appearance.

W/T Beginners - 12” crossbar. Exhibitors are required to ride the entire course at the trot. Exhibitors may, canter between the two fences, but not past the corner after the second fence. All Fence heights will be measured at the center of the jump.

12” Crossbar, 9& Under - Exhibitors are required to ride the entire course at the Canter. All Fence heights will be measured at the center of the jump.

18” Crossbar, 10-13, 13& Under - Exhibitors are required to ride the entire course at the Canter. All Fence heights will be measured at the center of the jump.

2’, 14& over - Exhibitors are required to ride the entire course at the Canter. All Fence heights will be measured at the center of the jump.

Equitation Over Fences

Hand book page 110

This class is judged on the rider’s hands, legs, position, balance, aids and control of the pony over fences. The purpose of this class is to evaluate the rider’s correctness and ability over fences, not the pony. Only the effect the rider has on the pony is to be considered. How a rider elects to ride the course, the pace and approach to the jumps are used to evaluate the rider’s judgment and ability. All Fence heights will be measured at the center of the jump.
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9& under - 18” Crossbar - Exhibitors may ride the entire course in the trot or Canter.
10-13 or 13& under - 18” Vertical
14-18 or 18& under - 2’
19& over - 2’
All ages - 18” Crossbar - Exhibitors may ride the entire course in the trot or Canter.
All ages - 18” Vertical
All ages - 2’

Hunter Over fences

Hand book pages 165-168

​The Hunter Over Fences pony represents the type of pony used in the hunt field. The pony should possess manners, jumping ability, style, an even pace and quality. The Hunter Over Fences pony must demonstrate the ability to provide the rider with a smooth, comfortable and safe ride. All Fence heights will be measured at the center of the jump.

9& under - 18” Crossbar - Exhibitors may ride the entire course in the trot or Canter.
10-13 or 13& under - 18” Vertical
14-18 or 18& under - 2’
19& over - 2’
​All ages - 18” Crossbar - Exhibitors may ride the entire course in the trot or Canter.
All ages - 18” Vertical
All ages - 2’

Jackpot jumpers

Handbook pages 1651-165

​All competitors will pay 5$ at the gate, these classes will be timed same as Cloverleaf Barrels. First Place wins the Jackpot. Classes will be split into 18& Under and 19& Over. All fences heights will be measured at the center of the jump with a height of .60m.

Open jumping (jumpers)

Hand book pages 161-165
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​This class is scored mathematically, based on penalty faults incurred between the starting line and the finish line. Placing in the class is based on faults first, timing second, when timing is used in a regular round or in a jump-off. The pony, rider or attire is not judged. All Fence heights will be measured at the center of the jump.

9& under - 18” Crossbar
10-13 or 13& under - 18” Vertical
14-18 or 18& under - 2’
19& over - 2’
All ages - 18” Crossbar - Exhibitors may ride the entire course in the trot or Canter.
All ages - 18” Vertical
All ages - 2’

Trot poles (hunter over fences)

Handbook pages 165-168
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​Each fence will have two poles placed on the ground that the Exhibitors trots over. Hunter Over Fences pony represents the type of pony used in the hunt field. The pony should possess manners, style, an even pace and quality. The Hunter Over Fences pony must demonstrate the ability to provide the rider with a smooth, comfortable and safe ride.

This class is for exhibitors who are at the novice or beginner level. This classes will not include any cantering. You can not cross enter this class with any 3-gait classes with the exception of Hunter Hack 12” Crossbar.

Trail - in-hand

Handbook pages 118

2 & Under and Open - The class will be judged on the performance of the pony over obstacles, with emphasis on manners and way of going. Credit will be given to ponies negotiating the obstacles with style, without hesitancy and willingly responding to the handler’s cues. Special credit should be given to handlers who can negotiate obstacles without entering the obstacle or touching the pony.

Trail 

Handbook pages 116-118

This class will be judged on the performance of the pony over obstacles, with emphasis on manners, response to rider and attitude. Credit will be given to ponies negotiating the obstacles with style, without hesitancy, and to ponies showing the capability of picking their own way through the course when obstacles warrant it, and willingly responding to a rider’s cues on more difficult obstacles.

Halter

Attire Requirements 

Tack requirements

Answer to question 1

Blind showmanship jackpot

Blind - All exhibitors will line up with their backs facing the ring, so you can not watch any other competitor complete the pattern. Each exhibitor will be shown the pattern for 90 seconds and then preform the pattern for the judge. Once you have done your pattern you may watch the rest of the class. Please refer to showmanship on page 112-116 for more details.

Jackpot - All competitors will pay 5$ at the gate, these classes will be judged same as showmanship. First Place wins the Jackpot.

Most Colorful 

Handbook page 88

​Ponies to be judged 80% on color, 20% on conformation, action, substance, quality and manners. All ages, sizes, sexes, breeds, colors and color patterns may participate in this class.

Longe line

Handbook pages 90-92

The purpose of showing a yearling or 2 year old (Or any age pony in open) on a longe line is to demonstrate that the pony has the movement, manners/expression/attitude and conformation to become competitive under saddle.
Therefore, the purpose of this class is to reward:
    — Quality of Movement.
    — Manners/Expression/Attitude.
    —Conformation suitable to future performance.

2 years and under - The pony should be judged with its suitability as a future performer under saddle in mind. This class should define what it means to be a “western pleasure prospect” or “hunter under saddle prospect.” Because these are yearlings and 2 year olds, (Or a green pony) they are not expected to demonstrate the behavior or quality of a finished show pony, but only that performance necessary for a reasonable presentation to the judge.
Open classes - The pony should be judged with its suitability as a future performer under saddle in mind. This class should define what it means to be a “western pleasure prospect” or “hunter under saddle prospect.” Because these are yearlings and 2 year olds, (Or a green pony) they are not expected to demonstrate the behavior or quality of a finished show pony, but only that performance necessary for a reasonable presentation to the judge.

Showmanship

Handbook pages 112-116

​Showmanship class shall be judged strictly on the exhibitor’s ability to fit and show a pony at halter. The pony is merely a prop to demonstrate the ability and preparation of the exhibitor. The ideal showman is poised, confident, neatly attired leading a well groomed and conditioned pony that quickly and efficiently performs the requested pattern with promptness, smoothness and precision. Showmanship is not a halter class and should not be judged as such.

Stallion, geldings, and mares

Handbook page 87

​Halter classes shall be judged 60% on conformation, 40% on motion or way of going. Blemishes such as scars, splints and spavins are to be marked down according to their effect on the soundness of the POA. Transmissible weakness and/or unsoundness are to be counted strongly against the pony. Ponies are to be shown in hand at a walk and jog. A pony’s height shall not be discriminated against other ponies in the class.

Classes may very from age and/or size ranges, or be an open class where all ages and sizes compete with each other.
    — 2& under
    — 3& over Small ponies under 51”
    — 3& over Medium ponies 51-54”
    — 3& over Large ponies Over 54”

Western

Attire Requirement

Exhibitors must be neatly dressed in western clothes consisting of western boots, western hat or approved protective headgear (meeting ASTM/SEI safety standards), long-sleeved shirt with a collar, and long pants. Short-sleeved shirts with a collar may be allowed at the judge’s discretion and must be announced prior to class. Spurs, chaps, vests and coats are optional. Hunt seat type safety helmets used in western classes or protective vests (meeting ASTM/SEI standards) shall not be discriminated against.

Tack requirement

Stock-type saddles shall be used without tapaderos (hooded stirrups are permitted in 13 & Under classes). Silver mounted equipment is not to count over a good working outfit. There shall be no discrimination against any standard western bit.

Country pleasure jackpot

Rules - All exhibitors will be asked to preform a walk and their favorite gait for the judge. You can choice any western gait you would like; jog or lope. This class will be judged the same as a pleasure class. Please refer to  pleasure on page 116 for more details.

Jackpot - All competitors will pay 5$ at the gate, these classes will be judged same as Pleasure. First Place wins the Jackpot.

horsemanship

Handbook page 107

​pony to rider. Good hands are paramount. Results as shown by the performance of the pony are NOT to be considered more important than the method used in obtaining them. Exhibitors are to work patterns individually, then the judge may recall either all the exhibitors or only the finalists for rail work.

pleasure

Handbook page 116
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​Ponies are to be shown at a walk, jog and lope both ways of the ring in all age divisions, except for the walk/trot classes. Ponies shall back in a straight line (at the judge’s discretion, finalists only may be required to back). They shall not be asked to extend the lope. Ponies are to be shown on a loose rein without undue restraint.

The class is judged on the pony only:
    — 60% on performance
    — 30% on conformation
    — 10% on appointments

The ideal pleasure pony should carry its head in a position that is normal for its type and no lower than level. Reasonably loose reins with light contact should be maintained at all times. The western pleasure pony should be a pleasure to ride and a free, natural mover. Major Faults are carrying the head in such a position that the point of the ears is lower than the withers, being flexed behind the vertical, and moving exceptionally slowly at any gait.

reining

Handbook pages 149-159

​A contestant will perform the required pattern individually and separately. To rein a pony is not only to guide him, but also to control his every movement. The best reined pony should be willingly guided or controlled with little or no apparent resistance and dictated to completely.

Any movement on his own must be considered a lack of control. All deviations from the exact written pattern must be considered a lack of or temporary loss of control and therefore a fault that must be marked down according to severity of deviation. Credit should be given for smoothness, finesse, attitude, quickness and authority of performing various maneuvers, while using controlled speed.

trail - in-hand

Handbook pages 116-118

2 & Under and Open - The class will be judged on the performance of the pony over obstacles, with emphasis on manners and way of going. Credit will be given to ponies negotiating the obstacles with style, without hesitancy and willingly responding to the handler’s cues. Special credit should be given to handlers who can negotiate obstacles without entering the obstacle or touching the pony.

trail

Handbook pages 116-118

This class will be judged on the performance of the pony over obstacles, with emphasis on manners, response to rider and attitude. Credit will be given to ponies negotiating the obstacles with style, without hesitancy, and to ponies showing the capability of picking their own way through the course when obstacles warrant it, and willingly responding to a rider’s cues on more difficult obstacles.

Gymkhana
Can be ridden in English or Western

What is gymkhana

These classes are timed events and the goal is to complete the course in the fastest time. The class starts when the pony crosses the timer line, and stops when the pony crosses the timer line on its return. In Lead-line events, the pony MUST cross the timer line before the person leading the pony.

Attire and Tack requirements 

Either English or Western tack may be used, attire style must match tack and protective vest if desired. A saddle is required. Saddles must have stirrups, but horns on saddles are optional. Protective headgear meeting ASTM/SEI safety standards and boots are required for all ages of riders. Headgear must remain in place on top of the head with chinstrap fastened. Chaps, spurs, bats, whips and over-under are optional. Neatness is a must.

Cloverleaf barrels

Hand Book page 175-176 (see PDF for pattern)
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The course must be measured exactly according to the diagram and cannot exceed these dimensions. However, if the course is too large for the available space, the pattern should be reduced 5 yards at a time until the pattern fits the arena. Adequate space must remain between barrels and any obstacle to safely negotiate it. Knockdown of barrel is a 5-second penalty per barrel. Disqualification results for the pony turning barrel wrong way, or rider holding up barrel with hand.

Jackpot barrels

Hand Book page 175-176 (see PDF for pattern)

Reference Cloverleaf Barrels. All competitors will pay 5$ at the gate, these classes will be timed same as Cloverleaf Barrels. First Place wins the Jackpot.

Go-go 

Hand Book page 175-176 (see PDF for pattern)
​
Four poles are set up as shown 6’ apart across the width of the arena and 12’ apart along the length of arena (forming a 6’ x 12’ open square with a pole on each corner). The distance from the start and finish line to the first two poles is 40’. The rider takes his pony through the 6’ lane with all parts of the pony clearing the back pair of poles, turns around, goes back through the lane and across finish line. Disqualification results from turning before clearing back poles, knocking pole down or going outside of either or both poles, or holding pole up.​

handy Horse

Hand Book page 175-176 (see PDF for pattern)
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The course is marked off as shown with square against or near arena wall. The rider proceeds from the starting line around both barrels into limed square. Rider must stop in square and stay there 5 seconds and then cross finish line. The judge shall signify to the ring steward when the pony has all four hooves in the square. The ring steward shall start timing when he receives the signal from the judge and give an audible signal to go to the rider when 5 seconds have elapsed. Disqualification results from rider touching barrel with hand, or failing to keep pony in the square the required 5 seconds (stepping on the line is considered stepping out of the square). After the 5 seconds and the “Go” signal is sounded, the box shall not be a determining factor for disqualification.

pole Bending

Hand Book page 175-176 (see PDF for pattern)

​Set six poles 21’ apart, starting line to be 20’ from the first pole. Rider’s option on starting on the right or left side. The end pole should be at least 20’ from the end of the arena wall/fence. Rider gets a running start, runs to the end pole, turns and begins a serpentine line around each pole to the opposite end, turns and returns on a serpentine line to the end pole, turns and runs back to the start line. Pony is penalized 5 seconds per pole for knocking a pole down. D. Disqualification results for the pony turning pole wrong way, or if pole is held by hand of rider.

single pole

Hand Book page 175-176 (see PDF for pattern)

​One pole is placed 100’ from the starting line, in the center of the arena. Pony crosses starting line on run, rounds pole from either direction and crosses finish line. Disqualification results from the rider holding up pole with their hand, or knocking pole down.

Texas rollback

Hand Book page 175-176 (see PDF for pattern)
​A barrel is placed 100’ from the start/finish line in the center of the arena. The barrel should be 20’ from the sides or end of the arena. Pony runs down, and goes on either side of the barrel. The pony rolls back, or turns 180 degrees the same direction as the side of the barrel it approached upon. The pony returns on the opposite side it went down and crosses the finish line. Knockdown of a barrel is a 5-second penalty. Disqualification results if the rider touches or holds the barrel with their hand.

Leadline
The person leading the pony must be at least 14 years old.

Attire requirements

Exhibitors may show in English with English Tack and Attire; Western or bareback, with Western Tack and Attire. The person leading must wear the same attire that is required of the exhibitor, with the exception of Lead-line trot poles and lead-line gymkhana events. The person leading has the following exceptions: they may wear closed tennis shoes instead of boots and are not required to wear a helmet or hat.

Tack requirements

In all Lead-line classes, a halter must be worn underneath the bridle. The lead MUST be attached to the halter. They shall remain near the exhibitor and assist the exhibitor only if any safety issues arise.

Costume contest

This class is for riders 6 years and under. Ponies are shown at a walk only. The person leading the pony must be 14 years of age or older. The Show Committee may allow, at their discretion, stallions 2 years and older to be shown in Lead-line Costume. If this class is not offered at a show, Lead-line contestants shall show in the other type costume classes. Any type of costume may be worn.

gymkhana

Handbook pages 174-178

​Most Gymkhana classes will have a lead-line counter part. Please reference the Gymkhana Classes section for more details on what each class is.

horsemanship

Handbook page 107 

The rider will be judged on their basic position in the saddle, if one is used; hand, leg and seat position; as well as his ability to properly hold the reins and cue the pony. Exhibitors shall be judged at a walk both ways of the ring and be required to stop and back. The trot is optional, and must be specified in advance on entry form or show bill. If the judge asks the rider to back the pony in the lineup, the person leading the pony should not aid the rider. They should only keep the pony under control.

hunter under saddle

Handbook page 160 

​Exhibitors are required to wear English attire and tack, The person leading must wear the same attire that is required of the exhibitor. Exhibitors shall be judged at a walk both ways of the ring and be required to stop and back. The trot is optional, and must be specified in advance on entry form or show bill. If the judge asks the rider to back the pony in the lineup, the person leading the pony should not aid the rider. They should only keep the pony under control.

Showmanship

Handbook pages 112-116

​Attire - Must be neatly dressed in western clothes consisting of western boots, western hat, long-sleeved shirt with a collar and long pants. Vests and coats are optional.

Trot is optional at the discretion of the Show Committee and must be printed on the show bill if required for this class. Showmanship class shall be judged strictly on the exhibitor’s ability to fit and show a pony at halter. The pony is merely a prop to demonstrate the ability and preparation of the exhibitor. The ideal showman is poised, confident, neatly attired leading a well groomed and conditioned pony that quickly and efficiently performs the requested pattern with promptness, smoothness and precision. Showmanship is not a halter class and will not be judged as such. Stallions of any age are prohibited from being shown in Lead-line Showmanship.

trail

Handbook pages 116-118

​Riders will show at the walk only and may pass through an open gate or may be required to work the gate. Losing control of the gate is not to be penalized. This class will be judged on the performance of the pony over obstacles, with emphasis on manners, response to rider and attitude. Credit will be given to ponies negotiating the obstacles with style, without hesitancy, and to ponies showing the capability of picking their own way through the course when obstacles warrant it, and willingly responding to a rider’s cues on more difficult obstacles. For more details pleaser refer to the trail section.

trot poles (hunter over fences)

Handbook pages 165-168

Each fence will have two poles placed on the ground that the Exhibitors trots over. Hunter Over Fences pony represents the type of pony used in the hunt field. The pony should possess manners, style, an even pace and quality. The Hunter Over Fences pony must demonstrate the ability to provide the rider with a smooth, comfortable and safe ride.

Ranch

attire requirements 

Attire should be neat and clean. Working attire is strongly encouraged; however, show attire may be worn with no penalty. Exhibitors must be neatly dressed in western clothes consisting of western boots, western hat or approved protective headgear (meeting ASTM/SEI safety standards), long-sleeved shirt with a collar, and long pants. Short-sleeved shirts with a collar may be allowed at the judge’s discretion and must be announced prior to class. Spurs, chaps, vests and coats are optional. Hunt seat type safety helmets used in western classes or protective vests (meeting ASTM/SEI standards) shall not be discriminated against.

tack requirements

Working tack is strongly encouraged. Equipment with silver will not be counted over good working tack. Stock-type saddles shall be used without tapaderos (hooded stirrups are permitted in 13 & Under classes). Silver mounted equipment is not to count over a good working outfit. There shall be no discrimination against any standard western bit.

ranch reining

handbook pages 137-142

The purpose of Ranch Reining is to demonstrate a pony’s ability to perform basic handling maneuvers while exhibiting an above level head carriage in a forward-looking manner. The exhibitor/pony team will be scored on their ability to complete maneuvers with finesse, smoothness, quickness with controlled speeds that are exciting and pleasing to watch.

Ranch riding

Handbook pages 126-132
​
This is a pattern class that is judged on the pony’s ability to work each part of the pattern correctly and efficiently with a free, forward motion. Ponies must display free-flowing, ground-covering gaits and should complete transitions with smoothness and responsiveness where designated in the pattern.

ranch trail

Handbook pages 133-137

​The purpose of Ranch Trail is to demonstrate a pony’s ability to effectively manage and navigate through a series of obstacles similar to those that may be encountered in everyday ranch work. The pony/rider team will be scored on their ability to work together in completing a correct and efficient pattern. The ideal Ranch Trail pony should exhibit a well-mannered attitude and be responsive to the rider as the pattern is completed.

Random Classes

COSTUME CONTESTS

Any type costume may be worn. Contestants will be judged 75% on costume, 25% on the pony. Class to be judged at the walk only, both ways of the ring. Exhibitors may be allowed a maximum of 2 minutes of individual working time or explanation of costume, at the discretion of the Show Committee. The exhibitor must remain mounted in all costume classes. Failure to do so is a disqualification. The exhibitor is the only person allowed in the ring with the pony. If the exhibitor is accompanied by other people or other animals (ponies, dogs, cats, etc.), the exhibitor shall be disqualified

DRIVING CLASS

Handbook page 169

Tack - Type of harness is optional. A snaffle bit with overcheck or a snaffle bit or Liverpool bit with side checks will be considered proper. Bridles with blinkers or overchecks are optional. A spoon crupper is prohibited. All equipment is to be clean, neat and in sound condition. Running martingales are optional. Artificial appliances are not to be used.

Attire - should be suitable for the type of vehicle and harness used. If the exhibitor is a female attired in a short dress, a lap robe is required. A lap robe is not required if a female exhibitor is in a long dress.

Ponies are to be shown hitched to a suitable two or four wheel vehicle, type is optional. Pony is to be shown at a flat- footed walk, a slow trot or park gait, and an extended trot or road gait, both ways of the ring. Pony should stand quietly and back readily. Manners and quality of the performance will be judged.