Trail Obstacle

The Judge may grade each obstacle on a one to ten basis; subtracting points for faults, refusals, excessive time, etc. Judge should request a contestant move on to the next obstacle if too much time is spent on one obstacle.

Individual horse & rider shall negotiate an obstacle course consisting of six obstacles, three of which are mandatory. Final consideration of the Judge shall include quality & smoothness of performance of the horse & neatness & ability of rider. The ideal trail horse shall negotiate the course with surefootedness; looks at the obstacles, but does not hesitate, yet does not rush along the course; moves willingly without urging of rider.

Reins must be held in one hand & should not be changed during the performance. English tacked horses may be ridden with both hands on the reins.

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

• Opening, passing through & closing gate. Obstacle is not complete unless the gate is closed. *Changing hands on the gate or turning loose of the gate is to be penalized.
   
• Ride over at least four logs or poles. These can be in a straight line, curved, zigzag or raised. The space between logs shall be 15-24 inches; walk overs, 3' to 3'6"; lope overs 6' to 7'. Elevated walk overs should be minimum of 22 inches apart. Lope overs cannot be elevated.
   
• Ride over wooden bridge * may also be plywood set to simulate sound & appearance of bridge. Suggested minimum width shall be 36" wide & at least 6 ft long. Bridge should be sturdy & safe. Horse should show willingness to stand quietly on the bridge & not rush off.
   
• Ground tie horse, walking a full circle around & at least 10 Ft. from the horses body.

Optional Obstacles:

• Back horse through L shaped course
  Logs or bales of hay are suggested.
  On ground: 28 inch minimum space between poles; elevated 30 inches minimum between poles.
   
• Water Hazard
   
• One jump not less than 14 nor more than 24 inches high ridden over.
   
• One jump not less than 14 nor more than 24 inches high led over.

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