Show Rules

Our shows primarily follow USEF and USEA rules, but we’ve made a few exceptions to prioritize safety, horse welfare, affordability, and efficiency:

• Safety First: Any fall will result in elimination.
• Horse Protection: Protective wraps are allowed in the show ring.
• Affordability: Dress code requirements are more relaxed to keep costs down.
• Efficiency: Competitors must enter the show ring within 45 seconds of the judge's signal to avoid elimination.

Important Reminder: Readers are permitted for dressage tests but not for eventing tests.

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Participation Guidelines

• Equipment Not Allowed in Rated Shows: Riders using prohibited equipment (e.g., certain bits, draw reins) may still participate in FRC shows but must ride HC (hors concours), meaning "out of the competition."
• Class Limits:
  • A dressage test counts as 1 class; a combined test counts as 2 classes.
  • Maximum of 4 classes per rider/horse combination.
  • For two horses, the limit is 2 classes per horse, with a maximum of 2 horses per rider.
• Horse Sharing: If a horse is shared between two riders, it may enter up to 4 classes total. However, it cannot compete in 2 combined tests at the Novice level or higher. For example:
  • A horse can compete in a Grasshopper CT and Beginner Novice CT.
  • If entered in a Novice CT or higher, it may only do 1 combined test, but it can still perform up to 2 additional dressage tests.
• Non-Compete Horses: Additional horses can be entered as non-compete to be schooled on the show grounds. Riders may put these horses on a waitlist for specific classes, which will be accommodated if there are scratches after the schedule is published.
• Schooling Jump Course: Riders are allowed to school the jump course during the open schooling portion of the jump ring at the level below their test ride. For example, Starter open schooling takes place prior to the Beginner Novice Combined Test.

Safety Rules

• Falls:
  • Fall of horse or rider during a class results in automatic elimination from that class.
  • If a fall occurs during warm-up, the rider must notify the Show Secretary and be evaluated to determine fitness to continue. A second fall during warm-up results in elimination from the show.
• Helmets: ASTM-approved protective headgear is required for all riders mounted on a horse, regardless of discipline, while on the grounds. Failure to comply may result in elimination.

Entering a Show & Refund Policy

• Entry Deadlines: Entries must be received by the Show Secretary by the closing date. Late entries may not be accepted as shows often fill early. No email entries accepted.
• Refund Policy:
  • Before the Closing Date: Full refund minus a processing fee.
  • After the Closing Date: Entry fees are forfeited, but stall or grounds fees will be refunded.
  • No-Shows: All fees are forfeited.
  • Refunds will be processed within three weeks after the show.
• Waitlist Policy: If your slot can be filled from the waitlist with the same test, you’ll be refunded minus the processing fee. Early notification increases the chances of a refund.
• Club Bucks Payment: Riders paying with Club Bucks must contact the Show Secretary for instructions. Up to 100% of the entry fee can be covered, but the $10 processing fee must be paid in cash and is non-refundable.
• Change/Late Fees:
  • $10 change fee for schedule-affecting changes after the closing date.
  • $10 non-refundable late fee for entries accepted after the closing date.

Equipment & Dress Code

• Wraps/Equipment:
  • Protective wraps and boots are allowed in the competition ring to prevent injury.
  • Training tools (e.g., martingales, bit guards) are allowed in dressage warm-up but must be removed before entering the competition ring.
• Bits, Bridles, and Tack: Equipment not permitted in rated shows (e.g., certain bits, bitless bridles) may be used unless deemed abusive. Riders using such equipment must ride HC.
• Dress Code:
  • Show coats and braiding are not required.
  • Approved safety helmets and shoes with heels are mandatory.
  • Riders must wear appropriate clothing.
• Helmet Requirement:
  • ASTM-approved protective headgear is mandatory for everyone on a horse, regardless of discipline. No exceptions are allowed for derbies, western hats, or any other headwear.

Getting to the Show Ring

• Timeliness: Riders have 45 seconds to enter the ring after the judge’s signal. Failure to do so will result in elimination.
• Warm-Up Protocol: On-deck riders should warm up around the outside of the ring as the previous rider completes their test. If the ring is running ahead of schedule, riders may be asked to go early but are not required to do so.

Schooling Guidelines

• Jumping:
  • Jump courses must be ridden in the correct direction (red flag on the right).
  • Trainers may assist with refusals but must limit their time if others are waiting.
• General Schooling Rules:
  • Lunging is not allowed in warm-up arenas. Ask management for designated areas.
  • Schooling in rings is only permitted during specified times set by show management.
  • Unauthorized schooling outside of designated times will result in a $50 fine.

General Rules

• Facility Care:
  • Dispose of trash and manure in designated areas.
  • Only use paid stalls; unauthorized use will result in additional fees.
• Dogs:
  • Dogs must be leashed at all times and are not allowed near in-gate areas.
• Awards:
  • Ribbons are awarded for 1st through 6th place in all classes.
  • Classes may be combined or split depending on entries.
• Horse Identification:
  • All horses on the grounds must check in with negative Coggins and receive a number.
  • Numbers must be worn at all times when the horse is on the showgrounds, except when in a trailer or stall.

• Food Concessions: Food will be available on the grounds.
• Special Requests:
  • Requests to ride first or last in a class will be considered but not guaranteed.
  • Specific ride times cannot be requested.
• Volunteers: Don’t forget to thank the volunteers! Their hard work makes these shows possible.

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We’re dedicated to providing a safe, fun, and supportive environment for all participants. Enjoy the show!