in disqualification. The overall length of the whip for a single
horse should be long enough to reach its shoulder. Excessive
length beyond the shoulder is not allowed. For multiple
hitch, the whip should be of suitable style and length.
109
SHOW RULES
H. Safety
1. No horse shall be left unattended while put to a vehicle.
Disqualification for the balance of the show may result at
the show manager’s discretion.
2. All rules of the road should be observed unless officials
direct otherwise. Drivers must drive on the rail at a
safe distance behind horse and cart in front. Passing is
permissible but the driver should return to the rail as
soon as possible.
3. A judge must excuse from competition any unsafe vehicle,
equipment, or horse for that class.
4. Headers: A header is an appropriately attired (show attire
or unlettered smock with suitable footwear) capable
person 13 years of age or over. This attendant shall
take NO action that will affect the performance of any
Miniature Horse. Only one header is allowed per horse.
The header must not have a whip and shall remain at least
two (2) paces distant from the head of the horse when the
judge is inspecting the horse, and at all other times unless
assistance in controlling the horse is needed. Adult (19
years of age or older) headers are mandatory for all youth
drivers and optional for all other drivers.
5. Blinders and overchecks or sidechecks are required.
6. No entry may leave the ring after judging has begun
without permission from the judge. If an accident or
equipment failure occurs which needs medical attention
or repair, those involved shall remain in position and all
other entries shall move to the center of the arena.
7. During a class, adjustments/repairs to equipment may
be made upon permission from the judge. A groom may
assist with the adjustment without penalty. After judging
has begun, no attendant may enter the arena without the
permission of the judge. Only one time out per class/per
horse once horse has entered the ring. Maximum time not
to exceed three (3) minutes. Official time outs must be
declared by the judge or judges. More than one time out
per exhibitor shall result in disqualification. (Amended
02-14, effective 01-15)
8.
In Special Needs Pleasure Driving classes an adult
or senior youth (13-18) may accompany the driver.
(Amended 02-06, effective 01-07)
9. No youth 12 years of age or under may drive a stallion.
10. All persons involved in driving competition must have
safety foremost in their minds.
11. A driver must never allow passengers to enter a vehicle
until he/she is seated with the reins in hand and must
never dismount while passengers are in the vehicle.
12. It is permissible to talk to your horse(s) in a subdued
tone of voice. “Clucks” for starting, “walk on”, “trot”,
“whoa” and “back” are the more accepted terms. Any