More than 150 years ago the need for a sure-footed, easy traveling horse for the early pioneers increased in the Ozark Mountains, the mid-west of the USA. These pioneers came from the eastern states of Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia and others. They brought along their best horses. These horses were primarily Arabian horses, Morgan horses and working horses. Later they brought other horses like American Saddlebreds, Tennessee Walking Horses and other brood lines. All these breeds build the foundation for the Missouri Fox trotting Horse.

The ability to travel long distances in a comfortable manner at a speed of five to eight miles per hour were key to establishing the Fox Trotter, the horse of choice for doctors, Sheriffs and Ranchers. Thanks to the comfortable gait the Fox Trotter quickly got attributed as the „Cowboys Cadillac“. The modern breed of the Fox trotter is oriented toward a modern pleasure horse with the ability for showing in combination with being a tough ranch horse or trail riding horse. The Rangers of Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and Arizona selected the Fox Trotter as their preferred horse.

In 1992 Missouri Fox Trotting Horses were presented for the first time in Europe during „Hippologica“ in Berlin, Germany and later in March of 1993 at „Equitana“ in Essen. History tells us the Queen of England imported 12 Palominos in the mid 50s. After „Equitana“the number of Fox Trotters increased steadily in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. There are even some Foxtrotters in France and Spain. Even though the Foxtrotters appeal to a lot of people for pleasure, riding still is a rare breed with only some 300 horses as of mid 2000.

The “DMFTA” has been founded on August 3, 1992 in Löhne (Brandenburg). The founding assembly took place in Berlin on July 21, 1993. Since 2004 the federation name is EMFTHA (European Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Association).

The first European Championship took place on August 2 to 4, 1996 at “Schloss Pertenstein” in Traunreut, Germany. More than 40 horses from Germany, Austria and Switzerland registered for the show! In 9 different disciplines and more than 100 classes the horses were shown and judged. Since then a European Championship takes place every second year. First breeders have established themselves among Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The breeding material is of excellent quality. The reason for this is the high costs for transportation and import of horses that are only justifiable by “best-of-breed” material.

The most important and therefore name-giving attribute of a Foxtrotter is its gait, the foxtrot. All horses of this breed have a natural, genetic disposition for a broken four-beat gait. The Foxtrot is a sure-footed gait with no high action but high efficiency. Because of this gait, the rider experiences a very smooth ride with hardly any movement, thus providing a comfortable ride, even if they last for hours.

The Missouri Fox Trotting Horse should stand 14 to 16 hands in height, be of good conformation, and able to carry weight. The animal should stand well on its feet, be erect, wide-awake and alert. The shoulder should have a sloop between 45% and 50%. The neck should be graceful, in proportion to length of the body, and well joined to the body. The Fox Trotting Horse should have a neat, clean, intelligently-shaped head; pointed ears that are well-shaped; good, large, bright eyes; and a tapered muzzle. The back should be reasonably short and strong; the body deep and well ribbed. The flank should be full, the chest deep and full. The shoulders should be properly sloped and well muscled. The legs should be muscular and well tapered. The foot should be well made, strong and in proper proportion to the size of the horse. The hair should be soft and silky.

The correct Foxtrotter determines the rhythm of the gait with its full body. The head is nodding slightly in perfect synchronization with the gait, as well as the ears. The correct gait is flat and represents a very regular beat over long distance. There should be no visible up and down movements of the back but a smooth, sliding action. The color is of no importance and all variations are shown.

In addition to the three well-known gaits of walk, trot and lope, the Foxtrotter shows the following additional gaits:
FLATFOOT WALK (fast walk):
The flatfoot walk is a flat four-beat lateral gait. Over stride is much appreciated.

FOXTROT (broken Trot):
The foxtrot, name-giving for the breed, is a diagonal four-beat gait, where the front foot hits the ground split-second before the opposite rear foot. The head nods in unison with the rhythm of the gait. The tail perfectly balances the movements of the head..

RUNNING WALK (very fast walk):
The running walk shows the same pattern as the flat foot walk but at a higher speed and with more over stride.

SINGLE FOOT (Rack):
The single-foot is an even four-beat gait with sometimes only a single foot on the ground (hence the name). This gait allows for rather high speed.

CANTER:
The canter is a three-beat gait, executed in a straight manner on either hand, smooth and flexible, with a long reach. Pumping, four-beat gallop or too much speed is very much disliked.

GALLOP:
The gallop is an extended four-beat gait as used for races but still smooth and with tender movements.

In breed classes, flatfoot walk, foxtrot, and canter are required gaits. In pleasure classes, running walk as well as single-foot can be asked for. A well-trained and performing horse also should be able to show flying lead changes in canter.

Whoever is busy with a horse takes full responsibility for this animal. Keeping a horse should be in accordance with its natural desires and needs. Physical and psychical health is regardless of the usage of the horse of highest priority. All horses are to be treated equally, regardless of their breed, age or gender and regardless of their usage for breeding, pleasure or sport.

The knowledge of the horses’ history and their needs as well as knowledge in treating horses are cultural goods of our human society. These are to be kept and to be taught to coming generations. Being around horses has a forming influence on the personality of human beings, especially in their younger years. This influence should always be considered and promoted. Every single human with the intention to undergo sporty activities with a horse, has to be trained. The objective of every education should be to promote complete harmony between human and horse.

A correct and fair behavior against the horse, the competition, the organization and the judges is a basic requirement. The rider and the owner of a horse have to respect the ethical as well as the legal guidelines, especially:
To feed the horses according to their needs and to keep them according to the rules as defined in the animal protection law.
To allow for a good deal of room for a horse to move and walk around freely.
Not to torture a horse, either by treatment or by unqualified transportation.
The following is a list of unethical behavior:

Use of methods for education and training with violation of the Animal protection law,
To use a horse in extent of its physical power,
Inadequate punishment of a horse,
Selfish behaviour against others.

a) Organizations or single persons willing to organize a EMFTHA approved show have to seek approval prior to the show if they wish the results reflected in the official statistic. A non-refundable fee of EUR 25.55 is due and should be sent in together with the request form.

b) For a Show to achieve official status, at least the following classes are required:

1. Halter Classes:
Weanlings, Fillies and Colts
Yearling, Fillies and Colts
2 year old Fillies and Colts
3 year old Mares and Stallions
4+ year old Mares, Stallions and Geldings

2. Gait Classes:
Junior Mares (4 years old) - 2 gait
Junior Stallions and Geldings (4 years old) - 2 gait
Senior Mares (5+ years old) - 3 gait
Senior Stallions and Geldings (5+ years old) - 3 gait

3. Riding Classes:
Junior pleasure (4)
Senior pleasure (5+)
Horsemanship (4+) (noCanter)
Trail (4+)
Endurance (6+)

In classes with less than 4 horses mares and stallions/geldings will be put together to build a class. A Junior Pleasure class with less than 4 riders will form an All-age-Class with the senior pleasure class.

Nominations for shows must be done using official forms supplied by the EMFTHA. In case of incomplete forms or missing registration fees the registration will not be accepted.

Registration fees must be declared by the organization on the announcement sheet and may not be altered afterwards. Members of the EMFTHA will receive a discount off the regular fee. The announcement sheet is also only complete if it includes all additional fees as for boxes, camping, paddock, hay, etc.)

The list with the results of the show, all judging cards, and the complete list of all participants must be sent to the EMFTHA office within 14 days after the show. Lists sent in too late result in a non-listing in the official scoring tables.

The announcement for a show must contain the following:

Name of show manager
Name of judge/judges
Date of the show/competition
Place of show/competition
Last registration date
Agenda (list of classes and corresponding start time)
Route description, maybe a map
List of hotels available in the area

The order in which the participants will start in a class will be determined randomly and for each class anew. Special patterns (i.e. Trail) must be announced at least one hour prior to the start of the class.

Ribbons will be distributed as follows:

1. blue
2. red
3. yellow
4. white
5. pink

for places 6 and up:

6. green
and higher - brown.

Qualified horses 4 years and older in performance classes and qualified horses 1 year and older in halter and horsemanship at halter classes earn points according to the following table:


Horse Place

The title of a Grand Champion is only awardable in competitions with more than 6 classes and the winning horse achieves at least 3.5 points.

The horse achieving the highest total of points in a show will be awarded the title „Champion of Champions“.

• Each participant is responsible to be on time for the start of a class.
• Participants being supported in the Arena by third party will be disqualified.
• The start order cannot be changed and must correspond to the starter list.
• Each participant’s number must be worn and visible at all times.
• Outside of the arena only tack listed under 400 hereinafter is allowed.

• All judges must be approved by the MFTHBA or the EMFTHA e.V.. It is not allowed for a judge to act on shows within a distance of 50 km from the place where they live. (Exceptions are allowed for a first transition period)
• Placement is by decision of the judge only; the judge’s decision is final. Double-Placements are not possible.
• Each judge registers the exact number of nominated and started participants in the judging card. Judging cards are to be sent to the EMFTHA e.V. office after the show (see 304 above).
• Horses, which have been trained or sold by the judge over the last three months, are not allowed in the class. Participants being trained by the judge over the last three months are not allowed in the class.
• The judge only answers questions by a participant in presence of the ring steward. No conversation between participants and the judge is allowed during a class.
• If the judge suspects a horse to be lame, injured or sick, he decides together with the vet to disqualify the horse.
• The show management or the judge is allowed to ask for doping controls. Horses doped or under drugs will be disqualified.

• Every adult (18 Years) is electable as a show manager.
• The show manager has the over-all responsibility for the organisation of a show.
• It is the show manager’s right and duty to control all rules in respect of a show.
• The show manager may not be a participant in the show or competition.

A jury has to be established for each show. The jury decides over protests and enforces all rules. All decisions being made based on these rules are final. Members of the jury must be independent and not involved with the case. The jury consists of:
• A representative of the show management,
• A representative of the judges,
• A representative of the participants

Everybody being discriminated by a violation of rules is entitled for a protest. A protest against judge’s decisions is only possible in case of violation of rules by either the judge or the show management but never against the judging or the placement itself.

Protests are only valid, if they are posted immediately after publication of results or decisions, if the person involved posts them and if they are backed by a deposit of EUR 50.-. If the protest is denied the deposit remains with the show management. The jury makes the final decision in a protest.

The jury processes orally. The jury elects a secretary to write a protocol, which will be signed by all jury members. The decision made is to be published immediately. A protest will cause a class to be held back or suspended but never to be annihilated.

Violations of the Animal Protection Law, fairness or these rules result in fines and penalties, issued by the jury or the judge, respectively. In addition, legal prosecution is also possible.

The exact birth date determines the age of a horse. Only horses 4 years and older are allowed to be showed under saddle. A horse can be shown in several classes. The rider may change with each class. In classes with single presentation (i.e. Trail) a rider can show more than 1 horse. Exceptions need the approval by the Manager for sport activity.

Horses may be shown shod or unshod as long as the hoof is not damaged and the horse is able to walk in balance. Shoes may have a maximum weight of 900 gr. per pair and have to be of appropriate size. The hoof must be well kept and trimmed. The judge or the ring steward is authorized to inspect the hoof and shoe at any time during a show. They can seek the assistance of a professional blacksmith or a vet.

A horse being showed must be in good physical condition, healthy and well trained and prepared. Appropriate liability insurance in required. It is not allowed to change the performance or appearance of a horse by any means of physical, surgical or pharmaceutical treatment.

Before show start a valid proof of vaccination is required. In case of doubts regarding the condition of a horse, the judge or the ring steward are authorized to ask for a medical examination. The judge also has the right to ask for a control of drug abuse. A horse under suspicion is not allowed to start. A protest will only be looked at after the results of the check are available.

In general, all classes are open for all riders if not specified in the show announcement. Riders between 8 and 17 years are allowed to start in youth classes. All riders below age 18 are only admitted with a helmet.

In all classes clean and fitting Western Apparel is required with the following exceptions:

Jumping class:
English classic dress and helmet for all riders.

Driving Ladies:
Conservative clothes, blouse and skirt, English riding dress or riding coat.

Driving Men:
Classic dress or Tuxedo, English riding dress, Uniform, sport suit, no Jeans.

If not mentioned in the show announcement all tack as described hereinafter under 401 to 406 has to be used. All gait classes have to be ridden with both hands (no neck reining). Horses at an age below of 5 years are not admitted using a curb bit except in combination with a bosal. A horse showing inappropriate equipment (saddles or bridles) can be excluded from participation by the judge.

The following bits are allowed:
4-year-old horses: Snaffle Bit, Hackamore, Side pull, Bosal, Argentine 5+-year-old horses: Snaffle Bit, Hackamore, and Snaffle with Shanks, Curb Bit

(recommended bits)
Curb bit, shank ratio 1/2

All classes shall be ridden under Western Saddle with the following exceptions:

Jumping Western or English saddle
Distance Western or Australian Tack saddle

• Western spurs
• Chaps
• Tapaderos

• Bridles made of wire or iron
• Chain curbs with a width of less than 1.3 cm
• Caveson (allowed in performance gait classes)
• Tie-downs
• Martingale (allowed in the jumping classes)
• Suspender
• Reins with correcting function
• Double reins
• Electro shocking devices, twigs, whips
• Spurs without spinning wheels

The Show Management is required to use the following Class Number and Class Name when posting Shows and / or Competitions.

Missouri-Foxtrotter-Classes Europe
Nr. Class-Name
100 Model-Halter Weanling
101 Model-Halter Filly Weanling
102 Model-Halter Colt Weanling
103 Model-Halter Filly/Colt Weanling
110 Model-Halter Yearling
111 Model-Halter Filly Yearling
112 Model-Halter Colt Yearling
113 Model-Halter Filly/Colt Yearling
120 Model-Halter Junior 2+3 years
121 Model-Halter Junior Mares 2+3 year
122 Model-Halter Junior Stallions/Geldings 2+3 year
123 Model-Halter Junior Mares/Stallions/Geldings 2+3 year
130 Model-Halter Senior 4 years & older
131 Model-Halter Senior Mares 4+ years
132 Model-Halter Senior Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
133 Model-Halter Senior Mares/Stallions/Geldings/4+ years
200 Performance 2-Gait 3+4 years old
201 Performance 2-Gait Junior-Mares 3-4 year
202 Performance 2-Gait Junior Stallions/Geldings 3+4 years
203 Performance 2-Gait Junior Mares/Stallions/Geldings 3+4 years
210 Performance 2-Gait Senior 4 years & older
211 Performance 2-Gait Senior Mares 4+ years
212 Performance 2-Gait Senior Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
213 Performance 2-Gait Senior Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
220 Performance 3-Gait Senior 4 years & older
221 Performance 3-Gait Senior Mares 4+ years
222 Performance 3-Gait Senior Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
223 Performance 3-Gait Senior Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
300 Western Pleasure
301 Western Pleasure 2-Gait Junior Mares 3+4 year
302 Western Pleasure 2-Gait Junior Stallions/Geldings 3+4 year
303 Western Pleasure 2-Gait Junior Mares/Stallions/Geldings 3+4 year
310 Western Pleasure 3-Gait 4+ years
311 Western Pleasure 3-Gait Senior Mares 4+ years
312 Western Pleasure 3-Gait Senior Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
313 Western Pleasure 3-Gait Senior Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
400 Pleasure Gait 4 years & older
401 Pleasure 2-Gait Mares 4+ years
402 Pleasure 2-Gait Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
403 Pleasure 2-Gait Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
500 Speed Classes 4 years & older
501 Barrel Race Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
502 Pole Bending Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
503 Stake Race Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
550 Speed Fox Trot 4 years & older
551 Speed Fox Trot Mares 4+ years
552 Speed Fox Trot Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
553 Speed Fox Trot Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
600 Versatility Classes 4 years & older
601 Trail 3-Gait Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
602 Reining Mares/Stallions/Geldings 5+ years
603 Horsemanship 3-Gait Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
611 Trail 2-Gait Junior, Mares/Stallions/Geldings 3+4 years
650 Endurance Riding 6 years & older
651 Distanz 25 Mi
652 Distanz 50 Mi
653 Distanz 100 Mi
700 Driving 3 years & older
710 Spezial Classes
720 Novice Class 2-Gait Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
750 Youth Classes
751 Trail Youth 18& under, Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
752 Performance Youth 2-Gait 18& under, Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
753 Western Pleasure Youth 18& under, Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
754 Horsemanship Youth 18& under, Mares/Stallions/Geldings 4+ years
900 Fun Classes 3 years & older
901 Water Glass open 3+ years (Fun Class)
902 Costume Class open 3+ years (Fun class)
903 Mached Pair open 3+ years (Fun class)

Code:
A Amateur
0 Open
Y Youth
L Ladies
G Gentleman
S Seniors
P Split Classes

In halter classes the horses will be judged by its confirmation (85% (40% Balance, 20% Confirmation, 15% Feet slegs, 10% Condition)) and its ability to walk and Foxtrot (at hand) (15%) in accordance with §103 of this rulebook

• In Youth gait classes the horse shows its natural gait ability in FLATFOOT WALK and FOXTROT.
• In all other gait classes all three gaits (FLATFOOT WALK, FOXTROT and CANTER) will be judged.
• Judging is in accordance with §104 of this rulebook.

2 Gait classes: 50 % Foxtrot, 25 % Flat Foot Walk, 25 % Conformation
3 Gait classes: 40 % Foxtrot, 20 % Flat Foot Walk, 20 % Canter, 20 % Conformation

2 Gait classes: 50 % Flat Foot Walk, 40 % Pleasure fast 4 Beat Gait, 10 % Conformation
5 Gait classes: 20 % Flat Foot Walk, 20 % Foxtrot, 20 % Running Walk, 20 % Single Foot, 20% Canter

The fastest horse performing a foxtrot without changing the gait is the winner of the class. The other horses will be ranked accordingly. Judging: 100 % Speed-Foxtrot

Trail is a performance class. In general, a trail horse shall carry its rider willingly and without fear over obstacles. Judging will be done according to the following:

Behavior of the horse at the obstacle, awareness for the rider, and low visible influence are important. Unnecessary changes of gait result in point deduction. Neck reining is recommended with the exception of snaffle bits and Hackamores. Reins may be changed form one hand to the other if the obstacle requires so. The rider may neither touch the horse nor the saddle when working an obstacle.

The horse is required to back up and to side step willingly and to stand still.
A total of 100 points can be awarded.

Flat FootWalk 10
Foxtrott 10
Canter 10
Hindernisse 70

The trail course must be announced one hour prior to the class’s start. No horse is allowed on the show ground before the class. All obstacles, maneuvers and required gaits including lead changes are to be described in writing as well as in a picture.

Each obstacle can earn a horse a maximum of 10 points; 0-8 for getting over the obstacle and 0-2 for the manner. For the whole class 0-5 points for the requested gaits.

High points are awarded for horses getting over an obstacle in style and at a reasonable speed. Careful riding will not result in a deduction of points. Well-trained horses getting over simple obstacles by themselves are awarded the same points, if they willingly follow the rider for more difficult obstacles. Unnatural behavior or unnecessary stand-up of the rider will result in deduction of points.

The judge determines the gait between the obstacles. Getting over obstacles in an order different from the order determined by the judge will result in exclusion from the class. Skipping an obstacle or resolving from the wrong side will result in deduction of points. Obstacles will be put back in place for the next rider.

Show management should keep in mind that the main objective of a trail class is never the setup of a trap for the horse or to place non-passable obstacles. There should also be room enough for gait and canter to allow the judging of the gaits.

In case of two riders accumulating the same amount of points the judge can ask for additional exercises. Obstacles are to be constructed in a manner to prevent accidents at the highest possible level. The judge is allowed to deny some or all obstacles. A total of 6 obstacles must be placed, whereof three are always required and three can be selected from the list hereinafter. Obstacles can be combined, whereas a combination counts as only one obstacle.

Opening, passing and closing of a gate. Releasing the gate during the exercise will result in deduction of points. The gate may not impose any danger neither for horse nor rider. The width shall be at least 2.5m.
Riding over 4 poles. The poles can be arranged in a line, in a curve, zigzagging or elevated. The distance between the poles is 40-60 cm for walk, 80-100 cm for Foxtrot and 190-210 cm for Canter. Elevated poles (elevation max 30 cm) require a minimum distance of 55 cm for walk.
Obstacle for backing up, like:
• „L“: width 1 m, length of outer rim 3-4 m
• “Triangle”: three pylons placed in a triangle
• “Line”: three pylons in a line (Slalom)
• “Free”: pattern as required without markings on the ground

1. Ground Tying, (with split reins either one or both reins are to be placed on the ground)
2. Transportation of any physical item that could occur during a pleasure ride
3. Passing of a bridge or seesaw (minimum width 90 cm, minimum length 2.5 m)
4. Putting on and off of a Poncho or rain coat
5. Empty and fill of a letter box
6. Side stepping over an obstacle (max. elevation 30 cm)
7. Pole square with a side length of 170 – 190 cm. Each participant must enter the square and perform a 360° turn without touching, wait a few seconds, then leave the square at the opposite side of the entrance.
8. Side stepping to a “T” pattern. Obstacle built of 3 poles at 180 cm each and a minimum distance of 45 cm between the pole’s ends.

This class will be judged by the quality of the gait, manner and conformation of the horse. Speeds too high or too low or canter on the wrong lead are not appreciated. The horses are requested to show WALK, FLATFOOT WALK, FOXTROT and CANTER on loose reins with no visible influence by the rider. All gaits are to be shown on both hands to allow better judgment.

The horse shall not perform the as called „Show Canter“. Furthermore, the horse must be willing to back up and to stand still. Reversing is always towards the judge and the middle of the arena. Reversing is requested in walk or gait but never in canter. For better judgment the judge is allowed to request additional exercises but only as described above. The judge may require the rider to dismount for better inspection of saddle and tack.

A good pleasure horse has a comfortable gait in harmony with its body. A smooth, elastic ankle gives the rider a smooth and comfortable seat. The head is carried naturally, neither too much elevated nor too much extended in front. The horse shall be relaxed but awake and ready to follow the rider’s orders at the lightest hints. Neck reining is required except with Snaffle-Bit and Hackamore. The rider is not allowed to change the reins from one hand to the other for the duration of the class.

• High and uncontrolled speed
• Change of gait or change for the wrong gait
• Too slow speed with loss of effort
• Riding in the wrong gait
• Touching horse or saddle with the free hand
• Head too high
• Overstressed neck with the nose behind the vertical line
• Extended nose
• Open mouth
• Stumbling or falling of the horse
• Usage of spurs on forehand (up from the girth)
• Horses with an underfed, overworked, pale appearance
• Handicapping of other participants
• Change of rein hand
• double-hand riding with bits
• More than one finger between split reins
• Wrong lead in canter or gallop
• Break of or loss gait

Each class consists of two parts.
• Exercise separately for each participant (80% of judging)
• Exercise, where the best participants from part 1 are all
•
together to ride a pleasure pattern
Western Horsemanship classes are for horses 5+ years only. Neck reining is required with the exception of Snaffle Bit and Hackamore. The judge will announce the separate exercise one hour prior to the start of the class. The judge qualifies the rider, his sitting and the smoothness of commands.

Rough failures are:
• Hand change
• Change of gait on other than the required places
• Wrong lead canter
• Exercises like backing up, stop, turn, circle or sidestepping on other than the required place
• Touching a pylon
• Position askew to the track
• Deviation from the best line
• Stopping askew, Backing up askew, backing up with resistance, trail bobbing, head shaking, mouth opening or strong rider support

a. The judge selects one or two patterns
b. Each participant rides the required pattern alone. Judging starts immediately after entering the arena and ends after the last maneuver.
c. To ride a horse means not only to lead it but also to control it. The best-ridden horse is willing and obeys its rider without resistance. Any independent movement of the horse and any deviation from the pattern is a sign of lack of control. Extra points can be earned for softness, behaviour, speed and authority.
The range of points varies from 0 to unlimited, whereas 70 is the average.The following actions prevent a ranking:
• mishandling of the horse in the arena and/or proof, that a mishandling took place before or during the contest.
• Usage of prohibited equipment including wired bits, bosals or chain curbs
• Usage of prohibited bits
• Usage of Tack collars, Tie downs and nosebands
• Usage of whips or sticks
• Usage of any items changing or limiting the trail’s movements and flexibility
• Skipping or evading rider, horse, and tack control by the judge
• Disrespectful or bad behavior by the participant
The rider may adjust reins, if they could hinder the continuation of the pattern and only if adjustment doesn’t influence the horse and only during breaks. In case of usage of a romal the extension may be kept in the rider’s other hand.The following results in 0 points:
1. Usage of more than one finger between the reins
2. Usage of double-hand reins with the exception of Snaffle Bit and Hackamore and while changing the hand
3. Usage of romal as a whip
4. Errors in following the correct order of a pattern
5. Different execution of patterns to the description
6. Additional manoeuvres, including, but not limited to:
a. Backing up for more than two steps
b. A turn of more than 90°, if not required
7. Failures of tack, causing a break in the pattern
8. Shying or refusing causing a delay
9. Going through or refusing preventing to recognize whether the pattern has already started
10. Trot for more than half a circle or half the length of the arena at the start of a circle or after a rollback
11. Overspin by more than 1/4 Spin or underspin by more than 1/4 spin
12. Falling of either horse or rider
The following results in a deduction of 5 points:
1. Usage of spurs on forehand (up from the girth)
2. Usage of free hand to influence the horse
3. Touching the saddle or the horse with the free hand
4. Severe misbehaviour including kicking, biting, buckling or rearing up
The following results in a deduction of 2 points:
1. Ignoring of marks at stop or rollback
2. Break of the requested gait
3. Stand still at spins or rollbacks
4. Start of canter out of the wrong gait
Begin of a circle or figure eight on the wrong lead or deferred lead change are judged as follows:
• For each wrong lead: minus one point per 1/4 of a circle.
• Deferred lead change: minus 0.5 points for each step
• Start of a circle in trot or trot after a rollback: minus 0.5 points for the first two steps, minus 2 points for up to 1/4 circle or half the length of the arena
• Spin: minus 0.5 points for 1/8 turns over or under, minus 1 point for 1/4 turns over or under
• Two stops or rollback: minimum distance from the wall 6m, otherwise minus 0.5 points
Delayed or missing lead change in canter:
• Delayed by one step: minus 0.5 points
• Delayed by more than one step but happened before next maneuver: minus 1 point
• No lead change: minus 2 points
The judge can ask a participant for a repetition of either parts of or the whole pattern.Failures of the horse resulting in a deduction of points:
• Opening of mouth with bit
• Chewing, mouth opening or head shaking when stopped
• Lack of tenderness, stop from the hip (by side stepping or pushing)
• Refuse of lead change in canter
• Anticipating signals
• Stumbling
• Backing up with side stepping
• Knocking over of marks
Failures of the rider resulting in a deduction of points:
• Loss of a stirrup
• Too much influence on the horse (i.e. talking, patting, and use of spurs, pulling of reins)
It is not a failure to ignore the markings when riding a circle or a figure eight if the size or condition of the arena required it. Nevertheless, it is a failure, if stops or rollbacks are executed within the markings.
A show can host as much as three Reining classes.
1. The following is valid with three classes:
a. Senior Reining, ridden with a bit
b. Junior Reining, ridden with a bit
c. Hackamore/Snaffle bit Reining for horses 5 years and younger, ridden with a Hackamore or a Snaffle bit.
A horse may not be shown in both the Junior Reining and the Hackamore/Snaffle bit class.
2. The following is valid with two classes:
a. Senior Reining, ridden with a bit
b. Junior Reining, ridden with a Bit, a Hackamore or a Snaffle bit
3. The following is valid with only one class:
a. Reining all ages. Horses 6 years and older must be ridden with a bit, for horses 5 years and younger either a bit, a Hackamore or a snaffle bit must be used.
Once the horse is in motion the rider may not touch the saddle or the horse.Reining Pattern 1 (for seniors and Professionals)
1. Fast canter to the opposite end of the arena, past the marker, rollback left, no stop
2. Fast canter to the opposite end of the arena, past the marker, rollback right, no stop
3. Canter to the middle marker, sliding stop, backing up (at least 10 steps) to the middle of the arena, stop
4. 4 Spins right
5. 4 1/4 Spin left (now the horse is looking towards the left wall), stop
6. Begin on left hand three full circles, whereas the first being large and fast, the second small and slow, the third large and fast again, lead change in the middle of the arena
7. 3 full circles to the right, the first large and fast, the second small and slow, the third large and fast, lead change in the middle of the arena
8. Begin a large, fast circle to the left, but do not finish it. Follow the right side of the arena past the middle marker, sliding stop at least 6m before the end of the arena. Long stop to indicate end of pattern
The bridle must be presented to the judge.

Reining Pattern 2 (for juniors and Amateurs)Der Richter markiert die Länge des Kurses an der Bande. Markierungen im Reitbereich werden nicht benutzt.
1. Begin in the middle of the arena, with a large, fast circle to the right
2. Shrink circle to reach middle of the arena, stop
3. Two spins towards the small circle. After the spin the horse is looking in the direction of the left wall. Short break
4. Canter on left, large, fast circle
5. Small circles and shrinking to reach the middle of the arena stop. No break after this stop
6. Two spins towards the small circle. After the spin the horse is looking in the direction of the left wall.
7. Canter on right, fast figure eight with lead change
8. Fast canter to the end of the arena, rollback left
9. Fast canter to the end of the arena, rollback right
10. Fast canter over the middle of the arena, sliding stop, short break
11. Backing up in the track of the sliding stop
12. Break to indicate end of pattern
13. Walk over to the judge for inspection
The bridle must be presented to the judge.

Organization in accordance with the rules of the VDD (Verein Deutscher Distanzreiter).

The target is the highest possible speed without overstraining the horse. All gaits are allowed, as well as dismounting and walking to relieve the horse.

Prior to the start (min. 30 Minutes, max. 60) the horse must be presented unsaddled to the vet. The heart beat rate must be below 64 and the horse may not show lameness. The saddle area has to be in good condition without dents. Overall, the horse must be 100% healthy. The start occurs in intervals of 3 minutes. A Maximum of 3 horses can start together.

There is a heart beat control point after 12,5 Miles (20 km). The beat rate may not exceed 64 beats. If the rate is higher, the rider has to wait for 5 minutes for another check. A rate of more than 64 after 20 minutes disqualifies the horse.

After finishing a second rate check at the same scenario takes place. The waiting time will be added to the total riding time. 2 hours after arrival the horse must be presented to the vet again for an inspection similar to the inspection prior to the start. Horses with severe detractions will be disqualified.

The winner is the rider with the shortest total time.

Same rules as for the 20 Miles class, plus:
2 or 3 additional heart beat rate checkpoint unknown to the participants. Horses with a rate of less than 72 are allowed to go on.

If the rate is 72 or higher, the rider must wait 5 minutes before re-checking. If the rate remains at 72 or higher after 20 minutes; another break of 10 minutes is required. If the rate is 64 or lower, the rider can continue, otherwise the horse will be disqualified.

(Not determined yet)

A minimum of 8 jumps over at least 4 different obstacles is required. The same obstacle can be jumped over several times. Obstacle should reflect natural obstacles in the nature, like fences, gates, walls, shrubs, etc. The height should vary from 66 cm to 100 cm. The width must be at least 250 cm. Limiters on both sides of an obstacle should be at least 75 cm wide and should overtop the obstacle by at least 30 cm.

To begin a full circle must be ridden. Additionally, a full circle before the finish can be requested. The speed shall be a good lope; the obstacles should be jumped over in a fluent, powerful manner.

Failures are smashing an obstacle, extra circles or denials. Three continuous denials, a fall of horse or rider, jumping in the wrong order or jumping over an obstacle being reconstructed. All of these lead to a disqualification.

All horses having passed the first round will start again in a second round. All obstacles will be heightened by at least 10 cm. In second round the time will be stopped. The winner is the fastest horse with the lowest failure rate. The use of jumping boots, polo bandages or leg protectors are allowed in this class. The rider must wear a helmet.

A competition against the clock.
The pattern: The distance of the poles is 28.5 m. Both poles are to be circumvented without touching. Start and finish are marked with two pylons with a distance of 3 m in between. A flying start is allowed. Time starts when the horse’s nose passes the start line and stops when the nose passes the finish line.

Failures: crossing the middle line without circling the poles or zigzagging over the middle line and knocking over the poles.

Failure: Loosing the hat or helmet results in 5 extra seconds being added to the riding time.

The performance of the horse will be judged without the influence of equipment and tack. The cars enter the arena clock-wise. Flatfoot Walk and Foxtrot will be shown on both hands. Reversing is only allowed in Flatfoot Walk. Backing up can be asked for. All cars line up and have to stand still.

Judging:

• 70 % for obedience and performance
• 20 % for equipment and total impression
• 10 % for confirmation of the horse and style of the driver

Pleasure Driving Pattern 1

Section 1: Obstacles
Section 2: All exhibitors are driving together according to the
instructions of the judges.

Class Procedures:
Start in a foxtrot on the left lead at “E” (Start).Change in front of the 3rd corner at “M” in a flat foot walk and turn back out of the corner -do a circle ( diameter 12-14m) in the middle of the long side –go in a foxtrot at “F” – in single serpentines on the next long side ( K-E)-go in a flat foot walk at “H” and make a turn in the corner –stop with your front axle at the finish line “E”. End of the trial.

Flat Foot Walk: - - - - - - -
Foxtrot: ---- ---- ---- ----

Obstacles:
Pylons – track width + 40cm
Each exhibitor starts with 70 points.
The main point is following the course exactly performing an accurate gait.
5 points penalty for each fault (balls falling down)


Pleasure Driving Pattern 2

Section 1: Obstacles
Section 2: All exhibitors are driving together according to the instructions
of the judges.

Class Procedures:
Start in a flat foot walk on the right lead at “E” (Start).
On the next long side change through the whole course -
(M – X – K )- at “X” do a volte to the left around the 4 cones (diameter 10m)-than go in a foxtrot –
after having crossed the corner of the next long side drive in serpentines around the 2 cones –stop your front axle at the finish line.
End of the trial.

Flat Foot Walk: - - - - - - -
Foxtrot: ---- ---- ---- ----

Obstacles:
Pylons – track width + 40cm

Each exhibitor starts with 70 points.
The main point is following the course exactly performing an accurate gait.
5 points penalty for each fault (balls falling down)

Pleasure Driving Pattern 3

Section 1: Obstacles
Section 2: All exhibitors are driving together according to the instructions of the judges.

Class Procedures

Start in a foxtrot on the right lead at “E” (Start).
In the middle of the next short side “C” change through the whole course - drive a whole circle at “F” – the whole course – in the middle of the short side “C” in a flat foot walk - turn left in the middle of the long side at “E” – turn right at “B” stop your front axle at the finish line – back up 4 steps. End of the trial.

Flat Foot Walk: - - - - - - -
Foxtrot: ---- ---- ---- ----

Obstacles:
Pylons – track width + 40cm

Each exhibitor starts with 70 points.
The main point is following the course exactly performing an accurate gait. 5 points penalty for each fault (balls falling down)

The harness traditionally is made of black ore brown leather. A snaffle bit and a running Martingale are required. The whip shall be in correspondence with the overall length of horse and car. 2-wheel and 4-wheel cars are allowed. With a large number of participants the show management shall divide the class. Only the driver is allowed in the car with the exception of youth classes, where the driver may be accompanied by an adult.

Grooms are only allowed in the arena to check on the harness and the equipment but are not allowed to hold the horse or the car. Horses out of control have to be escorted out of the arena. Driving while standing up is not allowed.

Horses showing traces of injuries or of treatment with chemicals, nails, chains or other insane methods inflicting pain to a horse will be disqualified. In case of a repetition a participant will be blocked from shows for 13 months. Each participant, owner, trainer, manager or other person using needles or drugs to sedate or agitate will be disqualified.

Any horse that bleeds from its mouth or its flank caused by spurs will be disqualified. Furthermore, clipping is against the European law and therefore not allowed. All horses being shown have to be registered horses with the MFTHBA.
Chains or rollers are not permitted.