Approved March 17, 2016 YAVAPAI COUNTY 4-H · Approved March 17, 2016 7 6. After clicking Sign Up for a Training, a list of trainings will appear. Sign up for Helmet Safety. 7. A

Yavapai County 4-H Horse Committee Rules & Procedures

Revised September 2015

Approved March 17, 2016

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YAVAPAI COUNTY 4-H

HORSE PROJECT

RULES & PROCEDURES




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Table of Contents

Introduction p. 3

Section I: General Rules p. 5-14

A. Safety

B. Member Eligibility & Classification

C. Horses Eligibility & Requirements

D. Assisting Members

E. Grounds for Disqualification

Section II. Grievance Procedures p. 15

Section III. Participation and Entry Procedures for Show/Events p. 15-21

Section IV Classes for the Yavapai County Horse Shows p. 21

Section V Glossary p. 22-24

Addenda A Yavapai County 4-H Code of Conduct p. 25




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Introduction

These rules and procedures have been developed over many years to serve as the uniform basis of our 4-H Horse

Shows in Yavapai County. Every effort has been made to conform to the Arizona State 4-H Horse Show Rules.

This handbook of the “Rules” cannot cover all possible situations that may arise during a show or 4-H activity,

nor can they regulate all administrative questions.

The Yavapai County Horse Committee and the Cooperative Extension Service reserve the right to modify and

interpret these rules as appropriate. The Show/Executive Committee reserves the right to change the class order

and to make any other changes due to weather, safety, or any other situations that might arise. In cases that are not

precisely regulated by a rule, it should be possible to reach a consensus from the “rules” in the handbook. The

“Rules” assume that the Yavapai County Horse Committee and Show Officials have the necessary competence,

sound judgment and absolute objectivity to reach a solution to a problem. Fairness, logic and a common

understanding of the handbook will dictate their decision.

Members who qualify for the Arizona State Horse Show Finals will be responsible for

knowledge of the Arizona State Horse Show Rules.

The primary purpose of the Yavapai County 4-H Horse Committee is to provide an

opportunity for 4-H Horse Project members to learn and develop their horsemanship

skills. Yavapai County Horse Shows provide opportunities to demonstrate their

abilities and the type of performance they can elicit from their project horses. In so

doing, safety, good taste, respect, and the establishment of good public image are

paramount.

The purpose of our local shows is to provide 4-H members the opportunity to assess their competencies and

compete against like skill level 4-H riders. It is not the purpose of the shows to provide an opportunity for

coaching or training, nor to impose a financial hardship on members and their families. As such, every effort is

made to keep costs as low as possible to encourage the maximum participation of all interested members. Clubs

hosting clinics, workshops, fun days, etc. may charge fees at HC approved rates.

Sincere appreciation is expressed to all the individual 4-H leaders, members and parents who contributed to the

publication through review, consultation and suggestion.

Thank you,

MaryJo Moncheski

4-H Assistant Extension Agent

University of Arizona Cooperative Extension

Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Jeffrey C. Silvertooth, Associate Dean & Director, Economic Development & Extension, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Arizona. The University of Arizona is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation in its programs and activities.

Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpreter, by contacting CeDRR (The Center for Disability Related Resources) at

621-3268 (V/TTY). Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.




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4-H PLEDGE I pledge:

“My Head to clearer thinking” – working with animals provides mental relaxation from school room studies

and at the same time stimulates quick thinking and alertness.

“My Heart to greater loyalty” – the close bond of comradeship which develops between a horse and its master

and between young people planning and working together in a common interest is conducive to a deepening

sense of loyalty and consideration for others.

“My Hands to larger service” – skillful hands are a must for a horseman. It is the touch of his hands which

telegraphs the rider’s wish to his mount.

“My Health to better living” – out-of-doors activities affect every nerve, muscle, and organ of the body in a

healthful way.

“For my club, my community, my country and my world” – the associations and varied activities in 4-H work

provide many opportunities for young people to prepare themselves for active participation in the social and

economic life of their community.

4-H Motto

“To Make the Best Better”

4-H Colors

Green: Symbolic of living and growing things.

White: Symbolic of purity and character.

OBJECTIVES The 4-H Horse Project aims to help 4-H members to:

1. Develop leadership, initiative, self-reliance, sportsmanship, and other desirable traits of character.

2. Experience the pride of owning a horse or pony and being responsible for its management.

3. Develop an appreciation of horseback riding as a healthy and wholesome form of recreation.

4. Learn skills in horsemanship and an understanding of the business of breeding, raising and training

horses.

5. Increase knowledge of safety precautions to prevent injury to themselves, others, and their mount.

6. Promote greater love for animals and a humane attitude toward them.

7. To be better prepared for citizenship responsibilities through working in groups and supporting

community horse projects and activities.




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Section I: General Rules

Remember: It is the responsibility of all leaders, members and parents to know and abide

by these rules and procedures.

A. Safety

1. SAFETY COMES FIRST. ASTM approved protective helmets with a three point harness are required

in all classes. An approved helmet must be worn by members while participating in ANY 4-H event,

including club riding meetings, pre-point shows, clinics, etc. An approved helmet is one that carries the

approval stamp of the United States Pony Club (USPC) Safety Committee or any other recognized

authority that establishes standards of safety for protective headgear. Refusal to wear a helmet is an

automatic disqualification from an event.

2. No bare feet or open toed shoes will be permitted at any time while working around or in the vicinity of a

horse.

3. Horses are only to be exercised in assigned areas. No riding will be permitted in the spectator area. No

lunging outside of arenas.

4. Absolutely NO riding double, bareback (unless exhibiting in bareback class), ponying or riding horses

with halters will be allowed on the show grounds.

B. Member Eligibility & Classification

1. An exhibitor must be a 4-H member in good standing, including the following:

a. No outstanding debt

b. Majority of attendance at project meetings at time of entry due date

c. Majority of attendance at community club meetings at time of entry due date

d. Given a presentation (demonstration, illustrated talk, public speaking) at any of the following;

project club meeting, community club meeting, county or state event.

e. Proper I.D. of their project horse(s)

County requirements are fully explained on the Yavapai County 4-H Member In Good Standing

Requirements available through your leader or the Cooperative Extension Office.

2. Leaders will verify these completion requirements before signing Show Entries or Project Record Book.

Please see Section IV for further instructions.

3. Classification of riders:

a. Senior: any member who has reached their 14th birthday, but not their 19th, before January 1 of

the club year prior to the State 4-H Horse Show.

b. Junior: any member who has reached their 9th birthday, but not their 14th birthday before

January 1 of the club year prior to the State 4-H Horse Show.

c. Novice: Any 4-H member with limited experience with their horse or learning a new discipline.

d. Walk/Trot: Any 4-H member who cannot lope/canter.

4. Any Novice/Walk/Trot members that have won more than two 1st or 2nd place ribbons in any prior any

prior 4-H riding discipline (with the exception of showmanship events) in one year, must move up to the

next riding classification in the next 4-H year. There must be at least five contestants in each Novice class

to require the member to change classification. Exceptions to this rule must be with the approval of

member’s leader and Yavapai County 4-H Horse Committee.




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5. Prior to the first qualifying show of the 4-H year, the project leader will determine which classification the

member will compete in for the entire year. This determination must take into consideration the

member’s ability, past experience, and previous placing at Yavapai County 4-H Horse Shows. The Show

Secretary will approve final classification.

6. Youth with documented special needs or disabilities will not be penalized for using special equipment or

assistance to perform in a riding or showmanship class. Assistance at an activity or event, if needed, will

be provided by an appropriate person. The preferred order of assistance is listed below:

a. a. Another 4-H member c. Instructor

b. b. Another adult d. Parent.

7. A member may opt to move up in classification if they so wish. Once a member elects to move up from

Walk/Trot to Novice in any division (Western Riding, Western Pleasure, Western Horsemanship, English

Flat, English Jumping, Roping or Timed Events) at a Yavapai County 4-H Horse Committee sponsored

show, the member will not be allowed to return to the previous classification for future shows. However,

a 4-H member may compete as a Novice in Timed Events while showing as Junior or Senior in Western,

English Flat, Novice English Jumping.

NOVICE & WALK/TROT CLASSES ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR POINTS

TO QUALIFY FOR THE STATE 4-H HORSE SHOWS

8. All horse project leaders and members must complete the Horse Helmet Training module in 4Honline.

Horse Helmet Training Module

VALIDATION STEPS

1. Access 4HOnline through the Arizona 4HOnline website http://az.4honline.com

2. Log into 4HOnline using your family email address and password.

3. Once logged into 4HOnline, continue to your family.

4. Once at your family profile, select ONE ACTIVE 4-H youth that you would like to take the Horse Helmet

Safety module. Select the 4-H member by clicking the “Edit” button beside the name.

5. Once in the profile, at the top you will see four different headings, ‘Animals/Livestock’, ‘Enrollment’,

‘Member Settings’, and ‘Trainings’. Click ‘Trainings’, then ‘Sign Up for Training’.

http://az.4honline.com/




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6. After clicking Sign Up for a Training, a list of trainings will appear. Sign up for Helmet Safety.

7. A prompt

should appear.

Read through

the slides,

answer the

short quiz, and

click ‘Submit’.

C. Horses Eligibility & Requirements

1. A 4-H member who is properly enrolled in the Arizona 4-H Horse Project may use any family-owned or

properly documented (Yavapai County Horse Committee Use Agreement Form) horse, pony or mule,

regardless of training and meeting safety requirement, as a project horse.

2. Exhibitors may share the same horse as long as:

a. The horse is owned within the same family

b. The classes are individual work classes or in different classes

c. Tack changes do not delay the show/event

d. A special note of joint use is made on entry forms

3. The Yavapai County 4-H Horse Identification Certificate will be filed with the Horse Committee Show

Secretary by February 1st of each project year. Any member joining after the February 1st deadline must

complete and submit their Identification Certificate 90 days prior to participation in any 4-H activities.

I.D.s presented for new horses must be presented 90 days before an event and approved by the Executive

Committee. Only Horse I.D.’s filed through 4Honline will be accepted. No paper copies will be

accepted.

4. Each exhibitor will be allowed to I.D. any number of horses approved by their leader. If the 4-H member

is competing in all four competitive areas - roping, gymkhana, Western horse and English horse - up to

four horses are allowed to be used per show, otherwise only three or less different horses are allowed per

show.

a. A member may apply for a substitute if their primary project horse becomes lame or

dies. Lameness is determined as an issue that will affect its ability to perform in the

4-H program for a minimum of eight weeks. Lameness issues must be identified

and a date for the ability to perform or death of the animal certified by a

veterinarian on letterhead and submitted to the agent in charge of the horse

program. The member and the member’s leader or parent must attend a regularly

scheduled meeting with all new horse identifications, lease agreements, and

proficiency form in hand to be considered - No determination nor consideration will

be made outside of a regularly scheduled committee meeting and all project horses

must be declared and accepted 90 days prior to County 4-H Horse Shows or 90 days

prior to the State 4-H Horse Show. A horse accepted within that 90 day window will

not be allowed to compete at County 4-H Horse Shows or within the 90 day window

will not be allowed to compete at State 4-H Horse Show. There are no restrictions

on the number of horses that may be carried as a 4-H Project, only the number that




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may be shown at any one show. Rules regarding use of number of horses apply

to the State 4-H Horse Show will be listed in the State 4-H Horse Show

Rulebook.

5. No stallions will be allowed.

6. No 4-H members may show a 3 year old or younger horse in any 4-H activity.

7. Only standard horseshoes are allowed, unless there is a medical reason. An explanation of such corrective

shoes must be provided by a licensed Arizona Veterinarian.

HORSE IDENTIFICATION FOR HORSE MEMBERS

VALIDATION STEPS

1. Access 4HOnline through the Arizona 4HOnline website http://az.4honline.com

2. Log into 4HOnline using your family email address and password.

3. Once logged into 4HOnline, continue to your family.

4. Once at your family profile, select the ACTIVE (or at least Pending) 4-H youth member that you would

like to validate a horse under. Select the 4-H member by clicking the “Edit” button beside the name.

5. At the 4-H member profile, you will click on the “Animals/Livestock” icon at the top of the page.

IMPORTANT Horse Registration is completed for EACH HORSE and will cover all 4-H youth members in that family profile. However, when

registering your horses through 4HOnline, you will select ONLY ONE 4-H youth member to conduct the registration under. Once a

horse is registered, horse(s) can be moved to the appropriate 4-H member(s) that will be exhibiting the horse in the show as

allowed by county and state rules.

BEFORE YOUR BEGIN YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS, YOU MUST: • Have a family and youth member profile established on 4HOnline.

• Be a paid/active (or at least pending) youth member of Arizona 4-H for the current year.

• Have a digital photo of your horse(s) (side view with member showing markings). These

photos must be accessible for upload during the registration process.

• For leased horses, you need to have a pdf copy of your horse(s) lease form for upload.

http://az.4honline.com/




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6. You will now be at the screen to enter your horse(s) information. At this screen, click the “Add Animal” button

under the Animal Type pull down list. This will take you to the data entry screen for one animal in that Animal

Type (Horse).

7. Read all your county 4-H program instructions/rules pertaining to the registration of a horse.

8. Complete the requested information for the horse you are validating. In addition, depending on your county rules

you may also need to upload

photos/registration papers for each

horse (side view with member). When

required the entire horse MUST be in

the photograph. Photos should be as

close as possible and markings should

be clearly visible.

To upload a photograph/paper, click on

the “Select” button in the appropriate

upload box, a box will appear - locate

the correct photograph/document based

on where it is located on your

computer/drive. Once selected, click on

the “Open” button in the bottom right

corner.




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9. The photo or a pdf

logo should now

appear in upload

box. After all

information is

complete and

photos/documents

uploaded you will

check the box next to

“I verify the

information for the

animal is accurate”

and then click the

“SAVE” button at

the bottom of the

screen.

10. You will be

returned back to

the “Animals”

section in

4HOnline.

11. At this point, you

have two options:

Enter another horse

for validation or

return to the

member list.

Note: The horse you just entered will show the status as pending if you did not check the verification

box.

You must check the box and save in order for the animal to be active.

Reactivating “carryover” animals

For those members that had registered a horse last year those animals can be re-activated for another

year. When you are enrolling, click on the animals tab and you will see where you can add an animal or

see horses registered last year. You can select and activate those animals. The image below shows where

two have already been activated and one that was not.




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To re-activate one or more animals, click on the check-box in the left-most column. Then click

activate animal(s). Activated animals will then move to the current Animal List where the

following can happen by clicking on the [Edit/View] button for each animal.

Update ID data

New/updated documents and/or photos can be uploaded.

Change the family member associated with an animal.

If after activating the carryover horse it shows as “pending” you will need to edit that animal and

find verification checkbox – check it and save the information and the animal should show as

active.

Confirming your data entry

Clicking on [Edit/View] next to each animal will allow you to view previously entered data.

After an animal has been entered AND saved (this won’t work during the initial data entry step) you can revisit

the individual animal (using the Edit/View button) and click on the [Print Animal Information] link to print a

page with this animal’s data.




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D. Assisting Members

1. Exhibitor must prepare their own animal for all classes. When there is a question of safety,

exhibitors may accept help from family members, leaders or other 4-H members working

along with the exhibitor. The exhibitor must take the leadership role and participate in

the preparation. Exceptions to this are: holding, leading, loading, saddling/bridling tall

horses for Novice and Walk/trot, or whenever there is a question of safety.

2. No professional attendant or trainer will be permitted to assist an entrant at a 4-H horse

show, with the exception of the parent or leaders. From the time any project horse enters

the grounds, no trainer or person other than the 4-H exhibitor may ride the horse.

3. Verbal assistance while in the warm-up ring is permitted, but coaching from the rail in

judged classes is not permitted. Any positive encouragement is welcome. Primary teaching

is to be done at the local club meetings. Only exhibitors are allowed in the warm-up ring,

except in roping and setting jumps.

4. For both judged and timed events, the contestant will walk their horses unaided through the

gate. The horse will show it is under control. Assistance to the gate is permitted for safety,

preferably by another horse and rider, but the horse must enter the arena at a walk and under

control. Cones will designate traffic control only.

E. Grounds for Disqualification 1. There will be no refund of entry fees when exhibitors are disqualified for any reason.

2. Misrepresentation of a horse or exhibitor in any way will be grounds for forfeiture of all

prizes won and disqualification of exhibitor for this show. (such as: entering in class not in

exhibitor’s classified level, exhibiting a horse not properly ID’d. with the Extension Office.

3. In all performance disciplines: ABSOLUTELY NO coaching toward any exhibitor in the

show ring, verbal or otherwise will be permitted. This could be the cause of disqualification

of exhibitor by the Judge, Horse Committee and/or Extension Agent.

4. Any horse that becomes unruly and, in the opinion of the Judge, Horse Committee and/or

the Extension Agent, endangers the safety of the rider, other exhibitors, spectators or other

horses will be disqualified for this show with no refund of fees. The horse will be on

probation for the following show. Two members of the Horse Committee as designated by

the Extension Agent, will view the horse to evaluate whether or not the problem has been

corrected before entry will be allowed for subsequent Point Shows.

5. All lame, sick or improperly fed horses may be excused from any or all classes at the

discretion of the Judge, Horse Committee and/or the Extension Agent. A horse may be

accepted with a properly documented medical certificate from a veterinarian provided it is

sent in with entry.

6. Unnecessary roughness and abuse of animals will not be permitted. Unnecessary spurring,

striking or beating of the horse in any manner at any time on the show grounds will be

cause for disqualification of the rider/exhibitor by the Judge and/or Show Officials for the

remainder of the show. This decision will be final.

7. Any discourtesy or acting unmannerly towards any Judge, Show Official, spectators and

other exhibitors by exhibitors and/or spectators will NOT be permitted. Such behavior will

be reported to thy Horse Committee member present at the show, and may result in the

exhibitor being disqualified for the remainder of the Show and the spectator being asked to




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leave the Show Grounds. The following items could result in disqualification from the

class:

a. Entering the ring without a helmet.

b. Entering the ring without appropriate dress.

c. Entering the ring without an Exhibitor Number.

d. Inappropriate tack for the class

8. Other causes for disqualification of exhibitors at the judge or Extension personnel’s

discretion, include, but are not limited to:

a. Whipping, batting or spurring in front of the cinch, except for proper use of English

crops or bats.

b. Unsportsmanlike conduct on the part of exhibitor, parent or leader.

c. Disrespectful behavior or abusive language on part of the exhibitor, the exhibitor’s

parents, or leader.

The Yavapai County Code of Conduct will be strictly enforced. (Addenda A)

First Offense: Disqualification from the Class.

Second Offense: Disqualification from the Show/Event.

ENFORCEMENT 1. The rules set forth in the following pages govern the Yavapai County 4-H Horse Project

Shows. A Judge or the Executive Horse Committee with no appeal or refund of fees may

automatically disqualify any exhibitor not complying with or adhering to these rules in their

entirety.

2. A Judge, an Executive Horse Committee member or any Show Official may issue a first

warning for any infraction of these rules to any exhibitor, his or her parents, legal guardian,

or any representative acting on behalf of the exhibitor. This warning will be registered with

the 4-H Show Secretary. Upon failure to comply with this warning, or if a second warning

is recorded with the 4-H Show Secretary, the exhibitor will be disqualified or penalized at

the discretion of the Executive Horse Committee.

3. Any complaints by other 4-H members, their parents, legal guardian, 4-H Leader or

representatives acting on behalf of a 4-H member are to be presented in writing to the

Extension Agent to be acted upon by the Executive Horse Committee.

4. A show critique, which is open to any parent, leader or member, is held at the Horse

Committee meeting following each Point Show.

SPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT 1. First and foremost, all exhibitors will conduct themselves as young ladies and gentlemen.

Politeness and good Sportsmanship are mandatory –Absolutely no profanity is to be

used – no exceptions.

2. Parents will be expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as to set a good example

for the 4-H exhibitor and other spectators at the show. Any unsportsmanlike conduct the

part of any exhibitor, his or her parents, legal guardian, or any representative acting on

behalf of the exhibitor shall jeopardize that exhibitor’s right to further exhibit in the show.

This rule will be strictly enforced.




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SHOW OFFICIALS 1. In the Yavapai County 4-H Horse Project, the Show Officials include all Judges, Gate

Officials, Ring Stewards, Flagmen, Timers, Announcers, and Horse Committee members.

2. Final decisions on all rule interpretations and exceptional cases will be made by the 4-H

Horse Committee or 4-H Extension Agent. Any decision or ruling must be reviewed by at

least five Horse Committee members. All voting to make decisions will be done in

executive session.

JUDGES 1. Every effort will be made to have Judges who are competent, well qualified individuals. 4-

H leaders are not to be used as judges unless extraordinary circumstances occur the day of

the show.

2. Judges must be able to reach a definite decision based on sound judgment, and have the

confidence to stand by his/her decision without being defensive. Good judging depends

upon the correct observation of horses and/or rider/exhibitors against a standard commonly

accepted as the ideal according to the class being judged.

3. The judge must place each class in accordance with rules and the class specifications of the

rulebook, and evaluate and rank riders/exhibitors and horses as they appear on the day of

the show.

4. It is essential that Judges not be partial to any particular breed nor judge the conformation

of the horse or be excessively critical. Any horse that is suitable for a particular style of

riding and is capable of performing the required class routine is acceptable.

5. Judges will be encouraged to comment.

6. If a former 4-H member is being used as a judge they must have aged out two years prior

and they can only judge walk trot and beginner classes at that time. After being aged out 4

years, they will be allowed to judge any level.

WARM-UP ARENA RULES AND RIDING ETIQUETTE 1. Always walk for at least the first five minutes of the ride to warm your horse up and always

walk for at least the last five minutes to cool your horse down.

2. Always give yourself plenty of space, at least one and a half horse length behind the rider in

front of you. This also applies when in the show ring.

3. Horses should always be reversed to the inside (away from the rail), with a quick look over

your inside shoulder (shoulder facing the center of the arena) to make sure the way is clear.

This also applies when in the show ring.

4. When passing another horse in the same direction, always pass to the inside. You may say

“passing” if you are not in the show ring. Come away from the rail and pass the horse

reasonably quickly, return to the rail only after giving yourself at least one and a half horse

lengths in front of the horse you’ve just passed. You should in no way interfere with the

horse on the rail. This also applies when in the show ring.

5. When passing a horse going in the opposite direction you should always be left shoulder to

left shoulder. This means you will be going past on the right.

6. A red ribbon tied in the tail of a horse means that this horse may kick. Beware and give this

horse plenty of room. This applies everywhere!

7. Do not stop on the rail to talk or to ask questions or gather in the middle of the arena. Exit

the arena if you wish to talk.




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8. The middle of the arena may be used to work circles, practice stops, work figure eights,

practice backing, etc.

9. If you have to make a tack adjustment, exit the arena.

10. Walk/Trot level members should not practice loping in the warm-up arena.

Section II- Grievance Procedures

Protests regarding incidents directly related to Horse Committee or actions of one or more

members of the Horse Committee may be formally lodged and submitted to the attention of Horse

Committee provided such a protest is accompanied by a $25.00 fee if the protest is lodged by a 4-H

member. A $50.00 fee will be charged if the protest is lodged by any non-member. All protests

must be lodged within 24-hours of the alleged incident.

If the protest thus lodged is found to be valid by a majority of the Executive Committee (or in the

case of a complaint lodged against the Executive Committee, a majority of the Horse Committee

members present), the fee/deposit shall be returned to the person or persons lodging the protest. If

the protest thus lodged is found to be invalid, said fee shall be forfeited by the person or persons

lodging the protest and shall become the property of the Horse Committee.

1. The decision of the judge is final.

2. The current Yavapai County 4-H Horse Project Rules and Procedures, State 4-H Horse

Show Rules, and the Yavapai County 4-H Code of Conduct will govern any and all

decisions.

3. The Yavapai County 4-H Horse Committee reserves the right to change or amend any

rule for safety reasons.

Procedures to file a Grievance, Protest or Appeal 1. Write a complete statement concerning facts, including:

a. Date

b. Time

c. Problem

d. Signature of interested parties

e. Addresses and phone numbers of said parties

2. A 4-H leader must give the written statement to a member of the Executive Committee

along with the appropriate fee amount.

Section III- Participation and Entry Procedure for Show/Events

1. All entries must be made on the forms provided. Forms will be forwarded to the Show

Secretary before the entry due date. Any checks returned non-sufficient funds (NSF)

must be paid in cash or money order to a member of the Horse Committee no later than

24 hours before the show/event. A $40 fee will be charged for all NSF checks.

2. The exhibitor and parent/guardian must sign all entries. The Project Leader and/or

Community Club Leader must also sign all entry forms after verifying eligibility.

Project leaders will be responsible for checking to ensure all eligibility requirements




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have been met, including current record books, attendance at Education Day and

completion of all levels testing.

3. Exhibitors are required to wear numbers in plain view on their back in all classes.

4. Exhibitors with long hair are asked to pin it up, discretion to be used in Timed Events

and Roping classes.

5. Numbers will be available from the Show Secretary at the first show that the member

enters.

6. Exhibitors will have the same number for all three horse shows, please keep your

number.

AWARDS High Point Awards are awarded at each show in English, Western and Timed Events for Senior

and Junior classes. Eligibility for Year End Awards will be determined by points earned at both

shows with review by Show Secretary and 2 Executive Board members.

State Qualifiers: Points earned at both shows will be used to calculate points for state qualifiers

for each class. Level I testing must be completed by any member participating in the 4H State

Show. Further, if member has completed Level I testing, Level II testing must be completed to

participate at the State level. Review by Show Secretary and 2 Executive Board members will

determine State Qualifiers in addition to points earned.

THE DANISH SYSTEM

JUDGING SYSTEMS

1. Rank all exhibits within a class from first place to last place.

2. Recognize the top group and may or may not provide recognition to the other entries.

3. Divide the exhibits into groups, based on similar quality or efficiency. The process of dividing

exhibits into groups is known as the Danish system. The Danish system, or a variation of it, is

used in judging Arizona 4-H exhibits. It provides educational and developmental opportunities

consistent with goals and objectives of youth development in the Arizona 4-H program.

THE DANISH SYSTEM

Advantages of the Danish system:

1. Standards can be more clearly established in the minds of the judges and of the 4-H’ers.

However, judges do need to know and use established and recognizable differences in making

decisions between the groups.

2. Judges do not have to make hair-splitting decisions without clear-cut differences. Exhibits are

evaluated individually and placed in equivalent groupings, not ranked in comparison with each

other.

3. It is easier to judge classes since grouping similarities is easier than separating individual

differences.

4. The Danish system tempers the emphasis on champions, as well as the emphasis on competing

with peers.

5. Judges may omit a ribbon placing or grouping of awards if there are not exhibits in the class

that merit these placing, based on established standards. All exhibits may be placed in one or

two groupings.




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6. All 4-H’ers receive recognition for their exhibits. All exhibits meeting the class requirements

are placed in some ribbon group.

7. 4-H’ers is recognized as part of a group, rather than being singled out for individual

recognition, a concept that can contribute significantly to youth development.

Disadvantages of the Danish system:

1. Judges must be educated to learn and use uniform standards so that ribbon placing has

consistency among shows and fairs.

2. It may not adapt itself well too small classes where there are not enough exhibits to establish

groupings.

3. Unless adapted, the Danish system does not allow for selecting exhibits for special recognition

or for representing that class at a higher level show.

Purple Ribbons - In some counties these ribbons may be used where the judge feels that within the

blue ribbon exhibits there are one or more that are truly outstanding and merit special recognition

Blue Ribbon - Indicates that in the judge's opinion the 4-H'er shows above average workmanship,

knowledge, and effort in the project based on the conference judging criteria.

Red Ribbon - Indicates that in the judge's opinion the 4-H'er shows expected or average

workmanship, knowledge, and effort in the project based on the conference judging criteria.

White Ribbon - Indicates that in the judge's opinion the 4-H'er shows below average

workmanship, knowledge, and effort in the project based on the conference judging criteria.

EVALUATION PRINCIPLES USED IN JUDGING 4-H HORSE EXHIBITS

The evaluation or judging can be thought of as a sequence of four steps, each one leading to the

next:

Criteria Standard Performance Ratings Placing

The following information is provided to help gain some common understanding and uniformity

throughout the state on the judging of 4-H horse shows.

EXAMPLE OF USING THE DANISH SYSTEM FOR SHOWMANSHIP CLASSES

Rating Project Quality Grooming Presentation Description

Purple

(Blue)

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Good

Excellent-high quality. Qualified for a blue even though

the 4-H’er needs help showing

Excellent Good Excellent Qualified for a blue even though the 4-H’er needs help in

growing.

Good Excellent Excellent Grooming & presentation made up for lack of quality in

the project.

Blue (Red) Good Good Good Good - A level below excellent.

Excellent Good Good Needs help in grooming & presentation so that the judge

can appreciate quality.

Good Good Excellent Even though the presentation was excellent, the project

quality and grooming limited the project.

Good Excellent Good O.K. in grooming but, project quality and presentation

held project to red.

Good Good Average Deserving of red in the majority of areas.




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Good Average Good Deserving of red in the majority of areas.

Average Good Good Deserving of red in the majority of areas.

Red

(White)

Average Average Average Average – A level below good or not good.

Average Average Poor Lower quality project plus more work is needed.

Average Poor Average Lower quality project plus more work is needed.

Poor Average Average Quality of project limits rating.

Poor Poor Poor 4-H’er deserves the lowest possible rating.

Blue- A blue-ribbon-winning performance includes a well-groomed horse and exhibitor. The halter

or bridle is clean, well-oiled and properly adjusted. The required pattern is properly and promptly

executed and the exhibitor displays precision and efficiency when moving around the horse

Red- The degree of condition is inferior to that of a blue ribbon winner. The coat may not exhibit

the slickness of top competitors and other deficiencies of presentation may be seen, including, but

not limited to, a careless clipping job, a long, uneven mane, or hooves in need of attention. The

exhibitor’s pattern is of average quality. The promptness and accuracy of a superior run is absent,

but the showman manages to perform every maneuver of the pattern in an average manner. An

exhibitor may earn a red ribbon if the horse is presented in immaculate condition however commits

a major error in the pattern or while showing the horse.

White- An exhibitor receiving a white ribbon lacks control of his or her horse, fails to reasonably

follow the prescribed pattern, commits several errors, or has little knowledge regarding class

procedure. Poor presentation of the horse and exhibitor coupled with an inferior pattern could also

be classified as a white-ribbon performance.




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Examples of ribbon placing

Blue - Awarded to strong riders that maintain a balanced, secure seat throughout the class and any

individual work asked of them. The rider is confident and in control of his or her mount throughout

the entire class and shows the horse to its best advantage. Tack and attire are appropriate, well-

fitting, and clean. Few, if any, faults are recognized.

Red- Given to intermediate riders that typically have faults in position or control. One or two

significant errors or a succession of minor mistakes characterize a red-ribbon performance. Tack

and attire may be suitable but in need of attention.

White- Given to riders that are insecure in their position or have little knowledge of class routine,

or failure of helmet to stay on top of head during a class. The performance is typically marred by

several major faults. Inappropriate attention to proper fit, repair, and cleanliness of tack is

sometimes apparent.

GUIDELINES ONLY FOR FLAT CLASSES- WESTERN PLEASURE, HUNTER UNDER SADDLE

Good Minor Faults Major Faults Elimination

WALK Ground covering

Flat footed

Good attitude

Slow

Disinterested/lethargic

Not attentive

Nervous

Jogging

Not walking

JOG/TROT Easy riding

Good motion

Consistent

Steady

Too slow

Too fast

Not performing a two beat jog

Failing to jog both front and back

Hard or rough riding

LOPE/CANTER Easy riding

Good motion

Consistent

Steady

Too slow

Too fast

Wrong lead

Pulling

Not performing a 3 beat lope


EXTENDED

JOG/TROT

Easy riding

Good motion

Consistent

Inconsistent speed Breaking

Pulling

Not performing a 3 beat lope


BACK Proper flexion

Readily responsive

Back in straight line

Hesitant Throwing head

Gaping

Pulling

Not backing

Rearing

GENERAL Smooth

Steady

Easy riding

Proper flexion & balance

Good attitude

Sour ears

Switching tail

Inconsistent speed

Out of balance

Improper or incomplete appointments

Over or under flexion

Throwing head

Poll too high or too low

Constant bumping the bit

Gaping

Constant breaking of gaits

Obvious schooling

Two hands on reins (except with bosal or snaffle) or fingers between closed reins or more than 1 finger between split reins

Cueing horse in front of cinch

Excessively loose or extremely tight rein

Kicking

Illegal equipment

Lameness

Fall of horse or rider (at judge’s discretion)

Bleeding mouth

Body condition score of 1-3




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QUALIFYING PROCEDURE AT AREA SHOWS FOR STATE

Number of qualifiers to progress from area to state show will be determined by the Yavapai

County Show Secretary, Executive Horse Committee, and Extension Personnel. Number to

progress to state show from each area may vary from year to year. Only 4 qualifiers per class per

division can advance to state. This number will be determined by a formula developed by Texas

A&M University Cooperative Extension and adapted by University of Arizona Cooperative

Extension-Yavapai County.

Points will be tabulated for each individual based on the following system:

AREA POINT SYSTEM

1. Each of the first six horses in a class will be given one point for each horse placing below

it, plus one point. Points not to exceed six for first place. Each area has the option of

using a sliding scale to allow more points to be added for large classes.

2. Horses not placing in the top six in a class will not receive points for that class unless

a sliding scale is used.

3. The number of horses in a class will be determined by the number actually shown.

4. Under no circumstances shall a disqualified contestant receive points; however, all horses

brought into the ring will constitute an entry and will be counted.

For county shows. Each of the first 10 horses in a class will be given a point for each horse

placing below it, plus one point for a maximum of 10 points.

Example: In a class of 15, first place received 10 points, second receives 9 points, third receives 8

points, and so on through tenth place, which receives 1 point.

Example Two: In a class of 5, first place received 5 points, second receives 4, third receives 3

points, fourth receives 2 points, and fifth receives 1 point.

The additional points from the scale above are reflected in this quick-reference table.

Number of Entries in Class

25-10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Place POINTS

1 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

2 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

3 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

4 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

5 6 5 4 3 2 1

6 5 4 3 2 1

7 4 3 2 1

8 3 2 1

9 2 1

10 1




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Tie Breaker:

In the event of a tie in either English or Western riding classes, the judge will call the members to the arena and

ask horse/tack knowledge questions to determine the winner.

For timed events, a runoff will determine the winner.

Section IV-Classes for the Yavapai County Horse Shows

1. English Flat

a. Showmanship-Walk/Trot, Novice, Junior, Senior

b. Pleasure-Walk/Trot, Novice, Junior, Senior

c. English Hunt Seat Equitation-Walk/Trot, Novice, Junior, Senior

d. Bareback Equitation-Novice, Junior, Senior

2. English Jumping

a. Hunter Hack-

1. Novice-12” Fences

2. Junior -2’ Fences

3. Senior-2’6” Fences

. Hunt Seat Equitation over Fences

1. Novice-Maximum 12” Fences

2. Junior-Maximum 2’ Fences

3. Senior-Maximum 2’6” Fences

3. Western Flat

a. Showmanship-Walk/Trot, Novice, Junior, Senior

b. Pleasure-Walk/Trot, Novice, Junior, Senior

c. Equitation-Walk/Trot, Novice, Junior, Senior

d. Bareback Equitation-Novice, Junior, Senior

4. Western Working

a. Trail- Walk/Trot, Junior, Senior

b. Western Riding-Junior, Senior

c. Reining-Junior, Senior

5. Roping

a. Breakaway Calf Roping-Novice, Junior, Senior

b. Tie-Down Calf Roping-Novice, Junior, Senior

c. Team Roping - Heading-Novice, Junior, Senior

d. Team Roping - Heeling-Novice, Junior, Senior

6. Timed Events

a. Pole Bending-Novice, Junior, Senior

b. Barrels-Novice, Junior, Senior

c. Goat Tying-Novice, Junior, Senior




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For General Rules on Horse Show Classes, please refer to the Arizona State Horse Show

Rules 2015-2017: https://extension.arizona.edu/4h/sites/extension.arizona.edu.4h/files/attachments/2015-

2017%204-H%20HorseShowRuleBook--Helmet%20Revision-07-12-2015%20%2800000003%29.pdf

Section V-Glossary Appointments: Appropriate equipment, furnishing, tack and attire for a specific event or class.

Basic Rules: Rules governing the entry into the Arizona State 4-H Horse Show

Bosal (Hackmore): Use of flexible, braided rawhide or leather or rope bosal. No rigid material permitted.

Canter: Term used in English riding to describe a three beat gait of moderate speed.

Chaps: Full length leg covers. May have fringe or scallops. English or Western.

Chinks: Short chaps (approximately knee length)

Class Description: Defines what is expected of both the horse and the exhibitor.

Class Routine: Procedures the exhibitors will follow in a specific class.

Conformation: the structure of the horse.

Convertible Collar: Same as traditional or standard collar; folds over with the capability of covering a tie.

Curb Bit: A bit that has a solid or broken mouth-piece has shanks and acts with leverage.

Diagonal: When posting-the rider should be posting to the outside diagonal, which means the seat is down at

the same time the outside front foot is down.

Disqualification: No time given ; in judged events, no score given.

Equitation: The posture or seat, hands and legs in the most proper position to obtain the desired results from

the mount.

Equitation Classes: A class in which the exhibitor’s ability to maneuver their horse, while exhibiting poise,

confidence, maintaining balance and correct body position is judged.

Equipment: Items needed to perform a specific task-“appointments”

Faults: Errors made by exhibitor and/or the horse.

Fences: Obstacle over which a horse jumps in schooling or competition. Also known as jumps.

https://extension.arizona.edu/4h/sites/extension.arizona.edu.4h/files/attachments/2015-2017%204-H%20HorseShowRuleBook--Helmet%20Revision-07-12-2015%20%2800000003%29.pdf

https://extension.arizona.edu/4h/sites/extension.arizona.edu.4h/files/attachments/2015-2017%204-H%20HorseShowRuleBook--Helmet%20Revision-07-12-2015%20%2800000003%29.pdf




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Field Judge: A person appointed by the show management to serve as a judge in events other than performance

classes, this person makes decisions within the arena concerning exhibitors and rules.

Figure Eight: A figure that is closed in the center and usually started to the right, in the center, unless

otherwise instructed.

Flagger: A person who signals with a hand-held signal the start and stop of the clocks; this person will not be a

field judge.

Flatwork: Arena exercises of the horse in the English discipline that does not involve jumping fences.

Full Bridle: For purpose of these rules, any bridle with two bits and four (4) reins.

Gaits: the various sequences of foot movements of the horse, such as walk, jog/trot, lope/canter and gallop.

Gallop and Hand Gallop: Lengthening of the stride from a lope/canter with a noticeable difference in speed.

Gymkhana: Time games on horseback, e.g. barrels, poles and goat tying.

Home: Foot is placed through stirrup or iron so as to be resting against front of heel.

Jog: Term used in western riding to describe a smooth two beat gait.

Judging Criteria: Basic guidelines of what the judge is looking for.

Lead: Term used to describe which foreleg is leading when the horse is in a lope/canter gait.

Lope: Term used in Western riding to describe a rhythmical three beat gait of moderate speed.

Mechanical Hackamore: A hackamore that has any metal, chains or hinges.

Obstacle: An item that the exhibitor must negotiate over, around or through to test the ability and

maneuverability of the horse and exhibitor.

Pivot: Can be on the forehand or haunches; example-on the haunches-the front moves around while the inside

hind is planted, usually performed slower than a spin.

Points: Method of keeping score for judged events. The American System will be used placing 1st through

10th place in all classes.

Posing: Quarter Type-Feet squarely under horse.

Thoroughbreds-feet squarely under horse.

Saddle Seat Types-hind feet stretched

Hunter Types-front feet square and under; hind feet may be slightly off-set (one foot more forward)

Posting Test: A rhythmic rising and sitting of the exhibitor as the horse performs the trot.




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Ring Steward: A person appointed by the show management to coordinate activities for the judge within the

arena or show ring.

Roping: Events in which cattle are roped in a manner governed by the particular event.

Serpentine: A series of “S” formations linked together.

Simple Change: A horse’s gait is decreased from a lope/canter to a jog/trot in order to change to the opposite

lead before resuming the lope/canter.

Snaffle Bit: A conventional O-ring, Egg-butt or D-ring with a 2 or 3 piece mouth.

Start of Run: For both judged and timed events, the contestant will walk their horse unaided through the gate,

the horse will show it is under control and the gate will be closed prior to the horse moving past the start line.

Hat must be on until the gate is closed and it has been announced “Timers and flaggers are ready”.

State Show: State 4-H Horse Show including all disciplines-Western, English, Timed Events, and Roping.

Seniors and Juniors only can qualify.

Tack: Saddles, bridles, etc., same as equipment-see “appointments”.

Timed Event: Any event in which the exhibitor competes against the clock; example: barrel racing, pole

bending, goat tying.

Trot: Term used in English riding to describe a smooth two-beat gait.

Two Point Position: The exhibitor’s seat is raised out of the saddle so that only his/her two legs make contact

with the horse.

Walk: The walk is a natural, flat-footed, four-beat gait. Term used in both Western and English riding.

NOTE: For more terms and information, see you 4-H Horse Project literature.




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ADDENDA A Yavapai County 4-H

Youth and Adult CODE OF CONDUCT

FORM D1/G1

The mission of Yavapai County 4-H Youth Development is to provide a variety of educational opportunities which will

assist youth to become capable and contributing members of our global society. In fulfilling this mission, certain

standards of behavior are expected of all participants and is also necessary to provide a positive learning environment for

others. The following guidelines represent the Yavapai County 4-H Youth Development Youth and Adult CODE OF

CONDUCT:

1. Participants will refrain from all forms of lying deception or omission.

2. Participants will attend all assigned or enrolled sessions of a planned event except in the case of illness or scheduling

conflicts, provided adult(s) in charge are notified in advance.

3. Participants will operate within an all inclusive atmosphere.

4. Participants will refrain from all forms of hazing and/or harassment.

5. Participants will show appreciation for the efforts of others.

6. Participants will follow all state and local laws at all times.

7. Participants will follow all rules and regulations established for any 4-H related event.

8. Participants will refrain form the use of any illegal substance including alcohol or tobacco during 4-H events

9. Participants will exhibit respect for the environment.

10. Participants will be on time to all program events.

11. Participants and/or their parents or legal guardians will be responsible for any damage, theft or misconduct in which

they may participate.

12. Participants will at all times show respect, courtesy, and consideration to all adults and youth present at any program

or event.

13. Participants will dress appropriately and tastefully at all events.

14. Participants will refrain from the use of vulgar and/or abusive language.

15. Participants will treat all equipment, vehicles, or other property with respect, and treat animals humanely.

16. Participants will not permit nor will they participate in statements or acts of prejudice.

17. Participants will at all times be just, fair, and open.

Those who find themselves unable to conduct themselves within the guidelines listed above may expect:

1. To explain their actions to those in charge

2. To accept the consequences of their actions

such as payment for damages, dismissal from event, curfew restriction, etc.

PARTICIPANT’S AGREEMENT:

I have read the Arizona 4-H Youth Development CODE OF CONDUCT and will abide by them. I realize my

failure to do so could result in a loss of privileges during the event and/or in the future.

Participant’s signature:______________________________________________________________Date___________

PARENT/GUARDIAN’S AGREEMENT:

As the parent/guardian of ________________________________________ , I have read the Arizona 4-H Youth

Development CODE OF CONDUCT and will support those in charge as they perform their responsibilities to see

that appropriate behavior is maintained.

Parent /Guardian’s

Signature__________________________________________________________Date___________

Approved March 17, 2016 YAVAPAI COUNTY 4-H · Approved March 17, 2016 7 6. After clicking Sign Up for a Training, a list of trainings will appear. Sign up for Helmet Safety. 7. A

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