2025 MFTHBA Rulebook

103 2) Dropping slicker or object required to be carried on course. 3) First refusal, balk or attempting to evade an obstacle by shying or backing more than 2 strides away. 4) Stepping outside the confines of, falling or jumping off an obstacle (back-thru, bridge, side pass, box or water box) with more than one foot. 5) Failure to complete an obstacle. 6) Use of either hand to instill fear or praise. 7) Second refusal, balk, or attempting to evade an obstacle by shying or backing more than two strides away. e) 5 Point Deduction shall be assessed for the following, plus entry cannot place over another entry that completes the course correctly. 1) Performing obstacles differently than described on the pattern. 2) Missing or not attempting an obstacle. 3) Failure to demonstrate correct lead or gait, if designated. 4) Failure to perform correct line of travel within or between obstacles. 5) Riding outside designated boundary marker of the course. 6) Third refusal, balk, or attempting to evade an obstacle by shying or backing more than two strides away. 2. Faults which will be cause for disqualification/elimination: a) Use of two hands [except when horse is 5 or under (junior horse) and using snaffle bit or hackamore (bosal)]. b) Use of more than one finger between reins. (exception: Jr. horse using snaffle or bosal) c) Changing hands on reins. [It is permissible to change hands on the reins when necessary to work on an obstacle (gate, mailbox, carry object, slicker, etc.)] d) Use of romal other than outlined in Section 3 - B Western Equitation. e) Not performing obstacles in prescribed order. f) Excessively or repeatedly touching the horse on the neck to lower the head. g) Willful abuse. h) Use of prohibited equipment or equipment failure that delays completion of pattern. i) Fall to ground by horse or rider. j) Excessive schooling or training. k) Severe disobedience - rearing, bucking, striking, etc. F. Equipment and Attire: See Section 5, Versatility Equipment, Paragraphs A through C. Section 11. In-Hand Trail Class Description: The In-Hand Trail Class is a pattern class consisting of obstacles to be negotiated by exhibitors. This class may be offered as a means to initiate the training of the young horse over trail obstacles. This class will be judged on the performance of the horse over obstacles, with emphasis on manners, response to the handler and attitude. A. Arena Arrangements: 1. The In-Hand Trail Course is to include a minimum of six and a maximum of ten obstacles, with a minimum of one obstacle from three different categories listed below. 2. Obstacles should simulate conditions normally encountered at the ranch, shows, open trails or parades. Unnatural or “horror” obstacles should be avoided. Course designer must keep in mind both the age and size of the horses as well as their safety. Care in preparing the course should be exercised to prevent direct advantage to either a small or large horse. 3. The course must be designed for each horse to demonstrate the trail walk, flat foot walk, and fox trot. Enough space between obstacles must be provided for a horse to trail walk (at least 10 feet), flat foot walk (at least 20 feet), and fox trot (at least 30 feet), for the judge to evaluate these gaits.