2025 MFTHBA Rulebook

105 basis, ranging from +1 ½ (Excellent) through -1 ½ (Extremely Poor). Obstacles scores are to be determined and assessed independently of penalty points. E. Faults/Penalties: 1. Penalties should be assessed per occurrence as follows: a) The following will result in a ½ point deduction: 1) Each tick of log, pole, cone or obstacle. b) The following will result in a 1-point deduction: 1) Each hit of or stepping on a log, pole, cone or obstacle. 2) Break of gait at walk or fox trot for two (2) strides or less 3) More than one front foot or more than one hind foot in a single-stride slot or space. 4) Skipping over or failing to step into required space. c) The following will result in a 3-point deduction; 1) Break of gait at walk or fox trot for more than two (2) strides 2) Knocking down an elevated pole, cone, barrel, plant obstacle or severely disturbing an obstacle. d) The following will result in a 5-point deduction: 1) Loss of control or letting go of gate. 2) Dropping slicker, blanket or another 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, box or tarp). e) The following will result in a 5 Point deduction , plus entry cannot place over another entry that completes the course correctly. 1) Performing obstacle differently than described on the pattern. 2) Missing or not attempting an obstacle. 3) Failure to complete an obstacle. 4) Failure to demonstrate correct gait, if designated. 5) Failure to perform correct line of travel within or between obstacles. 6) Being outside designated boundary markers of the course. 7) Second refusal, balk or attempting to evade an obstacle by shying or backing more than 2 strides away. f) Faults which will be cause for disqualification/elimination: 1) Not performing obstacles in prescribed order 2) Use of whip or crop. 3) Touching the horse, unless instructed by the judge, or unless a side-pass is required. 4) Willful abuse. 5) Use of prohibited equipment or equipment failure that delays completion of pattern. 6) Severe disobedience - rearing, bucking, striking, etc. 7) Excessive schooling or training. G. Equipment and Attire: 1. Horse to be shown in a western style halter with appropriate lead. Halters may be constructed of leather, synthetic or nylon material. Silver trim shall not count over good working equipment. Model type show halters are inappropriate, and their use will be penalized. (Halters with bits are permissible). Chain on the lead is permitted under the chin of the horse. 2. Appropriate western attire must be worn, see Section 5, Versatility Equipment, Paragraph C. Western Attire 3. Spurs and/or chaps/chinks are prohibited