2025 MFTHBA Rulebook

116 Section 14. Versatility Ranch Cutting Class description: This class is judged on the ability of the horse to work a cow by separating it from the herd, driving it to the middle of the arena, holding it to demonstrate the horse’s ability to work the cow and finally to pen the cow at the far end of the arena. A single numbered cow is cut from the herd and the horse must demonstrate its ability to work the cow. When satisfied that the horse has proven its cutting ability, the horse and rider must then pen the cow at the far end of the arena. A. Arena Set up: Cattle will be at one end of the arena and a pen with a wing that stretches to the inside of the arena will be placed on the side fence at the opposite end of the arena (see diagram). A marker will be placed in the arena a variable distance of 20 to 40 feet from the side of the arena and the corner of the pen. B. Class procedures: 1. The number of cattle in the herd will be ten, with cattle clearly marked with number 0 through 9. 2. Cattle will be at one end of the arena, and a pen with a wing that stretches to the inside of the arena will be placed on the side fence at the opposite end of the arena (see diagram). 3. The time limit will be 2 minutes 30 seconds. Contestant will be notified when 90 seconds has elapsed. 4. Time will begin when the contestant crosses the starting line and is given a cow number. 5. Contestant is allowed two herd holders and two turn back riders to assist contestant during the cutting portion of the class. 6. After contestant has demonstrated horse’s cutting ability, the contestant will direct the turn back riders to move out of the way to the side of the arena. Contestant then drives the designated cow between the marker and the corner of the pen and then on into the pen. 7. Contestants do not have to wait until 90 seconds has elapsed to pen the animal. 8. Contestants will be allowed to grasp the saddle horn. 9. The class is over when the animal is penned or the 2 minutes 30 seconds time limit is up. Whistle will blow when the time is expired. 10 . Contestants will be penalized if cow returns to the herd or if cow is not penned when time has expired. Penning more than the designated cow will result in points being deducted. 11. If time and number of cattle permits, the judge has discretion of giving a new cow to a contestant if: a cow won’t or can’t run; cow won’t leave end of arena; cow is blind or won’t yield to the horse; or cow leaves arena. C. Judging Considerations: