2025 MFTHBA Rulebook

122 g) In the event of a tie, the horse to be declared the winner in a run-off must re-run the pattern within 2 seconds of its original time or the run-off must be held again. Penalty time will not apply to the 2-second rule but will apply to final run-of time. C. Judging Considerations: Barrel Racing is a timed event; the judge will make determinations based only on the criteria listed below. D. Scoring: Scoring is based on run time, adding any time faults incurred to total time. E. Faults/Penalties: 1. The following will result in a 5 second time penalty: a) Knocking over a barrel (Contestant may touch the barrel with his/her hand). b) If the hat or helmet is not on the exhibitor’s person for the entire time the exhibitor is in the arena. 2. Faults which will be cause for disqualification a) Failure to follow the set course. b) At the discretion of the judge, an exhibitor may be disqualified for excessive use of a bat, crop, whip or rope in front of the cinch. G. Equipment and Attire: See Section 5, Paragraphs A through C. Section 18. Stake Race Class Description: The Stake Race is a timed event. Exhibitors are to run a set pattern around the stakes. A. Arena Arrangements: The start and finish line is 20 feet (6 meters) wide and marked by two upright markers 10 feet (3 meters) on each side of the centerline and short enough so as to not interfere with the timer if one is used. Only short pylons or cones are recommended. The first and second poles marking the centerline are each 40 feet (12 meters) from the start and finish line, making them a total of 80 feet (24 meters) apart. Stake Race Pattern