2025 MFTHBA Rulebook

61 3. Saddles shall be of the Western type, with a horn, except in classes where specified otherwise. Australian saddles are not permitted. 4. Martingales or similar tie downs are prohibited except in specified classes. 5. Spurs and whips are permitted, unless otherwise specified by show management. 6. Protective boots, leg wraps and leg bandages are prohibited in Performance classes. 7. Tail and Mane extensions are permitted in all Performance, Model and Versatility classes. 8. Any sharp object such as a nail, guitar pic, etc., that is used to stick the horse in the neck in front of the saddle, is prohibited in a performance class. Section 4. Horse Show & Show Ring Procedures and Policies A. Exhibition Protocol : The exhibitor has a responsibility to present and conduct him or herself in a manner which exemplifies sportsmanship, manners and a personal image befitting high standards. To these ends, the following rules are to be observed: 1. Exhibitors should be neat in appearance, in properly fitting riding or exhibiting attire. Specific attire may be enumerated by class, but in the absence of other requirements the following shall govern: a) Long sleeved jacket, shirt with collar or blouse; suit or pantsuit as appropriate or slack pants. b) Blue denim jeans are prohibited in any performance or model classes, unless weather conditions are such that show management shall authorize a relaxation of clothing specifics. Blue denim jeans are allowed in the following Versatility classes: Ranch Horse classes, all timed (speed) events and all cattle classes. c) Hats and neckwear (ties or bolos) are recommended for gentlemen exhibitors and are optional for ladies, unless required by class rules. Any exhibitor can opt to use a safety helmet in any class, without penalty, and shall exhibit in a helmet where required. Helmets are to be ASME/SEI Certified d) Proper footwear with heels appropriate to the class must be worn, and spurs may be used as appropriate. 2. Numbers shall be prominently displayed on each side of saddle pads in riding classes and worn by handlers in model classes. In English Pleasure, Sidesaddle or Costume classes, the number may be worn by the exhibitor. The number refers to the horse being exhibited. CURB BIT TERMS PURCHASE - t he part of the bit above the mouthpiece. This affects both the timing and the leverage of the bit. CHEEK - sides of the bit, includes both purchase and shank. SHANK - the part of the bit below the mouthpiece that gives you leverage on the mouthpiece. The shorter the shank, the less severe, the longer the shank, the more severe