2025 MFTHBA Rulebook

70 Standards of the Fox-Trotting horse). In model classes as well, a matrix is in place to be used in judging. In classes other than performance or model, specific rules will govern for each class, and will be stated in a following section of these rules. Judges will be required to judge according to the approved standards of the MFTHBA as defined in 100 - Standards of the Fox-Trotting horse. Those who fail to judge by the MFTHBA standard, upon review of the video of the class or classes, will be given a warning. A second instance will cause the Judge to face removal from their duties. In cases where a valid complaint appears in connection with the placement of horses, the judge or judges will be requested to review the video and give explanations as to their reasons for the placements given. Equitation/Horsemanship: 1. The horse should be well-mannered and under control at all times. 2. The rider's head should be up, eyes straight and the seat squarely in the saddle. 3. The shoulders should be square over the hips and the back should be straight. Leaning forward or backward excessively is not desirable. 4. The arms should hang naturally to the elbows. The elbows should be held close to the side and bent so that they form a straight line through the wrists to the bit. 5. The length of the stirrup should be adjusted so the ankle bones of the rider are even with the tread of the stirrup (when the feet are out of the stirrup and the legs are allowed to hang naturally.) 6. The ball of the foot should be on the tread of the stirrup. The heel should be slightly lower than the toe. 7. Reins should be adjusted so that the rider has light contact with the horse's mouth and at no time shall reins require more than a slight hand movement to control the horse. Excessively tight or loose reins will be penalized. 8. The point of the shoulder, hip and heel of the rider should form a straight vertical line, as should the point of the knee to the toe. 9. Overall, the rider should appear relaxed, comfortable and in harmony with the horse, presenting a pleasing picture. Performance Classes: 1. Performance classes are to be judged as follows: a) 3-Gait Classes: 40% Fox Trot; 20% Flat Foot Walk; 20% Canter; 10% Conformation, 10% Equitation. b) 2-Gait Classes: 50% Fox Trot; 25% Flat Foot Walk; 15% Conformation; 10% Equitation. 2. Youth performance classes are to be judged as follows: a) 2-Gait Classes: 50% Fox Trot; 30% Flat Foot Walk; 10% Conformation; 10% Equitation. b) Youth Equitation Classes: 80% Equitation & Horsemanship; 20% Performance Gaits. 3. Specialty Classes, such as the Costume and Side Saddle: a) Costume Classes: 80% Costume; 20% Performance Gaits. b) Side Saddle Classes: 50% Attire; 25% Performance Gaits & Conformation; 25% Equitation. 4. Additional classes may be added, and in such event, they shall be judged in accordance with the above standards. Model Classes: Horses shall be shown in hand at a walk unless otherwise specified by show management. Entries should be led into the arena wearing an appropriate halter or bridle and are to be lined up at the discretion of the judge. When entries are lined up, they should stand erect with all feet under them, ears forward, and horses should be alert. All entries should be clean and neatly trimmed, not overly fat or thin, and present a healthy appearance. A Judge may penalize disobedience of the horse in final scoring up to 50%.