Rule 800 - Breeding Classes In-Hand Criteria

A. The five criteria used by the judge(s) are TYPE, HEAD & NECK/SHOULDER, BODY & TOPLINE, LEGS and MOVEMENT. Scores are to be marked from 0-20 with each horse having a score of 10 in each category at the beginning of judging. The judge(s) are encouraged to use the entire range of numerical scores possible, and not score in the upper ranges of the marks available particularly for the first three categories. Judge(s) will be using electronic transfer devices to the judging stand. Half-points may/may not be assigned in any of the criteria. No multipliers shall be added to any of the criteria, all are to be valued equally.   The Arabian breed is a single name but the reality is there are many different types.   

Numerical Scoring Indictors are:

1 - 3 Very Poor
4 - 6 Poor
7 - 8 Below Average
9 - 11 Average
12 - 13 Above Average
14 - 15 Good
16 - 17 Very Good
18 - 19 Excellent
20 Ideal

B. If two horses have the same number of total points, then the one with the most "type" points wins, if the two horses have equal type points then the one with the most "movement" points wins. If they are also tied on movement the two horses are returned to the ring and the judges select the one they like the best by simple vote.
C. Horses must be serviceably sound i.e., horse must not show evidence of any lameness or broken wind. Transmissible weaknesses shall be considered a serious fault in breeding stock. Colts and stallions two years old and over must have both testicles descended.
D.  Horses will be judged against the breed standard as stated in General Rules, Rule 26, and to the Judging Halter form, as described in Rule 800, subsection E.
E. A major fault as listed below, cannot be scored higher than a ten (10).

Note: The judging form cannot contain all the wording for a judge(s) to use as his/her criteria in judging and judge(s) should download this section of the rule book for their use.  Judges are to be held accountable to this section. 

F. Judging Halter Form is further described below for Arabian type and conformation:

HEAD AND NECK/SHOULDER

Points 1-20

Comparatively small head, profile of head straight or concave below large, round, expressive dark eyes set well apart (glass eyes shall be penalized); small muzzle, large nostrils, extended when in action. Eyes should be set at approximately one-third of the distance between the ear and the muzzle when viewed from the side. From the front, the eyes should appear wide-set, suggesting a triangular shape from the poll to the eyes. From the eyes to the muzzle, the front view of the head should show well-defined bone structure tapering to a fine muzzle with well-formed nostrils; well defined deep jowls and cheek bones, wide between the branches; small ears (smaller in stallions than mares), thin and well shaped, tips curved slightly inward; arched neck, set on high and running well back into moderately high withers, displaying a well-defined throat latch that reflects balance and harmony with the rest of the body of the horse. The neck should rise out of a well laid-back shoulder well laid over with muscle suggesting a graceful arch as it connects through the throat to the head. When judging length of neck, consideration for the length of back and hip should provide the basis for judging the horse's overall balance in relation to the length of its neck. Placement in relation to the shoulder and wither, as well as refinement in the throat, shall have priority over extreme length. The shoulders should be free and move fluidly at the trot.

 
TOTAL POINTS FOR HEAD AND NECK/SHOULDER _____________

LEGS AND FEET

Points 1-20

Judging legs is an important component of selecting horses for breeding stock or for competitions. The leg score includes the forearm, skins, hocks, knees, cannons, tendons, joints, pasterns, and hoofs. The leg score will include the legs viewed at rest and the legs viewed at the walk and trot.

Legs should be straight, with sound, dense flat bone, large joints, strong and well defined; long, broad well muscled forearm; short cannon bone with large sinew; tendons well defined, clean and strong; sloping pasterns of good length and elastic; gaskin is to be broad and muscular, knees clean and flat; hooves large, strong and round feet of proportionate size. The hoof includes the sole, wall, and if club feet and/or contracted heels exist they are to be noted on individual score sheets and any other major deficiencies found are also to be noted and penalized. Angulations and formation of legs and joints are to show Form to Function. The pasterns should match the shoulder angle with some individuals below or above these averages. The front legs should lift and extend forward with a free and reaching ground covering stride. The hocks should be large and well let down below a well muscled gaskin and come under the horse's body to drive powerfully and elastically forward, not an “under” forward movement. They should not be stiff or left behind the horse in motion. Correctness to be judged mainly coming to and from the judge as a straight forward movement. The appearance should be neither coarse nor too frail.

Below are listed the major faults and these must be penalized in the section scores. (Points removed for major faults, SUGGESTED minus zero for slightly offset cannons, minus two for severe offset cannons, minus two for bench knees, club feet, + for no offset, + for exceptional muscling on the inside forearm, etc.)

Numerical Scoring Indictors are:

1 - Very Poor
2 - Poor
3 - Average
4 - Good
5 - Perfect

Points 1-20 - Legs and Feet
    Left Fore Score between 1-5 Total _____
    Right Fore Score between 1-5 Total _____
    Left Hind Score between 1-5 Total _____
    Right Hind Score between 1-5 Total _____

TOTAL POINTS FOR LEGS _____

MOVEMENT

Movement shall be based on the assumption that the horse could be used for any performance activity. Good movement is freedom of movement in the hindquarters and hind legs, with corresponding ease of movement in the shoulders and front legs. Ground covering stride square and true. Stifles and elbows should move freely, with a broad range of motion. Extreme knee action is not necessarily a goal and shall not be extraordinarily rewarded. American style Country English Pleasure movement is equally desirable with Dressage, Hunter, or Western Pleasure movement, for example.

MOVEMENT, WALK

Points 1-10

Good free movement starts with the rear end. Nor should a horse be wide or close behind when moving. Walk to be four even beats, tracking and reaching well forward, good over stride at the walk with the hind hoof stepping well beyond the imprint of the front hoof. The horse should retain its smoothness, balance and quality of form at the walk. The gait should be even and determined with freedom of movement in front, and engagement of the hindquarter. The horse should display a natural stride with confidence. Quality is the degree of condition, bloom, carriage, athleticism, balance and strength required to perform effortlessly.

Total Score for Movement at Walk 10 points

Movement Score for Walk ________________

MOVEMENT, TROT

Points 1-10

Trot to be two even beats with natural engagement and impulsion from hindquarters displaying power. Straight and even strides with elasticity required showing a light, springy way of going with depth of stride. The trot should be even, balanced, and showing natural animation. Rhythmic and cadenced with vitality, combined with elegance and purpose originating from a supple back and well engaged hindquarters. The horse should move straight, true, free, and sound with long, effortless, ground covering strides, showing both power and purpose. They should give the distinct appearance of being a capable athlete under saddle. Horse should show an alert expression, be well mannered and show willingness in response to the handler, with no sign of fear or terror.

Total Score for Movement at Trot 10 points

Movement Score for Trot ________________

TOTAL POINTS FOR MOVEMENT  _____________________


BODY AND TOPLINE

Points 1-20

The body includes the chest, heart girth, withers, rib cage, flank, croup, hip, and tail placement. The view from the front and back should reveal a horse with good substance and well sprung ribs. Viewed from rear, tail should be carried straight; hips strong and round with well muscled thigh and gaskin. The hip and croup should be long in relation to the back allowing rear action to come well underneath the horse when traveling which shall include quality and correctness of frame. The chest should be comparatively wide when viewed from the front.

The body overall effect should be one of smoothness and balance suggesting refinement and elegance as well as a subtle strength. The Arabian horse is known for endurance, speed, agility, and freedom of movement in the shoulder and hip. The body and topline evaluation should consider the necessity for the Arabian horse to combine form and function, substance and beauty. An Arabian is a horse of compact nature possessing a relatively short back with a broad strong loin flowing into a comparatively level topline. The hips should be comparatively wide when viewed from behind, giving the impression of a balanced, muscular and refined body. The hip and croup should be long in relation to the back allowing rear action to come well underneath the horse when traveling which shall include quality and correctness of frame. Good articulation of joints with freedom of shoulder and haunches. The elbows should be free and move fluidly at the trot. You should be able to put your whole hand in between the elbow and the girth area.

Points 1-20 - Body and Topline
    Shoulder Score between 1-5   Total _____
    Back Score between 1-5        Total _____
    Hip Score between 1-5           Total _____
    Croup Score between 1-5       Total _____

TOTAL POINTS FOR BODY AND TOPLINE   _____

TYPE, BALANCE AND HARMONY

Points 1-20

Substance, condition, durability to factor in with overall quality, balance and harmony. Good harmonious conformation suitable for producing performance or breeding stock. Penalize transmissible weakness for training or breeding, unsoundness or limitations in quality of movement. Blemishes are not to count unless resulting from conformation faults. Development
related to age. Arabian horses are noted for their natural high tail carriage, and a natural gaily-carried tail shall be rewarded.

Horses must be serviceably sound: horse must not show evidence of any lameness or broken wind. Transmissible weaknesses shall be considered a serious fault in breeding stock. Colts and stallions two years old and over must have both testicles descended. Height from 14.1 to 15.1 hands, with an occasional individual over or under. Fine coat in varying colors of bay, chestnut, grey and black. Dark skin, except under white markings. Stallions especially should have an abundance of natural vitality, animation, spirit, suppleness and balance.

Blemishes are not to count unless resulting from conformation faults, in line with Standing Rules Section, Rule 97, Surgical Alterations.  

Points 1-20 - Type, Balance and Harmony

    Tail Set, Substance/Quality, Presence and Harmony Score between 1-10       ________
    Type Score between 1-10         ________

TOTAL POINTS FOR TYPE, BALANCE AND HARMONY    _______________


FINAL SCORE __________ OUT OF 100 POINTS

Rule 801 - Major Faults of the Head and Type

A. No tail carriage
B. Overshot jaw
C. Undershot jaw
D. Convex head
E. Excessively close set ears
F. Excessive narrow head
G. Excessive length to head
H. Course muzzle
I. Course, meaty features
J. Lop ears or cow ears

Rule 802 - Minor Faults of the Head and Type

A. Wry tail
B. Low set tail
C. Small eye
D.. Glass/blue eye
E. Narrow eye set
F. Large coarse ears
G. Wide set ears (sheep eared)

Rule 803 - Major Faults of the Neck and Shoulder
A. Low set neck
B. Swan neck
C. Ewe shaped neck
D. Poor attachment of the head to the neck
E. Thick throat
F. Excessive heavy neck
G. Straight shoulder
H. Flat withers (mutton withers)

Rule 804 - Minor Faults of the Neck and Shoulder

A. Straight neck
B. Short neck
C. Excessive crest

Rule 805 - Major Faults of the Back, Loin and Hip
A. Excessively high or flat croup
B. Long coupling - long back
C. Low in the back (sway back)
D. Shallow body
E. Rafter hips
F. Short croup
G. Short hip
H. Steep sloping hip

Rule 806 - Minor Fault of the Back, Loin and Hip

Rule 807 - Major Faults of the Front Legs and Feet

A. Calf knees (sheep knees)
B. Bench knees (offset knees or offset cannons)
C. Bow legs (bandy legged)
D. Knock knees (knee narrow)
E. Straight or short pasterns
F. Coon footed (excessive sloped pasterns)
G. Tied in knees (tied in tendons)
H. Toes out (splay footed)
I. Long cannons (high knees)
J. Base narrow (stands close)
K. Base wide (stands wide)
L. Toe in (pigeon toed)
M. Buck knees (knee sprung or over at the knees)
N. Tied in at the elbow

Rule 808 - Minor Faults of the Front Legs and Feet
Capped elbow

Rule 809 - Major Faults of the Rear Legs and Feet
A. Post legged
B. Bow legged
C. Long cannons (high hocks)
D. Straight or short pasterns
E. Coon footed
F. Stands wide (base wide)
G. Camped out
H. Stand close (base narrow)
I. Curb
J. Camped out behind

Rule 810 - Minor Faults of the Rear Legs and Feet
A. Stands under (sickle hocks)
B. Cow hocked
C. Capped hock
D. Bog spavin
E. Thoroughpin

Rule 811 - Major Faults of any Leg
A. Club foot
B. Dished foot
C. Contracted narrow feet (mule footed)
D. Splints caused from faulty conformation
E. Ring or side bones
F. Epiphysitis
G. Broken axis of pastern and hoof
H. Feet out of balance

Rule 812 - Minor Faults of any Leg
A. Wind puffs (joint capsule hygronias)
B. Ossolets

Rule 813 - Major Faults of Movement

A. Irregular strides
B. Stubby, choppy stride
C. Lacks coordination
D. Paddles out
E. Wings in

814 - Minor Faults of Movement

Rule 815 - Presentation of Halter Horses

A. Please allow yourself time to get acquainted with a different style of presentation. All rules and regulations in this rule book will be adhered to in relation to conduct and abuse. To aid in understanding that these rules may be different from what you are used to in other breed or open shows the following, but not limited to, ears may be clipped even with outside of ear but no inner hair to be removed, inner ear hair must be 1/4" long, inner nose hairs must remain intact. Horses are NOT TO BE PENALIZED for showing with a completely natural look which includes no clipping of muzzle, eyes, and or bridle path.
B. NO BALDING IS ALLOWED. This is interpreted to include the recent balding of areas, example around the eyes, and now fuzz has grown back. The purpose is for the horse to be shown as close to the natural state, as possible. A bridle path, if used, is to be in proportion to the neck and should not be excessive in length.
C. No alteration of the basic color of the skin, coat or hooves is permitted. Hoof paints, colorless varnishes, coat dyes, glitter spray and cosmetic operations including skin grafts are forbidden. Clear polish only is allowed so you can see the hooves. Clear Spray can be put on for a temporary shine. No sanding of the hooves is permitted. (Note: colorless hoof oils, Vaseline or oil based can be used for hooves and white chalk used on white legs is permitted.)

Rule 816 - Order of Go

The order of go shall be determined and posted by the birth date oldest to youngest, including post entries.

Rule 817 - Whip

Only three-year-old Colts or older stallions may be shown with a whip. No Fillies or Mares or Two-year-old Colts may be shown with a whip.

Rule 818 - Halter Equipment

Any mare or female may be shown in halter classes in a bride and snaffle. Snaffles may be used at any age, however, no pencil-thin snaffles are allowed. A suitable headstall equipped with a throat latch is mandatory or a leather stable halter may be used. A whip or crop is optional on three-year-old colts, at the discretion of the handler. One whip or crop per handler allowed (see whip rule above), however, whips are not mandatory and handlers are allowed to use items such as grass, hat and/or treats to maintain horse's attention.

Rule 819 - Course Design

A triangular course will be laid out using pots of flowers etc. with two long sides and a short side. The longest side of the triangle will be the length of the arena. Legs of the triangle are to be a minimum of 80’ (24.4 meters) and a maximum of 100’ (30.5 meters). Corners should be well defined. Decorative fencing, plants, or flowers are allowed.

Rule 820 - Conduct and Specifications.

A. Horses shall enter the arena in-hand at a relaxed walk (a four-beat flat-footed gait), in a “down or natural state” manner, in a clockwise direction. Failure to completely clear the gate at a walk will cause the entry to be eliminated from competition. Horses must enter the ring quietly at a walk, any horse not moving quietly and interfering with another entry will be excused and eliminated from competition. Any horse that becomes loose from its handler will be excused immediately. Some slack for two-year-olds who just get momentarily excited but demonstrate a quiet, calm demeanor for the most part and are standing square for judging will be the rule. The horses need to be 'down or in a natural state' for the classes.
B. Horse shall be asked to walk in a relaxed manner on a loose lead with the handler at the side of their horse, whips down. The lead line must maintain a clearly discernible drape, that is the handler must not place their hand on the chain or close enough to in any way restrict natural head and neck motion. Also, the handler may not unnecessarily impede the forward motion of the horse while at the walk.
C. All horses additionally are to walk on the rail at each direction past each (and all) judge(s).
D. Handlers are expected to keep a reasonable clearance between horses and the judge(s) should modify the alignment of horses to achieve that clearance.
E. Following the cessation of the walk, all horses will exit the ring and then horses shall be presented to the judge(s) individually in accordance with the order of go. Horses shall be shown and judged along a modified form. Following a posted or announced order, or on request from the judge, entries in each class will approach the judging area one at a time, walk to the apex of the triangle, and await the judge’s request to proceed on the triangle.
F. The horse is to be stood up in front of the judge(s) at the start of the short side and examined by the judge(s), when asked the horse is to be walked down all legs of the short triangle, wait for permission of the call judge to proceed, then trot down the long leg of the large triangle, and with as much extension as possible an extended trot across the base of the large triangle, and a normal trot back to the judge(s) along the other long leg of the large triangle and then stood up before the judge(s) again for a final look or to repeat any movement at the judge(s) request before being dismissed. Horses are only allowed to travel clockwise around the triangle.
G. At the completion of the judging, the handler will lead the horse away from the judging area. The next shall enter the judging area promptly. Depending on the available space the horses which have been judged will be directed to stay down at one end of the arena or to return to the collecting ring. The music will be turned down when the horses are being presented and judged.
H. The horse is to be shown in an “open position and a natural state,” for conformation judging, with all four legs of the horse visible to the judge when standing on either side of the horse with the horse’s neck in a natural position and the handler standing away from the horse with a loose lead line.
I. Scores are to be announced as soon as tabulated for each horse presented. Another horse may be in the ring showing to the judge(s) at the time the score is announced. If more than one judge is used, scores will be announced for each judge and the judge's name will be announced with their score.

Rule 821 - Elimination

Specifications of Elimination, but not limited to those listed below:

A. Loose Horses: If a horse gets away from an exhibitor in the arena for any reason, it will automatically be excused.
B. Any action(s) against a horse by an exhibitor which are deemed excessive by a judge, Disciplinary Committee or competition veterinarian in the competition ring or anywhere on the competition grounds may be punished by official warning, elimination, or other sanctions which may be deemed appropriate by the show committee. Such action(s) could include, but are not limited to excessive use of whip, spurs, or bamboo poles. There will be no contact with the horse by a whip.
C. Judges must eliminate from judging consideration any horse who shows aggression or discontent toward its handler, rider or any person in the ring or one whose actions threaten to endanger the handler, other exhibitors or their entries.
D. Horses showing signs of undue stress or inhumane treatment, to include a horse that shows aggression or discontent toward its handler or any person in the ring, will be eliminated from any and all competition and be required to leave the grounds immediately. The exhibition of a horse that has a cut or abrasion showing clear evidence of fresh blood in the mouth, nose, chin, shoulder, barrel, flank or hip area, any horse that possesses a whip mark (welt) on any portion of the horse, said horse and all its connections will be required to leave the grounds immediately and forfeit all winnings, ribbons, awards. A whip mark or welt is an inflammation of skin and subcutaneous tissue resulting in a swelling and in extreme cases is an abrasion or laceration. The cardinal signs of inflammation include heat, pain, (sensitivity to palpation) and swelling. The judge(s) or Disciplinary Committee finding of fact with respect to the presence or absence of a whip mark (welt) evident during a class shall be final and no appeal may be taken thereon. The judge(s) shall make written findings of fact which shall be delivered to the Arabian Horse Fair Chairperson with respect to any horse ruled ineligible under this rule. If a majority of the judges determine there is not a whip mark, then each judge who is of the minority opinion shall submit his or her own written findings of fact and will have the authority to eliminate said entry.
E. All other regulations listed above and herein will apply.

Rule 822 - Judge's View

If the judge(s) cannot see a horse walk or trot, the exhibitor will be given two opportunities to do so. If unsuccessful, the horse will be excused from the class.

Rule 823 - Lameness

Please see General Rule Number 7.