Judges are to use the following as a standard in judging Western Classes in all aspects.

Originally the western horse separated himself from the rest of the ranch string by a comfortable ride, attractive appearance and willing attitude. Western horses were seasoned in ranch work prior to competing on these horses in reining, cutting, or roping.  

A good pleasurable horse to ride has a free flowing stride of reasonable length in keeping with his conformation; he should have a balanced and flowing motion. He should be willing and confident and comfortable in his performance and appearance, with little or no apparent resistance to his riders request.

A good pleasurable horse should be the platform or foundation on which other events can be achieved, if so desired.

Some of the physical traits are a balanced flowing motion, proper cadence, and lift in gaits, making it easy for this horse to maintain self-carriage.

The mental traits are a willing and pleasant attitude, alert but not startled looking, confidant, but still listening to his riders request, giving the appearance of a great student in the case of a younger horse, and a trusting partner in the case of a finished or older horse. He/she should in either case give the appearance of a pleasure to ride, and in the process set the stage for other disciplines to be learned, making him/her truly a pleasure to ride.

The mental picture we should be looking for and rewarding is a balanced, flowing horse, exhibiting self-carriage. One can visualize how these maneuvers called for in Western Riding were also applied by the Bedouin involved in a desert battle skirmish. The desert arab man used the Arabian for raiding and battle mainly, but also demanded a truly pleasureable riding mount.

WESTERN RIDING HORSE

Rule 400 - AHFA Rule book
All rules and regulations of the AHFA Rule book shall apply in regards to tack and attire.

Rule 401  - Description of Class

General Western Riding is a class where the horse is judged on the quality of gaits, lead changes at the lope, response to the rider, and manners and disposition. The horse should perform with reasonable speed and be sensible, well mannered, and free and easy moving and demonstrates many of the maneuvers demanded in a day's ride on a working ranch.  Many will find this class to be a combination of basic dressage and basic reining skills.  

Rule 402 - Class Specifications

A.  Credit shall be given for and emphasis placed on smoothness, even cadence of gaits, (starting and finishing the pattern with same cadence) and the horse's ability to change leads precisely, easily and simultaneously both hind and front at the center point between markers.
B.  The horse should have a relaxed head carriage showing response to the rider's hands, with a moderate flexion at the poll. Horse shall be ridden with light contact.
C.  The horse should cross the log both at the jog and the lope without breaking gait or radically changing stride.
D.  The pattern will include six (6) small circles. These should be separated not less than 30 feet nor more than 50 feet. Markers should be a minimum 15 feet from the fence and with 50 feet to 80 feet width in the pattern.
E.  A solid log or pole needs to be a minimum of eight (8) feet in length.
G.  In the pattern furnished to exhibitors, a long serpentine line indicates direction of travel and gaits in the pattern. The shaded areas equal lead changing area between markers. A dotted line . . . equals a walk; a dash line - - - equals a jog; and a solid line _____ equals a lope.

Rule 403 - Scoring

A.  Scoring is to be on the basis of 0 - 100 with 70 being an average performance. Each part of the pattern should be graded, additionally, as a -2 for Very Poor, -1 Poor, 0 for Average, +1 for Good, and +2 for Excellent.
B.  Major faults are opening mouth excessively, anticipating signals, and/or stumbling.
C.  Entry to be penalized each time the following occur:

1)  Five Points:

aa)  Out of lead beyond the next designated change area (note: this includes cross-cantering);
bb)  Blatant disobedience including kicking out, biting and bucking.

2)  Three Points:

aa)  Not performing specific gait or stopping within 10 feet of designated area;
bb)  Break of gait;
cc)  Simple change of leads (front only or back only);
dd)  Out of lead at or before (or after) marker prior to designated change area;
ee)  Additional lead changes uncalled for in pattern;
ff)  Failure to start lope within 30 feet after crossing log at jog;
gg)  Break of gait for more than 2 strides.

3)  One Point:

aa)  Break of gait up to 2 strides;
bb)  Hitting, rolling, touching log;
cc)  Spilling the log (log between 2 front or 2 hind feet) at the lope;
dd)  Hind legs shipping or coming together during lead changes;
ee)  Non-simultaneous lead changes.

Rule 404 - Disqualified - 0 score

A.  Illegal equipment
B.  Willful abuse
C.  Off Course
D.  Knocking over markers
E.  Completely missing log
F.   Major refusal
G.  Major disobedience

Rule 405 - Judges

The judge used for all working western events shall be from the roster of the National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA), no exceptions. This judge may be used for Western Riding, Limited Cow Horse, Team Penning and any other area where his/her expertise allows.

Rule 406 - Patterns

A.  Pattern 1

1) Walk down, start jog and jog over log
2) Transition to left lead and lope around end of arena
3) First line change
4) Second line change
5) Third line change
6) Fourth line change and lope around end of arena
7) First crossing change
8) Second crossing change
9) Lope over log
10) Third crossing change
11) Fourth crossing change
12) Lope up center, stop and back.

B.  Pattern 2

1) Walk and make transition to jog
2) Jog over log
3) Transition to left lead
4) First crossing change
5) Lope over log
6) Second crossing change
7) First line change
8) Second line change
9) Third line change
10) Fourth line change
11) Third crossing change
12) Fourth crossing change
13) Lope up center, stop and back

Rules 407 - 425 - Reserved for Future Use
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WESTERN TRAIL HORSE

Rule 426 - AHFA Rule book

All rules and regulations of the AHFA Rule book shall apply in regards to tack and attire. 

Rule  427  - Definition of Trail Horse

A.  A good trail horse gives the impression of being a pleasure to ride out and negotiate any obstacle on a trail ride.  As such, a good trail horse is one that can maneuver through a course of obstacles with physical skill, expression and a good mental attitude. It should travel through and between obstacles in a forward manner without compromising its calm, relaxed attitude and way of going. It should approach each obstacle with authority, with its own style, yet maintaining its willingness to be dictated to completely by the rider with no apparent resistance.
B.  Maximum credit should be given to the trail horse that negotiates its way through an entire course in a manner that raises the degree of difficulty without sacrificing carefulness, control, and/or attitude.
C.  Ultimately, the trail horse is skillful, confident, and leaves one with the impression of being sane, safe, sure and a pleasure to ride over any piece of ground for a trail ride.

Rule 428 - Class Specifications

A.  All classes are to be shown over and through obstacles at a walk, jog-trot and lope on a reasonably loose rein without undue restraint. To be judged on performance and way of going, with emphasis on manners.
B.  Trail horses being shown in closed reins may be hobbled when instructed to ground tie in a class.
C.  Rider's hands shall be clear of horse to avoid cueing.
D.  To include a walk, jog-trot and lope of suitable duration to determine the way of going.  Rail work shall not be required, as long as in the course a walk, trot, and lope are used.
E.  Serpentines shall be done at jog-speed. 
F.  Horses to be penalized for any unnecessary delay while approaching obstacle. Judges are encouraged to advance on to next obstacle any horse taking excessive time at an obstacle.
G.  Two or more horses may be entered by the same exhibitor and the same rider may elect to show more than one horse.
H.  Neither a “no score” nor a “zero score” penalty may receive an award in that class.
I.  Obvious unsoundness must be disqualified with no prize awarded.

Rule 429 - Course 

A.  Tests which may be required are negotiating a gate, carrying objects, including a sack of tin cans, from one part of arena to another, riding through water, over logs or simulated brush, riding down into and up out of ditch without lunging or jumping, crossing a bridge, backing through obstacles, sidepassing, and performing over any reasonable conditions encountered along the trail, including meeting exotic animals (in cage). However, unnatural obstacles, such as fire extinguishers, perforated plywood in water boxes, or unsafe elements such as hay bales, should be avoided.
B.  All entered exhibitors will be allowed to walk and inspect the course with the judge and with the course designer, if present, prior to the start of the class during the time of the Judge's instructions for a maximum period of time not to exceed 20 minutes.
C.  No time outs will be allowed.
D.  No horse may enter the trail course area until the course and the judge are ready.
E.  Course to include a minimum of six obstacles and a maximum of ten obstacles except in the case of damaged obstacles.
F.  Care in preparing the course should be exercised to prevent a direct advantage to either a small or large horse.
G.  Show Management is encouraged to design obstacle courses that can be negotiated in 90 seconds. 
H.  If at any time a trail obstacle is found to be unsafe, it shall be repaired or removed from the course. If it cannot be repaired and horses have completed the course, the score for that obstacle shall be deducted. No horse shall be asked to repeat the course, except in the case of a tie.

Rule 430  - Obstacles

A. All elevated poles must be set in a standard jump cup or similar type bracket. The judge has the right to alter the course.  All courses and obstacles are to be constructed with safety in mind so as to guard against accidents.
B.  Suggested and recommended but not mandatory dimensions of trail obstacles.

1)  Walk Overs - Minimum height 10"; Maximum height 16". Minimum width between poles 20" to 24" between poles is good spacing for walkovers, depending upon difficulty desired. No rolling poles.
2)  Jumps - Mounted jumps shall be higher than lead over jumps. Minimum width between standards of a jump shall be four (4) feet. Combinations are to be approximately twelve (12) feet for a one stride, approximately six (6) feet for a no stride.  Box Jumps and L Jumps will have poles at least twelve (12) feet long.
3)  Cavaletti - Jog overs are to be about three (3) feet or slightly more between poles. Lope overs will be approximately seven (7) feet apart.
4)  Back Through's - May be on the ground, elevated, or the use of barrels which shall have a distance between of approximately 30 inches.
5)  Side Passes  - A single pole may be used, at about two (2) feet high.  If slots are used for this obstacle they should be about two (2) feet in width.  
6) Serpentines  - If available, pylons should be approximately six (6) feet apart.  Cones may be used in place of pylons, or any other suitable material, provided all are the same. Guardrails may be used and should be approximately three (3) feet to either side of the pylons.
7)  Gate - Approximately 60" high with latch available at that height.

C.  Any other maneuvers should figure horse's wheelbase at about five (5) feet from front hooves to back hooves.

Rule 431 - Definitions

A.  Knockdown is when any component, element, or portion of an obstacle is displaced from its original position-by horse or rider.
B.  Refusal is any action taken by the horse to avoid performing an obstacle, part of a combination of obstacles or portion of a trail course. These actions may include, but are not limited to the following:

1) Balking is any action that results in a horse blatantly demonstrates an unwillingness to approach, negotiate, complete an obstacle and continuously refusing a rider's command.
2) Evading or running past an obstacle to be negotiated.

C.  Off Course is not following the drawn pattern by taking an obstacle in the wrong direction, wrong side, or wrong sequence, or skipping an obstacle unless directed by the judge.

Rule 432  -  Scoring

All horses enter the arena with a score of 70. With each obstacle, the judge will assign a score as well as any appropriate penalties if one or more occurs. At the end of the work, obstacle scores will be totaled. All points for overall score, gaits and any penalties will then be subtracted or added, as applies, to arrive at a final score. All horses are judged from the time they enter the arena until the completion of the last obstacle.

Rule 433 -  Overall Score  

A.  +3 EXCELLENT: The horse approaches and negotiates obstacle in correct form with definite style, with curiosity and athleticism, while maintaining the qualities of an ideal trail horse.
B.  +2 VERY GOOD: The horse approaches and negotiates obstacle in correct form and definitely displays many qualities of the ideal trail horse.
C.  +1 GOOD: The horse approaches and negotiates obstacle in correct form; however, lacks those qualities of the ideal trail horse.
D.  O AVERAGE: The horse approaches and negotiates most obstacles in correct form. 
E.  -1 POOR: The horse fails to approach and/or negotiate obstacle in correct form and lacks the qualities of the ideal trail horse.
F.  -2 VERY POOR: The horse approaches and negotiates obstacle, with a definite deficiency in the qualities of the ideal trail horse. The horse exhibits noticeable resistance.
G.  -3 EXTREMELY POOR: The horse approaches and/or negotiates obstacle in unacceptable form. The horse exhibits significant resistance towards the rider's commands. 

Rule 434 - Penalties

A.  Ten (10) Point Penalties

1) Temporary loss of control, stampeding, running through or jumping over entire obstacle when jump is not called for and each refusal. Refusals are cumulative. After three (3) refusals at a single obstacle the contestant is eliminated.
2) Horse misses/evades an element/component of an obstacle that is part of a series. Losing drag or object being carried.
3) Horse leaving designated ground tie area.  Knockdowns or obviously displacing the original configuration of an obstacle.
4) Approaching and performing obstacle at wrong gait or lead. During transition areas between obstacles, if horse is, for instance, loping where a jog is called for, or jogging where a walk is called for, a ten point penalty has occurred.
5) Placing two or more feet outside of a confining element or placing two feet off side or bridge. Skipping slot, double striding or adding strides or adding steps (walkovers, jog overs, lope overs, or tires)
6) Each time switching leads where not called for, picking up wrong leads, cross leading, or breaking of gait.  Each of the above shall receive ten (10) points penalty for each occurrence.
7)  Any time a judge instructs an exhibitor to proceed to the next obstacle a ten (10) point penalty each time will be applied.

B.  Five (5) Point Penalties

1. Placing one foot off side of bridge or placing one foot outside of a confining element.
2. Stepping on an element of an obstacle.
3. Obvious cueing or touching of horse in front of forward cinch.
4. Pulling gate when designated to push in course directions (or visa versa).
5. Sidepassing the wrong end of horse in slot.

C.   Two (2) Point Penalty

Holding of saddle with free hand, except over a jump, elevated jog over(s) or elevated lope over(s).

Rule 435 -  Elimination or No score or a Zero score.

A.  Violation of the rules of AHFA Rule book.
B.  Inhumane treatment or abuse to any animal as detailed in Standing Rules of this Rule book. 
C.  Use of free hand to instill fear or praise.
D.  Off course
E.  Failure to comply with General Rules of this Rule book regarding use of hands on reins, split reins, finger between split reins, and two hands on reins (Exception: Snaffles or Hackamore)
F.  Fall of horse or rider
G.  Falling off side of bridge
H.  Equipment failure or loss of shoe that delays completion of course.
I.  A horse whose performance may be reckless, careless, and/or dangerous.  Blatant disobedience such as kicking, bucking, rearing, biting, or striking.
J.  When a judge deems three (3) refusals have occurred at an obstacle the exhibitor will be eliminated from competition.

Rules 436 - 445 Reserved for Future Use
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MODIFIED WESTERN PLEASURE

Rule 455 - Modified Western Pleasure Judging Rules

A. The judge may/will call for any of the gaits as listed herein and also as described above in Rule 110 - 124, Gaits of the General Rules section of this rule book.  Horses are to be worked both directions of the ring. To stand quietly and back readily. Judges must consider all gaits equally in adjudicating classes.
B. Competitors will enter the ring in a counterclockwise direction at the jog trot (Western). Ladies may ride side saddle. All horses being considered must be serviceably sound.

Rule 456 - Required Gaits for Judging - Western Pleasure Qualifying Gaits

A. Walk: Flat-footed, steady, elastic.
B.  Jog: Square, collected and balanced. A free, easy, two beat diagonal gait without a tendency to mix gaits. To trot with elasticity and freedom of movement, not to break above level.
C. Extended Trot: The extended trot should be bold, energetic, balanced and ground covering with a definite lengthening of stride not resulting in an increase of speed with no sense of racing or straining. The mouth must remain light and the horse must demonstrate a complete acceptance of control without resistance at all times. Excessive speed should be penalized.
D. Working Trot: This is a pace where the horses go forward freely and straight, engaging the hind legs with good hock action, on a taut but light rein, the position being balanced and unconstrained. The steps should be as even as possible. The hind feet touch the ground in the foot prints of the fore feet. The degree of energy and impulsion displayed at the working trot denotes clearly the degree of suppleness and balance of the horses.
E.  Lope: Smooth, collected and straight on both leads and a definite three beat cadence.
F. Extended Canter: The extended canter should be ground covering, free moving and smooth. The extended canter should show a definite lengthening of stride, while still being controlled and mannerly. Extreme speed will be penalized.
G. Hand Gallop: Long, free ground covering stride under control. Not a fast collected canter, but a true lengthening of stride, correct and straight on both leads. Extreme speed penalized.
H.  Back: The back should be at least one horse length done quietly. This should be done with light contact and smoothly. More credit should be given for correctness and smoothness, rather than how quickly it is done.

Rule 457 - Specifics for Judging

A. Suitability of the horse and its motion for the type of job at hand is essential. Easy ground-covering motion is desired in Western Pleasure events. Judges must severely penalize any horse with laboring motion at any gait whether or not such motion indicates excessive weight or use of artificial training devices. At no time shall any horse's knee action break above level. Judges will consider Pleasure as a stepping stone to higher levels of performance.
B.  The good pleasure horse has a comfortable free flowing stride of reasonable length in keeping with the individual's conformation. Ideally, the horse should have a balanced, sweeping motion that requires no more than light contact by the rider. The head and neck serve as a balance arm and are carried in a relaxed, natural position appropriate for each individual's own conformation. The horse should be balanced in all aspects; conformation, gait and disposition. Such a horse is an athlete that goes softly and gives the appearance of being fit and capable of the tasks. Ultimately, the horse is very eye appealing and gives the impression of being a pleasure to ride.
C.  Light contact should be measured by a horse's response to the rider's hands, seat and legs and not merely by the tension in the reins. However, an excessively draped rein is just as undesirable as extremely tight rein.
D.  Subtle cues are desirable, while an absence of cues is not. The individual that willingly and quietly responds to subtle cues by the rider is performing with light contact.
E.  Entries shall be judged generally on manners and performance, suitability of horse to rider, suitability to their discipline, Arabian type, conformation, quality and attitude. To be judged in that order of priority as detailed below: 

1) All Amateur and Non-Pro classes will be judged with suitability of horse to rider, manners and attitude first (40%), Arabian conformation and quality (30%), and performance and suitability to their discipline (30%);
2)  All open classes will be judged with performance first (40%) Arabian type, Arabian conformation and quality (30%), and manners and attitude (30%);
3)  All Junior horse classes will be judged with manners and attitude first (30%), Arabian type, Arabian conformation and quality (30%), quality of performance (30%), and suitability to their discipline (10%);
4) Judges must strictly apply the following percentages as listed above.

Rule 458 - Workout
All horses chosen for a workout must be worked both ways of the ring at any gait requested.

Rule 459 - Obstacles
In Western Pleasure Classes, horses may, at the option of the judge, be tested on obstacles in a work-off.

Rule 460 - Optional Judging System
Performance classes, regardless of age of rider or horse divisions, may elect to use this system of judging but must use this system of judging if any section should have more than 30 entries.

A.  For Preliminary cuts, three cones are to be set up around the rail. Horses will enter individually, walk to the first cone, trot to the second, lope to the third. Stop, reverse, then do all three gaits the other way. Stop and back.
B.  Horses are scored for walk, trot, and lope, as well as transitions and backing. Each horse is to be in the ring for about a minute.
C. Horses will be judged in the performance category as 10% walk, 10% trot, 10% canter or gallop and hand gallop, and 10% stop and back.

Rules 461 - 600 - Reserved for future use
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WORKING COWHORSE - REINED

Rule 601 - General Description

To rein a horse is not only to guide him, but also to control his every movement. The best reined horse should be willingly guided or controlled with little or no apparent resistance and dictated to completely. Any movement on his own must be considered a lack of control.  The reined work is a demonstration of both the rider's control of the horse and the horse's suitability as a cow horse as it circles, runs, stops and turns. 

Any reined work pattern must consist of the following: circles, lead changes and runs terminating in well-balanced stops straight to the line of travel, turns and a back-up of a reasonable distance with slight hesitations denoting each maneuver. The judge may deviate from traditional order of performance and he/she may also deviate from the exact printed pattern due to arena conditions. The judging ends when the rider indicates he/she is finished by coming to a complete stop.

Faults shall be deducted, as measured against performance of the pattern and credit will be given for smoothness, attitude, and skill at performing each task while using controlling speed which shows the ability and precision necessary for working cattle. 

Rule 602 - Elements of Working Cow Horse - Reined Work 

A.  Stops are the act of slowing the horse from a gallop to a stop position by bringing the hind feet and hocks under the horse in a locked position and sliding on the rear shoes. The horse should enter the stop position by bending the back and bringing the rear legs and hocks further under the body while maintaining forward motion and ground contact with the front legs. Throughout the stop, the horse should continue in a straight line and the position of the hocks, rear feet, and back should not vary.
B. Spins are a series of turns, executed over a stationary (inside) hind leg. Propulsion for the spin is supplied by the outside hind leg and front legs, and contact should be made with the ground and a front leg. The location of the hindquarters should be fixed at the start of the spin and maintained throughout. Spins are to be consistent and positioned 360 degree turns executed with the inside hind quarter (pivot) remaining stationary. Spins should be smooth and efficient. The horse shall stop the spin exactly as dictated by the pattern description. The right and left spins shall have a similar speed and balance.
C. Rollbacks are the 180 degree reversal of forward motion completed by running to a stop, rolling (turning) the shoulders back to the opposite direction over the hocks and departing in a gallop, as one continuous motion. The rollback must be executed with not more than slight hesitation after the stop, and the horse should not step ahead or back prior to the rollback. The horse shall be in position to lope off in a straight line when exiting a rollback.
D. Circles have the emphasis on scoring given to the contestant exhibiting smooth, controlled figure eights with easy lead changes.

For a perfect score the following elements are necessary:

1) Circles are a controlled maneuver at the lope or gallop in the designated area of the arena. Right and left circles will have a common center line in the middle of the designated area. Circles will be run and /or begun on the correct lead.

2) The speed and size of the right circles will be exactly the same as the speed and size of the left circles.

3) The horse will lope or gallop in an even, fluid manner with a minimum of rider contact and/or commands.

4) Circles will be run far enough from arena wall that it does not effect the circles.

E.  Back Up is a maneuver requiring the horse to be moved in a reverse motion in a straight line for at least ten (10) feet. The horse shall begin the back-up in a controlled manner and shall continue to back-up without hesitation until directed to stop by the rider. In the instance where a horse backs up where a back-up is not specified in the pattern, the penalty score of 0 will be incurred when the horse backs more than 2 full strides. It is important to note one stride is defined as the complete movement or steps of all 4 legs, one time. In this particular situation it is very helpful for a judge to watch and count the steps of the front feet. Up to and including 4 steps of the front feet in the not required back-up receives no penalty; five steps and beyond constitutes the inclusion of a maneuver not specified and thus a penalty score of 0.
F.  Hesitation is only long enough to show the completion of one maneuver before the next one starts.
 Lead Changes are the act of changing the leading legs of the front and rear pair of legs, at a lope or gallop, when changing the direction traveled. The lead change must be executed at the lope or gallop with no change of gait or speed and be performed in the exact geographical location in the arena specified in the pattern description and shall change in one stride. The change of front and rear legs must take place within the same stride to avoid penalty. A horse shall be considered out of lead if both front and rear leads are not changed in the same stride.
H.   Run Downs are the runs through the middle of the arena, runs from the center of the arena to the end, and runs along the side and ends of the arena. They shall be made as described in the given pattern, unless the judge indicated otherwise due to arena conditions. The horse shall demonstrate a relaxed fluid attitude when starting a run-down and throughout the maneuver. The horse shall use controlled speed consistent with the size of the arena and the condition of the ground. The horse shall travel in a straight line with a minimum of contact with the rider. Straight, controlled rundowns with square, smooth stops, maintaining.
I. Jogging up to 2 strides incurs a 1/2 point penalty. Jogging beyond 2 strides will incur a 2 point penalty. Jogging in excess of one-half circle or one-half the length of the arena will result in a score of zero (0). In determining whether a 1/2 or 2 point penalty has been incurred, it is useful for a judge to consider the distance traveled and to count the steps of the rear legs. Four steps and under would represent 2 or less strides and require a 1/2 point penalty; 5 steps and more, therefore would require a 2 point penalty.
J. A horse is said to have fallen when the horses shoulder and hip are on the ground and all four feet are facing in one direction. Fall of horse in any event receives a score of zero (-0-).
K. A rider is said to have fallen when the rider is no longer astride the horse.

Rule 603 - General Rules for Judging

A.  All rules and regulations of the AHFA Rule book shall apply in regards to tack, attire, and all sections of the Standing Rules of this Rule book, except as specifically noted in this section. 
B. The contestant is judged from the time that he/she enters the arena until he/she completes the pattern.
C.  Horses shall work individually. Judging begins the moment the horse begins the pattern.
D.  There will be no schooling from the time the horse enters the arena.
E.  All deviations from the exact written pattern must be considered a lack of/or temporary loss of control and therefore a fault that must be marked down according to the severity of the deviation.
F.  The judge may deviate from traditional order of performance and he may also deviate from the exact printed pattern due to arena conditions. The judging ends when the rider indicates he is finished by coming to a complete stop.
G.  Bad manners exhibited by a cow horse will be penalized under run content.  Kicking, biting, bucking, rearing and striking will result in a no score or elimination. 
H.  A fall of horse is defined when the horse's shoulder and hip are on the ground and all four feet facing in one direction. If a horse falls in any part of the pattern the horse will receive a score of zero (0).
I.  Excess rein may be straightened at any place a horse is allowed to be completely stopped during a pattern. Use of the free hand while holding the romal, to alter the tension or length of the reins from the bridle to the reining hand, is considered to be use of two hands. Except for horses competing in classes limited to horses shown in snaffles and hackamores, only one hand may be used on the reins, and the hand must not be changed. The hand is to be around the reins; index finger only between split reins is permitted. 
J.  The free hand may be used for holding a romal but is not to be used to alter the tension or length of the reins from the bridle to the reining hand.  Such action will result in a penalty of one point (1) for each occurrence.
K.  Failure to maintain 16 inches of rein between hands using romal reins will result in a penalty of  one (1) point for each occurrence.
L.  If rider holds saddle horn or any part of saddle with either hand there shall be a penalty of four (4) points for each occurrence.
M.  All riders must dismount and drop the bridle immediately after the pattern is completed. The bridle must be dropped by the rider. The bridle must be checked by the designated judge or steward in the arena.  Failure to comply will result in a no score or elimination.
N.  Infraction of any state or federal law which exists pertaining to the exhibition, care and custody of horses within the state or country where the show is being held.
O.  The judge may excuse a horse at any time while in the arena for unsafe conditions or improper exhibition pertaining to either the horse and/or rider.

Rule 604 - Zero Score 

Neither a "no score" nor a zero (0) is eligible to place in a go round or class, but a zero (0) score may advance to the working cow horse - cow work section while a "no score" may not.

A.  Performing the maneuvers other than in specified order;
B.  Equipment failure that delays completion of pattern, including dropping a rein that contacts the ground while the horse is in motion;
C.  Jogging in excess of one-half circle or one-half the length of the arena while starting a circle, circling or exiting a rollback;
D.   Over spins of more than 1/4 turn;
E.  The inclusion of maneuvers not specified, including but not limited to turning more than 90 degrees

Rule 605 - No Score, Non-Entry or Elimination

Neither a "no score" nor a 0 is eligible to place in a go round or class, but a zero (0) score may advance to the working cow horse - cow work section while a "no score" may not.  A Non-Entry is a failure of an exhibitor to attempt to complete the pattern.

A.  Abuse of animal in competition arena and/or evidence that an act of abuse has occurred prior to or during the exhibition of a horse in the show or class or sponsored event;
B.  Use of illegal equipment, including wire on bits, illegal bits, bosals or curb chains;
C.  Use of tack collars, tie downs or nose bands;
D.  Use of electronic shockers, whips, or bats
E.  Use of any attachment which alters the movement of or circulation to the tail;
F.   Spurring or hitting in front of cinch.
G.  Use of free hand to instill fear or praise.
H.  Blatant disobedience including kicking, biting, bucking, rearing and striking.
I.  Failure to dismount and/or present horse and equipment to the appropriate judge for inspection;
J.  Disrespect or misconduct by the exhibitor
K. Fall to the ground by horse or rider. A horse is deemed to have fallen when its shoulder and/or hip and all four feet are facing in one direction.
L.  Balking or refusal of command where pattern is delayed;
M. Running away or failing to guide where it becomes impossible to discern whether the entry is on pattern;
N.   Leaving the working area before pattern is complete.
O. Failure to complete the pattern as given. (example: over or under spin more than 1/4.)
P. Using 2 hands on the reins in a bridle or two rein class.
Q. Bloody mouth. (inside)
R. Backing more than two strides, when backing is not called for.
S. Jogging in excess of one-half circle or one-half the length of the arena.

Rule 606  -  Scoring

A.  The scoring system for the reined work is based on 60-80 points. The lowest score possible is 60 points and the highest score possible is 80. The average for a typical work is 70 points. Half-points may be used. 
B.  The starting score is 70 and from that gross score all penalties are subtracted to arrive at a final score.

Gross Score (70 points) Plus Credits Less Penalties = Final Score

C. Horses are judged on performance only.
D. Failure of an exhibitor to attempt to complete the cow work portion of the class, as well as the rein work, will result in the exhibitor not being eligible for points or placing. This will be considered a Non-Entry and will be designated by the judge as N-E in the score box of the judges cards. An entry which attempts to complete the cow work and has not been disqualified will be scored accordingly at the judge's discretion. An entry going off pattern in the rein work will receive a score of zero. An entry which attempts both the rein work and the cow work portion may be placed, even if a 0 score is received in one portion of the class. (Example: If a horse is disqualified and receives a 0 score for the rein work, but scores a 70 for the cow work, its total score would be a 70 and the horse would be eligible for placing.)
E. A judge may blow his/her whistle at anytime to terminate the work. A score of zero will be given if the work is not complete at that time.
F. Horse must appear visibly sound at the beginning of the run. In the case of a multiple judged event the majority of the judges must agree on soundness prior to the horse beginning the pattern or work. Obvious lameness will be cause for immediate disqualification.
G. Any ties for 1st place, the entrants will evenly split 1st and 2nd prize money, but must determine the winner of the awards by a flip of a coin.

Rule 607 - Penalties 

A.  Half-Point (1/2) Point Penalties

1)  Deduct 1/2 point for starting circle at a jog or exiting rollbacks at a jog up to 2 strides. Jogging beyond 2 strides but less than 1/2 circle or 1/2 the length of the arena, deduct 2 points.
2)  Deduct one-half (1/2) point for over or under spinning up to one-eight (1/8) of a turn; deduct one (1) point for over or under spinning up to one-quarter (1/4) of a turn.
3)  Where a change of lead is specified immediately prior to a run to the end of the pen, failure to change lead will be penalized as follows:
aa) Failure to change leads beyond 1 stride but where lead change is completed prior to the next maneuver, one (1) point penalty.
bb) If the lead is not changed prior to the next maneuver, a two (2) point penalty.

4)  In patterns requiring a run-around, failure to be on the correct lead when rounding the end of the arena will be penalized as follows:

For 1/2 the turn or less, one (1) point; for more than 1/2 the turn, two (2) points.

5)  There will be a half point (1/2) penalty for failure to remain a minimum of twenty (20) feet from wall or fence when approaching a stop and/or rollback.
6) Jogging first two strides.

B.   One (1) Point Penalties

1)  Starting or performing circles or eights out of lead will be judged as follows:
Each time a horse is out of lead, a judge is required to penalize by one (1) point. The penalty for being out of lead is accumulative, and the judge will add one (1) penalty point for each 1/4 of the circumference of a circle or any part thereof that a horse is out of lead. A judge is required to penalize a horse 1/2 of a point for a delayed change of lead by one stride.
2)  Out of lead or not changing leads each 1/4 circle
3)  Slipping a rein in the bridle
4)  Scotching or anticipating a stop
5)  Over or under spinning up to 1/4 turn
6)  Lead missed around end of arena first corner to top
7)  Free hand alters tension or length of reins from bridle to reining hand.
8)  Failure to maintain 16 inches of rein between hands using romal reins. 

c)  Two ((2) Point Penalties

1)  Break of gait.
2)  Freezing up in spins or rollbacks.
3) On walk-in patterns, failure to stop or walk before executing a canter departure.
4) On run-in patterns, failure to be in a canter prior to reaching the first marker.
5) If a horse does not completely pass the specified marker before initiating a stop position.
6) Lead missed around end of arena past second corner
7) Not ever changing leads in patterns where there is only 1/2 circle
8) Jogging beyond two strides
9) Failure to run by marker before stop is initiated.
10) Jogging beyond two strides.
11) On trot in patterns, failure to "Stop" before executing a canter departure.
12) A stop in the first one-quarter of the circle, after a lope departure, is a break of gate.

D.  Four (4) Point Penalty  

1) Not ever changing leads in a complete circle
2) Holding saddle with either hand.
3) Not achieving a stopping position
4) Spurring or hitting in front of cinch.

F. Leads & Lead Change penalties

A judge is required to penalize a horse 1/2 of a point for a delayed change of lead by one stride. The penalty for being out of lead is cumulative, and the judge will add 1 penalty point for each 1/4 of the circumference of a circle or any part thereof that a horse is out of lead.

Rule 608   -  Judges

A.  Credit must always be given when applicable, even when there is a penalty involved. When the judge is in doubt, benefit always goes to the contestant.
B.  Judges will not confer as to any penalty or maneuver score prior to submitting a score. If a major penalty is unclear, a judge will submit his/her score and ask that the score be held, pending a conference and/or review of the official video, if available, at the earliest appropriate time.  Should no video be available or possible, then judges may confer after submitting their scores. 
C.  If video replay is available, the judges should determine via conference or official video replay that a penalty was incurred, it should be applied. If, however, no penalty occurred, the score will be announced as originally submitted. No judge shall be required to change his/her score following a conference or official video replay. Each judge's decision is an individual call and based on individual decision from a conference or official video replay. The use of official video equipment by the judges is only permissible if the judge has reason to believe that all entries have been videotaped.
D.  The judge shall have the authority to remove any contestant from a competition he is judging, should said contestant show any disrespect or misconduct as to render himself or the Show in an unprofessional manner.
E.  Judges shall be the sole person responsible to determine if a rider has correctly completed the pattern as written.
F.  AHFA permits the judge the option of awarding a re-ride to any contestant who, in the judge's opinion, is unable to complete a pattern for reasons that are out of the rider's control. In the instance where a re-ride is warranted in the judge's opinion, the judge should advise the AHFA Discipline Committee member(s) and/or Show Management of such as soon as is possible.
G. Judges will be selected from the NRCHA (National Reined Cow Horse Association) judges' roster list, no exceptions. This judge may be used for Western Riding, Limited Cow Horse, Team Penning and any other area where his/her expertise allows.

Rule 609   - Patterns

The following Patterns are to be worked as stated, not as drawn. The drawn pattern is just to give the general idea of what the pattern will look like in the arena.

Run-in Patterns are drawn so that the bottom of the page represents the end of the arena entered by contestants and must be run as such. In the event that an arena has only one gate and it is in the exact middle of the side, that side shall represent the right side of the page the pattern is drawn on. Walk-in patterns are to be started either facing towards the Judge.

All horses will be judged immediately upon entering the arena and judging will cease after the last maneuver. Any fault incurred prior to the commencement of a pattern will be scored accordingly.

A.  Pattern 1

1) Start at end of arena; run down middle past center marker without breaking gait or changing leads to a square sliding stop;
2) Back at least 10 feet to center; do a 1/4 turn;
3) Pick up right lead, big fast circle, small slow circle;
4) Change leads to left, big fast circle, small slow circle;
5) Changes lead to right, do not close this circle;
6) Run around end of arena without breaking gait or changing leads and down the side (approximately twenty (20) feet from fence) past center marker and come to a square sliding stop;
7) Complete 1 1/2 spins to the right;
8) Continue down back side and end of arena to other side (approximately twenty (20) feet from fence) without breaking gait or changing leads going past center marker and come to a square sliding stop;
9) Complete 1 1/2 spins to the left;
10) Hesitate and walk to the judge for inspection.

B.  Pattern 2

1) Trot to center of arena, stop. Start pattern facing towards judge
2) Begin on right lead complete 3 circle to right, 2 big fast circles followed by 1 small slow circle, change to left lead;
3) Complete 3 circles to left, first 2 big, fast circles followed by 1 small slow circle; change to right lead;
4) Continue loping around end of arena without breaking gait or changing leads;
5) Run up center of arena to far end past the end marker without breaking gait or changing leads and come to a square sliding stop;
6) Complete 3 1/2 spins to the right;
7) Run up center of arena past the end marker without breaking gait or changing leads, come to a square sliding stop;
8) Complete 3 1/2 spins to the left;
9) Run back to middle of the arena past the center marker without breaking gait or changing leads and come to a square sliding stop;
10) Back at least 10 feet in a straight line;
11) Hesitate and walk to the judge for inspection.

C.  Pattern 3

1) Start at end of arena;
2) Run up center of arena past the end marker without breaking gait or changing leads and come to a square sliding stop. Back at least 10 feet in a straight line; stop, complete 2 1/2 spins to the left;
3) Run to other end of arena past the end marker without breaking gait or changing leads and stop squarely; complete 2 1/2 spins to the right;
4) Run past the center marker without breaking gait or changing leads and stop squarely;
5) Complete 1/4 turn to the left, hesitate. Beginning on the right lead, complete 2 circles to the right, the first small and slow and the second large and fast. Change leads at the center of the arena;
6) Complete one small, slow circle and one large, fast circle, change leads to the right;
7) Run around end of arena to the other side, past center market, at least 20 feet from fence without breaking gait or changing leads and come to square sliding stop;
8) Hesitate and walk to the judge for inspection.

D.  Pattern 4

1) Start at end of arena
2) Run down the middle of the arena, past the end marker without breaking gait or changing leads and come to a square sliding stop;
3) Complete 1 1/2 spins to the right;
4) Run to the other end of the arena, past end marker without breaking gait or changing leads and come to a square sliding stop;
5) Complete 1 1/2 spins to the left;
6) Run past the center marker, stop squarely, back at least 10 feet, complete 1/4 turn to the left, complete 1/4 to the the right;
7) Beginning on left lead, complete one circle to left, change leads, complete one circle to right, change leads;
8) Complete 3/4 of a right circle, run past center marker without breaking gait or changing leads, stop squarely;
9) Hesitate and walk to judge for inspection

E.  Pattern 5

1) Trot to center of arena, stop. Start pattern facing towards judge
2) Begin on left lead and complete 3 circles, the first big and fast, the second small and slow, the third circle big and fast. Change leads to the right;
3) Complete 3 circles, the first big and fast, the second small and slow, the third circle big and fast, change leads to the left;
4) Continue loping around end of arena without breaking gait or changing leads;
5) Run down center of arena, past end marker without breaking gait or changing leads and complete a rollback spin to the left;
6) Run down center of arena past end marker without breaking gait or changing leads and complete a rollback spin to the right;
7) Run past center marker without breaking gait or changing leads come to square sliding stop;
8) Back up at least 10 feet;
9) Hesitate and walk to judge for inspection.

F. Pattern 6

1) Trot to center of arena, stop. Start pattern facing towards judge.
2) Beginning on the right lead complete 2 circles, one large and fast circle, then a small slow circle; change leads to the left;
3) Complete 2 circles to the left, one large, fast circle, then 1 small slow circle, change leads to right;
4) Continue around end of arena without breaking gait or changing leads, run down center of arena past end marker and come to square sliding stop;
5) Complete 2 spins to the left;
6) Run down center of arena past end marker and come to square sliding stop;
7) Complete 2 spins to the right;
8) Run down center of arena past center marker and come to square sliding top;
9) Back up at least 10 feet;
10) Hesitate and walk to judge for inspection.

G. Pattern 7

1) Enter arena at a lope and come to a square sliding stop in the center, make a roll back right.
2) Lope other direction of arena, come to a square sliding stop in the center and make a roll back left.
3) Lope past the center and make a square sliding stop.
4) Back to the center a distance of at least 10 feet.
5) Turn 4 times to right.
6) Turn 4 1/4 times to left.
7) Complete two large fast circles to the right without breaking gait or changing leads at a lope.
8) Complete one small slow circle to the right without breaking gait or changing leads at a lope.
9) Change lead at the lope at the center without breaking gait or changing leads.
10) Lope two large fast circles to the left without breaking gait or changing leads.
11) Lope one small slow circle to the left without breaking gait or changing leads.
12) Change lead at the lope at the center without breaking gait or changing leads.
13) Lope right around the pen without breaking gait or changing leads and come to a square sliding stop.
14) Hesitate and walk to judge for inspection.

Rule 610 - Eligibility for Classes

A. Open as per rules of Arabian Horse Fair Association
B. Novice as per Amateur Rules of Arabian Horse Fair Association.

WORKING COW HORSE - CATTLE WORK

Rule 611 - Characteristics for Good Working Cow Horse

Out in a working ranch situation a top working cow horse will exhibit good manners, display a shifty, smooth way of movement, and having its feet under it at all times.  When stopping he/she would have their hind feet well under themselves, yet working at a fairly responsible speed and is still under control of the rider.  These horses have to have a soft mouth and respond quickly to a light rein.  The head is always maintained in its natural position.  During the actual turning of cattle, the horse uses itself athletically, employing its hocks to stop and drive out of the turn, while maintaining the front half in balance for the turn. 

The concept of the working cow horse is that the horse maintains control at all times of the cow he/she is working,  all the time exhibiting superior cow sense and natural ability without excessive reining or spurring by the rider.   There are several penalties for not staying within the pattern and the rules. 

Rule 612 - Showing and Judging the Cow Horse

A.  A working cow horse should never need to be "set down" hard in any phase of reining work or working with cattle (the cow).  The horse should display no hesitation, weaving or reluctance to approach the cow or do his/her job (pattern).
B.  The working cow horse should work with ease, concentrating on his/her job to be done, not looking over the back fence or biting.  He/she should be alert, but quiet (on their toes, so to speak) making no unnecessary moves that might disturb, upset, or frighten cattle (the cow) to take defensive or flight attitudes.
C. A rider should maintain a light-rein contact with the horse in all phases of working cow horse patterns, reining or cow work.  This contact is to be maintained while working the cow yet the horse should be given enough slack so that it is obvious to the judge the horse is working on his cow (displaying "cow sense"). 
D. The working cow horse should show a great deal of expression in all its work, but display no "illness" towards the animal or its reined work.  Illness is defined as biting, trying to bite, pawing, kicking or charging.  Facial expression and ear position should not be considered as a sign of illness.  The horse should not push or rush the cow excessively at any time. 
E.  When the cow moves, the horse should make faster moves so that he/she can perform the pattern tasks.
F.  Loss of working advantage (being out of position) is not determined by the distance that a horse goes by a cow; it is determined by the response of the horse to the action of the cow.  A horse should have no difficulty maintaining working advantage over a slower moving cow.  The horse which can maintain a working advantage over a cow which presents a severe challenge shall receive credit.  No penalty should be charged to the horse which immediately gains working position after going sufficiently past a cow to cause it to turn. 
G. After a reasonable amount of time, the contestant shall take the cow down the fence, making at least one turn each way on the fence. Then the contestant shall take the cow to an open part of the arena and circle the animal at least once in each direction. The required pattern for the cow work is: boxing, fence turns, and circles, in that order.
H. The judge should take into consideration the size of the arena, condition of the ground and disposition of the cattle in scoring each work. If ground, arena and/or weather conditions are deemed unfavorable by the exhibitors, they may inform the judge who may elect to alter the required cattle work for safety reasons.
I. The greater the difficulty of the run, the more credit should be given. The difficulty may be due to the extreme speed or stubbornness of the cow, or the cow's reluctance to move down the fence when sufficiently driven by the contestant. The most controlled cow work with the highest degree of difficulty should be marked the highest.

Rule 613 - Description of  Cow Work

A. Cow enters the arena;  horse must hold it at the end of the arena, taking it back and forth along the fence (side of the arena) to show control.  Cow is then run up the wall between two markers which comprise about two thirds of the length of the wall. Cow is turned back, runs to the second marker, turned again. Most riders use the wall on the right relative to the horse when the horse is facing up arena from the cow's entry gate.
B. There is no limit on the number of times the horse and rider take the cow up and down the wall as long as turns are executed both ways, they are judged on control and style.  Taking up the wall, back down, then back up seems to be standard; however this can be done again if control has not been demonstrated, though there are penalties assessed by the judge for the lack of control on the first attempt.
C. From the far marker, the cow is turned to the center (or thereabouts) of the arena.  The horse circles around the cow in close to force the cow to circle, then changes direction to make the cow circle the other direction.  The cow is then released and taken back to the gate as a courtesy.

Rule 614 - General Rules for Judging

A.  Judging commences from the time that the rider and horse enters the arena until rider and horse complete the pattern. There shall be no schooling between the completion of the rein work and cow work when the cow work immediately follows the rein work; the penalty for this will be a zero. At the start of the work, each contestant, upon receiving a cow in the arena, shall hold that cow on the prescribed end of the arena for a sufficient time to demonstrate the ability of the horse to contain the cow at that end.
B. After a reasonable amount of time, the contestant shall take the cow down the fence, making at least one turn each way on the fence. Then the contestant shall take the cow to an open part of the arena and circle the animal at least once in each direction. The required pattern for the cow work is: boxing, fence turns, and circles, in that order.
C. Judging will begin at the time line. The contestant shall approach the herd with no hesitation, weaving or reluctance on the part of the horse to enter the herd sufficiently deep enough to show his ability to make a cut. The horse shall work quietly, but alertly, causing very little disturbance to the herd or the animal brought out. Credit will be given for driving cattle, clearing the herd by a sufficient distance and setting up a cow while holding it in a working position as near the center of the arena as possible. The degree of difficulty, eye appeal and the amount of courage in staying on a tough cow will be taken into consideration. The amount of time actually spent working cattle in the 2 1/2 minute period will have a positive effect on the total score. The horse should show a great deal of expression but no ill will toward the animal. Judging will end at the whistle.
D.  The rider has thirty (30) seconds to accept or reject the cow the rider selects for the horse to work.  The time begins when the horse and rider take the first step forward towards the cow.    Allowing the horse to quit working before the judge signals for a new cow will result in a zero score. Once a rider has committed to circling a cow, if the cow falls down no new cow will be awarded. The rider should complete the run by riding around the fallen cow to fulfill circling requirements.
E. The judge may blow his/her whistle at anytime during the work. One whistle to terminate the work, two whistles to award a new cow. If the judge terminates the work with one whistle or awards a new cow the contestant does not have the option to continue working. If an exhibitor continues to work after the whistle has been blown for a new cow the exhibitor will be given a score of zero. With a multiple judge system, any one of the judges may terminate the work or signal for a new cow. Judging ends when the whistle blows. A score of zero will be given if the work is not complete at that point.
F.  Each contestant is allowed one cow unless the following provisions apply:

Allowed New Cow if:
1)  Cow cannot turn;
2)  Cow is unsound, lame, sick;
3)  Cow will not leave the end of the arena;
4)  Cow is blind or will not yield to horse;
5)  Cow leaves the arena as in jumping out of the arena or tearing down arena fence;
6)  Cow has fallen and refuses to get up;
7)  Cow attacks horse;
8) Cow drawn is unreasonably difficult or unworkable;
9)  If enough cows are present to allow a new cow to horse and rider. 

G.  If a new cow is selected judging starts over as if from the first attempt.  No deductions shall be made for a rider being granted a new cow.  
H.   Rider and horse must hold the cow a minimum time of twenty (20) seconds at one end of the arena to show the ability of the horse to hold the cow at that end of the arena.
I. Once a rider has committed to circling a cow, if the cow falls down no new cow will be awarded. The rider should complete the run by riding around the fallen cow to fulfill circling requirements. The judge may blow his/her whistle at anytime during the work. One whistle to terminate the work, two whistles to award a new cow. If the judge terminates the work with one whistle or awards a new cow the contestant does not have the option to continue working. If an exhibitor continues to work after the whistle has been blown for a new cow the exhibitor will be given a score of zero. With a multiple judge system, any one of the judges may terminate the work or signal for a new cow. Judging ends when the whistle blows. A score of zero will be given if the work is not complete at that point.
J. Bad manners exhibited by the horse will be penalized under run content.
K.   If at any time a horse turns tail, an automatic score of sixty (60) shall be assigned and time ends for that horse's work.  No other penalties will be assessed.
L.  A zero score is ineligible for placing.
M  The average lowest score is 60 points and typical work is 70 points based on a 100 point scale; half points may be used.

Rule 615 - Stopping of Cow Work

The judge may blow his/her whistle at any time to call the horse off the cow if in his/her judgment the following conditions are occurring:

A. The horse is out of control thus endangering the rider, the rider shall be called off the cow and shall be eliminated.
B.  Any horse running over the cow thus causing the fall of horse and/or rider shall be eliminated and all work stopped immediately.
C.  The horse balks at any time will be eliminated.
D.  Leaving the work area before pattern is complete will result in elimination.
E. A score of zero will be given if the work is not complete at that time.

Rule 616 - Description of Boxing

Boxing is defined as the work on the rail wherein the horse "boxes" the cow to a stop and then turns the cow the opposite direction, ideally staying the same distance from the fence both directions. The horse should exhibit superior cow sense and natural cow working ability without excessive reining or spurring. In the head-to-head working position, the degree of difficulty shall be considered.

A.  Contestant shall take the cow down the fence making at least one turn each way
B.  Horse must make the cow turn at least one turn each direction; there will be a penalty of eight (8) points for each required turn not obtained with cow. 
C. The turn must be tight enough to not be seen as a circle around the fence; if the horse uses the corner or end of the arena to turn the cow there will be a penalty of five (5) points for each occurrence. 
D.  If the horse makes more than two turns with the cow, the horse shall not be penalized nor given extra credit
E.  The horse may make additional turns if one of the turns has demonstrated a large degree of loss of control in turning the cow on that attempt

1)  Horse shall not be given extra credit for any additional turns
2)  The turn which demonstrated loss of control will have a penalty of ten (10) points.

F.  If the horse changes sides of the arena to turn the cow there will be a penalty of five (5) points for each occurrence. 
G.  If the horse turns the cow before passing the middle markers in the arena on the first turn there will be a penalty of three (3) points.
H.  If the horse "hangs" up on the arena fence refusing to turn there will be a penalty of ten (10) points for each occurrence.

Rule 617 - Description of Circling

The horse is to show his/her proficiency and skill in turning a cow in a complete full oval circle both directions.  Often this type of maneuvering is necessary out in the open range country and thus a valuable part of the repertoire of a working cow horse to do their job. 

A.  The horse must move the cow in a 360 degrees circle smoothly each direction without using the fence
B. The circle's size, symmetry, speed and relative balance from right and left show control. The circles should be completed before the cow is exhausted.
C. If the horse becomes out of control and runs over the cow there will be a penalty of ten (10) points.
D.  There is to be an added value in the overall score of ten (10) points for each occurrence from the tightening of the cow in fast head-to-head speed in the completion of the 360 degree circles.

Rule 618 - Turning on the Fence

A. Definition of turning of the fence is a turn in which the cow, while being run down the fence on one side of the arena, or in the "open field", is turned in a different direction and held near the same fence, or the same side of the arena, while being run in the new direction. The exhibitor must be close enough to the cow to be the cause of the turn.
B. The situation where a horse and rider attempt to turn the cow and the cow exits the turn behind the horse is also considered to have satisfied the fence turn requirement. The route of the cow being worked has been altered because of the influence of the horse and rider. The actual stopping or turning of the cow by the end fence will not qualify as a fence turn. To qualify as a fence turn the turn must be accomplished without the aid of the end fences to actually stop or turn the animal being worked. During the turn the horse should use himself in a controlled athletic manner, using its hocks to stop and drive out of the turn, while using its front end to balance and turn. The contestant must get at least one turn in each direction.
C. More than two good turns in each direction should not result in extra credit but also should not be penalized, unless the cow is thereby too exhausted to circle correctly. One turn each way may not necessarily result in extra credit if the horse and/or cow are out of control.

Rule 619 - Elimination for Abuse of Animal

All rules listed in the AHFA Rule book shall apply with some of the forbidden elements specifically listed here.

A.  Bloody mouth
B.  Use of illegal equipment
C.  Use of electronic shockers, whips or bats
E.  Use of any attachment which alter the movement or circulation of the tail
E.  Failure to provide horse & equipment for inspection of the judge and/or the Disciplinary Committee member(s).
F.  Disrespect or misconduct as defined in the Standing Rules of the AHFA Rule book.  

Rule 620 -  Reduction of Overall Score

Any horse showing the following is to be severally penalized a minimum of thirty per cent (30%) of the overall score up to a maximum of fifty per cent (50%) of the overall score, for a perceived fear factor on the part of the horse.  

A.  Exaggerated throwing of the head
B.  Hard or heavy mouth
C.  Nervous throwing of the head
D.  Lugging on bridle
E.  Halting or hesitation while being shown, particular in the runs, and demonstrating anticipation of being set up

Rule 621 - Penalties

A.  Penalties for a 1 to 3 point deduction for each occurrence, depending on the severity of the problem as the judge decides:

1) Slipping a rein (1) point
2) Turning cow before passing middle marker on first turn (3) points
3)  Noise directed by contestant to cattle (1) point
4)  Holding excessively to the saddle horn (2) points
5)  Fingers between the reins except when riding a horse in a bosal or a snaffle (3) point
6)  Touching the saddle with free hand (1) point
7) One hand may be on the horn by the rider; however holding the saddle horn excessively during a run will be penalized two (2) points.  Excessive time shall begin three (3) minutes after the beginning of the horse and rider's work of the cow. 
8)  Using 2 hands on the reins (3) points
9) Hot Quit (3) points
10) Failure to make a deep cut (3) points
11) For each length horse runs past cow (1) point; a length by is 1 horse length of daylight between the cow's head and the top of the horse's tail.
12) Going around the corner of the arena before turning the cow (2) points. (When the cow's head breaks the plane of the 2 point penalty marker.)

B. Five to 8 point penalties.

1) Loss of working advantage (5) points in any section of the pattern
2) Running by the cow (5) points
3) Changing sides of arena to turn cow (5) points
4) Using the corner or the end of arena to turn the cow (5) points
5) Going around the corner of the arena before turning the cow (5) points
6) Not getting one turn each way with the cow (8) points
7) Not getting one turn each way (5 points each way).
8) Blatant disobedience, defined as obviously insubordinate.

C.  Severe penalties for a 6 to 10 point deduction for each occurrence:

1)  Knocking down the cow without having a working advantage (10) points
2)  Biting or striking the cow (10) points
3)  Hanging up on the fence (refusing to turn) (10) points
4)  Exhausting or overworking the cow (8) points
5)  Spurring or hitting in front of cinch (10) points
6)  Hitting any area of the horse with hand or any object (10) points
7)  Out of control or running over cow (10) points

D. Zero score or Non-Entry

1) Turn tail.
2) Using 2 hands on the reins in a bridle or two-rein class.
3) Fingers between the reins in a bridle class, except the two rein class.
4) Balking.
5) Out of control (Any horse that is out of control while working the cow, thus endangering the rider, example: crossing the path of the cow, shall be called off the cow.)
6) Bloody mouth. (inside)
7) Illegal equipment.
8) Leaving the work area before the pattern or work is complete.
9) Fall of horse or rider.
10) Allowing the horse to quit working before the judge signals for a new cow.
11) Schooling of the horse between the rein and cow work when the cow work immediately follows rein work.
12) Schooling of the horse between cows, if a new cow is awarded.
Schooling is defined as gaining an advantage by excessive pulling, turning, stopping or backing. Allowing the horse to quit a cow or failure of an exhibitor to attempt to complete the work will result in a zero score.

Rule 622 - Elimination

A. Balking
B. Fall of horse and rider
C. Leaves working area without completing pattern
D. The horse turns tail to the cattle
E. Illegal equipment
F. Abuse as defined above and in Rule book of AHFA

Rule 623 - Description of Arena Set-Up

A. Sixteen (16) feet will be given between penalty markers, middle markers and two (2) markers each way each side of the arena for a round arena. Square arena is four (4) markers across top and bottom and middle markers.
B. Markers are mandatory for all patterns. Markers will be placed on the wall or fence of both sides of the arena to the approval of the judges with the following as a guideline:

At the center of the arena.

The 1 point penalty marker for cow work shall be placed at each corner of the arena.

The 2 point penalty marker for cow work shall be placed a minimum of 16 feet to a maximum of 24 feet past the 1 point penalty marker.


C. For herd work, the start line marker shall be approximately 60 to 70 feet from the back fence marker to the time line.
D. The judges shall be located approximately 120 feet from the back of the arena. The placement of the back fence marker shall be at the judge's discretion.
E. End markers for rein work shall be placed at least 50 to 60 feet from end of the arena.
F. Where designated in the pattern for stops to be beyond a marker, the horse should begin the stop after he/she passes the specified marker.

Rule 624 - Scoring

A.  Judge selects the pattern for use at the event.
B.  The greater the difficulty of the run, the more credit should be given.  The difficulty may be due to the extreme speed of the cow, the stubbornness of the cow (not respecting the horse) or the cow's reluctance to move down the fence when sufficiently driven by the horse.
C.  The judge should take into consideration the size of the arena, the disposition of the cattle, and condition of the ground
D.  In head to head working position, the degree of difficulty shall be considered and judged accordingly.
E.  A good turn on the fence is when the cow while being run down the fence, is turned in the other direction and run down the fence while being held near the fence.
F.  For the judge to rule a turn has been made a turn the horse must be close enough to make cow turn by its own action and not using the fence or corner of the arena to affect the turn. 
G.  The horse is to be scored on the circle's size, symmetry, speed, and relative balance from left to right show control when doing the 360 degree circles.

Rule 625 - Eligibility for Classes 

A. Open and Novice as per Amateur Rules of Arabian Horse Fair Association.
B.  Free style where a rider develops their own conception of the movement of the cow and furnishes a written copy or diagram of his routine to the judge(s) one (1) hour before the beginning of the event (class).  
C.  Green cow horse is a horse has not been shown prior to December 1st of the previous year, excluding snaffle bit futurities or hackamore classes
D.  Beginner Cow Horse and rider is a horse who has not shown before in a working cow horse class, cow  section.  All rules of working cow horse section shall apply with the modification of several rules as stated herein.

Rule 626 - Judge(s) Selection

Judges shall be selected from the NRCHA (National Reined Cow Horse Association) judges roster list.

Rule 627 - Ties

If there are horses who are tied with identical cow scores, a work off shall be held of additional cow work. 

LIMITED COW WORK

TEAM PENNING

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