DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEES (DC's)

Appointment and Composition of DC's

Rule 1 - Appointment of Disciplinary Committee members

Each DC will be appointed by the show organizer, subject to the approval of AHFA. There will be two to four DC members, according to the category of the show, whose names will be printed in the show schedule and catalogue. Numbers and qualifications of DC members will be found in the Rules.

Rule 2 - Limitation of Duty for DC members

DC's shall be available for DC duties only.

Rule 3 - Appointment of Stewards

The DC shall have power to appoint such stewards to assist them as they may consider necessary.

Rule 4 - Duties of DC members

A. It shall be the overriding duty of the DC to see that the show at which they are acting is conducted in accordance with AHFA Rules, Schedules, Appendices and Technical Requirements.
B. In furtherance of the above they shall keep under supervision the stables area, the collecting and show rings and all horses and persons therein throughout the Fair.
C. When any infringement of the Rules, Schedules, Appendices or Technical Requirements is observed by them or reported to them in accordance with the provisions of Rule 8 below, they shall conduct an inquiry into such infringement.
D. They shall maintain a written record of any such inquiry, their decision upon it and any penalty imposed as a result of the inquiry.
E. No member of a DC shall judge or exhibit at the Fair at which he is a DC member.

Rule 5 - Powers of DC members

A. The members of a DC have control over and free access to all places used for the purposes of the show, but may only enter a horse's containment area which is not limited to the stall, trailer or containment ring in the presence of the horse's owner or handler.
B.   Members need to be very vigilant.  It is recommended that one member is in the collecting area with another member standing at the ring entrance observing the class for any abusive treatment in the ring.
C. The members of a DC have full power:

1) To determine all questions arising in connection with the conduct of show participants during the course of the show.
2) If necessary for the purposes of a) above, to overrule any decision of other show officials and/or judges.
3) To order the removal of any person or persons from any or all places under their control.
4) To exclude any horse from any class or from the show, before or after such horse has competed at the show.
5) To order the examination by such person or persons as they think fit of any horse entered for any class at the show.
6) To investigate any alleged infringement of the Rules, Schedules, Appendices or Technical Requirements in accordance with the procedure laid down in Rule 8, Section H below. The DC shall investigate any infringement of the Rules, Schedules, Appendices or Technical Requirements observed by them, or any alleged infringement reported to them within one hour by:

aa) the show organizer, through the chairman, show director or official substitute;
bb) an official judge or steward;
cc) the exhibitor of a horse entered in a class at the show.

Rule 6 - Binding Powers of the DC Committee

The decisions of the DC shall be binding on all parties: exhibitors, show organizer, officials and judges; subject always to the right of appeal (see Rules 24 to 31 below).

Rule 7 - Investigations and Reports at the Show

A. When an alleged infringement is reported as in Rule 5, section C, subsection 6 above, the report shall be made in writing addressed to the DC, signed and accompanied by a deposit of $25, which may be forfeited to AHFA, if the report is decided by the DC to be unfounded. Such report must name witnesses and any relevant documentary evidence.
B. When an alleged infringement is reported, the DC shall by investigation establish the facts, decide whether an infringement has been committed and, if it decides it has, impose on the responsible person one or more of the penalties at its disposal (see Rule 18 below).
C. When an alleged infringement cannot be established, nor decided at the show, the DC shall report to AHFA (c/o Secretary of AHFA).
D. When an alleged infringement concerns the show organizer, the DC shall after investigation report the facts to the show organizer who will take appropriate action as the DC may direct.

Rule 8 - Procedure of Investigation

The DC shall before opening any investigation:

A. elect one of their number as chairman who shall conduct the investigation, inviting the other members in turn to examine any of the persons brought before them;
B. when beginning have before them the person reporting the alleged infringement, the person accused of committing the infringement and any other witnesses;
C. when beginning have in readiness an appropriate method of recording the investigation, to be put in operation by the chairman when he begins the investigation.

The DC shall then:

D. state the nature of the allegation or infringement to be investigated;
E. examine each witness in turn;
F. give the person accused a hearing and allow the person to question witnesses;
G. re-examine witnesses if necessary;
H. ask everyone to withdraw while it considers its decision, the majority decision shall prevail;
I. recall the person accused and the person making the allegation and inform them of the decision and the penalty imposed, if any;
J. write out and sign an account of the investigation to be sent to the AHFA (c/o Secretary of AHFA).
K. Whenever the DC decides that an infringement has been committed and imposes a penalty, it shall notify the accused if they will be allowed continued participation, who can inform the public via the announcer if the show is still continuing.

Rule 9 - Penalties and Measures

When as a result of an investigation the DC is satisfied that any person has committed any infringement, it has the power at their discretion to impose on such person any one or more of the following penalties or measures:

A. A written warning;
B. Disqualify the horse (the next lower placed horse to receive prize);
C. Suspension of the person responsible and all their horses from taking part in the current show; a fine ranging from $100 to $1000, and/or as called for in penalties to be applied in the General Rules Section, Rule 35, subsection (L) or Rule 70, all sub-sections or in the Standing Rules Section, Rule 86, sub-section (j), Rule 97, all sub-sections or Rule 155, all parts or any other stated rule with penalties to be applied within this AHFA Rule book.

Rule 10- Imposition of Fine or Penalty above the Standard

When in the opinion of the DC some fine or penalty greater than those permitted to them by Rule 9 above ought to be imposed upon such person, they have power at their discretion to report the matter to AHFA for the Standing Disciplinary Committee (SDC).

Rule 11 - Investigations Before and After the Show by the Standing Disciplinary Committee

A. The DC will report any infringement of Rules, Schedules, Appendices or Technical Requirements to the AHFA Secretary after the show in writing, including any action taken by themselves.
B. Any organizer, official judge, steward or exhibitor of a horse entered at the show, must report an infringement in writing to the AHFA Secretary within three (3) days of the show. The report has to contain the full evidence upon which the accusation is based.
C. The AHFA Secretary will forward reports indicating further action is required.
D. The SDC may investigate by inviting any involved persons to submit evidence in writing within fourteen (14) days.

Rule 12 - Infringement by Show Organizer

Where such infringement is one committed by a show organizer, AHFA shall consider whether the infringement is one of administrative detail or one of principle. If it considers the infringement to be one of administrative detail it will ask the show organizer to amend procedures in the future. If it considers the infringement to be one of principle, it shall report to the SDC.

Rule 13. Procedures of investigation by the SDC are in accordance with Rule 8.

Rule 14 - Powers of the Standing Disciplinary Committee
A. The SDC will decide if there is a case to answer and without undue delay inform the person(s) accused of any charge(s) made against him and require him to make any statement in his defense within fourteen (14) days. All possible means (witnesses, testimonies, photographs, hearings) shall be used to to expediate this process.
B. After the fourteen (14) day period is complete the SDC will consider all the evidence and make a decision (convict or dismiss).
C. If the SDC convicts (but not before) the accused's previous record with AHFA may be taken into account when deciding on any penalty to be imposed. The decision and notification made will be made immediately.
D.The written reasons for the decision will be communicated to the accused person(s) by registered mail within one month after the decision has been taken. Other parties involved or having an interest in the case may also be informed, but not before the accused person(s).
E. Statute of Limitations, unless otherwise specified in these rules and regulations, is to be ten (10) years after disciplinary action, a member would have a clean record and a further infraction of the rules after that ten (10) year period would be dealt with as a first offense.

In addition the SDC have the power:

E. To suspend the person(s) responsible for the offense from taking part at any AHFA affiliated show for any period up to ten (10) years for each offense and/or imposing fines appropriate to the offense.
F. To suspend any horse from taking part at any AHFA affiliated show up to ten (10) years, regardless of any subsequent change of ownership.
G. To extend part or whole of the incidental costs of investigation upon the person(s) investigated.
H. In the case of a continued or repeated offense of the same nature which will be construed as a third offense, the SDC will impose the suspension of the person responsible up to (ten) 10 years.
I. First Offense - when permitted

1) Minimum fine of $500.
2) Probation or suspension for a minimum of six (6) months or both may be imposed from all activities of AHFA.
3) Or both of the above.

J. Second Offense - when permitted

1) Mandatory $1,000 fine.
2) Probation or suspension for a minimum of six (6) months or both may be imposed from all activities of AHFA.
3) Or both of the above.

Rule 15 - Appeals

A. Power of the SDC shall include: The SDC will decide if there is a case to answer and without undue delay inform the person(s) accused of any charge made against him/her and require him/her to make any statement in his defense within 14 days.
B. Any person on whom a penalty or a measure has been imposed in accordance with Rules 8 or 12 above shall be entitled to appeal to the AHFA, who shall appoint a Disciplinary Appeals Committee (DAC) to hear the appeal with such decision to convict or dismiss to be lodged in writing with the AHFA Secretary.
C. The Disciplinary Appeals Committee shall consist of two members of the AHFA; all shall be appointed for one year by the President of AHFA.
D. The appellant shall appeal in writing within 21 days from the last day of the show or date of notification (registered mail, date of post mark), stating the grounds of the appeal and submitting any written evidence he wishes to be considered by the DAC.
E. When lodging an appeal a deposit of $1000 shall be made at same time, which shall be forfeited, unless the Disciplinary Appeals Committee decides there was good and reasonable grounds for the appeal.
F. The DAC will communicate the result of the appeal to the appellant within three months of receiving the appeal in writing, and before informing the member organization of the country in which he resides.
G. The DAC shall after the conclusion of an appeal, except where it has reversed the decision of the Disciplinary Committee, have power at its discretion to order any person to pay such reasonable costs and expenses relating to the appeal as they may determine.
H. In all matters arising from Rules of Conduct the decision of the Disciplinary Appeals Committee will be final and binding on all parties.

Rule 16 - Drug Misuse

A. The administration of any substance not a normal nutrient (including ginger and similar irritants), whether intentionally or unintentionally which may affect the performance, temperament or soundness of an exhibit is forbidden.
B. DC's may order chemical tests on any exhibit. Exhibits may be withdrawn from such test by the DC or the owner. Horses so withdrawn will not receive any prize or title and will not compete further at the show concerned.
C. DC's may order tests of exhibit's eyes for mydriatic drugs.
D. Judges may request DC's to test any horse.
E. Horses in whose body fluids a forbidden substance is discovered, are automatically disqualified.
F. Decisions will be made public at the conclusion of the proceedings.

Rule 17 - Notification of Positive Test

A. When a notification of a positive test is received under "Rules of Conduct of Shows" the Standing Disciplinary Committee (SDC) will be informed with all details of the chemical tests, horses and show concerned and the show organizer will furnish copy of the original show entry form.
B. The exhibitor will be informed and offered the option of a second test by the same laboratory. A reply will be demanded to be made within 30 days, and a date set for not less than 42 days for the SDC to meet and hold a hearing. The exhibitor may attend and/or be represented at such hearing.
C. The SDC will consider all evidence available and act in accordance with Rules 8, 11 and 14. Horses in whose body fluids a forbidden substance is traced automatically forfeit any and all prizes won at the show and are automatically disqualified for a period of not less than five (5) years.
D. The respective exhibitor will be liable for all costs of drug testing and consequent costs of investigation and legal proceedings arising from a positive test of their horse.

Rules 18 - 60 Reserved for Future Use

AMATEUR DEFINITION

Rule 61 - Definition of an Amateur

A. All AHFA shows, affiliated, or Futurities are for amateurs per our definition, unless otherwise specific in the class description or sponsored event. An amateur is defined as one who has not accumulated more than fifty (50) points in any class, division, or show(s) with any mount or combination of mounts for the last five (5) years in the category where showing in divisions categorized as Halter, English, and Western.
B. The following categories have been developed to determine points for amateur status under Points of Accomplishment, Rule 62 and Rules 64 and 65.

Rule 62 - Points of Accomplishment

A. A win at any breed sanctioned show, discipline specific event or USEF show, less than regional level in a class of ten (10) or more, is worth ten points, second worth eight points, third, fourth and fifth are all worth 7 points, and sixth through tenth placing is worth 6 points and less than tenth placing is five points;
B. A win at any breed sanctioned show, discipline specific event or USEF show, less than regional level in a class less than ten (10), is worth five points, and all other placing's below first are worth four points;
C. A win at any regional level show for any breed sanctioned show, discipline specific event or USEF show is worth 25 points, any placing's below first are worth fifteen (15) points.
D. Any top ten placing in any class at any national level for any breed sanctioned show, discipline specific event or USEF show is worth fifty points. Note: this makes the rider ineligible.
E. Any earnings of more than $5,000 in arena action events, i.e. team penning, breakaway roping, etc.
F. Regardless of one's equestrian skills and/or accomplishments, a person is an amateur who has not engaged in any of the following activities which would make him/her a professional:

1) Accepts remuneration for riding, driving, showing in halter/in hand, training, schooling of horses.
2) Gives instruction to any person or rides, drives or shows in halter/in hand in competitions any horse, for which activity another person in his/her immediate family or corporation which a member of his/her immediate family or household controls will receive remuneration for the activity.
3) Accepts remuneration for selling horses/ponies, acts as a paid agent in the sale of horses/ponies or takes horses/ponies on consignment for the purpose of sale or training other than those owned wholly or in part by him/her or by a member of his/her immediate family or household or farm/ranch/syndicate/partnership/corporation which he/she or a member of his/her immediate family or household controls.

G. The following activities do not affect the amateur status of a person who is otherwise qualified:

1) The writing of books or articles pertaining to horses.
2) Accepting remuneration for officiating as a judge, steward, technical delegate, course designer, announcer or participating as a TV commentator, or accepting bona fide remuneration for services as a veterinarian, groom, farrier, tack shop operator or breeder, or for accepting bona fide remuneration for boarding services.
3) Accepting reimbursement for expenses without profit.
4) Having the occupation of veterinarian, groom, farrier or owning a tack shop or breeding or boarding stable in itself, does not affect the amateur status of a person who is otherwise qualified. A junior is allowed to earn up to $50 per month for minor tasks with horses, including exercising.
5) Persons acting as counselors at summer camps, who are not hired in the exclusive capacity of riding instructors are excluded as well as persons giving instruction and training to the handicapped.

Rule 63 - Privilege, not a Right

There is no right to classification as an amateur and this classification in extenuating circumstances may be granted based upon an evaluation of all circumstances considered relevant by the Board of Directors and the Disciplinary Committee and whose decision will be final. 

Rule 64 - Definition of a Novice Amateur or Youth Rider

Novice Amateur and Novice Youth Rider Participants may apply for a year-long permit which allow exhibitors to compete in all AFHA-approved shows with owned/non-owned horses in Novice division classes only. Novice Amateur and Amateur are interchangeable for the purpose of this rule; same applies for Novice Youth and Youth.

A. Points earned in these classes will count toward the 50-point cap for Novice eligibility as an amateur.
B. Applications should be directed to the AFHA office for processing. Youth is a person who has not reached their eighteenth (18) birthday. An Amateur Verification form must be filed with the AFHA office at the same time the permit is submitted.
C. Upon receipt of a completed application, AFHA will issue the Novice Participant the permit.
D. Novice Amateur and Youth Rider points do not accumulate until you have received written notice of eligibility from AFHA. It is the responsibility of Novice Participants to check on their point accumulations through the web site.
E. If the High-Point Novice Amateur and Youth Rider awards program is activated in a given year, that award will go to the horse used for the points and the top five may be awarded certificates with the winner nationwide of each class as of December 31st of each year to win a specially designated award related to whichever discipline the National Point award was earned. In addition, certain awards may be given yearly to those Novice Amateur and Youth Riders who have demonstrated marked improvement in their skills and horsemanship as well as other awards to be determined by the AHFA Show Committee.
F. Amateur sections (classes) are not to be divided by age groups.
G. Youth may show in Novice Amateur classes, and Novice Amateurs may show in Youth, provided that individual meets the age requirement.

Rule 65 - Definition of a Non Professional Rider

Non Professional Rider points are awarded to Amateur exhibitor/horse combination in the horse‘s name. Arabian Horse Fair Association allows one to accumulate Non-Professional Rider points in any performance class in which you have not yet earned twenty (20) Open, Amateur or Youth combined lifetime points using any singular or combination of mounts or have earned more than $5,000 in any one of the arena events.

A. Any and or present or future ownership rights to any horse being exhibited in Non Professional Rider Program must be owned by the contestant showing the horse or by the contestant's spouse or minor child (under 18 years of age). Said minor child may ride a horse owned by either parent or legal guardian or minor sibling. There can be no ownership rights related to possession, profits, expenses or any other ownership interest belonging to any person other than the contestant.
B. Proof of ownership is required. A Non Professional will not transfer or receive transfer of a horse pursuant to any arrangement in which the Non Professional or any third party is to have any express or implied present or future interest in the ownership of the horse for the purpose of showing in the Non Professional Rider Program of AHFA Associated shows.
C. An Amateur Verification form must be submitted to the AHFA office at the same time as the application for the Non Professional Rider status.
D. The Amateur Non Professional Rider Program does not recognize any points earned in halter classes. Any Amateur Participant who has won a world championship or placed in the top 10 at any breed recognized, championship show regarding arena events or USEF approved Championship Show is ineligible to compete as a Non Professional Rider. All arena action events shall be included.
E. It is the responsibility of Non Professional Rider Participants to check on their point accumulations through the web site.
F. Non Professional Rider points do not accumulate until you have received written notice of eligibility from AFHA. The top 5 point earners in each class will be awarded certificates. In addition, certain awards may be given yearly to those Non Professional Riders who have demonstrated marked improvement in their skills and horsemanship as well as other awards to be determined by AHFA.

Rule 66 - Approved Divisions for Non Professional level

Approved divisions within the Non Professional level, other than Youth, are as follows:

A.  Non-Pro: Open to individuals who meet the requirements listed for Non-Pro status of the AHFA Rule book and are 19 years of age or older.
B.  35 & Over Non-Pro: Open to individuals who meet the requirements listed for Non-Pro status of the AHFA Rule book and are 35 years of age or older on January 1 of the year of competition.
C. Golden Non-Pro: Open to individuals who meet the requirements listed for Non-Pro status and who must be 50 years of age or older on January 1 of the year wishing to compete.

Rules 67 through 83 reserved for future use.

CONDUCT SECTION

Rule 84 - Misconduct

No contestant, or other person, shall engage in any form of misconduct or harassment toward show management, judges, Disciplinary Committee members or AHFA employees. Show management has the right to disqualify or refuse entry to any contestant for violation of this rule. In the event a contestant, or other person, is asked by show management to leave or withdrawn from any event at any AHFA or Affiliated show, the Disciplinary Committee members shall be notified, and a hearing to consider disciplinary action against the person shall be scheduled.

Rule 85 - Withdrawal from Show or Class

A. A contestant may drop out of any class due to injury to himself/herself or to his/her horse, or due to sickness or death is his/her family. A contestant shall not at any time withdraw from any class he/she is participating in due to dissatisfaction or grievance with the judge or judges, show management, Disciplinary Committee members or other contestants without forfeiting all monies and awards (trophies, ribbons) won/placed in previous classes.
B. If a contestant refuses to compete in the finals or championship classes, any money or awards (trophies, ribbons) won/placed will be forfeited.

Rule 86 - Conduct

A. A contestant or other person on the behalf of the contestant shall not talk with the judge(s), beyond the exchange of normal greetings, during a show or sponsored event, nor shall a contestant discuss with the judge any previous scores, events, classes, or related happenings within thirty (30) days after an contest in which both parties participated.
B. A contestant or other person shall make no comment, either positive or negative, within a judge's hearing regarding any exhibition or performance of any horse, rider, or owner during any part of any show or exhibition or sponsored event.
C. A contestant or other person shall not intimidate, or attempt to intimidate, a judge(s).
D. A contestant shall not talk with the Disciplinary Committee member(s), beyond the exchange of normal greetings, during a show or sponsored event, nor shall a contestant discuss with the Disciplinary Committee member(s) any previous scores, events, classes, or related happenings within thirty (30) days after an contest in which both parties participated.
E. A contestant or other person shall make no comment, either positive or negative, within a Disciplinary Committee member(s) hearing regarding any exhibition or performance of any horse, rider, or owner during any part of any show or exhibition or sponsored event.
F. A contestant or other person shall not intimidate, or attempt to intimidate, a Disciplinary Committee member(s).
G. A contestant may speak directly to the monitor(s) provided the conversation is limited to the exchange of normal greetings during the show.
H. A contestant or other person will make no comments within a monitor's hearing regarding any work taking place at a performance.
I. A contestant or other person shall not intimidate, or attempt to intimidate, a monitor(s).
J. Any contestant or other person who threatens, or actually inflicts, bodily harm or injury to another person based upon that person's actions, conduct, or decisions while in any official capacity for AHFA or for any AHFA sponsored or approved event or show shall be suspended from membership in AHFA for a period of not less than one (1) year.

The responsibility for reporting violations of these Standing Rules rests with, but is not limited to, show management, AHFA Directors, Disciplinary Committee members, officers, officials, and the judges.

Rule 87 - Training

Training activities of any kind while on the show grounds, other than in designated practice facilities, shall be prohibited. Stud shank chains on horses under two are not encouraged. Do your training at home.

Rule 88 - Abuse

Inhumane treatment of a horse in any manner in the show arena or on the show grounds is prohibited.

Any act of abuse, or intent to abuse an horse, in the show arena or on the show grounds which could also potentially endanger the safety of other person or animals may be dealt with in the strongest possible manner as provided by Rule 97 on Penalties of this Standing Rule.

A. If Disciplinary Committee members at any AHFA or Affiliated Show approved or sponsored event discover inhumane treatment or abuse of a horse, the DC members may immediately bar the responsible party and horse from any further competition.
B. Inhumane treatment is the exhibition of a crippled or injured horse, or a horse with any other health abnormality, which could thereby result in the horse's undue discomfort or distress. The decision of the Disciplinary Committee members as to inhumane treatment should be based upon consultation with a veterinarian. If the Disciplinary Committee members determines, in the sole discretion of either, that the welfare of the horse requires immediate action, and a veterinarian is not available, the Disciplinary Committee members will implement any action allowed by this rule.
C. Horses showing effects of ill treatment will have their handlers written up in a report to the Disciplinary Committee for further action and will be disqualified from the class they are showing. Should this action take place in any other area, other than the class area, handler, owner, and horse shall be required to leave the show grounds immediately. These effects are defined as when the horse is stood up to pose anywhere on the showground. For example:
- it crouches down (squats),
- it runs back three or more paces,
- it strikes out with its ears back at the handler,
- it mouths at its handler.
D. Inhumane treatment is further defined but not limited to the following:

1) Tail blocking and/or gingering.
2) Artificial methods of dilating the eyes or affecting the natural action of the horse or otherwise influencing its action or behavior by oxygenating the bloodstream, any forbidden substance or operation, or by electrical or chemical treatment of any kind at any time before or during the exhibition.
3) Burns, cuts or other marks on the body of any animal in such places or positions as to indicate prohibited methods have been used.
4) Spur marks on the horse at any time.
5) Depriving a horse of water to tire him out. .
6) Letting blood to tire him out.
7) Terrifying the horse with firecrackers, whips, chains, fire extinguishers, flapping tarps, etc.
8) Continued screaming at a horse in a manner as to create fear.
9) Any means to alter a horse's performance by this example but not limited to tying a horse with less than 12 inches of slack and the tied end of the rope not being more than twelve inches above the horse's withers and not giving more than 5 minutes of slack tied time in any 2 hour period or by the use of illegal bits including broomstick-handle bits. (12 inches is used as an example to avoid the practice of tying heads up in the air to achieve a false low head set). Excessive time of tying or bitting will be at the discretion of the Disciplinary Committee.
10) Use of electric shockers and/or use of any attachment which alters the movement of or circulation to the tail.

E.  Surgery

1) Members, their employees, and their agents, nor any exhibitor, groom or their agents will be allowed to show any animal in any in-hand or performance class at any AHFA Affiliated Show or associated event which has had any surgery or any other process which appears to or affects the animals phenotype. 
2)  Horses which could be considered to be affected by the above rule and/or show signs of any scarring for any reason must present a current Surgical Addendum to the Bill-of-Sale or to the Registration foal certificate, properly signed and notarized.  The Surgical Addendum form is listed with the US Arabian Horse Registry forms index. 
3)  The list of banned reconstructive and/or restorative actions can include but is not limited to the following:

aa) Cutting the dorsal or ventral tail muscles
bb) Ear trims
cc) Forssells or modified Forsells operation (cribbing)
dd) Implantations (saline, latex, silicone, etc)
ee) Inferior check desmotomy (club foot)
ff) Liposuction
gg) Restoration of the jaw from a parrot or sow mouth condition
hh) Partial removal of the anterior 1/3 of the tongue
ii) Partial severance of the ligamentum nuchas
jj) Subcutaneous injection of materials
kk) Tattooing to include but not be limited to tattooing to blacken the sclera (whites) of the eyes all the way under the eyeball
ll) Stripping of muscles/tendons in legs
mm) Check ligament correction in the legs
nn) Cosmetic work on the eye (all work).  The second eyelid is removed and the eye lid is changed in any manner to make the eye bigger or appear to be bigger.

4)  Alteration of the phenotype of the horse does not include castration of an entire horse or splints.   Scars and blemishes so documented are not to be counted against the animal in any breeding or performance class.
5)  Any arbitration or appeal process whereby questionable procedures could be reviewed and resolved shall be done so on the show grounds by the senior member of the Disciplinary Committee and shall be binding. 

Rule 89 - Whips and Shanking

A. No whips in halter classes on any colt/horse under the age of two and all mares, fillies, and geldings. No whip will be allowed longer than four feet and preferably to have a bat ending. Whips will be measured. No appendages of any kind are permitted on the end of the whip (e.g., plastic or paper bag, ribbons, etc.).
B. Any whip abuse occurring anywhere on or off the Fair grounds that can be observed. Whip abuse, especially outside the ring where some individuals want to 'get a horse up' for a class will not be tolerated. Nor anyplace else, including stalls and trailers. The horses need to be 'shown in a natural manner or down' for the classes. In specifity, it is forbidden to strike any horse with a whip or any other implement on any part of its anatomy at any time anywhere on the showground including the collecting ring, showring, stable area, exercise area and parking area.
C. Excessive shanking and/or backing a horse down the aisle or anywhere in such a manner not deemed corrective but abusive in the viewpoint of the Disciplinary Committee members. Shanking of any kind will not be tolerated in the showing of any animal, nor will animals in or out of the show arena that are crouching, cowering, quivering, and/or withdrawing and buckling their knees under themselves. Corrective training is allowed but not abusive training.
D. 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.

1) 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.
2) 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.
3) 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.

Rule 90 - Coaching

Electronic communication devices used for the purpose of coaching, etc., between competitors and individuals outside the show ring, shall be prohibited.

Rule 91 - Un sportsmanlike Conduct

Un sportsmanlike conduct in the show arena or show grounds is prohibited. Exhibitors, owners, trainers, handlers, grooms, anyone associated with an entry will not encourage their horses in any sort of dangerous behavior. They will not interfere with another competitor's horse or its performance. The judge is empowered to order any entry to be disqualified if he/she considers that the exhibit or the handler has breached this rule.

Rule 92 - Suspensions

A. Any person who has been suspended by AHFA will not be allowed to participate in any AHFA show or sponsored event as an owner of a horse, a rider, or act as an agent. In the event a suspended person enters an approved show or event or acts as an agent during the period of the suspension either as an owner, rider, or agent, an additional six (6) months will be added to their suspension. The rider of any horse entered in a class, show or sponsored event which is owned totally or in part by a suspended person will be subject to a six (6) month suspension.
B. Every person who is suspended by the American Quarter Horse Association, the American Paint Horse Association, the National Cutting Horse Association, the International Side Saddle Organization, the National Reined Horse Association, or any other equine affiliated organization for un sportsmanlike conduct at a show, event, or race, or for inhumane treatment of horses, shall stand as suspended by Arabian Horse Fair Association upon official notification to AHFA from such organization of any such disciplinary action which has become final and non-appealable.
C. Arabian Horse Fair Association may honor the disciplinary actions of its and state veterinarian board final reports when supplied with satisfactory evidence that the person so disciplined has been given a full and impartial hearing by the affiliate organization involved; however, any action taken by an affiliate will not limit the authority or jurisdiction of Arabian Horse Fair Association.

Rule 93 - Adverse Action

No person shall make a derogatory remark, nor take nor threaten to take, adverse action against any AHFA sponsor, its agent, servants or employees, relating in any manner to the sponsor's involvement with AHFA or an AHFA event. Any person who violates this rule is subject to disciplinary action and is also responsible to AHFA for any loss or damage caused by a violation of this rule.

Rule 94 - Litigation

A. By signing the entry, you as owner (or agent for the owner) will be accepting responsibility for all parties connected with your horse and you will also be relinquishing any right to sue or to take any argument any further than the decision of the Disciplinary Committee, also known as the Disciplinary Appeal Committee.
B. Participants agree that damages for any successful claims against AHFA or any committee or the Challenge Futurity or any sanctioned event/class which is based upon the way a class/event is run, the judging thereof, the scheduling, or the interpretation of the applicable rules shall be limited to liquidated damages in the amount of the nomination and/or entry fees.
C. If any member institutes litigation in which AHFA is included as a defendant in an effort to recover damages, to overturn enforcement or interpretation of the Bylaws, Rules or Regulations, findings and rulings of the Disciplinary Committee or for any other reason whatsoever, and does not prevail in said litigation by the recovery of all relief requested, said member shall be liable to AHFA for its attorney's fees, costs of court, and other expenses incurred in connection with such litigation. Venue for any litigation in which AHFA is included as a defendant shall be Boundary County,Idaho.

Rule 95 - Drugs

Administration of drugs while on the show grounds, including show arena, practice arena, stall areas, and any other area, is strictly prohibited unless administered in a life-saving situation. Such a situation must be reported immediately to show management and the Disciplinary Committee members. The decision of the Disciplinary Committee members as to lifesaving treatment shall be based on consultation with a veterinarian. Show management shall disqualify and/or refuse entry to any contestant and/or owner for violation of this rule.

Rule 96 - Forbidden Substances

A. No horse competing is to be shown in any class at any AHFA Affiliated Show competition if it has been administered in any manner or otherwise contains in its tissues, body fluids or excretes a forbidden substance except as provided in Rule 95.  Any horse that competes at an AHFA Affiliated show or event shall be required to be in compliance at all times with the No Foreign Substance Provisions while competing in any and/or all classes and/or divisions at that show or event competition.  For purposes of this rule, a forbidden substance is:

Any stimulant, depressant, tranquilizer, local anesthetic, psychotropic (mood and/or behavior altering) substance, or drug which might affect the performance of a horse and/or pony (stimulants and/or depressants are defined as substances which stimulate or depress the cardiovascular, respiratory or central nervous systems), or any metabolite and/or analogue of any such substance or drug, except as expressly permitted by this rule.

B. Riders, owners, trainers, breeders, exhibitors, and their employees including veterinarians are cautioned to not use any medicinal preparations, tonics, pastes, powders, or any products of any kind, whether topically or otherwise, where the ingredients and the quantitative analysis is not specifically known or stated as they could contain a forbidden substance.  THIS IS ESPECIALLY TRUE OF THOSE CONTAINING PLANT INGREDIENTS.
C. Caution should be used regarding the use of so-called herbal and natural products where the ingredients and properties are not clearly listed on the label. Claims by manufacturers or others that their preparation is "legal" or permissible for use at competitions should be weighed carefully before using and be prepared to bear the weight should these products be found to be against the AHFA rules regarding drug use as any claims may not be complete or accurate.   Especially suspect are preparations that are claimed to calm or relax while at the same time being said to contain no forbidden or prohibited substances. Ingredients in the plant does not rule out the possibility of their being a pharmacologically potent and readily detectable forbidden substance: example, cocaine, heroin and marijuana all come from plants.  Some examples of the hundreds and perhaps thousands of examples of herbal/natural or plant ingredients that would cause a product to be classified as forbidden are valerian, kava kava, passionflower, skullcap, chamomile, vervain, lemon balm, leopard's bane, night shade, capsaicin, comfrey, devil's claw, hops, laurel, lavender, red poppy, and rawuolfia.

Rule 97 - Penalties

A. Statue of Limitations - unless otherwise specified in these rules and regulations:
Ten (10) years after disciplinary action, member would have a clean record and a further infraction of the rules after that ten (10) year period would be dealt with as a first offense.
B. First Offense - when permitted

1. minimum fine as listed
2. probation
3. or both of the above.

C. Second Offense - when permitted

1. heavy fine
2. probation or suspension
3. or both of the above.

D. Other offenses within the ten (10) year period will be dealt with severely - fines and suspension will be increased as appropriate.
E. A violation for any of the above subsections dealing with abuse or inhumane treatment of animals within these rules will call for a minimum $500 fine or a minimum of six (6) months suspension, or both, from all activities of AHFA for the first infraction. Any violation of above subsections dealing involving surgical and cosmetic alterations, other than authorized by the Rules, will be punished by an automatic $1,000 fine and six (6) months suspension for the first infraction.

Rules 100 - 149 Reserved for Future Use

JUDGES

Rule 150 - Conduct

Any person applying to be a judge or designated a judge must demonstrate a high degree of integrity in all aspects of his or her conduct related in any way to involvement with AHFA - as an AHFA member, contestant, judge, or other conduct which reflects on AHFA. The Standing Disciplinary Committee, in its sole discretion, may determine that any conduct of a person is a basis to deny or revoke that person's privilege to serve as judge. This determination may be made with or without notice or hearing, subject only to a review of the Disciplinary Appeals Committee on such terms as the DAC, in its sole discretion, may from time to time designate. Members of the judge's family shall not be present in the arena during judging.


Rule 151 - Score Cards

Each judge must sign his/her score card and the Show Management shall post in a conspicuous place immediately following each class. There must not be any consultation between judges until after the score cards are turned in; and after cards are turned in, there will be no changes.

Rule 152 - Scoring

Each judge must score each horse individually.

Rule 153 - Protests

A. If a judge receives three (3) major protests in any AHFA classes or sponsored events that are valid in a twelve-month (12) period, he/she will be removed from the Judges List where he/she was named.
B. If a judge receives four (4) major valid protests within a twelve-month period, the fourth valid protest will constitute removal of said judge.
C. Judging protests that are valid will remain on a judge's record for a twelve-month period.
D. Complaints and/or protests may be made by active members of AHFA only.
E. In the event an AHFA Approved Judge from either List A or List B is suspended by the Arabian Horse Fair Association for any reason, the judge's approved status shall be canceled and and all rights and privileges forfeited.
F. No person listed on the AHFA suspension or probation list will be permitted to judge.

Rule 154 - Grievances

A. A judge(s) must present in writing any grievance he/she may have against contestants or shows to the Disciplinary Committee member(s), without a filing fee, and the case will be reviewed by the Standing Disciplinary Committee members. A complaint by a judge(s) must be filed (postmarked, faxed or hand delivered) within seven (7) days of the alleged rule violations.
B. A conduct complaint regarding an AHFA judge may also be originated by any personnel in the AHFA judge's department or show management and no payment will be required to initiate such a complaint.
C. Once an AHFA show has commenced, Show Management is not authorized to dismiss a judge for any reason relating to the actual performance of his judging responsibilities. Show Management may, however, dismiss a judge for blatant personal misconduct while on show grounds, such as drunkenness, foul language, etc.

Rule 155 - Judge Misconduct

A judge shall conduct himself in a manner fitting and proper to one afforded the honor of officiating at any AHFA show or sponsored event. Any misconduct on the part of the judge at any AHFA show or sponsored event, the use of abusive language, showing favoritism to, or discrimination against, either an individual or a horse performing in the class or show, or any other action unbecoming to one in his position, either on the grounds or elsewhere, during the entire show will make the judge subject to disciplinary action. The penalty affixed by the Standing Disciplinary Committee (SDC) for violating the above stated provisions of this Rule will be a minimum of $500 fine or a minimum six months (6) suspension from AHFA, or both.

A. A judge who fails to judge after accepting an assignment will be subject to removal from the AHFA Judges List A or B, whichever one shall apply, as well as additional disciplinary action.
B. A judge shall not discuss with any contestant previous scores, events, or related happenings during a show or within thirty (30) days after a contest at which a judge has officiated.
C. A judge should not appear on the show grounds or sponsored event before the stated time as stated by Show Management. Judges shall not visit with owners, trainers, exhibitors, or agents before the judging and shall talk only with representatives of Show Management, beyond the exchange of normal greetings, until the entire show, class, or sponsored event is completed.
D. The penalty for violating sub-sections (b) and (c) of this Rule shall be a minimum fine of $500 or a minimum ninety (90) day suspension from AHFA, or both, for an infraction of the above stated sub-sections.
E. A judge shall not intimidate, or attempt to intimidate, a contestant. The penalty for violating this sub-section will be a minimum of six (6) months probation and/or six (6) months suspension from AHFA.

Rule 156 - Identity of Competitors

A. Judges will not consult the AHFA program before or during the show at which they are judging. No announcement indicating the identity, breeding or past performance of exhibits, or the identity of their owners will be made during judging. It is, however, permissible for this information to be given out after the scores have been announced for each exhibit.
B. Show management will not release details of competitors or their exhibits to the press (except as detailed below) at any time prior to the program being offered at the grounds for the classes. Programs will not be offered more than one day before the commencement of the event. Show management officials who wish to make use of the press (a magazine or other publication) to print the Program may do so, provided that they have a written contract with the publisher which confirms that part of the magazine or other publication containing details of competitors or their exhibits will not be put on sale or posted to magazine subscribers more than one (1) day before the commencement of the event.

Rule 157 - Judge Expenses

The organizer of the event will pay any reasonable traveling and accommodation expenses for appointed judge(s).

Rule 158 - Reserve Judge

A reserve judge may be appointed. His duty will be:

A. To replace another appointed judge who is absent
B. To judge any class in which a horse may be the subject of a conflict of interest involving an appointed judge; such judge to stand down for the whole class.

Rule 159 - Judge Restrictions

No member of the organizing committee may judge. No appointed judge may exhibit, ride, drive or handle an entered horse, nor may he/she act as a steward, technical delegate, announcer, commentator or act in any other official capacity at a show where he/she is judging.

Rule 160 - Refusal of Entry

The show organizing committee reserves the right to refuse an entry, but must give the reason for refusal. The organizer is personally responsible for compliance with these rules.

Rule 161 -  Visiting by Judges

Judges will not visit exhibitors’ premises or accept exhibitors’ hospitality immediately before or during the event shows or sponsored events concerned.

Rule 162 - Connection to Entrant

Judges will not knowingly judge horse with whom there may be an actual or apparent conflict of interest, nor will exhibitors exhibit horses under judges where an actual or apparent conflict of interest may affect the judge’s decision. Organizers will not accept entries which indicate any connection listed under Rule 163 with an invited judge(s), unless an alternative judge and a reserve judge are available.

Rule 163 -Conflict of Interest

An actual or apparent conflict of interest is defined as judging a horse which:

A. Has been bought or sold by the judge either as owner or agent.
B. Is owned in whole or part by the judge or by a member of the judge’s family, or business partner in an Arabian horse business venture.
C. Has been leased by the judge, at any time.
D. Has been bred by the judge or is the property of a breeding organization in which the judge is an employee.
E. Has been regularly trained, examined or treated by the judge in a professional capacity.
F. Is an active professional trainer in the equine profession within the Arabian breed division, exception noted and given for dressage trainers.

Rule 164 - Communication

A. When in the ring all communication between judges and exhibitors prior to the presentation of placing's will be through the ringmaster or steward.
B. Judges are advised they are permitted and encouraged to make any helpful comments to exhibitors at the time all judging has been completed and when the placing's/ribbons are being handed out.  
C. Should exhibitors wish to further discuss their placing or performance with the judge(s), all communication shall be with the show steward or with an official of Show Management who shall make every effort to accommodate the exhibitor.
D.  Judges are prohibited from using tobacco and/or alcohol products, cellular phones, pagers or electronic communication devices for personal use in the arena during an approved show. 

Rule 165 - Withholding of Placing's

A. A judge or a panel of judges is instructed to withhold any award or placing if in their opinion the exhibit does not merit such an award.
B. If no horse merits being placed first in a one horse or two or three horse class, explanation shall be made to exhibitors and audience. Placing's shall be made as merited in the judges opinion with no first place winner. Suggestion is made that the critique be done in a sensitive manner and such critique will be done immediately after the judged class.

Rule 166 - Judge's Americans with Disabilities Act Provisions

The sponsor and/or management of an AHFA Affiliated approved and/or sponsored show or event shall make reasonable accommodations, as determined by AHFA, for any AHFA judge having a disability recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA").  Any judge having a disability recognized by ADA must:

A. Inform show management prior to accepting an offer to judge   
B. Contact the AHFA Executive Director prior to judging any such show or event to discuss what reasonable accommodation, if any, can be made and will so notify show management.  In the case of any judge whose disability under the ADA prevents him or her from walking without aid or requires him or her to sit while judging, the reasonable accommodation shall require the judge to judge from outside the show ring so as to not constitute a significant risk to the safety of himself/herself, other persons and/or horses in the show/working arena.

Rule 167 - Judge Prerequisite

A.  All judges are required to be a Disciplinary Committee member for a minimum of 2 shows to be placed on the B list of approved Judges, with exception granted for the first three (3) years of AHFA having events.
B.  All judges must serve as Disciplinary Committee member at a minimum of 3 shows in a five-year-period.  It is the responsibility of the judge to keep the Arabian Horse Fair Association office up-to-date on the shows where they serve as a member of the Disciplinary Committee.  Failure to meet this requirement will result in the judges name being removed from either the B approved list or the A approved list of judges, and will stay removed until this requirement has been fulfilled.