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BY-LAWS
Membership - Directors - Officers
Removal of Officers/Directors
Committees - Employees
Meetings- Voting - Amendment of Rules

MONTANA STATE HORSE SHOW ASSOCIATION, INC. BY-LAWS

ARTICLE 1 --- PURPOSES

THE PURPOSES OF THIS CORPORATION, HEREAFTER, REFERRED TO AS THE ASSOCIATION, ARE:

1. To promote increasingly better horse shows in Montana.
2. To make adequate and fair rules governing this association and MSHSA classes at competitions and to enforce them for the common benefit.
3. To disseminate information to the public with respect to the types, qualities, traits, and abilities of all types of performance horses.
4. To conduct conferences, meetings, exhibitions, and shows of both educational and competitive nature regarding the qualities and traits of various types of performance horses, and the care, breeding, training, and performance abilities of various types of performance horses.
5. To improve the purity of the breeds of various types of performance horses in Montana.
6. To educate the members of the association in better practices of feeding, breeding, and caring for performance horses.
7. To better the conditions of owners, breeders, and trainers of performance horses in Montana.
8. To acquire by grant, lease, gift, purchase, devise, or bequest, and to hold and dispose of such property and interests as the purposes of the association shall require, subject to such limitations as may be prescribed by law, in furtherance of the foregoing purposes and not for pecuniary profit. To borrow money and to give mortgages, liens upon, encumbrances, or pledges of the property of this corporation. To lease, sell, give away, or otherwise dispose of any property of which said corporation at any time may be possessed or owned. To do and perform any other act or thing, which any non-profit corporation of the State of Montana created for the purposes herein mentioned, is now or hereafter may be authorized by law to do or perform.

ARTICLE 2 --- MEMBERSHIP Table of Contents

1. Membership in this association shall be open to any person who has not been previously expelled from membership.
2. There shall be two types of memberships: Family memberships that include parents/guardians and all children 20 years of age and under (as of December 1 of the prior calendar year) and individual memberships (one youth or one adult).
3. Membership shall be on a calendar year basis, from January 1 to December 31st. The annual dues for family memberships shall be $40.00. The annual dues for individual memberships shall be $25.00. All members need to have their application submitted and dues paid before points will start accumulating for year-end awards. Members will need to have applications submitted and dues paid by March 15 to be included in the membership list submitted by the Association to show managers for the mailing of premium books.
4. Membership in this association shall be non-transferable.
5. The board of directors may, on written complaint of any member, request the resignation of any member, or expel any member, for reasons of conduct or for other good cause, including behavior detrimental to the welfare of this association. Any member considered for expulsion shall have the right to be represented and shall be entitled to a hearing on any charge preferred against him/her. The secretary shall provide notice of expulsion and will outline the complaint and inform the member of his/her right to a hearing. If the member does not respond within 14 calendar days, the board has the right to expel the member by a majority vote. Any member expelled shall forfeit any and all points accumulated as well as all monies paid to MSHSA, and may be barred from participation in MSHSA approved competition for a specified time period.

ARTICLE 3 --- BOARD OF DIRECTORS Table of Contents

1. A board of nine (9) directors, one of which shall be a youth member, shall manage the affairs of this association. To be eligible for the position of director, a person must be a current member of MSHSA. Directors shall hold office for a term of two years, and until their successors are elected and qualified.
2. The annual meeting of directors shall be held in the same building as the annual meeting of members and immediately after the adjournment of the membership meeting. No notice other than this by-law shall be required for the annual meeting of the directors.
3. The president, the secretary, or any five directors may call special meetings of the directors. It shall be the responsibility of the secretary to mail written notices or email notices of the time, place, and purposes of any special meeting of directors, and such notice shall be mailed or emailed not less than seven (7) days prior to the time set for such a meeting. Any meeting at which all directors are present shall be legal for the transaction of business not withstanding that notice had not been given as provided in this paragraph. Five (5) directors shall constitute a quorum of the board.
4. Vacancies on the board for members whose terms have expired shall be filled at each annual meeting of the membership for two-year terms (except as provided in Article 9, Section 3). The immediate past president shall automatically be a member of the board of directors for the one-year period immediately following his/her term as president. The directorship of the immediate past president shall be subject to all of the other duties and responsibilities of the other directors of this association.

ARTICLE 4 --- OFFICERS Table of Contents

1. The officers of this association shall be a president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer. The officers shall be elected by and from the board of directors at the regular, annual meeting of the directors. Nominees for an officer position should be present at the time of nomination and election or have expressed a verbal or written interest in serving, if elected. Officers shall serve a term of one year and until their successors are elected and qualified. Officers may serve two years, if desired. The secretary and the treasurer may be the same person.
2. The board of directors, in its discretion, may create the offices of executive secretary, one or more additional vice-presidents, one or more assistant secretaries, one or more assistant treasurers, and such other officers and appointees as the board deems advisable, and prescribe the duties thereof. The board of directors shall elect such officers and appointees.
3. In the event of the absence or inability of any officer to act, the board of directors may select an officer pro tem to serve during the absence or inability of the elected officers to serve.

ARTICLE 5 --- THE PRESIDENT

The president of this association shall preside at all meetings of members and the meetings of directors. Subject to the control of the board of directors, the president shall have general charge and care of the business and property of the association. The president, together with the secretary, shall sign all contracts and agreements of this association. The president shall perform all acts and have such powers as are normally incident to the office of the president and the chief executive officer.

ARTICLE 6 --- THE VICE-PRESIDENT

The vice-president shall be vested with all the powers and perform all duties of the president in the absence of the president and shall perform such other duties and have such powers as may be assigned by the board of directors from time to time.

ARTICLE 7 --- THE SECRETARY

The secretary shall keep accurate records of all meetings of the members and of the board of directors and shall perform all duties commonly incident to the office, as well as those designated by the board of directors. The secretary, together with the president, shall sign all agreements and contracts of this association. In the absence of the secretary, an assistant secretary or secretary pro tem shall perform the duties of the secretary.

ARTICLE 8 --- THE TREASURER

The treasurer shall keep an accurate record of the receipts and disbursements of all funds of this association in books and records belonging to this association, and shall deposit all funds and other valuable effects in the name of and to the credit of this association in such depositories as may be designated by the directors.

ARTICLE 9 ---REMOVAL OF OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS Table of Contents

1. Any member, director, or officer of this association may resign at any time by giving written notice of his/her resignation to the board of directors or the president or the secretary of the association. The board of directors shall notify the first alternate as the successor of any director or officer who dies or resigns, such successor to complete the term of the director they are replacing. As further vacancies occur the process shall move to the second alternate, third alternate, etc. If no alternates are available the board will solicit additional members from the general membership.
2. The membership at any meeting called for that purpose, by vote of the majority of those present, may remove any director or officer or appointee of this association and elect or appoint his/her successor.
3. A director may be removed from office after missing one board meeting without a valid excuse to the president. A valid excuse is circumstances that are not within the director’s control or that cannot be remedied with reasonable diligence. The director will be replaced at the following meeting. (Temporary rule to be presented at the next general meeting.)

ARTICLE 10 --- COMMITTEES Table of Contents

1. The president shall appoint at least one member of the board of directors to serve on each of the following committees, except the Audit Committee that is appointed by the board. These will be considered standing committees. However, the president may create ad hoc committees to deal with specific issues as the need arises. These would be in addition to the standing committees. Each committee shall have the right to increase its membership from the general membership. Standing committees shall be:

2. Each year before the annual membership meeting, the board of directors will appoint three members of the association who are not directors or officers to an Audit Committee. The Audit Committee shall examine the financial records of the association and shall approve the annual treasurer’s report.

ARTICLE 11 --- EMPLOYEES AND COMPENSATION Table of Contents

1. The officers and directors of this association shall receive no compensation for their services in those capacities. No officer, director, or member of this association shall be reimbursed for expenses incurred on behalf of this association unless such expenditures are authorized or ratified by the board of directors.
2. The employment of all personnel (including executive secretary, show manager, show secretary, or others), the terms of employment, tenure, duties, and supervision shall be the responsibility of the board of directors.
3. No part of the net earnings of this association shall inure to the benefit of or be distributable to its members, directors, officers, or other persons, except that the association shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered to make payments and distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth in Article 1 hereof.
4. No substantial part of the activities of the association shall be the carrying on of propaganda, or otherwise attempting to influence legislation, and the association shall not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office. Notwithstanding any other provision of these by-laws, the association shall not carry on any other activities which are prohibited for corporations exempt from Federal income taxes under Section 501 (c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 (or the corresponding provision of any future Internal Revenue Code) or which are prohibited for corporations to which contributions are deductible under Section 170 (c) (2) of the Internal Revenue Code.

ARTICLE 12 --- MEETINGS OF THE MEMBERS Table of Contents

1. The annual meeting of the members of this association shall be held in the fall of each year in the State of Montana at such time and place as may be determined by the board of directors. Ten percent (10%) of the membership of the association shall constitute a quorum.
2. Notices of all membership meetings, regular and special, stating the time and place and the purpose for which such meetings are called, shall be given by the secretary or by the president of the association by mailing such notice to each member of the association not less than 14 days prior to the date of such meeting.
3. The president, secretary, and five directors or any eight members of the association may call special meetings of the members. It shall be the responsibility of the secretary of the association to send notice of special meetings.

ARTICLE 13 --- VOTING Table of Contents

1. Members may vote at any membership meeting either in person or by proxy in writing. Each individual membership is entitled to one vote; family memberships are entitled to two votes. All proxies shall be filed with the secretary of the meeting before being voted. If the proxy is for a specific meeting, the proxy holder may vote at any continuation of such meeting but the proxy shall be void after the final adjournment of the meeting. Except for meetings not finally adjourned, no proxy shall be valid except during the calendar year in which it is executed. In election of directors, cumulative voting is not allowed.
2. The election of directors by the members shall be by written vote. Each member shall have the right to vote in person or by written proxy, one written vote for as many persons as there are directors to be elected. The candidates receiving the highest number of written votes shall be the ones elected. Those not elected shall be listed as first alternate, second alternate, third alternate, etc., according to the highest number of votes received. Ties will be broken by a toss of a coin.
3. Members may vote by mail on matters being considered by the membership.
4. Voting by board members on issues at the Annual Membership Meeting is permitted.
5. Directors may vote by mail on matters being considered by the board. Proxy voting by directors is permitted by written, signed proxy.

ARTICLE 14 --- AMENDMENT OF BY-LAWS/RULES AND REGULATIONS Table of Contents

1. The by-laws/rules and regulations of the association may be repealed or amended, and new by-laws/rules and regulations maybe adopted, at the annual meeting of members or at any other meeting of members called for that purpose, by a vote representing the majority of the members of the association in attendance. The written assent of the majority of the members of the association shall be effectual to repeal or amend any by-laws/rules and regulations, or to adopt new by-laws/rules and regulations, without a meeting for that purpose. Changes to the by-laws/rules and regulations may be passed at regular board meetings by a majority vote of those present. However, these changes shall only be considered valid and binding until the next annual meeting of members, when the changes must be approved by the general membership.
2. In order to give the board of directors’ adequate time to consider changes to the by-laws/rules and regulations prior to the Annual Membership Meeting, all proposed changes must be submitted to the secretary in writing by September 15 of every other even numbered year. The rule proposals will be considered by the board prior to the annual meeting so that it can arrive at recommendations for modification, acceptance, or rejection of the proposed change. Additionally, copies of the proposed changes will be sent to the membership in a newsletter some time prior to the Annual Membership Meeting. At the Annual Meeting, further discussion of the changes will take place at the Rules Committee Meeting, especially members proposing changes. Only changes proposed prior to the September 15 deadline will be on the agenda. No others will be allowed. The Rules Committee will vote on a recommendation to either adopt or reject each change. These recommendations, the reasons for the recommendations, and the board’s vote count (e.g. 8 to 4) will be presented at the business meeting. During the business meeting, the proposal may undergo modification if desired by the membership before the final vote, however, no new or additional changes to the by-laws or rules and regulations will be taken from the floor unless they relate to the change under discussion. Changes adopted will be distributed to the members in written form prior to the next show season.

ARTICLE 15 --- CORPORATE SEAL

The seal of this association shall consist of a flat face, circular dye with the following words engraved thereon: Montana State Horse Show Association, Inc.—Corporate Seal—Montana.

RULES AND REGULATIONS

SECTION 1
GOVERNING RULES FOR SHOWS AND EXHIBITORS Table of Contents

1. Shows sanctioned by the Montana State Horse Show Association are required to conform to MSHSA approved classes. However, show management may apply MSHSA rules to all appropriate classes if desired.
2. Rules Enforcement

GENERAL

a MSHSA will employ a rule steward for every show unless no one can be found to fill the position or unless it becomes unfeasible financially.
b The rule steward will be located at or near the ingate and will be able to remedy many situations before the exhibitor enters the arena.
c It is not necessary for the rule steward or show management to wait for a complaint to be lodged before acting on an apparent rule violation.
d Complaints may only be filed by the rule steward, show management, MSHSA members, adult exhibitors, or the parents of youth exhibitors. When applicable, the burden of proof lies with the person making the allegation.
e Judges are paid to provide their estimation of the quality of performance of both horses and riders. Each judge’s decision is final and may not be challenged unless the complaint alleges that the judge’s decision is in violation of MSHSA rules.
f Show management should make every effort to impress upon the judge the importance of being familiar with the rules and to express the desire that the rules be followed. If at any time the judge appears to be either resistant or non-compliant, show management is obligated to insist that the rules be followed.
g MSHSA shows are encouraged to provide a brief outline of the procedures for resolving rules disputes in their premium books.

PROCEDURES – INFORMAL

a Allegations of rules violations that arise before the placement of the class will be dealt with informally and a decision will be rendered as soon as practicable. The show may be delayed if necessary.
b Complaints must be taken to the show manager either verbally or in writing and the show manager will be responsible for resolving the complaint in consultation with other members of show management, the rule steward, and/or judge when applicable.
c If an exhibitor is stopped at the ingate by the rule steward for a violation involving something like improper dress or tack, the exhibitor will be allowed sufficient time for a gatehold to remedy the situation.
d If the exhibitor enters the ring against the advice of the rule steward, or if the steward notices a violation after the class has begun, it will be the steward’s responsibility to inform the judge before the class placings are established.

PROCEDURES – FORMAL

a The filing of a grievance is required if the complainant is dissatisfied with the decision from the informal procedure, or if the complaint arises after a class has been placed.
b Show management may charge a fee of no greater than $50.00 to hear a grievance which will be returned if the complaint is upheld. If the complaint is not upheld the fee will be forfeited to show management.
c The grievance must be filed with the show manager and:
Submitted in writing and signed by the complainant;
Outline the specific situation being aggrieved;
Specify the MSHSA rule or rules that have allegedly been violated by section, page, _ _ paragraph, number, etc.;
Request the relief sought.
d Each show must designate a three (3)-member panel that will be responsible for the adjudication of grievances. This panel must consist of the show manager plus two other members of show management.
e The grievance must be filed verbally as soon as the infraction is noticed so as to help assure the presence of the judge or rule steward if their counsel is required to arrive at a decision. This must be followed within 24 hours by the grievance in writing along with the fee.
f The aforementioned panel will rule on the grievance within seven (7) days and will provide a decision that includes a ruling on the relief sought to the complainant in writing. The decision of this panel is final.
g A member, exhibitor, etc. may not grieve the application or use of a rule because they believe it to be unfair, unnecessary, etc. The proper procedure for such situations is to attempt to revise the rule at the Annual Membership Meeting.

SECTION II --- JUDGES AND JUDGING Table of Contents

1. Judges must be currently listed as approved by USEF, CEF (Canadian Equestrian Federation), or any state association in their respective rule books or their official supplements for the given year, or be a carded judge with a breed association. (See Section IV, Show Requirements, rule 4 for exceptions to this rule.)
2. The same judge shall not be used by two approved MSHSA shows during the same show season. To avoid such conflict, it is suggested the judge being considered be questioned about his/her previous acceptance of another MSHSA show at the time he/she is contacted. If there is such a conflict between two shows having hired the same judge, the show first securing said judge shall be the one approved. The other show shall change its judge or it will not be approved.
3. The credentials of all judges for MSHSA sanctioned shows must be reviewed for compliance with MSHSA rules by the president, vice-president, and secretary.
4. All MSHSA classes/divisions will be judged on the basis of the rules outlined in the current edition of the MSHSA rule book.
5. No judge shall officiate two consecutive years at the same show.
6. In the event it is impossible for the contracted judge to be present at the show, show management will make every attempt to find a replacement judge that meets the criteria required. The president and secretary of MSHSA must be notified immediately that the original judge is not available and the reason for the unavailability. Show management may use a judge who has judged another MSHSA show in the same season, a learner judge or a person knowledgeable in judging horses if a qualified judge cannot be found, but only after a majority approval vote by the Board. Failure to get approval by the Board may result in retroactive disapproval of the show.
7. MSHSA approved shows are not schooling shows. Exhibitors are required to follow the judge’s directions and patterns posted. Exhibitors who do not follow the judge’s directions or perform maneuvers off the pattern or who disrupt classes with schooling techniques will be asked to leave the class and be disqualified for that class. If the schooling in a class continues, the exhibitor may be asked to leave the show.

SECTION III --- POINTS AND YEAR-END AWARDS Table of Contents

1. Points that are earned throughout the show season shall apply to year-end awards. Awards are given for both individual classes and for horses of the year. Points can be earned only at approved MSHSA shows and only in classes approved by MSHSA for awards.
2. Individual class awards are given in both equitation/showmanship and pleasure/performance classes. For equitation/showmanship points to count the exhibitor must be a member of MSHSA. For pleasure/performance classes, the horse must be nominated (without charge) and must be owned by a member of MSHSA. Ownership by a non-MSHSA member is allowed if the exhibitor is an MSHSA member and the horse is owned by an immediate family member who is defined as a parent, grandparent, guardian, sibling, spouse, or child. It must be entered under the name(s) of its owner(s) or the stable name. If a horse that is nominated for year-end awards transfers owners during the year, the new owner must be or become a member of MSHSA and must notify the association by renominating the horse in order for the horse to continue to accumulate points for awards under the new owner.
3. Only those points won after membership dues are paid and horses are nominated will count toward year-end awards.
4. In order for points to count and to qualify for judging, each exhibitor must appear in the ring with the correct number clearly visible, either on the exhibitor’s back or saddle pad visible from both sides of the horse. The exhibitor is responsible for providing the second number.
5. Show scores will be obtained only from the show secretary’s officially marked class sheets.
6. The MSHSA secretary is responsible for tabulation of points from all shows. At the end of the show season all members will be notified of their accumulated points for the year. They are asked to review the point totals and to respond if there is a discrepancy within a time limit determined by the secretary. Upon expiration of this time period, the secretary will finalize the totals and results become official.
7. The scoring of points is outlined below. Table of Contents

8. Awards shall be presented to the champion and reserve champion horses or exhibitors in each approved individual class. Ribbons or certificates (or comparable prizes) shall be presented to 3rd and 4th place horses or exhibitors in each approved individual class.
9. In case of a tie for any award, the horse or the exhibitor with the most first (1st) placings will have the edge. If a tie persists, the horse or exhibitor with the most second (2nd) placings, then third (3rd) placings and so on down to sixth (6th) placings will receive the edge. If a tie still persists, the horse or exhibitor beating the most competitors receives the edge.
10. Individual classes that are approved for year-end awards are listed in the required classes for shows . Classes split differently or offered other than as specified in the list below will not be counted for points toward year end awards. Both the general membership and the board of directors must approve classes selected for these awards. Show economics should be considered when adding new classes or deleting established classes.
11. Three (3) Horse of the Year Awards will be presented (Western, Saddle Type, and Hunter Type). The classes listed below will count toward these awards. Hunter Type Horse of the Year contains both youth and adult classes that are marked with a double asterisk (**). Sometimes the same horse is shown by both youth and adult exhibitors in their respective age classes at the same show. When this occurs, points for Horse of the Year will only be counted for the one class in which the most points are scored.

HORSE OF THE YEAR AWARDS Table of Contents

12. Two (2) Exhibitor of the Year awards will be presented (Novice Rider of the Year and Rider of the Year). The classes listed below will count toward these awards.

EXHIBITOR OF THE YEAR AWARDS Table of Contents

* To qualify for the Novice Rider of the Year Award, the rider must be eligible to ride in both Novice Rider English Equitation and Novice Rider Western Equitation.

13. In Category 2 – Dressage, Introductory, Training, First, and Second Levels will count toward one (1) year-end award called the High Point Dressage Horse. Awards will be presented to four places.
14. All of the above mentioned awards shall be announced and presented at the annual awards banquet. Members receiving awards, or a person designated by them, must be present to accept the awards. No awards will be mailed.
15. The Dorinda Stock Distinguished Service Award will be presented to a selected member for his/her exceptional work and/or support for the advancement of this association and/or its members. Nominations will be accepted by the president in letter form and should give examples of what the individual has done and reasons why he/she should be the award recipient. Selection of the winner will be determined by written vote of the board of directors. The award shall be a perpetual cup and will be presented by the past year’s recipient to the next winner. The past year’s winner will receive a commemorative plaque.

SECTION IV
REQUIREMENTS/GUIDELINES FOR MSHSA APPROVED SHOWS

SHOW APPROVAL: Table of Contents

1. Any organization, club or individual may request that their show be recognized by MSHSA. Application forms must be obtained from the MSHSA secretary.
2. All established shows should request in writing their show dates by October 1st of the year preceding the show season. Show dates not requested by October 1st of the year preceding the show season will be considered open. If two (2) shows request the same date and neither show used that date the previous year, the conflict will be resolved as follows: First, inquire with both show managers about other optional dates that would be acceptable. If neither show has another available date, priority will go to the show with the most years of approval in the previous 5 years. If prior years of approval do not apply, the choice will be made by the flip of a coin. Two or more MSHSA approved shows may not be held on the same date(s).
3. The show membership fee will be $50.00.
4. The secretary must receive a rough draft of the premium book 90 days prior to the show date.
5. Two board members will review the draft of the premium book submitted and specify all corrections. All corrections to the draft must be made by show management in the premium book or on an errata sheet. The errata sheet must be posted at the show office prior to the beginning of the show, and a copy given to each exhibitor prior to the exhibitor competing in the show.
7. Shows approved by MSHSA will receive:
1 MSHSA membership listing with addresses;
1 vote in the association;
2 MSHSA rule books (one for the
show office and one to be sent to the judge); and
1 Show Manager’s Guide.

SHOW REQUIREMENTS Table of Contents

1. A show must have a manager and a secretary.
2. The premium book must include a schedule of classes, names of the show manager and secretary, show rules, awards, a copy of the MSHSA membership application, judge’s name (preferably with a list of qualifications, but not required), and pertinent information about stalls, bedding, etc.
3. Premium books must be mailed to all paid up MSHSA members as indicated by the MSHSA secretary at least 5 weeks before the opening date of the show.
4. A show must have a qualified judge (see Section II for requirements for judges). The MSHSA strongly recommends that two judges be hired if a show runs for three or more days.
5. A show must abide by MSHSA rules for MSHSA classes as set forth in the current MSHSA rule book.
6. Each approved show must have in the show office throughout the show a current copy of the MSHSA rule book. In addition, there must be at least one person on each show committee who is thoroughly familiar with MSHSA rules.
7. Shows must have the current official class specifications from the MSHSA rule book printed in their premium books or shows may opt not to print the official class specifications in the premium book but rather list the classes by official MSHSA title in the premium book and designate them as “MSHSA”. If a show selects this option, they must make an MSHSA rule book available for non-members to read. Shows must send a copy of the MSHSA rule book to their judge in order for the judge to become familiar with MSHSA rules.
8. All MSHSA point classes must be open, without restriction, to all exhibitors and their horses in the exhibitors’ respective age groups. There shall be no limitation on cross entries between MSHSA open classes regardless of the age of the exhibitor or the breed of the horse. However, soft gaited horses, i.e., Tennessee Walkers, Pasos, etc. that perform an intermediate gait are NOT allowed in a class where specifications require a trot (English) or a jog (Western) unless the horse performs a two-beat trot or jog. (Check CLASS SPECIFICATIONS Section for the rules and specifications required by each individual class).
9. After the awards for a class have been presented in dressage, the judges score sheet will be given to the competitor. Tests must be handed directly to the competitor or his/her representative. Show management is strongly urged to post individual test scores at the completion of each class.
10. For dressage results the test score must be included as well as the placings for each class.
11. Results of the show must be postmarked within 14 days of the closing date of the show. These results will include all scratches and post entries and will list seven (7) placings, all other entrants’ names, and total number in the class. Even though points only go to six places, the secretary needs the results to seven places in case there is a subsequent disqualification.
12. Shows must offer either a prize or a ribbon for first place, ribbons for second through fifth place, and at least verbal recognition for sixth place in all MSHSA classes. If desired, both a prize and a ribbon may be given for first place, and ribbons may be given for sixth place. Shows may not offer purses in youth or equitation classes. Some money must be paid back in the following MSHSA classes:

PAY BACK CLASSES: Table of Contents

13. The MSHSA Board of Directors shall make all decisions regarding which shows are to be recognized. The board, by a majority vote of its members, may rescind the approval of a show if that show fails to follow all MSHSA requirements. Before such action can be taken, the show in question must be notified of its infraction by a member of the board and given the opportunity to comply with MSHSA rules. Any show whose approval is rescinded in this manner shall not receive a refund of its show fee.
14. Approved shows are required to offer the classes as outlined in the Required Classes section since these are the classes that accumulate points for year-end awards. Shows are not required to offer all categories, but if the show offers one class in a category as an MSHSA point class, then it must offer all the classes in that category as MSHSA classes. If a show offers one class in a category multiple times or as a multiple judged class, it must offer all classes in that category multiple times or as multiple judged classes. These classes must be shown in the premium book as MSHSA point classes and must be run according to the Class Requirements and Specifications as outlined in the current MSHSA rule book and its supplements. Shows may cancel classes only if there are no entrants. Table of Contents
15. Class size must be limited to the number of horses that will allow for 40 feet of space per horse in the riding area for classes that require a canter/lope. Classes that call for walk/trot/jog only must allow 30 feet per horse. No more than 8 horses at a time may be asked to hand gallop. The judge may not request that the class use only part of the riding area if this would reduce the 40 feet or 30 feet of space allowed per horse. The number of horses allowed is computed by adding the length of all four sides of the riding area and dividing the result by 40 or 30. If the result is a fraction of .75 or more, the number can be rounded up, otherwise, the number must be rounded down. The below listed riding area sizes are examples only. The actual dimensions of the riding area will be used to determine the number of horses allowed.

16. In order to cover the expenses of a rule steward, shows must charge a fee to all exhibitors. This fee will only be charged in years when MSHSA is able to employ a rule steward. The amount of the fee will be determined by the board of directors prior to each show season.
17. Shows must collect $0.50 per class entry by whatever method they choose and forward this amount to the MSHSA secretary when the show results are sent in.
18. The class entry fees and the show steward fees must be remitted to the secretary postmarked within 14 days of the closing date of the show. Otherwise future show dates will be considered open.

REQUIRED CLASSES FOR MSHSA SHOWS Table of Contents

CATEGORY 1 – FLAT CLASSES:
1 Showmanship 10 & Under*
2 Showmanship 13 & Under
3 Showmanship 14-17
4 Showmanship 18 & Over
5 Maiden Walk/Trot English Equitation-All Ages
6 Maiden Walk/Jog Western Equitation-All Ages.
7 Walk/Trot English/Western Equitation 10 & Under*
8 Maiden Rider English Equitation
9 Novice Rider English Equitation
10 Saddle Seat Equitation 17 & Under+
11 Saddle Seat Equitation 18 & Over+
12 Hunt Seat Equitation 13 & Under
13 Hunt Seat Equitation 14-17
14 Hunt Seat Equitation 18 & Over
15 Maiden Rider Western Equitation^
16 Novice Rider Western Equitation^
17 Western Seat Equitation 13 & Under^
18 Western Seat Equitation 14-17^
19 Western Seat Equitation 18 & Over^
20 Western Horsemanship Open^
21 Green Horse English Pleasure Walk/Trot, 1st Year
22 Green English Pleasure, 1st Year
23 English Pleasure Maiden Horse
24 English Pleasure Limit Horse
25 English Pleasure Saddle Type 17 & Under+
26 English Pleasure Saddle Type 18 & Over+
27 English Pleasure Saddle Type Open
28 English Pleasure Hunt Type 13 & Under
29 English Pleasure Hunt Type 14-17
30 English Pleasure Hunt Type 18 & Over
31 English Pleasure Hunt Type Open
32 English Pleasure Junior Horse
33 English Pleasure Senior Horse
34 Green Horse Western Pleasure Walk/Jog, 1st Year
35 Green Western Pleasure, 1st Year
36 Walk/Trot English/Western Pleasure 10 & Under*
37 Western Pleasure Maiden Horse
38 Western Pleasure Limit Horse
39 Western Pleasure 13 & Under
40 Western Pleasure 14-17
41 Western Pleasure 18 & Over
42 Western Pleasure Open
43 Western Pleasure Junior Horse
44 Western Pleasure Senior Horse
45 Walk/Trot Trail 10 & Under* Limit 3 obstacles
50 Trail Horse Novice
51 Trail Horse Open
52 Western Control

*May not cross enter canter/lope classes or 13 & Under Showmanship. A horse any age or status may be ridden two handed in a snaffle or shanked bit by a 10 & Under exhibitor in the 10 & Under Classes. The exhibitor may also carry a bat regardless of the discipline ridden. A 10 & under exhibitor riding in any other walk/trot class will be subject to the same rules as any other member.
+ These classes are combined but will be separated into 17 and Under and 18 and Over for the purposes of year-end awards. You may split them for your show.
^ Chaps are required in all Western Equitation classes except Walk/Jog classes. There is no penalty for riding without chaps in walk/jog classes.

CATEGORY 2 – DRESSAGE CLASSES:Table of Contents

Introductory Walk/Trot---Training Level---First Level---Second Level

CATEGORY 3 – SOFT GAITED CLASSES: Soft Gaited Horse Open---Soft Gaited Horse Two Gait

CATEGORY 4 – PLEASURE DRIVING CLASSES: Pleasure Driving Open

CATEGORY 5 – HALTER CLASSES:

Halter Mares – Junior--------------Halter Stallions & Geldings – Junior
Halter Mares – Senior-------------Halter Stallions & Geldings - Senior

CATEGORY 6 - HUNTER HACK: Hunter Hack Open

SHOW FACILITIES: Table of Contents

1. Convenient and ample water facilities must be provided.
2. Adequate and sanitary toilet facilities must be provided.
3. The show premium book must state whether or not concessions (food) will be available on the show grounds.
4. A secretary’s office with adequate personnel and proper communication between secretary, announcer, and in-gate must be provided. Proper communication with stables is recommended. Table of Contents
5. Proper schooling and exercise areas must be provided, and the show arena available for warm-up. Shows are encouraged to provide warm-up time in the show arena for exhibitors at no charge.
6. Hay and extra bedding must be available.
7. A working telephone must be available on the grounds 24 hours per day during the show in case of an emergency.
8. Horses may not be exhibited in the competition ring or schooled in the designated warm-up areas after the official hour of sunset unless lighting is provided that assures full and complete visibility.
9. Shows are encouraged to post high point tabulations in a visible location so that exhibitors may monitor their point standing during the show.
10. Shows are encouraged to eliminate nomination fees for high point awards and consider all horses and riders competing at the show be eligible for high point awards.

SHOW STABLING: Table of Contents

1. Overnight stabling, on the show grounds, must be provided for any accepted entry that has requested and paid for the stall(s) by the closing date of entries.
2. Stalls provided must be of sturdy construction, in good condition, and safe for horses and ponies. The recommended minimum dimensions for box stalls for horses are 9 feet wide by 9 feet deep by 7 feet high or comparable square footage. It is essential that the covering over the stalls is weather proof. The premium book must specify the type of stabling and whether stall doors will be provided. The Board can approve exceptions to these stalling requirements.
3. Adequate lighting must be provided in the stall area.

LENGTH OF SHOW: Table of Contents

1. Shows may not hold classes more than 16 hours out of any 24-hour period from the start of the first class to the finish of the last class, including intermissions. There must be a recess of at least eight (8) hours between the finish of the last class of the evening performance and the first class of a morning performance the following day.
2. All classes in any category for youth exhibitors in any one day must be held within a 12 hour period, excluding intermissions.
3. No classes may be started after midnight.

SECTION V MISCELLANEOUS Table of Contents

1. A fee of $100.00 or service of comparable value shall be assessed to any one individual or organization who wishes to acquire an MSHSA membership list for the purpose of mailing members a horse-related show program or horse industry-related information. A non-horse-related request for a membership list would need to be approved by the board of directors before releasing the names. An area will be made available on our membership application form for applicants to mark that they do not wish their names to be on our mailing list, understanding that this means they will receive no mailings from our organization including newsletter and show information.
2. Should a member write a check to any member show, MSHSA sponsored function, or for annual dues that is returned, the member will be notified by the secretary by certified mail and afforded the opportunity to make payment within 14 days of the date the letter is mailed. The member shall also be responsible for bank charges. If payment is received within this time limit, no action will be taken. If payment is not received within the time limit, or if a second check is returned during the show season, the member shall automatically forfeit all points for the show season and will be expelled from membership in accordance with paragraph 5 or Article 2 of the by-laws. The secretary will notify a member of expulsion by certified letter.

CLASS SPECIFICATIONS Table of Contents

SECTION I GENERAL INFORMATION Table of Contents

A. All MSHSA shows are judged according to USEF rules unless otherwise specified. To obtain a USEF rule book you may join US EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION by writing to US Equestrian Federation, Inc., 4047 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511-8483. Further contact information may be found on the inside cover of this rulebook. Table of Contents

B. Age of Exhibitor: For horse show purposes, the age of an individual on December 1st preceding the upcoming show season shall be maintained throughout the entire show year. Persons born on December 1st shall assume the greater age on that date.

C. Age of Horse: For competition purposes any horse is considered to be one year old on the first day of January following the actual date of foaling.

Class Conditions:
1. Open: An Open class is open to all horses of any age, size or sex, regardless of the ribbons previously won. There is no qualification for the exhibitor.
2. Age Divisions: Exhibitor must show in appropriate class.
13 and under
14 – 17
Adult 18 & Over
3. Junior Horse: open to horses 5 years old and younger. English is open to saddle or hunt type horses.
4. Senior Horse: open to horses 6 years old and older. English is open to saddle or hunt type horses.
5. Green Horse: Horse of any age who has never been shown in any MSHSA, USEF, or breed association show in the particular performance division in which they are to show prior to the current competition year. Horses who qualify are considered “green” for the full competition year.
6. Green Horse English Pleasure Walk Trot 1st Year This class is open to any horse in their first year of showing at any MSHSA, USEF or breed association show. Shown at a walk and trot both ways of the arena. May be shown hunt or saddle seat. Showing in either saddle or hunt type would disqualify the horse to ride the other.
7. Green Horse Western Pleasure Walk/Jog 1st Year This class is open to any horse in their first year of showing at any MSHSA, USEF or breed association show. Shown at a walk and jog both ways of the arena.
8. Maiden Rider/Horse: Rider/Horse of any age not to have won a first place in any equitation or pleasure (horse) class in that section/division in any MSHSA, USEF or breed association show. Horses/Riders who qualify are considered “maiden” for the full competition year. English equitation is open to saddle or hunt type riders of any age.
8. Novice Rider/Horse: Rider/Horse of any age not to have won three first place awards in that particular performance class in that section/division in any MSHSA, USEF or breed association show. Horses/Riders who qualify are considered “novice” for the full competition year. English equitation is open to saddle or hunt type riders of any age. Three firsts in either saddle or hunter type would not disqualify the exhibitor to ride the other.
9. Limit Horse: Horse of any age not to have won six first place awards in that section/division in any MSHSA, USEF or breed association show. Horses who qualify are considered “limit” for the full competition year.
10. Dressage Horse – No horse may compete in any under saddle class if it is less than 36 months of age.

E. Patterns: Courses or patterns for classes that require individual performance must be posted a minimum of one hour prior to the class. The posted pattern is to be followed unless a change becomes necessary due to safety considerations. In this case, the judge will meet with all exhibitors and explain the change.

F. Broken Equipment: Any exhibitor who experiences a problem with broken equipment or loss of a horseshoe during a class will be allowed 5 minutes to repair the problem before being eliminated.

SECTION II WESTERN DIVISION Table of Contents

A. General: See the USEF rule book.

B. Personal Attire: See the USEF rule book.

C. Tack: See the USEF rule book.

D. Pleasure Horse: See the USEF rule book. In addition, a Green Horse, regardless of age, may be ridden two handed with a hackamore or non-shanked snaffle bit. One hand must be used if ridden with a shanked bit.

E. Trail Horse Open: See the USEF rule book. In addition, a Green Horse, regardless of age, may be ridden two handed with a hackamore or non-shanked snaffle bit. One hand must be used if ridden with a shanked bit. This class cannot be run on the same course as Trail Horse Novice - please check the MSHSA and USEF rule books for the requirements specific to each class. An exhibitor may enter up to two horses in this class, but each horse may have only one rider.

F. Trail 10 & Under Limit 3 Obstacles: bridge, straight back through, side pass one direction only, ground poles, mailbox, pivot in box, weave through cones

G. Trail Horse Novice: A horse of any age not to have won three first place awards in any MSHSA, USEF, or breed association show in any Trail class. Horses who qualify are considered a “novice trail horse” for the full competition year. An exhibitor may enter up to two horses in this class, but each horse may have only one rider.
The obstacles in this class should, in general, be easier to negotiate than those in Trail Horse Open classes. The following requirements are intended to help assure that definite differences are built into the design of the trail courses.
1. No elevated obstacles allowed.
2. No turns in side passes or backing obstacles.
3. Minimum width of backing obstacles made of poles on the ground should be 32 inches.
4. Minimum square size should be 6 feet 6 inches.
5. No rocking bridges or water obstacles are allowed.
6. Right hand push gates only.
7. Walk, trot and lope-overs must be in a straight line.

H. Western Control: Table of Contents
1. This class is designed for the beginning reining horse. To rein a horse is not only to guide him, but also to control his every movement. The best reined horse should be willfully guided or controlled with little or no apparent resistance. Any movement on his own must be considered a lack of control.
2. An exhibitor may enter up to two horses in this class, but each horse may have only one rider.
3. Entries will work individually on a selected MSHSA Western Control pattern or similar pattern prepared by the judge. Horses to be judged on ability to perform the specific pattern in a controlled manner with little or no apparent resistance. Credit will be given for smoothness, finesse and attitude while performing the various maneuvers.
4. Scoring will be on the basis of 60 – 80 with 70 denoting an average performance.
5. All horses, regardless of age, may be shown two handed with a hackamore (as defined by MSHSA) or non-shanked snaffle bit. One hand must be used if ridden with a shanked bit.
6. No martingales, tie downs or nose-bands will be allowed. Splint boots, skid boots and bell boots are acceptable.
7. The following will result in a no score:
a Failure to complete a pattern as written.
b Use of illegal equipment.
c Using reins or romal as a whip.
d Changing hands on reins.
e Balking or refusal of command.
8. The following will result in faults against the exhibitor to be scored accordingly:
a Failure to go beyond markers on stops or rollbacks.
b Break of gait.
c Freeze up in 360 degree turn or haunch turn.
d Starting or performing circles or eights out of lead.
e Opening mouth excessively when wearing a bit.
f Excessive jawing, opening mouth, head raising or tail wringing.
g Refusing to change leads.
h Anticipating signals.
i Backing sideways.
j Performing a simple lead change instead of a flying lead change.
k Knocking over markers.
l Any unnecessary aid given by the rider such as unnecessary talking, petting, spurring, quirting, jerking of reins, etc.

CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR PREMIUM LIST
1. See the USEF rule book for the following:
Western Pleasure, Open
Western Pleasure, 13 and under
Western Pleasure, 14 – 17
Western Pleasure, 18 & Over
Western Pleasure, Junior Horse
Western Pleasure, Senior Horse
Green Western Pleasure, First Year
Western Pleasure, Maiden Horse
Western Pleasure, Limit Horse
Trail Horse, Open
Trail Horse Novice
Western Control

SECTION III ENGLISH PLEASURE DIVISION Table of Contents

PART I – SADDLE TYPE Table of Contents
PERSONAL ATTIRE
1. Conservative saddle seat attire is required. A jacket with matching jodhpurs in colors such as black, blue, gray, green, beige, brown, dark burgundy, or dark green is suggested. Also permissible are herringbone, pin stripes, and other combinations of colors that appear to be solid. Day coat and contrasting jodhpurs are also permitted. Contrasting vest and/or tie is acceptable.
2. Derby or soft hat and Jodhpur boots are required.
3. Gloves, spurs of the unrowelled type, and whip or crop are optional.
4. Entries must be penalized for incomplete appointments but not necessarily disqualified.
TACK
1. Entries shall be shown in full bridles (curb and snaffle) or pelhams. A junior horse may be shown in a snaffle.
2. Martingales or similar tie-downs are prohibited.
3. Saddle is to be flat English type. Forward seat or Western saddles are prohibited.
4. In case of inclement weather show management may allow tails to be tied up.

PLEASURE HORSE
1. To be shown at a walk, trot and easy canter, with the ability to push on if required and change from any gait to any other gait on command.
2. To stand quietly and back readily on command.
3. Light contact with horse’s mouth must be maintained.
4. High action is not desired. Horses should give the rider the feel of “pride of ownership”.
5. Horses to be penalized for hard mouth, open mouth on contact, tossing head, switching tail, incorrect lead, and should be penalized heavily for sour ears and unpleasant kick.
6. Judges should notice rider’s ease in posting to the trot and sitting at the canter.

PART II – HUNT TYPE Table of Contents
PERSONAL ATTIRE: See the USEF rule book.

TACK: See the USEF rule book.

PLEASURE HORSE
1. Horses to be shown under saddle, not to jump.
2. Horses to be shown at a walk, trot and canter both ways of the ring.
3. Horses should back easily and stand quietly.
4. Over-collection or extreme speed is to be penalized.

PART III – CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR PREMIUM LIST
1. ENGLISH PLEASURE SADDLE TYPE, OPEN: To be shown at a walk, trot and canter both ways of the ring. The judge may ask for an extension of any gait. To be judged on performance and soundness with an emphasis on manners.
2. ENGLISH PLEASURE SADDLE TYPE, ALL AGES: To be judged same as English Pleasure Saddle Type, Open (17 and Under, 18 and Over combined; points go to age division for year-end awards).
3. ENGLISH PLEASURE HUNTER TYPE, OPEN: To be shown at a walk, trot and canter both ways of the ring. To be judged on performance and soundness with emphasis on manners.
4. ENGLISH PLEASURE HUNTER TYPE, 13 & UNDER: To be judged same as English Pleasure Hunter Type, Open.
5. ENGLISH PLEASURE HUNTER TYPE, 14 – 17: To be judged same as English Pleasure Hunter Type, Open.
6. ENGLISH PLEASURE HUNTER TYPE, 18 & Over: To be judged same as English Pleasure Hunter Type, Open.
9. ENGLISH PLEASURE, JUNIOR HORSE: Horses must be 5 years old or younger. Open to both Hunter and Saddle Type horses. To be judged on performance and soundness with emphasis on manners.
10. ENGLISH PLEASURE, SENIOR HORSE: Horse must be 6 years old or older. Open to both Hunter and Saddle Type horses. To be judged same as English Pleasure, Junior Horse.
11. GREEN ENGLISH PLEASURE, FIRST YEAR: Open to horses who have never shown in an English Pleasure class in any MSHSA, USEF, or breed association show prior to the current competition year. Open to both Hunter and Saddle Type horses. To be judged same as English Pleasure, Junior Horse.
12. ENGLISH PLEASURE, MAIDEN HORSE: Horses not to have won a first place in any English Pleasure class in any MSHSA, USEF, or breed association show prior to the current competition year. Open to both Hunter and Saddle type horses. To be judged the same as English Pleasure, Junior Horse.
13. ENGLISH PLEASURE, LIMIT HORSE: Horses not to have won 6 first places in any English Pleasure class in any MSHSA, USEF or breed association show prior to the current competition year. To be judged same as English Pleasure, Junior Horse.

SECTION IV PLEASURE DRIVING DIVISION Table of Contents

PERSONAL ATTIRE
1. Drivers should be dressed conservatively according to style of the present day. Any attempt to introduce period costume or gaudy trappings is discouraged.
2. Gentlemen must wear a coat or jacket while appearing in any class unless excused from doing so by the judge and are requested to remove their hats when accepting an award.
3. Ladies must wear a conservative dress (apron or knee rug optional), tailored suit or slacks.
4. All drivers shall wear hats and gloves. Floppy hats are discouraged.

TACK
1. Single animals only in any suitable 2 or 4 wheeled vehicle.
2. The method of driving and holding the reins is optional except the use of handholds, which is prohibited.
3. Harness must be in good repair, clean and fit properly, all metal furnishings should be secure and polished.
4. Breast collars are appropriate with lightweight vehicles.
5. Standing martingales and tie-downs are permitted only if appropriate for the vehicle being used.
6. Boots or wraps of any description are prohibited except in the case of inclement weather when bell boots only may be used at the discretion of the management.

CLASS REQUIREMENTS
1. Open to any horse or pony of any breed or combination of breeds.
2. Minor adjustments to harness may be made upon permission from the judge.
3. At the discretion of show management, headers/grooms may be utilized to ensure the safety of exhibitors. Headers/groomers are instructed to approach horses from the front for safety purposes.
4. After the judging begins, no attendant may enter the arena without the permission of the judge.
5. Entries will enter the ring at a normal trot and will be shown at a walk, normal trot and strong trot both ways of the ring. Must back readily upon request. Extreme speed is to be penalized.

CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR PREMIUM LIST
1. PLEASURE DRIVING, OPEN: To enter the ring at a normal trot. To be shown at a walk, normal trot and strong trot both ways of the ring. Extreme speed is to be penalized. To stand quietly and back readily. To be judged on manners, quality and performance.

SECTION V EQUITATION DIVISION Table of Contents

A. GENERAL: See USEF rule book.

B. WESTERN SEAT EQUITATION: See USEF rule book. A green horse or junior horse may be ridden in equitation classes. The rider will use two hands on a hackamore or on a non-shanked snaffle bit. One hand must be used if ridden with a shanked bit.
Table of Contents

C. WESTERN HORSEMANSHIP: A green horse or junior horse may be ridden in equitation classes. The rider will use two hands on a hackamore or on a non-shanked snaffle bit. One hand must be used if ridden with a shanked bit.
1. Contestants to be worked individually on one of the current MSHSA Horsemanship patterns printed in this rule book.
2. Riders will be judged on seat, hands, ability to control and show horse, appointments of horse and rider and suitability of horse to rider.
3. Horsemanship ONLY to count and performance of horse is not to count unless the result of the rider’s ability.
4. Horse to be under control at all times. Horses determined out of control to be penalized.
5. It is to be remembered at all times by the show, judge and exhibitors that the rider is being judged, not the horse. Therefore, flying changes, fast spins and the like are not expected or required. Consistent smoothness is preferred, even with simple changes and walk-around pivots, over a sloppy run with flying changes and spins. Horses should be working off haunches at all times.
6. Riders will be allowed to ride only one horse and one horse may be ridden by only one rider.
7. A junior horse may be ridden two handed with a hackamore (as defined by USEF) or non-shanked snaffle bit. A senior horse must be ridden one handed with a shank bit unless the horse qualifies as a green horse. A horse that qualifies is considered a “green” for the full competition year. One hand must be used if ridden with a shanked bit regardless of age or status (green).
8. See the USEF rules on personal attire. Chaps are required in all Western Equitation classes except Walk/Jog. There is no penalty for riding without chaps in walk/jog classes.

D. SADDLE SEAT EQUITATION: See USEF rule book.

E. HUNTER SEAT EQUITATION: See USEF rule book.

F. SHOWMANSHIP AT HALTER Table of Contents
1. Only the exhibitor to be judged. The horse is merely a prop to show the ability of the exhibitor.
2. Entries may be shown with full mane or mane may be roached but foretop and wither tufts must be left. Manes, tails, foretops and wither tufts may be English braided or Western braided if exhibitor so desires or the schedule of classes dictates.
3. One contestant/one horse combination per class. Horse may cross enter other Showmanship classes.
4. PERSONAL ATTIRE:
Exhibitors will dress appropriately in Western, Hunt Seat or Saddle Seat attire. However, chaps are not allowed and English coats are optional provided a long-sleeved shirt is worn.
5. TACK:
a Entries shall be shown with halters appropriate to breed or with regulation snaffles/full bridles if shown in English attire as appropriate to breed.
b Tack should be neat, clean and in good repair. No preference shall be shown for elaborate tack.
6. SHOWMANSHIP SCORING
a APPEARANCE OF HORSE 40 points
1) Condition and Fitness (15 points)
2) Grooming (15 points)
3) Trimming (5 points)
4) Tack (5 points)
b APPEARANCE OF EXHIBITOR 10 points
c SHOWING HORSE IN RING 50 points
1. Leading (15 points)
a Enter ring leading animal at an alert walk in a counter-clockwise direction unless otherwise directed by judge. Walk on animal’s left side, holding lead shank in right hand, near halter. The remaining portion of lead is held neatly and safely in left hand. A tightly coiled or rolled lead shank will be considered a fault. Animal should lead readily at a walk or trot.
b Contestants will be worked individually on one of the current MSHSA Showmanship pattern or a similar pattern prepared by the judge. When moving the horse, be sure the judge gets a clear, unobstructed view of the horse’s action.
2. Posing (15 points)
a Pose horse according to current standards for breed. Do the showing with lead strap.
b Be natural. Over-showing, undue fussing and maneuvering are objectionable.
3. Poise, Alertness, and Merits (20 points)
a Keep alert and be aware of the position of the judge at all times.
b Show the animal at all times, not yourself.
c Respond quickly to requests from judge and officials.
d Recognize quickly and correct faults of your horse.
e Keep showing until the entire class has been placed and excused.
f Exhibitors should be able to perform whatever additional test the judge may deem advisable to ask of them (i.e. name parts o horse and/or tack, pick up the horse’s foot, etc.).
G. CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR PREMIUM LIST
See the USEF rule book for everything except the following:
1. WESTERN HORSEMANSHIP, OPEN: Entries to be worked individually on selected MSHSA Horsemanship pattern. Riders will be judged on seat, hands, ability to control and show horse, appointments, and suitability of horse to rider. Horsemanship only to count and performance of the horse is NOT to count unless the result of the contestant’s riding ability. Chaps are required in all Western Equitation Classes except Walk/Jog classes.
2. MAIDEN WALK/TROT ENGLISH EQUITATION, ALL AGES: Rider not to have won a first place in an English equitation class in that section/division in any MSHSA, USEF or breed association show prior to the current competition year. Rider will be judged on hands, seat, and performance of horse. Horse to enter ring at a walk and be judged at a walk and trot both ways of the ring. A first in either saddle or hunter type would disqualify the exhibitor to ride the other.
3. MAIDEN WALK/JOG WESTERN EQUITATION, ALL AGES: Rider not to have won a first place in an western equitation class in that section/division in any MSHSA, USEF or breed association show prior to the current competition year. Rider will be judged on hands, seat, and performance of horse. Horse to enter ring at a walk and be judged at a walk and jog both ways of the ring.
4. SHOWMANSHIP, 10 & Under: Entries to be worked individually on selected MSHSA Showmanship pattern or similar pattern prepared by the judge. Exhibitor ONLY to be judged on his/her ability to fit and show in a halter class. Performance or attributes of the horse not to count unless a result of the contestant’s ability. Shows, judges are encouraged to choose pattern appropriate for age group.
5. SHOWMANSHIP, 13 & Under: To be judged same as Showmanship, 10 and under.
6. SHOWMANSHIP, 14-17: To be judged same as Showmanship, 10 and under.
7. SHOWMANSHIP, 18 & Over: To be judged same as Showmanship, 10 and under.

SECTION VI HUNTER HACK DIVISION Table of Contents

1. HUNTER HACK, OPEN: To be shown at a walk, trot and canter both ways of the ring and to jump two fences set no greater than 2’6”. Distance between fences to be in increments of 12’ and no less than 24’ (24’, 36’, 48’, etc.). Light contact with the horse’s mouth is required. Horses should be obedient, alert, responsible and move freely. Horses may be asked to hand gallop one way of the ring. No martingales allowed.

SECTION VII DRESSAGE DIVISION

A. GENERAL See USEF rule book.

SECTION VIII SOFT GAITED HORSE DIVISION Table of Contents
A. GENERAL
1. Open to any breed or combination of breeds that does any gait other than a trot (excluding canter) as its intermediate gait.
2. Missouri Fox Trotters are included in the Soft Gaited Division.
B. PERSONAL ATTIRE AND TACK
1. Rider must wear clothing as approved by MSHSA for their style of riding. See Western Division (Section II) or English Pleasure Division (Section III).
2. Entries are to be shown in appropriate tack as approved by MSHSA for their style of riding. See appropriate sections listed above.
C. PLEASURE HORSE
1. Horses must perform a flat walk, intermediate gait (no trot, except Fox Trotters) and an easy canter, and show the ability to change from any gait to any other gait on command. Horses must be able to stand quietly and back readily on command.
2. Light contact with the horse’s mouth must be maintained. Pumping of reins during canter is to be penalized.
3. High action is not desired. Horses should give the rider the feel of “pride of ownership”.
4. Horses are to be penalized for hard mouth, open mouth on contact, tossing of the head, switching tail, sour ears and an unpleasant look.
5. Incorrect lead should be penalized heavily.
6. Judges should notice the rider’s ease in sitting the gaits.
7. Horses are to be shod according to whatever USDF ruling is currently in effect. Horses may be shown with keg shoes, lite shod, plantation shoes, or weighted shoes with pad, as long as such shoeing follows USDF regulations.

D. CLASS SPECIFICATIONS FOR PREMIUM LIST
1. SOFT GAITED HORSE, OPEN – To be shown under either English or Western tack. To be shown at a flat walk, intermediate gait and canter both ways of the ring. To stand quietly and back readily. To be judged on performance and soundness with emphasis on manners.
2. SOFT GAITED HORSE, 2 GAIT – To be shown under either English or Western tack. To be shown at a flat walk and intermediate gait both ways of the ring. Horses not to canter. To stand quietly and back readily. To be judged on performance and soundness with emphasis on manners.
3. TRAIL HORSE – See USEF rule book except add intermediate gait to the list of required gaits.

SECTION IX
HALTER DIVISION Table of Contents
A. GENERAL
1. Horses to be shown in-hand at the walk and trot. Horses to be shown according to the judge’s requests. Horses are to be shown and judged by their breed standards, with emphasis on conformation, substance and quality. Horses to exhibit good manners and pleasant attitude. The judge shall make individual examination of each horse.

B. CLASS SPECIFICATIONS
1. Halter Mares – Junior. Mares of any breed, 5 years old and younger.
2. Halter Mares – Senior. Mares of any breed, 6 years old and older.
3. Halter Stallions and Geldings – Junior. Stallions and geldings of any breed, 5 years old and younger.
4. Halter Stallions and Geldings – Senior. Stallions and geldings of any breed, 6 years old and older.

AFFILIATE MEMBERSHIP IN US EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION (formerly AHSA)

The Montana State Horse Show Association is an affiliated association member of US EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION. Members of an affiliated association are eligible to become affiliated individual members of US EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION. Each affiliated member is entitled to receive the current copy of the US EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION Rule Book and monthly issue of Horse Show (official publication of US EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION) upon payment. This fee may be applied to upgrade to full membership.

Affiliated members are subject to the provisions of Rule VI (Protests, Charges, and Hearings) and Rule VII (Violations and Penalties). They may participate as riders, drivers, handlers, owners, lessees, agents, and trainers at Regular Member Competitions, Combined Training Events, and the Preliminary Level of above, Dressage Competitions, and Vaulting Competitions but shall have:
a). No vote;
b). No part in such association benefits as the Horse of the Year Awards, Special Competitions, i.e., US EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION Medal Classes, Dressage Qualifying Classes, Pony and Adult Equitation Classes, or other trophies; (upgrade to Junior or Senior Membership qualifies you to participate in regional awards programs); and
c). No right to act as judge, manager, steward, or technical delegate at any recognized competition or as a committee member or Director of US EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION.

All applications and correspondence should be addressed to:

US Equestrian Federation, Inc. 4047 Iron Works Parkway Lexington, KY 40511-8483
Phone: (859) 258-2472 Fax: (859) 231-6662 Website: http://www.equestrian.org/

Effective July 12, 2001, the American Horse Shows Association, Inc. officially became USA EQUESTRIAN, Inc. and in 2003 USA Equestrian and the US Equestrian Team developed a new organization, the US Equestrian Federation, Inc. (USEF), unifying many parts of equine governance. The US Equestrian Rule Book is the definitive guide in competition regulation. All references to AHSA and USA Equestrian in the MSHSA rule book have been changed to USEF.

 Rule Book Revised June 1999 to comply with US Equestrian Federation rules. Reprinted February 2000. Revised January 2001 and March 2002. Revised and reprinted March 2004. Revised and reprinted January, 2005. Revised and Reprinted December, 2006.