independent judges association rule book - fosh ija rulebook-sec1.pdfjudges are qualified to judge...

Independent Judges Association Rule Book Effective January 1, 2020; FOSH Copyright www.FOSH.info Section

FOSH

6614 Clayton Road, #105St. Louis, MO 63117

www.FOSH.info

Effective January 1, 2020

$20

IndependentJudges

AssociationRule Book


FOSH Sound Principles

Principle #1

All FOSH events adhere to the requirements of the Horse Protection Act.

Principle #2

Horses are to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Principle #3

Horses must be presented as sound in both body and mind.

Principle #4

The preferred way of going is natural, correct, and without exaggeration.

Principle #5

Shoeing is intended only for the protection of the foot and its structure. Barefoot horses are both welcomed and encouraged where practical.

Principle #6

Handlers & riders are expected to use training techniques and equipment that conform to the highest humane standards as recognized by the general

equestrian community.

Principle #7

Exhibitors have a duty to conduct themselves in an orderly, responsible, and sportsmanlike manner.

FOSH is a national leader in the promotion of natural, sound gaited horses and in the fight against abuse and soring of Tennessee Walking Horses. For more information about FOSH

or to become a member, please visit www.fosh.info or call 800-651-7993.

i

Friends of Sound Horses (FOSH) Copyright Information

The materials to which this notice is affixed (Materials) are copyrighted as the property of Friends of Sound Horses (FOSH). These Materials may not be reproduced for commercial use without the express written permission of FOSH. This copyright information may not be removed. Materials may be reproduced for personal and individual use only without written permission.

FOSH contact information: [email protected] • FOSH • 6614 Clayton Road, #105 • St. Louis, MO 63117


IJA Rule Book: Table of Contents

ii

Section 1 Organization & General Rules Chapter 1 Independent Judges Association: General Information ...................................................................................1-1 Chapter 2 General Program Information .............................................................................................................................1-4 Chapter 3 Definition of Terms Relating to Exhibitors and Judging ....................................................................................1-6 Chapter 4 Shoeing Regulations ...........................................................................................................................................1-8 Chapter 5 Ring Protocol and Judging Procedures ............................................................................................................1-11 Chapter 6 Tack and Attire ...................................................................................................................................................1-13 Chapter 7 Rules Pertaining to Hearings and Disciplinary Action ....................................................................................1-21 Chapter 8 Drugs and Medication ......................................................................................................................................1-22 Chapter 9 Specifics Regarding FOSH Sanctioned Shows ................................................................................................1-23Section 2 Country Pleasure, Open Gaited Breed & Versatility Chapter 10 Judging Specifics for Country Pleasure (CP) ......................................................................................................2-1 Chapter 11 Judging Specifics for Open Gaited Breeds (OGB) ..............................................................................................2-2 Chapter 12 Versatility Class Descriptions and Specifications .............................................................................................2-9 In Hand V101 Showmanship ................................................................................................................2-9 Technical One V102 Barrel Racing ...............................................................................................................2-10 V103 Equitation – Saddle Seat and Stock Seat .................................................................2-10 V104 Water Glass .................................................................................................................2-11 V105 Pole Bending ...............................................................................................................2-11 V106 Western Riding ............................................................................................................2-12 V107 EquiTheater .................................................................................................................2-13 Technical Two V108 Dressage ......................................................................................................................2-13 V109 Pleasure Driving ..........................................................................................................2-14 V110 Freestyle Reining .........................................................................................................2-15 V111 Over Fences and Jumping ..........................................................................................2-15 V112 Natural Horsemanship ...............................................................................................2-16 V113 Reining .........................................................................................................................2-16 V114 Trail Obstacle ...............................................................................................................2-21 Technical Three V115 Trail Trial .......................................................................................................................2-21Section 3 Breed Specific Rules Chapter 13 Judging Specifics for the Tennessee Walking Horse (TWH) .............................................................................3-1 Chapter 14 Judging Specifics for the Rocky Mountain Horse (RMH) ..................................................................................3-9 Chapter 15 Judging Specifics for the Paso Fino Horse (PF) ...............................................................................................3-24 Chapter 16 Judging Specifics for the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse (MFT) ..........................................................................3-28 Chapter 17 Judging Specifics for Racking Horse (RH)........................................................................................................3-32 Chapter 18 Judging Specifics for the Spotted Saddle Horse (SSH) ...................................................................................3-35 Chapter 19 Judging Specifics for the Mangalarga Marchador Horse (MM) ......................................................................3-37 Chapter 20 Judging Specifics for the Gaited Morgan Horse (GMO) ..................................................................................3-41 Chapter 21 Judging Specifics for the Florida Cracker Horse (FCH) ...................................................................................3-45 Chapter 22 Judging Specifics for the United Mountain Horse (UMH) ...............................................................................3-47 Chapter 23 Judging Specifics for the Tiger Horse (TH) .......................................................................................................3-55 Chapter 24 Judging Specifics for the Gaited Spanish Mustang (GSM) .............................................................................3-59 Chapter 25 Judging Specifics for the Mountain Pleasure Horse (MPH) ............................................................................3-63 Chapter 26 Judging Specifics for the Spanish Jennet Horse (SJH) ...................................................................................3-65 Chapter 27 Judging Specifics for the Peruvian Paso Horse (PE) .......................................................................................3-75Section 4 Appendix - Programs, Forms & Dressage Tests Appendix 1 FOSH Regional High Point Program ...................................................................................................................4-1 Appendix 2 FOSH Versatility Program ....................................................................................................................................4-2 Appendix 3 Other FOSH Programs .........................................................................................................................................4-4 Appendix 4 AP400 Protocol for Protests, Complaints, and Disciplinary Actions ................................................................4-5 AP401 Rule Change Procedure and Forms .......................................................................................................4-7 AP402 Proposed Rule Book Change .................................................................................................................4-8 AP403 IJA Judge Evaluation Form .....................................................................................................................4-9 AP403a Request For IJA Guest Judge Card .....................................................................................................4-10 AP403b IJA After Action Report ........................................................................................................................4-11 AP403c IJA Apprentice Judge Evaluation Form ..............................................................................................4-12 AP404 Form for Protests and Complaints .......................................................................................................4-13 AP405 FOSH Request to Affiliate Horse Show ................................................................................................4-14 AP405a Responsibilities of Event Management ............................................................................................4-15 AP406 Show Management After Event Report ...............................................................................................4-16 AP406a To Be Filed if you DID NOT use a Certified HIO .................................................................................4-17 AP407 Application to Become a FOSH DQP ....................................................................................................4-18 AP408a Request for Certification as a DQP for FOSH ....................................................................................4-20 AP408 & AP408a Judging Agreement (comprehensive & simple samples) .................................................4-22 Appendix 5 Judging Forms ...................................................................................................................................................4-24 Appendix 6 & 6a Proposed Future Rule Changes; Confirmed Rule Changes - Warning to Exhibitors ......................................4-29 Appendix 7 English/Western Dressage Tests and Patterns ...............................................................................................4-30

Independent Judges Association Rule Book Effective January 1, 2020; FOSH Copyright www.FOSH.info Section iii

Section 1Organization & General Rules

Chapter 1 Independent Judges Association: General Information .................................................. 1-1

Chapter 2 General Program Information............................................................................................ 1-4

Chapter3 DefinitionofTermsRelatingtoExhibitorsandJudging ................................................... 1-6

Chapter4 ShoeingRegulations .......................................................................................................... 1-8

Chapter5 RingProtocolandJudgingProcedures ...........................................................................1-11

Chapter6 TackandAttire .................................................................................................................1-13

Chapter7 RulesPertainingtoHearingsandDisciplinaryAction ...................................................1-21

Chapter 8 Drugs and Medication .....................................................................................................1-22

Chapter9 SpecificsRegardingFOSHSanctionedShows ...............................................................1-23


The IJA Rule Bookcontains the minimumrequirements for shows.Show Management isfree to create morerestrictive rules butmust indicate such inshow literature.Basis of the IJA Program101 Background of the ProgramThe Independent Judges Association was founded in 1998, as a subset of the Friends of Sound Horses, to provide a source of trained and qualified gaited pleasure horse judges to preside at open, saddle club and gaited breed specific shows. Although IJA judges are qualified to judge non-gaited horses, the primary em-phasis of the program is on Walking Horses and Gaited Horses.

102 Purpose of the Rule BookThe IJA is a subset of FOSH. FOSH will issue a Rule Book, known as the IJA Rule Book that will be followed by all IJA judges hired by show managers. The Rule Book is more than a guideline. It provides the standard by which gaited horses included in this Rule Book competing in a variety of disciplines, and exhibiting a variety of gaits, must be judged. The purpose of the Rule Book is to eliminate as much as possible the subjectivity too often found in horse shows and replace it with an objective and measurable standard common to all judges that can be depended upon by exhibitors, spectators and show management.• Beginning January 1, 2011, the IJA Rule Book will be revised

every 2 years. In the event of a critical change to IJA rules, notice will be made on the FOSH website - www.FOSH.info.

Duties of the Director of Judges103 Designation as the DirectorThe Director of Judges is appointed by the President of FOSH and serves at the pleasure of the President. The Director is the liaison between the FOSH board of directors and the judges.

104 Duties of the DirectorThe Director maintains the Rule Book, gathers comments for pro-posed changes to the Rule Book, responds to exhibitors’ critiques of judges, maintains the judges’ file, attends the annual North American Pleasure Gaited Horse Championship as the expert on the application of rules and standards, sits as a member of the Judges’ Licensing Committee, issues letters for renewal of licenses and applications for prospective judges, issues guest cards, coordinates the annual professional training seminar, and makes recommendations for the acceptance of new judges or apprentices into the program.

105 Relationship of Show Management to JudgesAll contracts between show managers and judges are conducted as personal business transactions. Stipends for judging services and incidental expenses are agreed upon between the judge and the show manager

Chapter 1: Independent Judges Association – General Information

1 –1

106 Guest Cards• Show Managers for FOSH sanctioned shows may hire judges

from outside the IJA program. These judges must agree to use the IJA Rule Book and standards for evaluating horses at the event.

• A Guest Card for AA and A shows will be $50 and only one guest card per year will be allowed per judge. Only one guest card per year will be allowed per individual judge.

• A Guest Card for C (Local Intro) shows will be $25 and will cover 1 (one) show.

• Just as IJA judges are prohibited from holding licenses in other TWH judging associations, FOSH will not sanction or grant a guest card to a judge who holds a license with another TWH judging association.

107 Assignment of JudgesOn occasion, a show manager or show committee may choose not to select a judge and may request that FOSH select a judge for their event. The Director of Judges will recommend judges for such shows and will contact judges on behalf of shows, offering stipends as directed by show management. The contract for the judge’s services will be issued by a member of show management and all travel arrangements will be made through show manage-ment after the judge has been selected and assigned.

General Requirements to Hold an IJA License108 Number of Licenses that Can Be Held• Although IJA judges are encouraged to maintain their licenses

with other breed associations, they may not hold any other TWH license.

• Attendance at an IJA professional training seminar is required every three years for a judge to retain a license.

• IJA judges may have no violations of the Horse Protection Act, either federal or HIO violations, after they receive an IJA license. An upheld violation results in the removal of the IJA license and the license may not be reissued at any time in the future.

• In order to be considered for a license, the prospective judge’s HPA record must be clear of any upheld violation for five years prior to application.

109 Acceptance of Guest CardsIJA judges may accept guest cards for most breeds and disciplines with the exception of the Tennessee Walking Horses. IJA judges may only accept guest cards for shows where the IJA standard is the standard used to evaluate Tennessee Walking Horses.

110 Restrictions on Personal Conduct as a Condition of Licensure• An IJA judge’s license can be removed by the action and vote

of the Director of Judges and three members of the board of FOSH.

• Licenses for prospective judges will not be granted or licenses for existing judges renewed for any conduct not in concert with the FOSH statement of purpose, including owning, training or exhibition of so-called performance (stacked and chained) Tennessee Walking Horses; placing any horse in training with a stacked walking horse trainer; and boarding any personal horse with an individual who trains or boards stacked and chained Tennessee Walking Horses.

• Judges may not judge a show that offers breed specific classes for gaited breeds included in this rule book where shoes are larger than the 1 inch shoe. NOTE: As of January 1, 2020, the largest shoe allowed under IJA rules will be 3/4 inch by 3/8 inch as described in Chapter 4.

• Judges may not intentionally judge breed specific classes for any gaited breed included in the IJA rulebook if pads or shoes larger than the one-inch shoe are allowed. This restriction


does not apply to Open Classes where breeds that allow pads and/or shoes larger than the one inch shoe may enter.

111 Removal of a License for CauseGrounds for removal of a license include:• incompetence regarding the judge’s ability or willingness to

tie classes in accordance with the requirements of the IJA rule book and any show specific standards

• violations of professional conduct including, but not limited to, profanity at a horse event, public intoxication, smoking or the use of other tobacco products in center ring

• favoritism to competitors• acceptance of money, remuneration or other gratuities 120

days prior to a show or 120 days after a show from exhibitors or trainers who competed or were represented and the IJA judge officiated

• solicitation of business for training, selling or brokering a horse while an official at a show

• failure to arrive at a show grounds at the appointed hour, except in a bona fide emergency

• failure to abide by the terms of the contract entered into with show management.

112 Additional Grounds for Removal of the LicenseJudges may also be removed from the IJA list for:• failure to act in a manner that advances the IJA Program• failure to pass a written test on the IJA rule book and standards• failure to pay annual licensing fees within 60 days of the due

date• failure to attend mandatory professional training• the removal of a judge’s credentials from any other organi-

zation for incompetence, violations of drug policy, cruelty to animals or ethical violations

• conviction including misdemeanor, for any form of inhumane treatment to animals of any kind

• fraudulent representation of personal qualifications or li-censes held with other organizations.

113 Relationships between Judges and Exhibitors – Conflict of Interest• An IJA judge may not judge an exhibitor or horse where there

has been a contractual relationship (either oral or written) be-tween the judge or a member of the judge’s immediate family and the exhibitor or owner of the horse within 120 days of the event. Contractual relationships include the sale of a horse, the buying of a horse, the leasing of a horse, the training of a horse, the boarding of a horse, the exercise of a horse or consulting by either the judge or the exhibitor. Restricted situations do not include clinics that are open to the general public.

• IJA judges and stewards may not officiate in any classes in which a member of their family or a horse owned by the im-mediate family is competing, or in which clients and/or their horses are competing.

• IJA judges who own or are employed by a business may not judge any horse or exhibitor that boards, is trained or takes instruction at the business.

• IJA judges may not judge any class where an exhibitor is the owner or employee of a business at which the judge boards, trains or takes instruction.

• IJA Judges may not knowingly be a guest in the home or on the property of any exhibitor or trainer or owner scheduled to participate in an event where the judge is scheduled to officiate for 60 days prior to the event.

• IJA Judges may not knowingly examine, evaluate, assess, or offer advice (whether paid or not) to a trainer or owner or exhibitor scheduled to participate in an event where the judge is scheduled to officiate for 60 days prior to the event.

• IJA judges may not participate in aisle parties during horse shows, or pre-event activities with the exception of supervised presentations made to the general public relative to the ex-planation of IJA rules and standards.

• IJA judges may not take meals, receive gifts, or take part in any activity that would put their objectivity at risk.

• No exhibitor may compete in a class where a member of their family is the judge.

• If an IJA judge feels a conflict of interest exists in relation to a horse or person they must advise the steward that they cannot judge that particular horse or person. The entry fees for this horse or by/for this person must be refunded and this horse or person may not participate.

Sanctions for Judges114 Reissuing LicensesOnce an IJA license has been removed for any of the reasons cited in this Rule Book, with the exception of late payment of annual fees, the IJA will not reissue a license at any time in the future to the judge in question. Nonpayment of fee violations require that a $200 penalty be paid before a license may be reissued.

115 Letters of Caution, Direction and Removal of LicenseIn the first instance where the Director of Judges finds that a judge has not met the standards of this Article and that no further ac-tion is warranted, a letter of caution will be issued to the judge. In the second instance, a letter of direction that details what the judge must do in order to keep his IJA license will be issued. In any further instances, proceedings to remove the judges’ IJA license will be instituted.

116 Release of Information concerning Judges to the PublicThe hallmark of the IJA will be integrity. In the event that an IJA judge has his license removed for any reason, the Director will prepare a press release, citing the removal and the cause, and will release the information to show managers and other interested media. The press release will also be posted on the FOSH website. Acceptance of an IJA license includes acceptance of this provision.

117 Appeal RightsThere is no appeal from the decision of the Judges’ Licensing Committee. There is no inherent right to hold a judge’s license. The issuance of the IJA license is based on the requirements established by FOSH, a member, public benefit, and humane association, operated by a board of directors. The IJA is a subset of FOSH, a corporation registered in the state of Delaware. The holding of a judge’s license is a privilege granted by the parent body, based on its needs, requirements, and standards.

Individual Requirements to Hold an IJA License118 Minimum Requirements for Licensure• Prospective IJA judges must complete the IJA professional

training seminar prior to licensure. They must have held a license with another recognized equine licensing program, or must complete a minimum of three shows, where walking or Gaited Horses are predominant, as an apprentice under a licensed judge. At least two of those shows must take place under an IJA judge. Apprentice judging is done at the expense of the candidate.

• All judges, including apprentices, must take and retain notes concerning their placement of classes at shows where they officiate. These notes are to be used in evaluating the quality of the judging or the conformance of the judge to IJA Rules. These notes must be submitted to the Director upon request.

119 Evaluation of Apprentice Judges• IJA Judges are active participants in the development of


1 –2


the IJA Program. IJA Judges are expected to cooperate with Apprentice judges and grant permission for apprentice op-portunities.

• The master judge must submit to the Director of Judges a written evaluation of the apprentice and a recommendation concerning the ability of the individual to judge horse shows. If, in the opinion of the Director of Judges, the recommen-dations indicate that more experience as an apprentice is needed, the prospective judge will be advised of the number of additional shows required before he may again be consid-ered for a license.

• The evaluations of master judges are confidential and will not be shared with the apprentice.

• The ties of apprentice judges do not count for awards in any class or for high point or versatility awards.

120 Basic Personal Requirements for LicensureA candidate must be 25 years old to apply for a license. Individu-als who are younger than 25, with exceptional judging experience gained from college or 4-H judging programs, may with recommen-dations be awarded provisional licenses and may officiate at FOSH sanctioned shows, with the exception of regional championships and the national show, with full credit given for their ties.

121 Annual Professional feesThe annual licensing fee for IJA judges in $50. Fees for profes-sional training vary from year to year depending on the seminar, its location and other related costs. All costs are borne by the judge or applicant.

122 Responsibility for Notification• Judges must notify the Director of Judges of the initiation of

any punitive or administrative action taken against him by other breed organizations or by the USDA, HIO or civil authority and must also notify the Director when the situation has been resolved, producing documentary evidence of the outcome.

• Each IJA judge must forward to the Director a biography sheet and photo that will be made available upon request to show managers or other interested parties. Judges must also complete after action reports at the completion of a judging assignment and forward the report within 15 working days to the Director of Judges.

• IJA judges must notify the Director of any shows that they have been hired to judge if they were selected from the IJA list. They must provide to the Director, within 30 days of the show, the name and address of the show manager who hired them.

123 Scope of Authority of Judges• The IJA judge’s sole purpose at the show is to judge the per-

formance of horses and riders and to tie in descending order the winners and placements through the number of awards indicated on the premium.

• Each class tied by an IJA judge will be tied two places below the prize winners to allow for disqualifications.

• Judges must sign each card before turning it in to show man-agement and must initial all changes. Cards are to be marked in ink or permanent gel substance rather than pencil.

124 Period of Licensure• The IJA license is issued for a period of one year only.• Judges must be invited each year to reapply for a license.• The IJA program licenses a maximum of 30 judges and may

chose, at the end of the 12 month period, to invite new of-ficials based on the needs of the program and decline to reissue invitations to existing judges.


1 –3


201 Statement of PurposeFOSH desires to avoid the excesses and extremes in both training and exhibition that have come to be associated with some gaited breeds. Regardless of the division in which the gaited horse is shown, the horse must retain the characteristics of a pleasure horse. Exaggeration and extremes in style and form are not to be rewarded, whether the extremes are manifested in excessive animation and speed, or in the direction of the least animation and speed. In every division the gaited horse must be correctly gaited, fluid, natural, smooth and appear a true pleasure to ride if it will be rewarded with a horse show ribbon.

202 Artificial AppearanceGaited Horses under saddle are to exhibit a style of movement that appears completely natural for the conformation of the horse. Entries that exhibit an artificial way of going, to include “hang time” while in forward motion; crampy movement; twisting or wringing of the hocks; pointing or other characteristics of a horse that would be considered to be laboring rather than forward moving, will be at minimum severely penalized and may be eliminated from consider-ation. Entries exhibiting any way of going such as described may be excused from the class for “Bad Image”, being an appearance not in keeping with the way of going of a natural, pleasure horse. The directions in this section are intended to encourage judges to reward horses presenting a natural, fluid, forward-moving appearance, and to allow judges to penalize horses presenting an appearance of a horse trained with artificial devices or methods to enhance or alter gait, whether or not such devices or methods were actually used. Judges are encouraged to allow an entry to travel a minimum of half the show ring to allow the horse to settle before excusing an entry under this provision.

203 Schooling ShowsThe primary purpose of a schooling show is education. The orga-nizing committee determines if all IJA Rules regarding Tack and Attire will be followed OR if casual attire and tack such as that used for training, schooling or pleasure riding is acceptable. All prohibited tack and equipment or appliances listed in the IJA Rule Book are prohibited at Schooling Shows. All tack and attire must be safe for both horse and rider. Nylon equipment is permissible but gloves must be worn.

204 Shows with FeedbackA show with Feedback is not a schooling show but an open judging show. The judge is given the permission by Show Management to speak with exhibitors regarding what he is looking for in any class. It provides exhibitors an opportunity to make the suggested changes for further classes. It is a service to both exhibitors and spectators: no advantage is given to one exhibitor over another. A Show with Feedback may be any Level of show except for the NAC and Regional Championship.

205 Multiple Shows Held Simultaneously• Show Management may choose to offer more than one show

at the same time and at the same location.• The number of judges will equal the number of shows. • The decision of each judge is independent of the decisions

of the other judges.• The placings and awards are unique to each judge and are

treated as individual shows.

206 Local OptionsShow managers may elect to use local option classes not included in the IJA Rule Book. Local Options Classes include classes popular to a specific area and may include “fun” classes. Although these classes will be judged on criteria provided by show management or by the association that controls the breed or discipline, they must adhere to the basic FOSH philosophy and principles regarding the

humane treatment of horses as identified in the IJA Rule Book. Descriptions and criteria for judging local option classes must be provided to the IJA judge at least 30 days prior to the event.

207 Registration RequirementsHorses exhibited in model or in halter competition must be regis-tered with a breed registry that is appropriate for their type. Regis-tration numbers are required on entry forms for any in hand class. In other divisions horses need not be registered to compete, unless registration is required by show management or breed registry.

208 Lease AgreementsLeased horses may be exhibited under the name of the lessee with the following restrictions:• a copy of the lease signed by both lessor and lessee must

accompany the entry form• a leased horse may not be exhibited if the lease was entered

into at any time during which the lessor was under Horse Protection Act suspension

• horses that are included as part of an HPA suspension may not be shown

• lease must be dated ninety (90) days prior to the exhibition.

209 Stallions and Juvenile, Junior or Youth ExhibitorsStallions are prohibited in any under saddle class designated for junior riders and may not be handled by junior exhibitors in any In hand classes, including showmanship at halter.

210 Open Gaited Breed Classes• Open Gaited Breed Classes may be offered at any FOSH

sanctioned event. Any Gaited Breed is eligible to enter these classes.

• Show management may offer a variety of Open Gaited Breed classes including but not limited to In Hand, English (Saddle Seat, Hunt Seat, Traditional English), Western, 2 gait, 3 gait, youth, age restricted for either horse or rider, and all versatility classes.

• When competing in Open Gaited Breed classes, traditional tack and attire may be used.

• If there is a discrepancy between the breed specific tack and attire rules and Chapter 6, exhibitors may chose which tack and attire rules they will follow.

• Ring Protocol and Judging Procedures will be as outlined in this Rule Book.

211 Traditional Tack and AttireMany gaited breeds compete at FOSH sanctioned competitions either in classes that are specific to their breed or in Open Gaited Breed classes. Peruvian Paso, Paso Fino, Mandalarga Marchador, Icelandic, Tiger Horses, Missouri Foxtrotters and the Spotted Saddle Horse compete using tack and attire that are traditional to their breed and in some instances this traditional tack and attire may be different from the allowable tack and attire of the IJA Rule Book. Peruvian Paso, Paso Fino, Mandalarga Marchador, Icelandic, Tiger Horses, Missouri Foxtrotters and the Spotted Saddle Horse may be shown in FOSH Sanctioned competitions using traditional tack and attire even if this tack and attire requires mixing tack and attire and is of a style not considered English or Western. Although traditional tack and attire is acceptable, it must still comply with IJA rules regarding maximum shoe size, maximum shank length on bits, and the procedure regarding shoes thrown in the ring. These horses must also comply with all IJA rules that promote the humane treatment of the horse. When competing in specific breed classes, the ring protocol will be specific to the breed. When competing in Open Gaited Breed Classes traditional tack and attire may be used and the ring protocol will be as outlined in this Rule Book.

212 Special Exceptions to Tack, Equipment and Attire

Chapter 2: General Program Information

1 –4


Special exceptions to tack equipment and attire may be made to accommodate those with religious reasons or with a physical handicap. Special exceptions may include, but are not limited to, split riding skirts for women in both English and Western classes, and special arrangements to accommodate those with a physi-cal handicap. Requests for approval of such exceptions must be submitted to Show Management (who will notify IJA of the request) prior to participation in competition. Exhibition may not occur without approval of the request.

213 Allowable Training Aids on Show Grounds (Warm Up Ring)Although not allowed in competition certain equipment is allowed on the show grounds and in the warm up ring. Side reins, draw reins, and standing and running martingales may be used in the warm up ring. Non-weighted bell boots may be used in the warm up ring prior to DQP inspection,although they may be inspected at any time. It is prohibited for horses to stand in stalls wearing bell boots, side reins, draw reins, or any equipment that covers the lower leg.

214 Fitness to CompeteAll horses except stallions and mares in breeding classes must be serviceably sound for competition purposes i.e. animal must not show evidence of lameness or broken wind. At the discretion of the judge, animals with complete loss of sight in either eye may be found serviceably sound.

215 Restriction on Competition of Two Year-Olds• To be shown under saddle in any FOSH sanctioned competi-

tion, horses must be at least 30 months of age.• Age is determined by date of birth.• Horses under than 30 months of age may be shown in any

in-hand classes.

216 HeightAny animal measuring less than 14.2 hands, with the exception of Icelandic and Tiger Horses, will be considered a pony at FOSH sanctioned shows.

217 Scope of Authority for InspectionsAll breeds of horses are included under the federal law known as the Horse Protection Act. Any animal on the grounds of a FOSH sanctioned show may be inspected and palpated, by a licensed DQP or licensed veterinarian, for evidence of soring at any time while on the show grounds. Further, the IJA judge reserves the right to excuse from competition any horse displaying unsoundness or bad image even if such horses have passed an HIO or USDA inspection. The judge’s decision, as to whether or not the horse presents an acceptable appearance for public exhibition, is final. Horses excused by a judge may, at the discretion of the judge, be returned to the inspection area for re-inspection.

218 Prohibited Substances• Any foreign substance found on the leg of any pleasure horse

from the knee to the coronary band is prohibited. This includes dyes, French chalk, lubricants, or medications.

• The use of plastic wrap is prohibited on all gaited horses. Although an injury at a show may require that the limb of a horse be wrapped in plastic, a veterinarian’s certificate of need will be required for the horse to remain on the show ground. Once the limb has been so wrapped the horse is ineligible for any further competition at the show.

• Tails may not be “gingered” or the rectum otherwise interfered with in order to increase the appearance of high tail set.

• Tail blocking or nerving is prohibited. No substance may be injected into or topically applied in the tail area for the pur-pose of temporary or permanent paralysis so that a tail lies flat or reduces tail swishing or tail wringing. Tail blocking or

nerving will result in disqualification of the entry, the owner, the exhibitor and the trainer from further participation in the show. Any moneys or awards received will be removed. There will be no refund of fees.

219 Prohibited AppliancesAction devices (including shackles or any similar device), stacked shoes, and bands on shoes are prohibited. Anything larger than 3/4” x 3/8” Shoe is prohibited. Any device that is not primarily protective and may be considered an artificial training device is prohibited.

220 Prohibited ConductUnsportsmanlike or intimidating language or conduct is prohib-ited. Conduct at any time that in any manner appears directed at influencing judging or the outcome of any competition, other than pursuant to FOSH rules and procedures and the provision of training materials and information approved by the FOSH Board of Directors for such purposes, is prohibited.

221 Recognition of SuspensionIndividuals and horses appearing on USDA or HIO suspension lists for violation of the Horse Protection Act are automatically ineligible for competition at FOSH sanctioned shows.

222 Abusive PracticesAbusive practices of any sort will not be tolerated on the grounds of any FOSH sanctioned event.

223 Multiple Registered HorsesHorses registered in more than one breed or color registry, may show in breed specific classes of their choice. They must adhere to the requirements of the breed in breed specific classes. They are eligible to show in Open Gaited Breed classes and may chose under which rules they will show.

224 Cross Entry between Divisions• Cross Entry between Divisions is not regulated under these rules.• The decision to allow or disallow cross entries between divi-

sions is covered in the Breed Specific Rules.• Show Management has the right to restrict or prohibit Cross

Entry between Division.

Chapter 2: General Program Information

1 –5


300 Affiliated and Sanctioned - the difference• Affiliated - USDA defines a FOSH Affiliated show as an event

that utilizes a DQP provided through the FOSH Inspection Program.

o A FOSH show that does not utilize a DQP provided through the FOSH Inspection Program is considered a non affiliated show by USDA.

• Sanctioned - A FOSH Sanctioned show is one that agrees to follow the IJA rules as the standard for judging. A FOSH sanctioned show may also be an affiliated or non-affiliated show as defined above by the USDA.

• A FOSH Sanctioned show that also wishes to be an affili-ated show, may only use DQP’s provided through the FOSH Inspection Program.

301 Age Classification for Exhibitors• Juvenile, Junior or Youth Exhibitors - persons who have not

reached an 18th birthday as of January 1st of a new competi-tion year. Youth may continue to show in the juvenile division for the competition year based on their age on January 1st.

• Guardian: When the parent of a Juvenile, Junior or Youth attending a FOSH Sanctioned show is not in attendance, a guardian must be appointed for the Juvenile, Junior or Youth. This appointment must be in writing, signed by the parent(s) and the appointed Guardian. This letter must include emergency contact information for the parent(s) and must be given to Show Management. Legal age re-quirements regarding age of majority may vary by State.

• Age Specific classes may be established by show manage-ment in any division.

• Adult exhibitors - those who have reached an 18th birthday as of January 1st of a competition year.

302 Age of Horses for Show PurposesAll horses become one year older on January 1st, unless otherwise specified in registry rules. Registry rules for determining the age of registered animals apply at FOSH sanctioned shows.

303 AmateurAn amateur is a person who has reached his or her 18th birthday by January 1st of the competition year and who, after the 18th birthday, does not engage in any activities that would cause him or her to be considered a professional horseman. Such activities include the acceptance of payment in cash, good, or other forms of remunera-tion for the training of horses; the riding of horses for others; the preparation of horses for exhibition; the giving of lessons to those outside the immediate family for payment or remuneration of some sort; the acceptance of payment in either cash or some other form of remuneration for catch riding; the giving of clinics for payment either in cash or for remuneration of some kind. If these activities are engaged in, even on a part time basis, the individual is considered to be a professional. The defining line is the acceptance of payment of some sort for the training or riding of horses or the training of rid-ers. Boarding horses or standing a stud at public service does not constitute a violation of amateur status for FOSH sanctioned shows. Working in a maintenance capacity at a facility, where the training or riding of horses is not part of the scope of reimbursed employment does not violate the amateur status. The occasional sale of horses does not constitute a violation of the amateur status. The writing of books or articles on general equine subjects not related specifically to training of the horse or improvement of riders, does not constitute a violation of the amateur status. Serving as a DQP or judge does not in itself constitute a violation of amateur status.

304 Transition between the Amateur and Professional Status

If, at any point, during the competition year, an individual elects to change status from amateur to professional, he may not revert to the amateur status for the remainder of the competition year. The transition period between Professional and Amateur status has been established at one year. The one year period starts from the last class ridden as a professional in any show season. During that period, the individual may exhibit entries owned by them or a member of their immediate family only, in Open Classes. They may not exhibit in Amateur classes, or exhibit in Open classes any entries that are otherwise owned, even if no compensation takes place.

305 Amateur ClassesClasses are limited to amateur riders, although horses may be professionally trained.

306 Amateur Owned and Trained ClassesThese classes are limited to amateur owners and riders only: the horse must be owned by the exhibitor or a member of his imme-diate family. The horse shall have had no professional training, other than attendance at open to the public clinics, within 120 days of the event.

307 Bred By and/ or Bred In ClassesThese classes are restricted to horses bred by, trained by, shown by and owned by the exhibitor or a member of the immediate family. In ‘Bred In’ classes, show management may designate classes for horses whose mating, or foaling occurred in a certain geographic area.

308 CadenceThe quality of movement where steps follow each other in se-quence and rhythm. The steps are resolute, lively, even, regular and progressive.

309 Country Pleasure ClassesCountry Pleasure classes may be 2 Gait or 3 Gait classes consisting of the walk of the breed and an intermediate gait and the canter or lope for 3 gait classes. The intermediate gait excludes the canter, lope or hand gallop.

310 Disqualified - See Eliminated

311 EliminatedThe entry may complete the class but may not be placed.

312 ExcusedThe entry is removed from the ring either by the judge or by the exhibitor for reasons identified in these rules.

313 FamilyFor competition purposes the term family includes husband, wife, parent, step-parent, child, brother, step-child, sister, half-brother/half-sister, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, grandmother, grandfather, grandchildren and in-laws of the same relation as stated above.

314 FOSH ShowsShows that are sanctioned by FOSH agree to use the IJA Rule Book as the standard for judging. Shows that are affiliated with FOSH use FOSH DQP’s.

315 Gaited HorseThe primary intermediate gait is one without suspension. Some gaited horses also trot; however, in open gaited breed classes, the intermediate gait demonstrated is not the trot. In some breed specific classes, the trot may be included.

316 IllegalIdentified actions or tack and attire infractions that result in the entry being excused, disqualified or eliminated.

317 Immediate FamilyFor competition purposes immediate family is defined as spouse

Chapter 3: Definition of Terms Relating to Exhibitors and Judging

1 –6


Chapter 3: Definition of Terms Relating to Exhibitors and Judging

or minor children, whether they live in the same household or not.

318 Junior HorseA horse that is 5 and under as of January 1st and is eligible for Junior horse classes.

319 Ladies or Gentlemen’s ClassesThese classes are restricted by sex and may not be entered by any rider under the age of 18.

320 LimitClasses restricted in some manner. (age, height, gender etc)

321 Local Classes/Local OptionClasses not included in the IJA Rule Book. These include classes popular to a specific area and may include “fun” classes. These classes will be judged on criteria supplied by show management, but which still adhere to the basic FOSH philosophy and principles regarding the humane treatment of horses.

322 Mandatory, must, will, is to or requiredThe use of mandatory, must, will, is to or required describes an action that is a requirement of the class. An entry that does not complete the mandatory elements of a class will, at a minimum be penalized. Failure to complete some mandatory requirements may result in more severe penalties, as indicated throughout these rules.

323 Mandatory RequirementsMandatory requirements are those elements essential to the class. An entry that does not complete the mandatory elements of a class will, at a minimum not be tied over other horses that do. Failure to complete some mandatory requirements may result in more severe penalty as not all mandatory requirements are equal when judged.

324 MayOptional; at the judge’s discretion; not necessarily rewarded or penalized.

325 Must – See Mandatory

326 Novice ClassNovice entries are determined as of the closing date for show en-tries. If a horse or rider exceeds the three blue ribbon requirement at a show, the novice status continues through the completion of the event in question. Open to certain horses and riders that meet particular criteria as follows:• Novice Horse: horses that have not, to the current owner’s knowl-

edge, won three first place ribbons in under saddle competition.• Novice Rider: riders who have not won three first place ribbons

in a riding career.

327 Novice RiderA Novice Rider is an exhibitor who has not won three blue rib-bons in any “under saddle” class. Blue ribbons won in halter or in-hand classes do not count toward the loss of “novice” status in rail classes. Blue ribbons won in one horse classes do not count toward the loss of the “novice” status.

328 Open ClassesHorses of any age, size or sex, unless otherwise limited by show management, and with no limiting qualifications for the rider are eligible to enter open classes.

329 Owners ClassThis class is restricted to horses exhibited by the owner or a mem-ber of the immediate family. Combined ownership is permitted. Leased horses may be shown if the lease is in effect for a period of not less than 12 months and proof of the lease is submitted

to show management

330 PenaltyThese rules state what actions will be penalized. There are manda-tory and discretionary penalties. The value of a penalty depends upon the importance of the infraction when balanced against the total performance of the entry and the requirements of the class. At a minimum, a penalized entry will not be placed over an entry fulfilling the requirements of the class without a penalty. Mandatory Penalty – A fixed or determined penalty that must

be applied by the judge. (See Excused, Eliminated, Disquali-fied, Severely Penalized, Penalty). An entry that receives a mandatory penalty will not be placed over an entry that fulfills the requirements of the class without a mandatory penalty.

Discretionary Penalty – A penalty imposed at the freedom and responsibility of the judge. An entry with a penalty will not be placed over an entry that fulfills the requirements of the class without a penalty.

331 ProfessionalsIndividuals are considered professionals if after their 18th birth-days they are engaged in buying, selling, dealing or in hiring out of horses as a full time occupation or accept remuneration of any sort for the following activities: employment in connection with the training, riding, preparation of horses at a public training barn, academy, boarding stable, or show; for activities including exercising, schooling, riding, driving, or giving instructions or clin-ics in riding or training of horses; for riding or showing in hand, under saddle or in harness any horse that another person pays to board or train outside of immediate family members; for employ-ment as a trainer or primary rider for horses at a private facility; for the use of his or her name or photograph as an endorsement for any article which is to be sold to the public, using his or her status as a horseman as a basis for the sale; the production and/or sale of any written material, videotape or audio tape in which the individual advises others how to train horse, improve riding or prepare horses for competition.

332 Prohibited – see illegalAny action described as prohibited is considered illegal and will result in disqualification.

333 Required – See Mandatory

334 Severely penalizedThese rules list what actions will be severely penalized. If an entry is severely penalized, the entry will not place first or second regardless of the number of entries. A severely penalized entry will not be placed over an entry fulfilling the requirements of the class that is not severely penalized. In the absence of horses to fill the ribbons, the judge may award an honorable mention or elect to eliminate the severely penalized horse.

335 ShouldSuggested and/or preferred; addresses an area where some degree of subjectivity or discretion on the part of the judge may result in either reward or penalty as the judge sees fit.

336 Specialty ClassesAt the discretion of show management any class may be specified to be a two gait specialty class and the canter will not be required. Two gaits must be exhibited each way of the ring in order for the entry to be judged. FOSH encourages show managers to begin to increase the number of three gait classes at shows and limit specialty classes to junior, novice, junior horses and elderly riders.

337 Will – See Mandatory

1 –7


Chapter 4: Shoeing Regulations

Notice to all exhibitors:The Shoeing Regulations in the IJA Rule Book may be identical to Breed Association Rule Books. In some cases, the IJA has more stringent rules. NOTE: Shoes are given names by manu-facturers, owners, breed associations and show rules that may be confusing. The same shoe may have different names in different Rules Books. Al-though the name is different, the de-scription of the shoe remains the same. For the purpose of this Rule book, no matter the nomenclature (name) the allowable shoe will be as described in this rule book. It is the measurement not the name that determines the allow-able shoe – the description of the shoe is more important than the name given to the shoe. Consequently, no matter the name given in other Rules Books, in the IJA Rulebook, the dimensions determine the allowable Shoe. The larg-est allowable shoe under these rules is — 3/4 inch by 3/8 inch as described in Chapter 4, section 407 and Chapter 6, section 608. As of March 1, 2014• Black Hoof polish is prohibited for Tennessee Walking

Horses, Spotted Saddle Horses and Racking Horses only.As of January 1, 2011• The maximum shoe allowed at all FOSH Sanctioned

shows and for all breeds included in the IJA Rule Book, is 3/4 inch by 3/8 inch as described in Chapter 4.

As of January 1, 2008• The maximum toe length including the shoe will be 4.5

inches for all Tennessee Walking Horses, Spotted Saddle Horses, Racking Horses and Missouri Fox Trotters.

These regulations cover all gaited horse classes governed by (included in) the Rule book. Check breed rules for specific shoe-ing regulations.

401 FOSH Philosophy• Under IJA rules, gaited horses are evaluated on the basis of

what they do (way of going) and how well they fit the descrip-tion of the ideal horse for the class rather than on the arbitrary distinction of how they are shod.

• FOSH is committed to shoeing practices that correspond with the protection of the horse’s foot and structure rather than the use of the shoe as a gait enhancer or “action device”.

• Horses exhibited at FOSH sanctioned events are to be shod in accordance with accepted principles of farrier science in order to protect the animal’s feet and to ensure correct footfall, rather than primarily to enhance performance.

• Any shoeing practice that detracts from the integrity of the animal’s foot or that is done with the intent of creating exag-gerated performance is prohibited.

• The shoe must fit the horse’s natural foot. The foot cannot be filed away to give the appearance of a smaller foot nor can it be vised to fit a smaller shoe size. Contracted heels will be scrutinized by judges and penalized if there is a suspicion that the contraction has resulted in a “sensitive” foot.

402 Gaited Horse Classes Governed by the IJA Rule BookThe size and type of shoes allowed in FOSH sanctioned competi-tion is to be determined by show management and must be listed on show programs.• As of January 1, 2020 3/4 inch by 3/8 inch is the largest

permissible shoe. Check breed rules for specific shoeing regula-tions.

• Shoes must be properly forged and attached with nails.• Shoes may be attached by glue if the design of the shoe permits.• As of January 1, 2006, the unaltered Clear Ground Control

Plastic Horseshoe with the center bar intact is permissible in all classes.

• Borium or drill tech not greater than 1/8 inch is permitted• Clips drawn from the shoe itself are permitted or clips from

the manufacturer are permitted.• Pads are prohibited.• Rim Pads are prohibited.• Bands are prohibited.• No additional weight is allowed on or in the hoof, or added to

or concealed in the shoe• Bar shoes are prohibited unless required and approved for

therapeutic purposes. (410)• As of January 1, 2010 the Natural Balance Shoe is permis-

sible in all classes

403 Toe Length• Toe length must not exceed 5 inches.• The allowable toe length is breed specific.• In accordance with the USDA heel/toe ratio, the toe length

must exceed the height of the heel by 1 inch or more.METHOD OF MEASURING TOE AND HEEL• The length of the toe will be measured, with the horse stand-

ing on a flat surface.• With a metal ruler six inches or 15 cm in length, determine

the length of the toe by measuring the front of the hoof, in the center, from the skin line on the lower side of the coronary band to the ground.

• The skin line on the lower side of the coronary band is to be defined by palpation. The thumb should be used to press on the horny hoof wall proceeding from the ground toward the hairline. The first compressible soft tissue palpated is the lower side of the coronary band. The hairline does not neces-sarily coincide with the lower side of the coronary band.

• Determine the height of the heel by measuring from the skin line on the lower side of the coronary band to the ground,

1 –8



with the ruler perpendicular to the ground.

Diagram for measuring example only,see breed section for toe length.

404 Time Outs for Thrown Shoes• Unless allowed in specific breed rules, time outs for thrown

shoes are not allowed.• Time outs for thrown shoes are not allowed in TWH, Racking

Horse, Spotted Saddle Horse and Open Gaited Breed Classes.• Exhibitors whose horses throw shoes may elect to be excused

from the ring or to complete the class minus a shoe.• Shoes that are thrown in the ring will be presented to the DQP

at the conclusion of the class for inspection.

405 Definitions• CAULKS - Part of the horsesoe that projects downard: any

raised portions on the heel of the shoe that alter the angle of the shoe (and therefore the foot), however small. Caulks may be turned back portions of the handmade shoe (turnbacks) or poured portions of machin made soes. Caulks help to provide traction over muddy or deep footing. Borium or drill tech by themselves are not considered caulks. (see examples below)

• TRAILERS - any portion of the heel of the shoe that turns away from the shoe, i.e. turns in an outward direction away from the convex curve of the shoe. Trailers may have caulks or be flat (the same thickness as the rest of the shoe). (See example: 1st photo right)

• TURNBACK – portions of the handmade shoe that are bent and come under the shoe to make a caulk. (See example: 2nd photo right)

• HEEL– the back of the shoe at the open ends. (See example: 3rd photo right)

• HEELED SHOES – any portion of the shoe at the open end than is thicker than the remainder of the shoe. (See example: 4th photo right)

406 Keg Shoes• Unaltered factory made shoes of the sort normally referred

to as a keg shoe are permissible with the exception of toe weighted shoes, like the Diamond Toe Weight.

• Material in the keg shoe must be of a consistent type.• Welded clips are prohibited. Only clips drawn from the shoe

itself or clips that are part of the shoe when it is manufactured

are permissible.• No additional weight can be added to

the shoe - no pieces of shoe can be cut off, nor can anything be welded or added to the shoe.

• A heeled shoe is permitted but trail-ers on keg shoes are prohibited. No turned back caulks, only poured caulks on the originally manufactured shoe allowed. (a poured caulk and a heeled shoe are the same thing)

• The shoe must not extend past the toe, carry over beyond the normal rim of the hoof or extend past the bulb of the heel.

• The wide web keg (machine made) shoe is allowed in all classes that al-low keg shoes.

• Rear sliding plates used on reining horses will be allowed in all classes provided that the horse is entered in a reining class at that competition. Keg shoes are allowed in all divisions.

NOTE: The Natural Balance Shoe is allowed in all classes that allow keg shoes (see photo right)

407 3/4 inch by 3/8 inch Shoe The shoe described has different names in differ-ent organizations and rule books. The description and measurements described are what is important and allowable. This shoe may be called the Trail Pleasure Shoe. On both front and rear hooves, the shoe whether hand made or manufactured must be no wider than 3/4 inch and no thicker than 3/8 inch. No bare plate or additional weight will be allowed inside the shoe or attached in any way that meets the hoof. A caulk is permissible but it must be no thicker than 3/4 inch. The turnback must not exceed 1 inch, measured from the forward edge of the caulk to the inside fold of the caulk. The shoe must not extend more than 1/4 inch beyond the hoof at the toe. Trailers no longer than 1 inch in length (measured from the point the trailer turns away from the shoe to the end of the trailer on the short side of the trailer) are permitted on hind shoes. The entire shoe including the caulk or trailer is not to extend behind the bulb of the horse’s heel when a perpendicular line is drawn from the bulb of the heel to the ground. The 3/4 x 7/16 is illegal.

408 The 1 Inch Shoe

As of January 1, 2011, the 1 inch shoe is not al-lowed in any class.409 Exhibition of Weanlings and YearlingsWeanlings and yearlings exhibited at FOSH sanctioned events must be shown barefoot with a toe that does not exceed 3.5 inches in length.

410 Therapeutic ShoeingIn an attempt to allow horses with conditions like navicular or complications from founder to compete in a comfortable manner,

Examples

1 –9


therapeutic shoeing may be permitted on a case-by-case basis. In all gaited horse classes pads, including rim pads, and bands are prohibited. Bar shoes are prohibited, unless required for thera-peutic purposes. Contact the IJA Director of Judges for a Request for Therapeutic Shoeing Dispensation.

411 Use of Repair MaterialsOccasionally due to normal wear and tear or injury, the use of bondable materials like acrylics are required to return the hoof to a condition where it can retain a horseshoe. Acrylics or fillers are prohibited for the artificial extension of toes. The use of materials is permissible for hoof repair. Such repairs cannot exceed more than 25% of the total surface of the foot. On a foot where an acrylic or filler repair has been made, black hoof polish cannot be applied in order to allow the DQP to scrutinize the repair to ensure compliance with this rule.

412 Hoof PolishHoof polish is not a consideration in judging. Clean, healthy hooves are preferred. Clear hoof polish is allowed but not required. Black hoof polish is not prohibited, except as restricted in Article 411. As of March 1, 2014 Black Hoof polish is prohibited for Ten-nessee Walking Horses, Spotted Saddle Horses and Racking Horses only.

413 Removal of Shoes and Casting of ShoesIf a shoe is cast or removed and the shoe is in violation of the FOSH regulations for shoeing, the entry will be disqualified for the remainder of the competition and all entry fees, prizes and awards will be forfeited. The cost of removal of any protested or contested shoe, or of any shoe found on a horse suspected by the DQP or VMO of being pressure shod, is the responsibility of the owner. If the protest is not upheld, the individual filing the protest will reimburse the owner or agent up to $25 to cover the replacement of the contested shoe. The owner will bear the cost of removal and replacement of a shoe challenged by a DQP or VMO regardless of the outcome of the challenge. If the owner or agent refuses to allow a shoe to be pulled, the entry is disqualified from any further participation at the competition, all awards and prizes in the competition are forfeited, and all fees are forfeited.

414 Tungsten ShoesTungsten shoes or any other similar excessive weight shoes will NOT be permitted at FOSH sanctioned shows, even if they mea-sure as a legal shoe. The weight of these shoes, as reported by the USDA, is far in excess of either 3/4” x 3/8”, 1” or traditional heavy shod 1 ½” shoes. While this type of shoe may meet the dimensions of the traditional 3/4” x 3/8” shoe, allowing a shoe of this excessive weight to be used in a class would not meet the intended spirit of the definition of a 3/4” x 3/8” shoe.

Photo courtesy ofUSDA Animal Care 2004


1 –10


Chapter 5: Ring Protocol and Judging Procedures

501 General Information• Judges will follow an established ring protocol in all under

saddle classes.• Judging does not commence until the gate is officially closed

and the class called to order. Judges or show management may direct that the gate be closed after the announcement of a two-minute gate call. The ringmaster is responsible for timing of the gate call, and in the absence of the ringmaster the judge will keep the official time. Once the gate is closed, no entry will be allowed to enter the ring.

• Although horses enter at the gait specified in the breed de-scription, the judge may direct the class to go at ease while waiting for the class to fill. Riders may stop on the rail and use that time to make minor tack adjustments, as long as dismounting is not necessary.

502 Requirements for ExhibitionAll horses that enter the ring to compete must be controlled and must pose no danger to other entries. Fractious behavior will not be allowed to disrupt the performance of other competitors. In the event that an exhibitor does not request the gate if his horse becomes unruly, the judge must excuse the entry.

503 Voluntary Requests to Be ExcusedAny exhibitor has the right to request to be excused from consid-eration at any time during the competition but prior to the lineup. Once the lineup has been called, only the judge may excuse an exhibitor from a class. An exhibitor must pull into center ring and request permission to be excused through the ringmaster. The exhibitor may choose to remain mounted or to dismount.

504 Involuntary Dismissal from the RingThe judge may exercise his/her discretionary power to excuse an exhibitor at any point in the class. When a judge makes this de-termination, the class will be stopped, the exhibitor will be asked to pull into center ring and the ringmaster will give the exhibitor a brief description of the reason for the dismissal. Discussion of the decision in center ring is not allowed. The announcer will make an announcement that the exhibitor has been dismissed at the request of the judge; the exhibitor will leave the ring; then, the class will continue.

505 Time-Outs• Time-outs may only be called for tack breakage or repair. If an

entry throws a shoe during the course of a class, the exhibitor has the option of continuing without a shoe, or requesting to be excused from the class.

• To request a time-out, the rider must pull into center ring and request the time from the ringmaster. The rider must remain mounted, unless to do so would constitute a danger to the exhibitor or the horse. In the absence of an emergency, the rider may dismount when permission for the time-out is given. Timing begins when the announcement of the timeout is made. No assistant or groom may enter the ring before the announcement. The only problem that may be corrected during a timeout is the problem for which the request was made.

• A total of ten minutes per individual entry is allowed for time-outs in a class. Regardless of the length of time expended, no more than two time-outs per entry will be allowed per class. The ringmaster is the official timekeeper and will record the amount of time spent during the timeout in a notebook kept for that purpose.

• Other riders are to remain at ease during the time out and may make adjustments to tack that do not require the rider to dismount. Assistance in the ring or from over the rail is prohibited.

506 Workouts• A judge may call for a workout for any or all of the entries in

the class in order to determine the final placement of entries within the group designated for the workout. Horses may be worked out for other than the top placings. Horses may be tied for positions only against other horses considered within a section of the workout.

• Entries who have already been placed in the class will be asked to park to the center of the ring, until the workout is completed. All horses that have not been selected for the workout are excused after the final workout horses have been selected.

• Workout entries are judged as if a new class has begun.• Horses chosen for workouts must be worked both ways of the

ring at any gait requested.• Cards are to be marked on the basis of the quality of the

presentation during a workout.• In any class having more than one judge, the presence of a

horse on one judge’s card is sufficient to allow the horse to be in the workout group.

• Under a multi judge system, judges may confer together if they are using the workout to tie specific places, rather than the entire class.

507 Championship and Grand Championship Classes• In order to compete in any Championship or Grand Champion-

ship class offered at a FOSH sanctioned event, the entry must first have been shown and judged in a qualifying class in order to enter the championship or grand championship round.

• In championship classes horses may, at the discretion of the judge, be stripped for conformation judging.

• When Grand Championship classes are held as part of a FOSH sanctioned show, stripping of the entries is mandatory.

• Two grooms are allowed in the ring with each entry if horses are to be stripped.

508 Fall of Horse or RiderThe fall of a horse, defined as the shoulder and the point of the hip on the same side hitting the ground, or the fall of a rider from the horse will result in the entry being excused from further competition.

509 Weight of Obstacles in Rail ClassesSome traditional rail classes may include several obstacles as part of the mandatory elements. The primary purpose of the obstacles is to show obedience to the rider and a willing attitude on the part of the horse. Obstacles in any rail class will count for 25% of the total score.

510 Incomplete or Incorrect AppointmentsEntries will be penalized for incomplete or incorrect appointments, but not necessarily disqualified. The use of prohibited shoeing, tack, equipment and/or attire will result in disqualification. (See Chapter 4, 608 and 615)

511 ATSM Helmets• The use of ATSM helmets is recommended for all riders in all

classes. They will not be penalized as part of any presentation including equitation competition.

• The use of ATSM helmets is mandatory for all riders regard-less of age at all FOSH sanctioned shows in speed events, natural horsemanship, and over fences.

• In states where the use of ATSM helmets is mandated in all divisions for youth riders, the laws of the state will supersede the regulations in the IJA Rule Book.

Judging Procedures512 General• The judge has the responsibility and the authority to excuse

from the ring any horse that exhibits a bad image way of going,

1 –11


Chapter 5: Ring Protocol and Judging Procedures

appears to be “off” or lame, who exhibits unruly behavior, or who otherwise fails to conform to the IJA Rules.

o The judge has the responsibility and the authority to ask that a shoe be pulled for examination of both shoe and foot.

• Horses bleeding from the mouth or muzzle will be eliminated in any class.

• Gaited horses that exhibit bilaterally curly hair from the knee to the coronary band will not be tied in any class even if such horses pass DQP inspections because the presence of such hair creates a bad public image for pleasure horses.

• The decision to excuse a horse from competition is not protest-able.

• Horses that are excused, either from the lineup or from the rail, do not meet the criteria of having been shown and judged.

• Judges observe the entrance of the class, before the gate is closed, for two purposes only: to count the number of entries in a class and to note any signs of lameness or potential disqualifying issues before the field is placed in competition.

• Judging takes place only when the class is called to order. Breaks in gait or other mistakes that occur before that time are not considered in the final evaluation.

• All Judges, including apprentices, must take and retain notes concerning their placement of classes at shows where they officiate. These notes are to be used in evaluating the quality of the judging or the conformance of the judge to IJA rules. These notes must be submitted to the Director upon request.

513 In Hand ClassesGeneral• When judging specific breeds, the registry requirements of

the breed will be used.• Horses must be exhibited by a single exhibitor.• Classes may be subdivided by age or gender at the option of

show management.• Weanlings and Yearlings must be shown barefoot.• Unruly or ill-mannered horses must be excused from the ring.• Emphasis will be placed on type, conformation, substance,

quality, turnout and evaluation of the way of going.• Transmissible weaknesses and/or unsoundness (club foot,

parrot mouth, etc.) must be severely penalized as the divi-sion is intended for the rewarding of horses that will improve breeds. Surface blemishes may be overlooked.

• In breeding stock classes: o All horses will be checked for correct mouths. o Mature stallions will be checked for the presence of two

testicles. o The vaginas of mares will be checked for good reproductive

conformation.• Judges will reward characteristics that can be passed on

through breeding and severely penalize characteristics that are undesirable.

• In all in hand classes, horses may be asked to square up as part of judging and they must do so in order to be considered for prizes. Western horse are not to be parked in any division.

In Hand Class Routine unless specified in breed rules• Entries enter the ring at a walk and proceed counterclockwise.• Model entries walk to a position on the rail and take the posi-

tion for judging.• Halter entries will be worked both ways of the ring and then

line up for judging. Entries are shown at the walk and may be asked to extend the gait at the direction of the judge. The quality of the gait will be judged in accordance with the standards developed by the breed registries.

• Entries that are parked stand erect, not overly camped out, and balanced on four corners. Ears are and the attitude of

the horse is attentive to his handler while interested in his surroundings. The expression must be alert.

• In all in hand classes, horses may be asked to square up as part of judging and they must do so in order to be considered for prizes. Western horses are not to be parked in any division.

514 Under Saddle Classes• When competition begins, gaits are called as specified in

breed rules.• No curb chain or cavesson adjustments are allowed on the

reverse.• Judges are cautioned not to overwork a class or to continue

it past the point where the performance of the entries begins to suffer or horses are laboring.

• In all classes where the parked position is a traditional part of the display of the entry, the horse must park and stand quietly but not overstretched.

• During the lineup, the judge and the ringmaster will walk the line. At that time, the judge may ask that the bit be dropped for inspection, or that the shoes be examined and measured. In both situations, the horse will step forward from the line. This is done at the discretion of the judge and may be requested in any class.

• The judge may excuse horses for signs of physical distress and observable violations of the rules, even if those rules were not noticed on the rail during competition.

• All pleasure horses must back a minimum of four steps on a straight track unless a different number of steps is specified in breed specific rules. A refusal to back four steps in a straight line, without jerking or sawing on the reins on the part of the rider, or with the exhibition of a gaped mouth or swishing tail, indicative of resistance or irritation, will be penalized in the final judging. If a rider is asked to back a horse standing in the parked position, the rider must first square the horse up, before asking for the rein back.

• After all the mandatory requirements of the class are met, placing will be based primarily on the quality of gaits, the adherence to the specific requirements of the division, and the appearance of the horse to be a willing pleasure horse.

• A horse that fails to exhibit any of the required gaits for a sufficient period to allow the judge to form an adequate im-pression of the entry will not be tied above other horses that do present all required gaits.

1 –12


Chapter 6: Tack and Attire

601 General Information• FOSH sanctioned events require a certain level of presentation

in keeping with the traditions of equestrian sport. Exhibitors should be neatly turned out, in tack and attire appropriate for the division in which they have chosen to compete.

• Tack and attire requirements as outlined in this Article apply to all horses exhibited at FOSH sanctioned events unless specific tack and attire requirements are outlined under individual breeds of this Rule Book or unless show management deems otherwise.

• In addition to Article 6, exhibitors should check individual breed requirements for Tack, and Attire. In the case of a discrepancy between the breed specific rules and Chapter 6 regarding tack and attire, the exhibitor may choose which rules to follow.

• Protective headgear may be worn in any class at a FOSH sanc-tioned event and will not be penalized for appearance by any judge. FOSH makes no warranty, express or implied, that the wearing of protective headgear will protect riders from all of the risks attendant with participation in equestrian sports but supports and encourages the use of such headgear in support of equestrian safety. Where states require the use of protective headgear, show managers will comply with the requirements of the state.

• Competitor must display the correct number that must be clearly visible while performing in any class unless otherwise stated in the prize list. Competitors may be penalized at the discretion of the judge.

• Judges, at their discretion, may authorize adjustments to attire due to weather-related conditions.

• Boots or shoes worn while riding anywhere on the competition grounds must have a distinguishable heel.

• Cruppers and fore girths are allowed if required to keep saddle in position.

• Saddle pads including gel pads may be used in all Divisions.

602 Schooling ShowsThe primary purpose of a schooling show is education. The organiz-ing committee determines if all IJA Rules regarding Tack and Attire will be followed OR if casual attire and tack such as that used for training, schooling or pleasure riding is acceptable. All prohibited tack and equipment or appliances listed in the IJA Rule Book are prohibited at Schooling Shows. All tack and attire must be safe for both horse and rider. Nylon equipment is permissible but gloves must be worn.

603 Traditional Tack and AttirePeruvian Paso, Paso Fino, Mangalargo Marchador, Icelandic, Tiger, Missouri Fox Trotter and the Spotted Saddle Horses compete us-ing tack and attire that are traditional to their breed and in some instances this traditional tack and attire may be different from the allowable tack and attire of the IJA Rule Book. Peruvian Paso, Paso Fino, Mangalargo Marchador, Icelandic, Tiger, Missouri Fox Trotter and the Spotted Saddle Horses may be shown in FOSH sanctioned shows using traditional tack and attire even if this tack and attire requires mixing tack and attire and is of a style not considered English or Western.

604 Special Exception to Tack, Equipment and AttireSpecial exceptions to tack equipment and attire may be made to accommodate those with religious reasons or with a physical handicap. Special exceptions may include, but are not limited to, split riding skirts for women in both English and Western classes, and special arrangements to accommodate those with a physical handicap. Requests for approval of such exceptions must be submit-ted to Show Management (who will notify IJA of the request) prior to participation in competition. Exhibition may not occur without approval of the request.

605 Local OptionsShow managers may elect to use local option classes not included in the IJA Rule Book. Local Options Classes include classes popular to a specific area and may include “fun” classes. Although these classes will be judged on criteria provided by show management or by the association that controls the breed or discipline, they must adhere to the basic FOSH philosophy and principles regarding the humane treatment of horses as identified in the IJA Rule Book. Descriptions and criteria for judging local option classes must be provided to the IJA judge at least 30 days prior to the event

606 Other Acceptable Tack Options• Buena Vista saddles and Australian saddles without a horn

are acceptable in the following classes: English Trail Pleasure, Working English Trail Pleasure, Country Pleasure, Open Gaited Breed, Trail Obstacle, Natural Horsemanship and Water Glass. When using the Buena Vista saddle or the Australian saddle without a horn in the preceding classes, the remaining tack and attire must be English.

• Australian stock seat saddles with a horn are acceptable in the following classes: Western Trail Pleasure, Working Western Trail Pleasure, Country Pleasure, Open Gaited Breed, Trail Obstacle, Natural Horsemanship and Water Glass. When using the Aus-tralian stock seat saddle with a horn in the preceding classes, the remaining tack and attire must be Western.

607 Allowable Training Aids on Show Grounds (Warm Up Ring)Although not allowed in competition certain equipment is allowed on the show grounds and in the warm up ring. Side reins, draw reins, and standing and running martingales may be used in the warm up ring. Nonweighted bell boots may be used in the warm up ring prior to DQP inspection, although they may be inspected at any time. It is prohibited for horses to stand in stalls wearing bell boots, side reins, draw reins, or any equipment that covers the lower leg.

608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and AttireThe use of any Prohibited item of Tack, Equipment and Attire UN-LESS allowed in Individual Division Rules results in Disqualification at FOSH sanctioned events.PROHIBITED TACK and EQUIPMENT• Any shoe larger than 3/4 inch by 3/8 inch. (See Chapter 4) • Prohibited Appliances (See 217)• Prohibited Substances (See 216)• Shanks on curb bits greater than 8.5 inches• Any bit the judge considers inhumane• Bits with mouthpieces of bicycle chain or chain saw chain• Gag bits without shanks• Curb straps or chains less than ½ inch in width; curb chains

that do not lie flat against the chin groove; any wire, rawhide or other material used in conjunction with the curb strap or chain; round, rolled, or braided curb straps of leather

• Headstalls with studs or other protuberances concealed within the leather

• Mechanical Hackmore• Weighted Bell Boots• Overcheck bits (may be used in Driving)• Blinders or blinkers (may be used in Driving)• Side reins (may be used in warm-up ring only)• Draw Reins (may be used in warm-up ring only)• Running or standing martingales (may be used in warm-up ring,

TWH Over Fences, Barrels and Pole Bending only)• Tiedowns (may be used in TWH Over Fences, Barrels and Pole

Bending only)• Non-weighted bell boots (may be used in warm-up ring, TWH

Over Fences, Barrels, Pole Bending, Reining, Freestyle Rein-ing, Trail Obstacle, Western Riding, Obstacle Driving, Speed Racking only)

1 –13



• Polo Wraps (may be used in Barrels, Pole Bending, Reining, Western Riding, TWH over fences, Trail Obstacle, Obstacle Driving, Speed Racking only)

• Splint Boots (may be used in Barrels, Pole Bending, Reining, Western Riding, TWH Over Fences, Trail Obstacle, Obstacle Driving, Speed Racking only)

• Combi Boots (may be used in TWH Over Fences, Barrels, Pole Bending, Reining, Trail Obstacle, Western Riding, Obstacle Driving, Speed Racking only)

• Nosebands: dropped nosebands and Kennington nosebands• Cavessons: cross chain and crank chain• Combination of tack and attire (Western bridle or bit with

English saddle, etc.) unless specified in premium list.• Parade saddles (may be used in Western Parade classes)• Forward Seat Saddles (may be used in Over Fences)• Personal identification on tack or equipment must not be

used during competition• Communication Devices except as outlined in 210

PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT• Sharpened points on either English or Western spurs• Whips longer than 48 inches including the lash• Any item attached to the end of the whip, including paper

bags, balloons, and rags, intended to agitate or to encourage more animation or “bloom”

• Tongue ties or mouth ties

PROHIBITED ATTIRE• Shoes without distinguishable heels• Ball caps• Coveralls• Personal identification on attire must not be used during

competition• Men’s pants without a belt, even if suspenders are worn

609 Bits See also 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire• When bit is used in these rules, it means the complete device

– the mouthpiece (which is placed in the horses mouth), the cheek ring or purchase where the headstall is attached, the rein ring where the reins are attached.

• Any bit not specifically identified as English or Western but fitting the description in 613 and 614 and not prohibited, may be used in either English or Western presentations.

• The maximum length of the shank on a bit allowable at a FOSH sanctioned event is 8.5 inches measured from the inside of the top ring where the headstall is attached to the bottom inside of the ring where the reins are attached.

610 Types of BitsNew bits are developed every day and given names by manu-facturers, retailers or owners that are often confusing and con-tradictory. Whether new or old, the majority of bits fit into the following categories:

Example of Snaffle bit• Snaffle Bit: A direct pull or non-leverage bit. The headstall

and reins are attached to the same ring without obstruction at the corners of the mouthpiece. There is no fixed point of attachment (loops or fixed ring). The mouthpiece may be solid, single jointed, or double jointed.

• Curb Bit: A leverage bit. The headstall is attached in a slot or ring (fixed opening) above the mouthpiece. The reins are at-tached in a ring or slot (fixed opening) below the mouthpiece. A Curb bit usually has shanks; but if the rein is attached below the mouthpiece in a different ring or slot, leverage is created whether there are visible “shanks” or not and the bit is con-sidered a curb bit. A curb strap or curb chain is attached to the cheek piece or purchase. The mouthpiece may be solid, single jointed, or double jointed. Curb bits may or may not have a port.

Example of a curb bit

• Pelham Bit: A bit designed for the use of 2 reins, but some-times used with 1 set of reins. If a single set of reins is at-tached to a ring directly beside the mouthpiece creating a direct pull, the bit is considered a Snaffle Bit. If a single set of reins is attached to a ring or slot below the mouthpiece creating leverage, the bit is considered a Curb bit. Under these rules a Pelham bit may only be used as a curb bit.

Example of a Pelham bit

611 Curb Chains and Curb Straps: See also 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire• English Curb Chains must be at least ½ inch and must lay

flat across the chin groove. English Curb Chains attach to the bit with metal hooks or fasteners in the same place (cheek ring or purchase) as the headstall attaches to the bit. (One hole on the bit is used for both the headstall and curb chain attachment.) A leather curb strap may also be used if the hole is large enough to accommodate the leather.

• Western Curb Straps must be at least ½ inch, constructed of leather or woven material and attach to the bit with straps and buckles. Chain may lay between the leather or woven attachments. The curb strap must lay flat across the chin groove. As of January 1, 2006, complete chain curbs are acceptable with a Western bit. Western Curb Straps/Chains attach to the bit with a strap or buckle or hook in one of two ways: in a separate fixed ring or slot beside the cheek ring

1 –14



or purchase OR in the same ring (cheek ring or purchase) as the headstall

612 Bitless BridlesBitless bridles are those with no mechanical leverage such as leather or rawhide bosals and other direct pull bridles with the ap-propriate English or Western headstall. Bitless bridles are allowed in all classes except Natural Horsemanship.

613 Bits Allowed in English Presentation: See also 609 Bits, 610 Types of Bits, 611 Curb Chains and Curb Straps and 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire,• English Snaffle bits: D-ring, loose ring, egg butt, full cheek,

Boucher (b-ring) and bradoon (bridoon). The mouthpiece of an English Snaffle bit may be solid, single jointed, or double jointed.

• English Curb bits have a single ring for the headstall and curb attachment. The headstall and the curb chain attach in the same ring on an English Curb bit because the ring is large enough to accommodate both the leather of the headstall and the hook of the curb chain. Allowable English Curb bits include: Wonder gag bits; bits with “walking horse” shanks; Weymouth; Pelham with a single rein; and Kimberwick. The mouthpiece of an English Curb bit may be solid, single jointed, double jointed, may have a roller and may have a port.

*English Curb bit – note single ring or slot for both headstall and curb attachment.

614 Bits Allowed in Western Presentation: See also 609 Bits, 610 Types of Bits, 611 Curb Chains and Curb Straps and 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire• Western Snaffle bits: D-ring, loose ring, egg butt and center

mounted. (A full cheek snaffle or a driving snaffle are not ac-ceptable Western snaffle bits.) The mouthpiece of a Western Snaffle bit may be solid, single jointed or double jointed.

• In Western classes, a loose curb strap positioned below the reins is allowed. The mouthpiece of a Western Snaffle bit may be solid, single jointed or double jointed. Full Chain curbs allowed with all Western bits.

• Western Curb bits may include a separate fixed hole beside the ring for the headstall attachment when the single ring is not large enough to accommodate the leather of the halter as well as the leather curb strap attachment: OR a single ring for the headstall and curb attachment when the ring is large enough to accommodate the leather of the headstall as well as the leather from the curb strap if a leather curb strap is used. Western Curb bits may have engraved shanks and “slobber bars”. The shank may swivel or be fixed. The mouthpiece of a Western Curb bit may be solid, single jointed, double jointed, and may have a roller or cricket or port.

* Western Curb Bits showing 2 styles of attachment for curb strap/ chain

Both “L” and “M” are acceptable Western Curb bits.L has a hole for the headstall attachment and a separate slot for the curb strap or curb chainM has a single hole to accommodate both the headstall and the curb strap or curb chain

615 Prohibited Bits• Bits with shanks over 8.5 inches• Slip or gag bits in Western classes. Mouthpieces may slide

slightly (no more than 1 inch), but this is not generally con-sidered gag action

• Gag bits without shanks – in English and Western classes• Bits with mouthpieces of bicycle or chain saw chains or any

other inhumane materials• Wonder bits in Western Classes

616 Barrel RacingThis is a Western class. For complete description refer to 645.ASTM HELMETS are mandatoryOptional Equipment• Polo wraps• Skid boots• Splint boots• Running or standing martingales• Tiedowns• Non-weighted bell boots• Combi BootsProhibited Equipment See 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire• Spurs – rowelled• Tapederoes• Whips

617 Country Pleasure• Country Pleasure classes may be English or Western. • Traditional tack and attire is permissible.• Optional tack is permissible. • Show management may determine if alternate attire (clean,

neat and safe trail attire) is permissible. • In all cases tack and attire must match.For complete description refer to 606, 608, 638, and 645

618 DressageFull information of Dressage for Gaited Horses can be found in The IJA Manual for Gaited Dressage on the FOSH website. IJA Dres-sage for Gaited Horses allows the use of non traditional tack and attire – show management may allow Dressage competition in alternate tack and attire (Western, traditional breed, saddle seat, etc.) but the bit must be a snaffle, spurs must be blunt. Please note: show management may choose to restrict tack and attire allowed for Dressage Competition to that considered traditional for Dressage. The traditional is described as follows:

Horses may be shown with braided or full manes.See 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire

1 –15



Dressage Tack• Saddle – Dressage or English All Purpose: brown or black:

may be leather or a conservative colored synthetic material• Breast Strap – black or brown (optional)• Saddle Pad – square or rounded, white• Bridle – English style with leather headband• Cavessons and nosebands– traditional, or flash, dropped,

crescent and crossed• Bit – unjointed snaffles (Mullen-mouth); snaffles with single

or double jointed mouthpieces (D-ring, egg-butt, Dr. Bristol and French snaffle, Boucher (b-ring) and Fulmer); snaffles with or without keepers on cheeks. Synthetic mouthpieces are permissible and mouthpieces may be wrapped in latex.

Dressage Equipment• Spurs – blunt English style with shank pointing directly back

from the center of the spur, with a sooth arm; or blunt rotating rowelled spurs.

• Whip – up to 48 inches including lash

Dressage Attire• Gloves (either dark or white) are mandatory• Coat -dark hunt style or dressage style coat• Females – White or cream ratcatcher style shirt with stock

pin of silver or gold.• Males - collared shirt with tie• Breeches – white, gray, beige or cream• Boots – high English either field or dress (including rubber

boots styled as hunt boots)• Hunt cap

Inappropriate Tack, Equipment and Attire• Brow band – colored, patent leather or vinyl• Double Bridle• Bit - curb bit• Saddle Seat style ribbons• Saddles - cutback, Australian, Beuna Vista, Western, or for-

ward seat• Saddle pads - colored pads• Polo wraps or leg protection• Hair bows or other ornamentation• Visible jewelry• Tail coats• Top hats

619 English PleasureAll classes are traditional Saddle Seat classes. For complete description refer to 638 and 608

620 EquitationEquitation classes may be either English Equitation or Stock Seat Equitation. Traditional attire (Saddle Seat) is allowed in English Equitation, but colors should be conservative. For complete de-scription refer to 638, 645 and 608

In addition:• Gloves are mandatory• Hats are recommendedOpen Equitation classes which do not specify a specific style of riding are open to all gaited breeds. Open Equitation classes are governed by the traditional specific breed rules for tack and attire.

621 EquiTheater (previously Horse Dancing)Although no special tack and attire are required, exhibitors must still adhere to the IJA rules for shoeing, shank length on bits and comply with all other IJA rules that promote the humane treatment of the horse (restrictions on action devices, severe bits etc.). Although costumes are an integral part of this class, safety for both horse and rider is of prime importance. Costumes must be in good taste and

not be demeaning or derogatory in any way. Use of the National Flag is not allowed. For complete description, see OGB 104

622 HalterFor complete description refer to 623, 624, 625, 626 and 608

623 In Hand Tack, Equipment and AttireIn Hand classes include Halter; Model; Produce of Dam; Get of Sire; Suitability as a Sire or Dam; In Hand Obstacle Weanling and Yearling; and Showmanship at Halter. Horses may be presented using: Saddle Seat Tack, Equipment and Attire; Western Tack, Equipment and Attire; or Hunt Seat Tack, Equipment and Attire.General• Weanlings and yearlings may only be shown in a leather halter

with a throat latch• Stallions 2 years of age and over may only be shown in a

bridle• With the exception of weanlings, yearlings, and stallions 2

and over, all horses may be shown in either halter or bridle.• A chain may be attached to the lead line on the halter.• Gloves are recommended.• Shoes with a distinguishable heel are required• See 609, 610, 611, 612, 613, 614, and 615 for Bits and 608

624 In Hand - Saddle Seat PresentationTack and Equipment• Halter – English Show Halter with a throatlatch• Lead Line– with or without chain• Bridle –English style with an English bit and leather or colored

brow band• Whip - not to exceed 48 inches including the lash.• Braids or ribbons at the mane and forelock (optional)

Attire• Hat is mandatory for males 18 and over• Gloves are mandatory• Shirt – long sleeved with a collar• Tie• Dress pants• Saddle Suit or Day coat and jodhpur breeches

625 In Hand - Western PresentationTack and Equipment• Halter–Western Show Halter with a throatlatch; may include

silver• Lead Line on halter–with or without chain.• Bridle–Western style bridle with a Western bit; may include

silver.

Attire• Gloves are recommended.• Western hat• Shirt – long sleeved with a collar and a tie• Turtle neck or slinky with decorative neckwear• Western style pants or colored Denim pant• Belt

Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire• Braids or ribbons (inappropriate)• Whip

626 In Hand - Hunt Seat PresentationTack and Equipment• Halter - English Show Halter with a throat latch• Lead Line on halter – with or without chain. .• Bridle - English style Bridle with an English bit and leather

brow band

Attire

1 –16



• Gloves are mandatory• Hunt jacket and shirt• Breeches• English riding boots• English Hunt cap

Inappropriate Tack, Equipment and Attire• Braids• Colored brow band

627 In Hand Obstacle for Weanlings and YearlingsFor complete description refer to 623, 624, 625, 626 and 608

628 Lead LineAttire may be English or Western, but not a combination of both. Lead shank is mandatory. The lead shank must be safely attached to the bridle, or to the ring on a halter placed over the bridle.

629 ModelHorses must be at least 2 years. Horses must be shown in bridle. For complete description refer to 623, 624, 625, 626 and 608

630 Natural HorsemanshipRequired Equipment• ASTM Helmets are mandatory• Rope halter with one or two reins OR rope around the neck

Optional Equipment• Saddle – English or Western, Buena Vista, Australian saddle

with a horn, Australian saddle without a horn

Prohibited Equipment See 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire• Bits• Bitless bridle• Bridle• Mechanical hackmore• Spurs• Stiff bosal• Whip

631 Over Fences and JumpingSee 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and AttireOver Fences Tack and Equipment• Saddle – forward seat or English all purpose• Bridle – English bridle with leather brow band• Bit – Snaffle, Kimberwick or Pelham with one rein• Dropped nosebands – allowed• Running or standing martingales• Tiedowns• Non-weighted bell boots• Polo Wraps• Splint Boots• Combi Boots• Hunter Bat

Prohibited Equipment• Saddle Seat style ribbons (inappropriate)• Rowelled spurs• Double bridles

Over Fences Attire• ATSM helmet or Hunt Cap with an attached safety harness

is mandatory. The ATSM helmet should be covered with a black helmet cover.

• Gloves are mandatory• Hunt type jacket• Females - Ratcatcher shirt with stock pins• Males - Collared shirt with tie• Youth 12 and under may wear jodhpur breeches, knee garters

and paddock boots• Boots - high English; field or dress; black or brown; leather or

rubber• Breeches• Spurs – English blunt

631a Hunter Tack and Equipment • Saddles - English or forward seat type, black or brown • Saddle Pads - white saddle-shaped pads or sheepskins • Bridle – leather, rolled or plain: may be buckled, sewn or

studded • Bit – double, pelham, single (snaffle with or without

cheeks) or kimberwick• Bits - humane in nature; snaffle bits e with or without

cheeks. Snaffle with fixed slots for cheek pieces and/or reins. • Reins - leather of any description, buckled, studded or

sewn; • single rein pelham with pelham converters in amateur

classes • Browbands - all leather of any description • Cavessons - must be leather: may be soft padded over

bridge of nose• Hunting Breastplates: optional; sheepskin on breastplate

permissible.• Stirrup Irons – iron and leather must hang freely from the

bar of the saddle and the outside flap with no restrictions or; there must be no restrictions or attachments

• Girths - suitable material in good repair (leather, leather with elastic ends, white web or string, nylon, neoprene). Sheepskin on girths

• Nose nets • Ear plugs

Prohibited Equipment See 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment & Attire• Bitless bridles • Gimmicks (e.g. nerve lines, tongue ties, any bit that acts as

a gag, tack nose bands etc.)• Bit guards.• Loop reins • Colored or Jeweled browbands• Cavessons - drop nosebands below bit • Bandages and Boots• Draw reins • Conventional standing and running martingales (with rein

stops)

Attire• Anyone mounted on a horse must wear the required head-

gear • Neatly and suitably dressed in coat, shirt and tie, choker or

stock, breeches or jodhpurs and boots.• safe, appropriate footwear. • black or brown smooth leather half chaps that match the

boot color.

632 Parade• Parade classes may be designated Western, English, Period,

Historical or Open.• No matter the classification, the purpose of the class is to

entertain and dazzle.

Tack and Attire• Clothing and appointments may be decorated with sequins,

rhinestones, or other decorative elements.• Braids augmented with flowers or other elements may be

used in the mane and/or at the tail.• Glitter is allowed on the body of the horse and in the mane

1 –17



and tail.• Glittering of the hooves is permitted.• Polo wraps, non-weighted bell boots or combi boots may be

used.• Tie downs and martingales are prohibited..• If the theme is Western or representative of the Old West: o Western Attire including cowboy shirt, cowboy hat, Western

boots, Spurs (blunt knob or blunt rowelled). o Decorative firearms. o Charro attire representative of the Old West o Sidesaddle attire o Optional Western Parade Tack • Parade Saddles • Sidesaddle• If the theme is English, the tack and attire should be appropri-

ate to the discipline (Saddle Seat, Hunt Seat, Dressage). o For complete description refer to 638, 631, 618 and 608

If the theme is Period or Historical, tack and attire should be appropriate to the period of history represented or to the Historical or Traditional costume of the breed.

633 ParkAll classes are traditional Saddle Seat classes. For complete description refer to 638 and 608

634 Pleasure DrivingPleasure Driving Tack and Equipment• Any serviceable two- wheel cart or four-wheel buggy, but two

and four wheel vehicles should not be shown in the same class.

• Leather harness• Breeching - required with wooden wheeled vehicles but not

required with wire wheeled vehicles.• Blinders or blinkers are required.• Flash nosebands – optional only with a snaffle bit• Bit – snaffle or Liverpool• Overcheck bit may be used• Whip – up to 6 feet including the lash

Prohibited Tack and EquipmentSee also 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire• Kimberwick bit• Fine harness buggies or viceroys• Antique vehicles other than classes for historic vehicles

Pleasure Driving Attire• Gloves are mandatory• Hats for gentlemen over 18 are mandatory• Ladies – conservative dress including blouse and skirt; shirt

and jods with apron; day or evening dress depending on the time of the event

• Gentlemen - conservative business attire including coat, tie, slacks and hat

• Saddle Seat or day coat and jods for gentlemen and ladies• Shoe with a distinguishable heel

Optional Pleasure Driving Attire• Hats for ladies• Lap robes

635 Pole Bending – This is a Western class.For complete description refer to 645 and 608ASTM HELMETS are mandatoryOptional Equipment• Polo wraps• Skid boots• Splint boots• Running or standing martingales

• Tiedowns• Non-weighted bell boots• Combi Boots

Prohibited Equipment (See also 608)• Spurs – rowelled• Tapederoes• Whips

636 Ranch Horse Tack Equipment and AttireFor complete description refer to Article 645 and Article 608Required Ranch Horse Tack• Western stock saddle with back cinch is mandatory

Required Ranch Horse Attire• Western hat• Boots• Chaps or chinks• Long sleeved Western style shirt• Western pants or denim jeans

Optional Ranch Horse Attire• Western style vests• Western style jackets in the evening or in inclement weather

Inappropriate Ranch Horse Tack, Equipment and Attire• Silver, other than conchos• Sequins, rhinestones, and elaborate fabrics

637 Reining and Freestyle ReiningThis is a Western class. For complete description refer to 645Optional Equipment• Polo wraps• Skid boots• Splint boots.• Non-weighted bell boots• Combi Boots

Prohibited Equipment(See also 608 Prohibited Tack, Equipment and Attire)• Tapaderoes• Whips

638 Saddle Seat Tack, Equipment and AttireSaddle Seat Tack Equipment and Attire are required in Park, English Pleasure, and may be used in English Trail Pleasure, English Working Trail Pleasure, Country Pleasure and some Versatility Classes.Saddle Seat Tack:• Saddle - Cutback saddles are traditional although English all

purpose and dressage saddles are allowed. Saddles may be leather or a conservative colored synthetic material

• Stirrups - fillis style or offset; Peacock safety stirrup• Girths - leather, cord, neoprene, webbing or fabric• Bridle – English with single reins, noseband or cavesson,

colored or leather brow band• Reins – Closed, either flat or braided of leather or rubber• Bit - English snaffle or English curb bit. For a full description

of bits see 609, 610, 611, 612, 613 and 615 Bits o Snaffle bit - D-ring, loose ring, egg butt, full cheek, and

bradoon (bridoon) o Shank, leverage or curb bit – Shanks must be 8 ½ inches

or less; Weymouth, Pelham (single rein only), Walking horse bit (bits with “walking horse” shanks), Kimberwick, Wonder gag bits, Boucher (bring)

o Curb Chains - at least ½ inch and lay flat across the chin

Optional Saddle Seat Tack and Equipment• Saddle pad – English design; square or round; no decorative

elements

1 –18



• Breast straps – leather or colored• Spurs – English style either blunt or blunt rowelled• Whips – up to 48 inches including the lash• Braids or ribbons• Bitless Bridle with an English headstall

Saddle Seat Attire• Hats are mandatory for males over 18• English Saddle Seat suit• Day coat and jodhpurs• Shirt with a collar and tie• Tie downs on pants• Jodhpur boots or boots with a similar styling (not Western)

Optional Saddle Seat Attire• Vests• Hats - for women and girls• Gloves

Prohibited Saddle Seat Tack, Equipment and Attire (See also 608)• Forward seat saddles• Double bridles or a Pelham bit with two sets of reins

639 Showmanship at HalterThis class may be English or Western. For complete description refer to 623, 624, 625, 626 and 608. In Addition: - lead straps with chains are permitted but only with the chain doubled through the chin ring

640 Suitability as a Sire and DamThis class may be English or Western. For complete description refer to 623, 624, 625, 626 and 608

641 Trail ObstacleTrail Obstacle classes may be either English (Saddle Seat) or Western. For complete description refer to 638, 645, 606 and 608• The minimum English attire - long-sleeved shirt with a collar

and tie, and jodhpurs.• The minimum Western attire - long-sleeved shirt completely

buttoned, Western boots and a Western hat.• Optional Equipment• Non-weighted bell boots• Polo Wraps• Splint Boots• Combi Boots

642 Trail Pleasure Tack, Equipment and AttireTrail Pleasure classes may be either English (Saddle Seat) or Western. For complete description refer to 638, 645, 606 and 608

643 Versatility Classes - see individual classesVersatility classes include Halter, Model, Showmanship, In-hand obstacle weanling & yearling, English 2 and 3 gait, Western 2 and 3 gait, Water Glass, Sidesaddle, Western Riding, Barrel Racing, Pole Bending, Equitation, Reining, Jumping, Dressage, Driving, Natural Horsemanship, Trail Obstacle, Freestyle Reining, and EquiTheater.

644 Water GlassWater glass classes may be either English (Saddle Seat) or West-ern. For complete description refer to 638, 645 606 and 608.

645 Western Tack, Equipment and AttireWestern Tack, Equipment and Attire are required in Western Plea-sure classes and Ranch Horse classes. It may be used in Western Trail Pleasure, Western Working Trail Pleasure, Country Pleasure, and some Versatility classes.

Western Tack• Saddle - Western saddle with horn; leather or conservative

colored synthetic material• Saddle blanket or pad – western style; natural or synthetic

material• Stirrups- open Western style• Cinch – leather, neoprene, webbing or cord• Bosal – for horses five and under; flexible, non metal cores

with reins of hair, leather or rope• Bridle – Western style either one ear, 2 ear or brow band• Reins – split or romal of leather or hair o When using split reins the hand may be around the reins

OR one finger may be inserted between the reins. When the hand is around the rein, the rider may hold the end of the reins with the opposite hand to keep the reins from swinging When one finger is inserted between the reins, the ends of the rein must fall on the side of the reining hand and the reins must not be held to keep from swinging.

o When using romal reins the hand must be around the reins. The rider may hold the end of the reins to keep them from swinging but the romal must be held at least 16 inches away from the reining hand.

• Bit – Western Snaffle or Western curb. For a full description of bits see 609, 610, 611, 612, 614 and 615 Bits

o Snaffle – Western horses 5 years and younger wearing a snaffle or bosal may be ridden with 2 hands on the reins.

o Curb – Western horses 6 years and older may be ridden with a curb bit using either split reins or romal reins with one hand on the reins. They may also be ridden with a snaffle or bosal, but only one hand is permitted on the reins.

• Curb Strap or chain must be at least ½ inch wide.

Optional Western Tack• Silver mounted Western equipment is allowed but not given

additional credit over well-maintained Western equipment.• Western equipment with crystals or other reflective objects are

allowed but not given additional credit over well maintained Western equipment.

• Breast collar• Back cinch (mandatory in Ranch Horse classes)• Decorative Western bits that do not violate the biting require-

ments• Spade bits or Western bits with rollers or crickets are permis-

sible unless their use causes mouth discomfort• Bitless bridles with Western headstall and Western reins• Cavessons used for decorative purposes are allowed in

Open Gaited Breed Classes. If a horse is registered as a TWH and a SSH, the cavesson (loosely fitted with no chain) will not be penalized in Western TWH classes.

Optional Western Equipment• Spurs – Western style, either blunt (knob) or blunt rowelled• Reata and hobbles

Western Attire• Long sleeved shirt with collar• Turtle neck or slinky with decorative pin• Western style hat of fur-felt or straw• Tie - bolo or other decorative neckwear such as a broach• Western boot, or jodhpur boot if covered by Western style

chaps• Western style pants, denim jeans or if covered by Western

style chaps – jodhpur breeches• Belt with buckle• Chaps - may be required at Championship level

Optional Western Attire• Shiny Western shirts or hat bands• Western jackets• Western vests• Western full suits

1 –19


• Chaps or Chinks – may be required at Championship level• Gloves

Prohibited Western Tack, Equipment and Attire (See also 608)• Cavessons; Cavessons used for decorative purposes are al-

lowed in Open Gaited Breed Classes. If a horse is registered as a TWH and a SSH, the cavesson (loosely fitted with no chain) will not be penalized in Western TWH classes.

• Severe mouthpieces• Slip or gag bits• Tapederos• Wonder bits

646 Western PleasureFor a complete description refer to 645 and 608

647 Western Riding – This is a Western class.For a complete description refer to 645 and 608Optional Equipment• Skid boots• Polo wraps• Splint boots• Non-weighted bell boots• Combi Boots

648 Working Trail Pleasure Tack, Equipment and Attire• Working Trail Pleasure classes may be English or Western. • Trail attire that is clean, neat and safe is permissible although

tack and attire must match. (See 606 Other Acceptable Tack Options)

• Other approved tack and attire (English, Western or Tradi-tional) is permissible.

• For complete description refer to 606, 608, 638, and 645

Tack, Equipment and Attire• Clean and neat attire appropriate for riding on a trail• Boot with a distinguishable heel

Optional Working Trail Pleasure Attire• Chaps

Prohibited Working Trail Pleasure Tack, Equipment and Attire• Braids (inappropriate)• Brow bands with metallic inserts, crystals or any other decora-

tive elements other than a colored walking horse brow band (inappropriate)

• Silver mounted equipment (inappropriate, but should be covered if possible)

1 –20



Chapter 7: Rules Pertaining to Protests, Complaints and Disciplinary Actions

701 Protests, Complaints and Disciplinary Actions DistinguishedA Protest is an allegation of a violation of IJA Rules submitted to Show Management of a Sanctioned Show. A Complaint is an allegation of a violation of IJA Rules submitted to the Hearing Board. A Protest or Complaint will only be processed if it meets all of the relevant requirements of this Article. A Disciplinary Action is an allegation of a violation of IJA Rules initiated by the Hearing Board itself.

702 Scope of Protests and ComplaintsA Protest or Complaint involving class placings, determinations of a horse’s soundness, “artificial image” or “bad image” when made by a licensed veterinarian, judge or DQP (a “Show Official”) at a Sanctioned Show, may not be the subject of a Protest or a Complaint unless the Protest or Complaint alleges that the Show Official has violated IJA Rules.

703 Procedures Applicable to both Protests and ComplaintsOnly a person who has signed an entry application for a Sanctioned Show, a Show Official or Show Management (“a Complainant”) may file a Protest or Complaint. All Protests and Complaints must be submitted in writing on Form AP 404 and must contain all of the information requested therein. The Protest or Complaint must: i) cite the section of the IJA Rules alleged to have been vio-

lated, ii) describe the relevant circumstances and facts supporting

the allegations, iii) name any individuals who witnessed or were involved in

the events supporting the allegations and iv) be signed by the Complainant. v) Fees for a Protest or Complaint shall be refunded only if

authorized by the Hearing Board. The Complainant shall have the burden of proof of proving a violation of IJA Rules by a preponderance of the evidence.

704 Procedures Applicable only to Initiating ProtestsA Protest must be submitted no later than one hour after the end of the last class of the Sanctioned Show. Except for a Protest filed by a Show Official or Show Management, a Protest must be submitted with a fee of $100 (unless Show Management has established a higher amount).

705 Procedures Applicable only to Initiating ComplaintsA Complaint must be received by FOSH no later than two weeks after the end date of the Sanctioned Show. Except for Protest or Complaints filed by a Show Official or Show Management, a Com-plaint must be submitted with a $100 check payable to FOSH and must be mailed to the address of FOSH set forth on Form AP 404.

706 Procedures Applicable only to HearingsThe Hearing Board may initiate a Disciplinary Action before it on its own initiative by passing a resolution containing the information requested by AP1204, authorizing it to conduct a Hearing to review the possible violation of IJA Rules. The Hearing Board shall hold a hearing in response to a Complaint if a majority of the Board passes a resolution (a “Disciplinary Action Resolution”) authorizing it to conduct a Hearing. All persons involved in or handling a Protest, Complaint or Disciplinary Action shall keep information relating to these proceedings confidential, providing information only to the extent necessary to complete official review of the matter.

707 Notice and Scheduling of the Hearing.The Hearing Board shall hold a Hearing within 45 days after receipt of a Complaint or passing of the Disciplinary Action Resolution, as applicable, at a location determined by the Board. Fourteen days’ advance written notice of the time, date and place of the Hearing, together with a copy of the Complaint or Disciplinary Action Resolu-tion, shall be mailed to the Complainant and to all Interested Parties,

defined as any individuals designated by the Hearing Board who may be affected by the outcome of the Hearing.

708 Conduct of HearingRules of evidence need not be strictly observed, and the standard by which admissibility of evidence is determined is whether the evidence is such that an ordinarily prudent person could rely on it. The Hearing Board may investigate the allegations made in the Complaint or Disciplinary Action Resolution in advance of the Hear-ing. Complainants and Interested Parties have the right to produce evidence to the Hearing Board and may be represented by counsel. Physical appearances are not required. The Hearing Board shall establish further procedures for Hearings, which shall provide both reasonable due process for Complainants and Interested Parties and as prompt a resolution of the matter as possible.

709 Hearing Board Decision.The Hearing Board shall issue its decision within thirty days after the Hearing has ended, which decision shall be final. Written notice of the decision and any action, remedy or penalty prescribed by the Board shall be mailed to the Complainant, to all Interested Parties and to the President of FOSH. The Hearing Board has complete discretion in fashioning a remedy and/or penalty arising out of any Hearing, including but not limited to, conditional participa-tion in, suspension or expulsion from, the ability to participate in Sanctioned Shows or other events sponsored by or affiliated with FOSH (collectively referred to as “FOSH Events.”), forfeiture of awards or points, imposition of fines and/or any other actions deemed appropriate by the Hearing Board. If the Hearing Board’s decision involves any of these actions, a summary of its decision shall be published in the regular official bimonthly publication of FOSH. The Hearing Board’s decision must include a determina-tion whether a fee submitted with a Complaint is to be refunded.

710 Actions of OfficialsNeither FOSH, IJA, the Hearing Board or any of their officers, direc-tors, representatives or agents will be liable for losses or damages incurred by any individual in connection with proceedings under this Article, or in connection with any failure to take action under this Article, except for any losses or damages resulting from such individuals’ proven intentional wrongdoing. For protocol for Protests, Complaints, and Disciplinary Action, See Appendix 4.

1 –21


Chapter 8: Drugs and MedicationFor Current Drug Information, refer to the USEF Drug and Medications Guidelines

1 –22

801 General InformationHorses at any FOSH sanctioned competition will be considered a Therapeutic Substance Group as described in current USEF Drugs and Medication Rules.

802 Forbidden Substances• Any product is forbidden if it contains an ingredient that is a forbidden substance, or is a drug which might affect the perfor-mance of a horse or might interfere with drug testing procedures. • A forbidden substance is any stimulant, depressant, tranquil-izer, local anesthetic, psychotropic (mood and behavior altering) substance, or drug which might affect the performance of a horse• Stimulants and/or depressants are substances which stimu-late or depress the cardiovascular, respiratory or central nervous systems.• Any metabolite and/or analogue of any such forbidden sub-stance.• Exhibitors, owners, trainers and veterinarians are cautioned against the use of medicinal preparations, tonics, pastes, and products of any kind, the ingredients and quantitative analysis of which are not specifically known as many of them may contain a forbidden substance.• People administering so-called herbal or natural product to a horse to affect its performance should be cautions of claims that the plant origin of its ingredients cause it to be permitted and undetectable by drug tests. This may not be true.

803 Therapeutic Substance Provisions (Treatment of illness or injury with a Forbidden Substance)• The full use of modern therapeutic measures for the improve-

ment and protection of the health of the horse is permitted unless

o The substance administered is a stimulant, depressant, tranquilizer, local anesthetic, drug or drug metabolite which might affect the performance of the horse

o The substance administered might interfere with the detec-tion of forbidden substances or might interfere with drug testing procedures.

o More than 2 nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are present

• The medication must be therapeutic and necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of an existing illness or injury.

• Administration of a forbidden substance for non-therapeutic or optional purposes (such as shipping or clipping etc) is not considered therapeutic.

• The horse must be withdrawn from competition for a period not less than 24 hours after the medication is administered.

• A report must be filed with show management indicating the horse’s name, age, sex, colour; name of the exhibitor, name of the owner; name of the medication, amount adminis-tered, and method of administration; diagnosis and reason for administration; name of the veterinarian prescribing or administering the medication.803 Drug Testing

804 Drug TestingShow management reserves the right to have horses tested for the presence of forbidden substances if a judge requests that such testing be done, if the DQP requests that such testing be done, or if an exhibitor files a protest, accompanied by the appro-priate fee, alleging that the horse is in violation of the Forbidden Substance rule.

• The testing shall be at the show management’s expense in the case of a request by the judge or DQP, and in the case of a protest, at the expense of the person who files the protest.• The show veterinarian or a veterinarian on call shall conduct the drug testing.• If a prohibited forbidden substance is detected, the owner/agent/ responsible party assumes all responsibility for the costs of testing. The filing of a prior medication report shall be taken into consideration when drug results are returned. Show Management may elect to have random drug testing performed at a show for which an additional fee per entry may be charged. Such testing and fees shall be indicated in the show bill.

805 Fees, Appeals of Drug Testing Results, and Penalties• The FOSH Hearing Board will hear all appeals to forbidden substance violations.• The hearing will be arranged within 45 days of notification of a positive drug screen.• All suspensions for failure of drug testing will be held in abeyance until the completion of the hearing.• Individuals who fail a drug test, that is upheld, will be suspended for a period of one year for the first offense from all FOSH sanc-tioned events, will forfeit all prizes and awards at the show where the offense took place, and will forfeit all points accrued in the FOSH High Point Program.• The decision of the Hearing Board is final.• All other procedures with respect to appeals will be as set out in the Rules pertaining to Disciplinary Actions.


Chapter 9: Guidelines and Specifics for FOSH Sanctioned Shows

1 –23



1 –24

The IJA Rule Book does not restrict or prohibit cross entries between Divisions. However, show management has the right to limit or prohibit cross entries between any Divisions and breed specific Country Pleasure Classes or any Division and Open Gaited Breed Country Pleasure Classes.900 Affiliated and Sanctioned - the difference• Affiliated - USDA defines a FOSH Affiliated show as an event that

utilizes a DQP provided through the FOSH Inspection Program. o A FOSH show that does not utilize a DQP provided through

the FOSH Inspection Program is considered a non-affiliated show by USDA.

• Sanctioned - A FOSH Sanctioned show is one that agrees to follow the IJA rules as the standard for judging. A FOSH sanctioned show may also be an affiliated or non-affiliated show as defined above by the USDA.

• A FOSH Sanctioned show that also wishes to be an affili-ated show, may only use DQP’s provided through the FOSH Inspection Program.

901 PrivilegesAll events sanctioned by FOSH qualify to receive certain privileges which include national advertising on the FOSH web site and in the Sound Advocate, participation in regional high point and versatility programs, access to qualified gaited horse judges, a USDA certified inspection program, low cost insurance, FOSH medallion design for ribbons and awards, and assistance with competition details.

902 Mandatory Requirements for Sanctioned Shows• FOSH sanctioned shows are intended to reward the exhibition

of genuine gaited pleasure horses. All exhibitions of any gaited breed at a FOSH sanctioned show must be done in a manner consistent with that understanding.

• All FOSH sanctioned shows must adhere to the rules and regula-tions set out in the IJA rulebook which pertains to presentation, tack, attire and shoeing as well as the humane treatment of all gaited horses covered by the IJA Rule Book.

• All FOSH sanctioned shows must agree that the maximum al-lowable shoe for any gaited horse on the show grounds is 3/4” x 3/8”. This shoe is not allowed on any horse under the age of four. NOTE: As of January 1, 2011 the largest shoe will be 3/4 inch by 5/8 inch as described in Chapter 4

• The show must agree to print on both the premium and the program, if one is available, that the show is intended for the exhibition of sound flat shod gaited pleasure horses only, and must include the FOSH logo. Artwork for the FOSH logo is pro-vided when the show receives sanctioning approval.

903 Procedure for Sanctioning an Event with FOSH• Requests for sanctioned events must be forwarded to the FOSH

Director of Show Sanctioning email: [email protected].• The Director of Show Sanctioning will forward all sanctioning

information and rules• To determine the Classification of a FOSH sanctioned show,

the Director of Show Sanctioning must receive a copy of the premium list or show bill or prize list.

904 Enforcement of Rules• Competitions and exhibitions sanctioned by FOSH agree to

adopt the standards of FOSH, for the promotion and exhibition of gaited horses covered by the IJA Rule Book.

• Every person who competes, exhibits, or participates in any way at a FOSH sanctioned event is subject to the administrative rules of FOSH as published. Rules will be changed, modified, or added to, only at the conclusion of the FOSH official competition year that ends on December 31.

• Signature on an entry form at any FOSH sanctioned event indi-cates an acceptance of all provisions in the Rules of FOSH.

905 Judges and Guest Judges• A current list of IJA Judges may be found on the FOSH website.• FOSH sanctioned shows may hire judges from outside the IJA

program upon payment of a $50 guest card fee. The guest judge must agree to use the IJA Rule Book and standards for evaluating gaited horses.

• A Guest Card for C (Local Intro) shows will be $25 and will cover 1 (one) show.

• A FOSH sanctioned show may not hire a guest judge who holds a license with another Tennessee Walking Horse, Spotted Saddle Horse, or Racking Horse judging Association.

• “AAA’ OR “AA”, or Regional Championship FOSH sanctioned shows must use an IJA judge.

906 Abuse of Animals at any Sanctioned EventAbusive practices of any sort will not be tolerated on the grounds of any FOSH sanctioned event. Competition management must notify FOSH of any case of abuse that has been brought to their attention during the course of an event and to provide information concerning the incident, to include the name and address of the alleged viola-tor and witnesses if that information is available. Actions taken by competitors, trainers, or exhibitors in violations of this section of the rules which are deemed excessive by an IJA judge, veterinarian or DQP, either in the show ring or the competition grounds, may be the subject of action by show management on the grounds of the event, as well as separate disciplinary action by the FOSH Hearing Committee. The following activities are considered to be cruel, abusive or inappropriate for FOSH sanctioned events. The list is not all-inclusive:• Any violation of the Horse Protection Act determined by an HIO

DQP, veterinarian, or VMO.• Excessive use of a whip in a stall, barn aisle, schooling area,

show ring, or at any place on the competition grounds. This provision includes activity before, during and after the conclu-sion of a competition. Striking the horse on the head, either on the poll or forward of the poll, is automatically considered to be excessive, as is lashing the horse about the legs.

• Rapping of the legs to induce animation or to encourage jumping• The use of any electric device to shock a horse either to modify

behavior or to gain compliance, including stewarding a horse for inspection, or loading or unloading a horse on the competition grounds.

• Use of explosive devices or noisemakers to hype the horse in an attempt to make him showier.

• Withholding of feed and water for prolonged periods in order to “calm a horse” or failure to provide adequate feed, forage, and water while on competition grounds.

• Removing blood from a horse for anything other than diagnostic purposes or for drug tests held in conjunction with the competi-tion

• Excessive spurring of the horse, to include spurring in front of the girth or spurring so that blood is drawn

• Work at speed on hard surfaces in such a way to create low levels of inflammation as a means of enhancing animation.

• Any form of shoeing that results in pressure being applied to the sensitive tissues of the foot or attempts to contract the heel in order to create a pressure situation that results in higher animation.

• Altering natural tail set by surgery, mechanical tail sets or gingering of the rectum.

• Killing, crippling, abandoning, mistreating, neglecting, or



1 –25

other forms of cruelty or abuse to the horse are included in this chapter.

Competition and Competitors

907 Recommendations for Sanctioned ShowsFOSH has both requirements and non-binding recommendations regarding shoeing, tack and attire, registration, amateur, profes-sional status, juvenile and other issues not directly related to the exhibition of gaited horses in competition. Show managers are encouraged to provide stewards or staff to ensure that tack and attire regulations, shoeing and bitting requirements are met.

908 Prohibited ConductUnsportsmanlike or intimidating language or conduct is prohibited at any Sanctioned Show Conduct at any time that in any manner appears directed at influencing judging or the outcome of any competition, other than pursuant to FOSH rules and procedures and the provision of training materials and information approved by the FOSH Board of Directors for such purposes, is prohibited.

909 Participant/Exhibitor Responsibilities• Knowledge of the rules that govern FOSH events is the respon-

sibility of all participating exhibitors, trainers, and owners.• Competition participants assume the obligation and respon-

sibility to be fully aware of the guidelines and enforcement provisions of the IJA Rulebook and to remain current with changes made in subsequent editions.

• All individuals who participate in FOSH sanctioned competi-tions agree by their participation and entry to be bound by these Rules and interpretations and enforcement provisions with respect to the Rules contained herein.

• Owners and lessees of entries have ultimate responsibility for the condition of the entry and the eligibility of persons to exhibit his or her horse.

910 Responsible Party• When the owner of the entry is a juvenile, a business entity

or any entity other than a natural person, a Responsible Party who is a natural person must be identified on the entry sheet. The Responsible Party will be responsible for all financial ob-ligations associated with the entry; is the Party who must file complaints or protests on behalf of the juvenile arising out of the competition; and will be the individual held responsible for violations of any rule or regulation, including HPA violations, pertaining to the FOSH sanctioned event.

• Guardian: When the parent of a Juvenile, Junior or Youth attending a FOSH Sanctioned show is not in attendance, a guardian must be appointed for the Juvenile, Junior or Youth. This appointment must be in writing, signed by the parent(s) and the appointed Guardian. This letter must include emer-gency contact information for the parent(s) and must be given to Show Management. Legal age requirements may vary by State.

911 Recognition of SuspensionsIndividuals and horses appearing on USDA or HIO suspension lists for violation of the Horse Protection Act are automatically ineligible for competition at FOSH sanctioned shows. Show management may establish other criteria for eligibility for competition and these restrictions must be publicized at least 60 days in advance of the show.

912 Classes and Division for CompetitionShow management is encouraged to offer a variety of classes - novice, open, limit, amateur, youth, adult, 2 gait, 3 gait, Breed Specific, Open Gaited Breed, English, Western, Trail Pleasure, versatility, etc.

Classes may be limited by: o Age of either horse or exhibitor o Gender of either horse or exhibitor o Experience of exhibitor (Amateur or Professional) o Training of Horse (Amateur Trained or Professionally trained) o Classes may be for Amateurs or Professionals or a combi-

nation.• If a class is not restricted in any way, the class is OPEN: the

class may be entered by Professionals, Amateurs, novices, etc.

• Local Option classes and fun classes are permissible.• Classes may be defined by age or gender for exhibitors and

equines.• Classes may be breed specific.• Classes may be Open Gaited Breed (multiple gaited breeds

competing)• Championship classes may be combined classes, using breed

specific classes as qualifiers.

913 Schooling ShowsThe primary purpose of a schooling show is education. The orga-nizing committee determines if all IJA Rules regarding Tack and Attire will be followed OR if casual attire and tack such as that used for training, schooling or pleasure riding is acceptable. All prohibited tack and equipment or appliances listed in the IJA Rule Book are prohibited at Schooling Shows. All tack and attire must be safe for both horse and rider. Nylon equipment is permissible but gloves must be worn.

914 Local OptionsShow managers may elect to use local option classes not included in the IJA Rule Book. Local Options Classes include classes popular to a specific area and may include “fun” classes. Although these classes will be judged on criteria provided by show management or by the association that controls the breed or discipline, they must adhere to the basic FOSH philosophy and principles regarding the humane treatment of horses as identified in the IJA Rule Book. Descriptions and criteria for judging local option classes must be provided to the IJA judge at least 30 days prior to the event.

915 Championship and Grand ChampionshipIn order to compete in any Championship or Grand Champion-ship class offered at a FOSH sanctioned event, the entry must first have been shown and judged in a qualifying class in order to enter the championship or grand championship round. Show management may further restrict entry into championships and grand championships by requiring that entries have been placed at certain levels in qualifying classes. In Championship classes horses may, at the discretion of the judge, be stripped for confor-mation judging. In Grand Championship classes horses must be stripped for conformation judging. Two grooms are allowed in the ring with each entry if horses are to be stripped.

916 Protests, Complaints and Disciplinary ActionsIn the event Show Management believes that a violation of IJA Rules has occurred, it has the authority to warn, reprimand, dis-qualify from further competition and/or remove any individual it believes to be violating IJA Rules from the show grounds. Show Management may also direct that an entry be disqualified from the remainder of the Sanctioned Show and/or that all awards in question be returned and the classes retied. Show Management will immediately forward to the Hearing Board a report of all ac-tions taken under this Rule. Conduct alleged to be in violation of IJA Rules may be the subject of a separate proceeding by the Hearing Board. See Chapter 7 for more information on Protests, Complaints and Disciplinary Actions. For protocol for Protests, Complaints, and Disciplinary Action, see Appendix 4.



1 –26

917 Communication DevicesCommunication devices are prohibited at all FOSH sanctioned shows with the exception of those required to allow a physically challenged rider to compete. Medical conditions requiring the use of a communication device, or other prosthetic help, must be documented by a medical certificate of need presented to the show manager. See 210

918 Removal of Shoes and Casting of ShoesIf a shoe is cast or removed and the shoe is in violation of the FOSH regulations for shoeing, the entry will be disqualified for the remain-der of the competition and all entry fees, prizes and awards will be forfeited. The cost of removal of any protested or contested shoe, or of any shoe found on a horse suspected by the DQP or VMO of being pressure shod, is the responsibility of the owner. If the protest is not upheld, the individual filing the protest will reimburse the owner or agent up to $25 to cover the replacement of the contested shoe. The owner will bear the cost of removal and replacement of a shoe chal-lenged by a DQP or VMO regardless of the outcome of the challenge. If the owner or agent refuses to allow a shoe to be pulled, the entry is disqualified from any further participation at the competition, all awards and prizes in the competition are forfeited, and all fees are forfeited.

919 Situations Not Specifically AddressedRegardless of how complete the rules may be, they will never cover every situation that arises at a horse show. In the event of a dispute that is not specifically addressed in the rules, the IJA judge will interpret the existing rules to the letter and extrapolate a ruling based on the logical extension of the existing rules to cover a particular situation.

920 Miscellaneous Responsibilities of Show ManagementShow management is responsible for the operation of the horse show, which includes enforcing IJA Rules and other local options that may apply. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:• The decision whether or not to employ a USDA approved

HIO as an inspection program for compliance with the Horse Protection Act.

o If managers do not employ an HIO, the responsibility for the exhibition of any horse found to be in violation of the HPA by USDA personnel who might chose to attend the show rests solely with the show manager and/ or the sponsoring organiza-tion. FOSH suggests that show managers in at risk areas of the country seriously consider the employment of an approved HIO. The hiring of a veterinarian does not satisfy the definition of an USDA approved HIO.

o If managers affiliate with a HIO, all information including rules and regulations are provided by the HIO at the time of affilia-tion. (See AP405)

• When show management employs an HIO in order to be in compliance with the Horse Protection Act, they must provide a controlled area for horses that require complete DQP inspection. (See AP405a)

o Personnel must be provided to oversee the controlled area. The area must be directly adjacent to the inspection area. The area must be marked in a visible way and adequately lighted. The horse, the rider and one handler are the only people al-lowed in the controlled area.

o DQP must be provided a record keeper, table, chairs, traffic cones, shelter and adequate lighting if the show takes place in the evening.

• Publish a premium and to keep exhibitors informed if changes are made to the schedule, the fees, or any other published aspect of the show.

• Ensure that no DQP, Judge or member of their immediate family compete at any show in which they participate in an official capacity.

• Ensure that no horse trained or owned by the Judge or DQP may be exhibited for competition at this show with the excep-tion of horses that are part of a registered lease agreement.

• Ensure that no manager, secretary, announcer, ringmaster or any member of their immediate family compete at any show in which the manager, secretary, announcer or ringmaster receive compensation for their services at said show.

• Ensure that the person who hires or transports the judge is not an exhibitor or related to an exhibitor.

• Maintain a copy of the current IJA Rule Book in the show of-fice.

• Provide a judges card for each class that includes the name of the class, the placings and a location for a signature. The time the class started and ended may be indicated.

• Provide a number for each horse being exhibited.• Arrange transportation of judges and DQP s to and from the

show grounds.• Provide either on site or on call ambulance service and quali-

fied EMT personnel.• Eliminate even if no protest has been filed, any horse, rider

or entry that show management has reason to believe is ineligible for competition in a particular class.

• Provide access to a telephone at shows where horses are stabled overnight.

• Arrange for a veterinarian on call.• Cooperate in whatever actions or activities may be requested

by USDA personnel.• Abide by all of the decisions made by either the judge(s) or

the DQP(s).• Arrange for the prompt payment of fees to DQP’s and Judges

as well as all other officials.• Pay for any an all expenses incurred for the benefit of the

show, including but not limited to awards, ribbons, vendors and facility fees.

• Pay premiums and other show expenses, including refunds, in a timely manner, usually within 60 days of completion of the show.

• To keep judges cards for one year

921 Changes in Competition Schedules• The order of classes may not be changed at a competition

without giving a minimum of two hours notice to exhibitors. This provision does not apply to classes cancelled for lack of entries.

• If a sanctioned event, already in progress, is cancelled due to inclement weather or some other unforeseen circumstance, show management may elect to continue the event at another time during the regularly scheduled program, reschedule the remaining classes on another day, or cancel the remainder of the event.

o If the competition is cancelled, show management must refund entry fees for the classes that have not been held within 30 days of cancellation of the competition.

o If a show or classes are rescheduled, exhibitors are entitled to a refund of entry fees and are under no obligation to show at the rescheduled event.

• Requests for refunds must be made by exhibitors at the office.• Show management has up to 30 days after the cancellation

to return all monies owed.

922 Warm-Up AreasAdequate areas for warming up or schooling of horses must be provided at FOSH sanctioned events. If “over fences” are offered,



1 –27

competitions must provide a practice fence in a section of the warm-up area for at least one hour before the class is called.

923 Classes Requiring PatternsWhen patterns are a required element of any class, the patterns must be posted in a visible location at least one hour prior to the start of the class.

924 Prize MoneyPrize money may be awarded in any class at the discretion of show management with the exception of youth classes and equitation classes. Show managers are encouraged to award appropriate prizes in youth classes that would correspond in value to the prize money offered in other classes.

925 Drugs and MedicationsAll horses shown in FOSH sanctioned competitions are governed by Therapeutic Substance Provisions as outlined in Chapter 8.

926 Drug TestingShow management reserves the right to have horses tested for the presence of prohibited substances if a judge, DQP, or exhibitor request that such testing be done: or if an exhibitor files a protest accompanied by the appropriate fee alleging that the horse is in violation of the Forbidden Substance rule. For current drug information, refer to the USEF Drug and Medications Guidelines.

927 Post Show Responsibilities of Show Management• If a DQP was hired: at the conclusion of the show provide

the DQP a class sheet for each class, showing all entries with breed identified, winners identified and a copy of the show bill or premium.

• If a DQP was not hired: within 5 days after the conclusion of the show, forward to USDA the form included with the Show Sanctioning Package. Federal Regulations (9CRF, Part 11, Section 11.24) require management of any horse show, exhibition, sale or auction containing Tennessee Walking Horses or Racking Horses to file a report with the USDA. See AP406a

• Forward a copy of the results of each class to FOSH Director of Sanctioned Shows within 30 days of the show.

• Forward to IJA Director of Judges a completed IJA Judges Evaluation Form.

independent judges association rule book - fosh ija rulebook-sec1.pdfjudges are qualified to judge...

Documents