Rules for Open Western Barrel Racing at the Hobbyhorse Championship

These rules govern the conduct and scoring of the sport of Western Barrel Racing at the qualifying round for the Hobbyhorse Championship.

1. ARENA

The size of the arena for Western Barrel Racing is 7 × 14 metres, with dimensions that can be adapted according to the space available.

The surface should be firm and secure, with good friction to ensure stability for riders and hobby horses.

The race involves a course with three barrels placed in a triangular formation. The barrels should be clearly visible and stable to minimize the risk of tipping over.

2. COMPETITION RULES

2.1 Track format

There are 3 barrels arranged in the arena to form an equilateral triangle.

The distance between barrels is 6 metres as standard, but can be adjusted according to the size of the arena.

The start and finish line is marked on one side of the arena.

2.2 Course of travel

The rider starts at the signal of the referee or timekeeper. He moves at a gallop (not a run) on the track.

The course is run in a “time trial” formation: the rider goes around the first barrel (left side), continues to the second barrel, which goes around the opposite (right) side, and goes around the third barrel again on the right side. After going around all the barrels, the rider goes back to the finish.

The exact order of the barrels is fixed (it is also shown on the sketch) and the rider is not allowed to change the direction of the barrels.

2.3 Completing the journey

The ride ends with the hobby horse crossing the finish line.

If a rider misses a barrel, completes a sequence incorrectly or overturns a barrel, penalties are applied or disqualification may occur.

3. EVALUATION

3.1 Time

The rider is judged on the total time taken to complete the course.

Time is measured to the hundredths of a second and recorded by an official timekeeper.

3.2 Penalties

• Touching the barrel: +0.5 seconds to the total time achieved.
• Overturning the barrel: +2.5 seconds to the total time achieved.
• No galloping – only running: +1.5 seconds to total time achieved
• Missing a barrel or incorrect order: disqualification.

3.3 Bonuses

• Smoothness: +1 point for smooth execution without hesitation.
• Aesthetics: +1 point for overall impression, including correct posture and handling of the hobby horse.
• Precision: +1 point for accurate barrel orbiting without excessive deflection.

A rider can score a maximum of 3 points in total per round.

4. EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING

4.1 Equipment

Required: western bridle, smoker or hackamore. Hobby horse must be stable and solidly built to handle the rigors of the trail.

Prohibited: whips, bandages and other assistive devices.

4.2 Clothing

Sports shoes with good friction are required to avoid slipping.

Recommended western style: long-sleeved shirt, hat or scarf, suitable trousers. Neat and clean clothing is discounted at points.

5. EVALUATION AND RANKING

5.1 Order

Riders are ranked based on a combination of time and points earned:

• Primary criterion: fastest time.
• Secondary criterion: number of points (at the same time).

In the event of a tie in time and points, the aesthetic impression of the ride, as determined by the judges, may be the deciding factor.

5.2 Disqualification

Disqualification occurs if:

• Barrel Omissions.
• Incorrect orbit order.
• Use of prohibited equipment.
• Disturbing other competitors or inappropriate behaviour.

6. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The organisers may adjust the size of the arena or the layout of the barrels as necessary.

In case of technical problems (e.g. timer malfunction), the ride may be repeated.

The decisions of the arbitrators shall be final and binding.