Rules for the evaluation of the Western Trail discipline at the Hobbyhorse Championships
Table of Contents
1. ARENA
The size of the arena for the Western Trail discipline is 7 × 14 metres, with the possibility of adapting to specific obstacles.
The surface should be firm and safe, a sports surface with good friction is recommended.
The track contains obstacles that simulate working on a ranch (e.g. gate, logs, bridge).
2. BARRIERS AND THEIR ASSESSMENT
The Western Trail discipline includes a wide range of obstacles that test the abilities of the rider and the hobby horse:
2.1 Gateway
The rider opens and closes the gate without letting go of it. The rider must stop the hobby horse precisely in front of the gate, open it smoothly, pass through the gate and then close it.
Examples of evaluation:
- +3 points: smooth opening and closing of the gate without hesitation.
- -1 point: Minor loss of control of the hobby horse (e.g. inaccurate stop).
- -3 points: failure to close the gate or complete loss of control.
2.2 Pros
The rider passes over the pros (straight or in an “L” pattern) at a trot, canter or gallop, as instructed by the course pattern. The steps must be precise and without the joints touching the pulley. Even if there are multiple obstacles on the course – they are rated together with one rating.
Examples of evaluation:
- +3 points: smooth movement through the pros without touching.
- – 0.5 points: A slight touch of pros.
- – 2 points: shifting or overturning the pros.
2.3. Bridge
A rider leads a hobby horse over a simulated bridge. The transition must be even and stable.
Examples of evaluation:
- +1.5 points: smooth transition with balance.
- – 1 point: hesitation or loss of stability of the rider.
- – 3 points: Missing the bridge.
2.4 Stopping and reversing
The rider performs a precise stop and reverse through a defined space (e.g. between two poles). When reversing, the hobby horse must be kept straight.
Examples of evaluation:
- +2 points: straight and smooth reversing.
- 1 point: Slightly off track.
- – 2 points: significant swerving or stopping.
2.5 Avoiding cones
The rider demonstrates precise circumvention of cones or similar obstacles, according to the required path. The movement should be smooth and without disturbing the rhythm. Also, if there are multiple obstacles of the cue type on the course – they are scored together with one score.
Examples of evaluation:
- +3 points: precise trajectory without hesitation.
- + 0.5 point: Minor deviation from the track.
- – 2 points: skipping a cone.
3. EVALUATION OF MANOEUVRES
The course indicates in which sections the rider must walk, trot or canter. Each type – stride, trot, canter is judged separately. The following parameters are taken into account when evaluating each type:
3.1 Accuracy
The rider executes each movement precisely, without hesitation + 1.5 points in case of flawless execution, in case of mistakes decrease to -1.5 points.
3.2 Continuity and control
Movement over obstacles should be smooth, with clear control over the hobby horse: + 1.5 points for flawless execution, in case of mistakes decrease to -1.5 points.
3.3 Rider’s stance
The rider should have a stable and firm position, with the upper body relaxed and the hands steady: + 1.5 points for a flawless performance, in case of mistakes down to -1.5 points.
4. EVALUATION OF THE OVERALL IMPRESSION
The overall appearance and presentation of the ride (e.g. neatness of clothing, rider’s views) is assessed: + 5 points, in case of mistakes reduced to 0 points.
4. EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING
4.1 Equipment
Required: western bridle, smoker or hackamore.
Prohibited: whips, bandages.
4.2 Clothing
Sports shoes are compulsory.
Recommended: western style (long sleeve shirt, hat).
5. EVALUATION AND SCORING
5.1 Scoring
Each rider starts with 70 points.
Points are added (up to +1.5) or deducted (up to -1.5) based on the accuracy and execution of individual manoeuvres and completion of specified tasks.
Extra points (0-5 points) are awarded for overall impression and fluency.
5.2 Disqualification
Serious infringements of the rules (e.g. falling, missing several obstacles, getting lost on the course with more than 3 seconds delay, use of prohibited equipment).
5.3 Ranking
Riders are judged on points and time.
In case of equal number of points, the better time is decisive.
Excluded riders do not count towards the final standings.
Update: May 2025
Questions & Answers
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