About Reining
Reining horses are judged individually as they complete one of 15 specified patterns. Each pattern includes small slow circles, large fast circles, flying lead changes, roll backs over the hocks, 360 degree spins and the exciting sliding stops that are the hallmark of the reining horse. One or more judges will score each horse beginning at 70.
The scoring system then adds or subtracts from .5 to 1.5 on each maneuver. Penalties points may also be subtracted from the score for incorrect performance.A scribe keeps track of each judge's maneuver scores and penalties on a score sheet. Scores are calculated and announced after each run.
The reining horse must be willfully guided. Deductions should be applied for gagging, excessive head raising, stopping or backing sideways, refusals, anticipation, stumbling or falling and disobedience. Credit should be given for smoothness, finesse, willing attitude and accuracy. Controlled speed during the pattern raises the level of difficulty so should be rewarded with higher scores provided the maneuvers are still performed correctly. Reining horses may perform with individual style according to their conformation. The sport of Reining is open to all breeds and is exciting and pleasing to watch. Reining was a demonstration horse sport at the 2000 Olympics boding well to be a future Olympic event.
Non Sanctioned Event Rules
i) BEGINNER HORSE
1. Open to any age HORSE that has not won three "Beginner Horse" events or any sanctioned event at any RA or NRHA show.
2. Riders may use one or two hands on the reins or change from one handed to two handed throughout the performance.
3. Any legal headgear allowed.
4. Not restricted to western attire or western saddlery, however, riders must wear long sleeve shirt buttoned down and hat or helmet.
Caps not allowed.
ii) BEGINNER RIDER
1. Open to any RIDER that has not won three "Beginner Rider" or three "Beginner Horse" or any sanctioned event at any RA or NRHA show.
2. Riders may use one or two hands on the reins or change from one handed to two handed throughout the performance.3. Any legal headgear allowed.
4. Not restricted to western attire or western saddlery, however, riders must wear long sleeve shirt buttoned down and hat or helmet.
Caps not allowed.
BEGINNER YOUTH
1. The above rules apply with the exception of age. Youth 18yrs and under.
2, Rules 2, 3 & 4 apply in the above classes.
HORSE 4 YEARS & UNDER
Open to any HORSE that is 4 years & under.
Riders may use one or two hands on the reins or change from one handed to two handed throughout the performance.
Any legal headgear allowed. Not restricted to western attire or western saddlery, however, riders must wear long sleeve
shirt buttoned down and hat or helmet. Caps not allowed.
HORSE 5 YEARS & OVER
Open to any HORSE that is 5 years & over.
Riders may use one or two hands on the reins or change from one handed to two
handed throughout the performance.
Any legal headgear allowed.
Not restricted to western attire or western saddlery, however, riders must wear long
sleeve shirt buttoned down and hat or helmet. Caps not allowed.