Class Descriptions

Turnout Classes - A Pleasure Driving class in which entries are judged primarily on the performance and quality of each turnout. All class entries are in the ring at the same time. Ribbons are presented in the ring at the end of the class. The turnout classes are designated for a specific equine size, driver, or carriage type. To be shown both ways of the arena at a walk, slow trot, working trot and strong trot. To stand quietly and to rein back. To be judged: 70% on the condition, fit and appropriateness of harness and vehicle, spares and appointments, neatness and appropriateness of attire, and overall impression; 30% on performance, manners and way of going
Working Classes - A Pleasure Driving class in which entries are judged primarily on the suitability of the horse to provide a pleasant drive. All class entries are in the ring at the same time. Ribbons are presented in the ring at the end of the class. The working classes are shown both ways of the arena at a walk, slow trot, working trot, and strong trot. Required also to stand quietly both on the rail and while lined up, and to rein back. All entries chosen for a work off may be worked both ways of the arena at any gait requested by the judge and may be asked to execute appropriate tests. To be judged: 70% on performance, manners and way of going of the horse(s); 20% on the condition, fit of harness and vehicle; 10% on neatness of attire.

Reinsmanship Classes - A Pleasure Driving class in which entries are judged primarily on the ability and skill of the
driver. All entries are in the ring at the same time.Ribbons are presented in the ring at the end of the class.
The Reinsmanship classes are shown both ways of the ring at a walk, slow trot, working trot and strong trot.
Drivers are required to rein back. All drivers chosen for a workout may be worked at any gait requested by the
judge and may be asked to execute appropriate tests. The driver should be seated comfortably on the box so as
to be relaxed and effective. Either a one-handed or two handed method of driving is acceptable. Common to
both methods, the elbows and arms should be close to the body with an allowing but steady hand enabling a
consistent “feel” with the horse’s mouth. Drivers should not be penalized or rewarded for using one general style
over another. To be judged:75% on handling of reins and whip, control, posture, and overall impression of driver.
25% on the condition of harness and neatness of attire.

NOTE: ALL OBSTACLE CLASSES ARE WALK/TROT ONLY. A horse may not be entered more than once in the same  Obstacle class, except as a single and again as part of a pair/multiple hitch (different entries). Therefore, there is no cross entering of division obstacle classes allowed by the same entry.

Reverse Psychology Obstacles - To be driven over a prescribed course of 8-10 obstacles (paired markers).
Obstacle clearance for horses and ponies is a set distance of 80 inches (200 cm). Distance will be less for VSE (TBD). After passing through the Start markers, all the obstacles must be driven in the correct sequence. After completing the highest-numbered obstacle, the driver will then turn and drive that obstacle in the reverse direction and
continue to drive all the remaining obstacles in reverse order and in the reverse direction and through the Finish markers where timing will stop. Course faults are as listed in Article 246 Penalties, in the Rule Book. Course faults are scored as penalty seconds and are added to the driver’s elapsed time. Placings are determined on a low total time basis; ties broken  on lower course fault total. Entries may be stopped by a signal from the judge after completing the highest numbered obstacle to allow dislodged/disturbed obstacles to be rebuilt
Your Route/My Route Obstacles a. To be driven over a course of 10 numbered obstacles. b. The suggested minimum obstacle clearance is 200 cm for paired markers and a minimum of 3.6 m for multiple obstacles such as “L” and “U” shapes. c. Your route: After passing through the start markers, the driver drives through all 10 obstacles in the correct sequence and direction. d. My route: After completing the #10 obstacle, the competitor will continue, without passing through the Start/Finish markers by driving all obstacles a second time in any sequence and in either direction. Time will be taken when passing through the Finish markers in either direction. e. Entries may be stopped by a signal from the judge after completing the #10 obstacle to allow dislodged/disturbed obstacles to be rebuilt. See Art. PD- 246. f. Course faults are assessed as penalty seconds and are added to the driver’s elapsed time. Placings are determined on a low total time basis. Ties for first may be decided by a drive-off