Suggestions Which Have Resulted in a Rule Change for 2017

Suggestions which have resulted in a Rule change for 2017

Black print : Suggested Rule Amendment; Red print : Rules Committee Response; Blue print : Change to the Rule.

 The following submissions have been grouped together as a single point for consideration: o May I suggest that the bitting rule be revised? What some may consider a 'suitable' bit does not necessarily mean that others will agree. I judged at a show this year where my co-judge deducted 15 penalties (quite rightly in my opinion) for an unsuitable bit in a Novice class. It turned out that this particular pony had won previous classes (and, apparently, championships) whilst wearing this bit. I feel that clarification is needed on this rule - could we go back to having sketches of the bits allowed? This would remove any doubt as to which bits are permitted, therefore making it clear for competitors and judges alike.

o I would like to bring to the attention of the council the fact that the Bitting rules for novices leaves judges and competitors in a very grey area.

o I recently judged novice workers and myself and my fellow judge agreed that any snaffle with a gag effect, in other words, anything with a ring below the main ring, exerting pressure on the poll, was not suitable for novice classes. This was the criteria used from the start of the day and any who rode in this type of bit, such as a two-ring snaffle, were duly penalised 15 penalties. Hanging snaffles and Wilkies, we deemed to be suitable.

o After one of the classes we were approached by a parent (the pony was 3rd, but would have won had it not been penalised for having a two ring) and informed that her pony had won novice classes and championships all year wearing the same bit. I could understand her frustration but, as I explained to her, this was the criteria we had used all day and if we were to change the result we would have to do the same for every class since the start of the day!

o We discussed the situation with a few of the people present, opinions varied but the wording in the rule book reads "any suitable snaffle"...... well, I feel two or three ring snaffles are not suitable but obviously, many judges do not agree with me!

o It is an intolerable situation for competitors to not know what criteria will be used from show to show and I feel we need to have a black and white, unambiguous definition of permitted bits in novice classes. I still maintain my stance that a simple snaffle is a simple snaffle but will abide by whatever the majority decides ...... but please do not put us judges in such a difficult situation, to say nothing for the unfortunate competitors who need to be prepared for whatever the rule of the day might be!!

 The Rules Committee has decided to make some minor amendments to rules 20 & 228, prompted by the submissions above. The Rules now read:  20. b) In Novice Show Pony & Show Hunter Pony classes, suitable Snaffle bits combined with a suitable noseband must be used.  20. c) In Open Show Pony and Open Show Hunter Pony Classes, Snaffle, double or Pelham bridles are permitted - the only conditions being that…….etc.  20. d) In Novice Working Hunter Classes, only the following bits will be acceptable: Snaffle, 2 ring Snaffle, Pelham with roundings and Kimblewick.  20. e) In Novice and Open Working Hunter Classes, Martingales and any nosebands are permitted but judges will pay particular attention to their effectiveness.  20. f) In Open Show Pony and Open Show Hunter Classes, flash nosebands may be used with a Snaffle bridle.  228. a) In Novice Working Hunter Classes, Snaffle, 2 ring Snaffle, Pelham with roundings and Kimblewick bits combined with a suitable noseband must be used, otherwise 15 penalties will be deducted from the score in Phase 1. It is impossible to define accurately all of the potential permutations of bits. The IPS has given competitors and judges a broad definition of what is permissible - thereafter, it is the remit of every judge to decide the appropriateness of the bit based on each individual case.

 I refer to Novice Working Hunter Ponies competing when there is only one class at a show. During the last season, at least one show that I judged at had this class. Some of the competitors were under the impression that Novice Ponies could "Walk" the course mounted. There is nothing in the rules to suggest this. If this is to be allowed, then it should state so in the rules. However, this could make life very difficult for the judges, as who is to know a Novice Pony. Anyway, surely these courses should be built with the Novice Pony in mind.  The Rules Committee has decided to make a minor amendment to rule 229, prompted by this submission. However, it is already clearly stated that in novice classes, the course may be inspected mounted. The Rule now reads:  229. Riders may walk the course accompanied by an adult. In Novice Classes, the Course may be inspected mounted. In Open Classes, ONLY Novice ponies may inspect the course whilst mounted. No animals are allowed to practise over any part of the Course before the commencement of any of the Classes.

 If a person wishes to become a member, the results from the most recent show they competed at before the membership was taken up should be allowed to be counted.  The Rules Committee has re-affirmed the position in relation to this submission. A non-member may compete at three shows before deciding to become a member. Potential points earned from these shows will only be taken into account if the individual joins the Society immediately after the third show and requests a showing card at the time of taking out membership. Rule 62 has been amended for clarity and now reads:  62. a) ……. All ponies not previously registered with the I.P.S. are deemed OPEN until proven otherwise which is the responsibility of the owner.

Points will only be awarded to fully paid up members of the I.P.S.

 Bit Rules for Novice WHP ponies should be more clearly defined.  The Rules Committee has decided to make some minor amendments to rules 20 and 228 prompted by the submissions above. The Rules now read:  20. b) In Novice Show Pony & Show Hunter Pony classes, suitable Snaffle bits combined with a suitable noseband must be used.  20. c) In Open Show Pony and Open Show Hunter Pony Classes, Snaffle, double or Pelham bridles are permitted - the only conditions being that…….etc.  20. d) In Novice Working Hunter Classes, only the following bits will be acceptable: Snaffle, 2 ring Snaffle, Pelham with roundings and Kimblewick.  20. e) In Novice and Open Working Hunter Classes, Martingales and any nosebands are permitted but judges will pay particular attention to their effectiveness.  20. f) In Open Show Pony and Open Show Hunter Classes, flash nosebands may be used with a Snaffle bridle.  228. a) In Novice Working Hunter Classes, Snaffle, 2 ring Snaffle, Pelham with roundings and Kimblewick bits combined with a suitable noseband must be used, otherwise 15 penalties will be deducted from the score in Phase 1.

 The NOVICE age for ridden ponies is very low, perhaps this should also be determined according to a point’s threshold or age 8, whichever is reached first.  The Rules Committee has decided to make a minor revision to the rule in relation to the submission above. The Rules Committee believes that in the interest of encouraging new members (ponies and riders) it has been decided to increase the age limit for novice ridden classes to seven (7) years. This rule will be reviewed again for the 2018 season. The Rule now reads:  62. c) ……All Novice Ridden Classes, including Mini Show Pony, Mini Show Hunter and Intermediate, are confined to ponies 4, 5, 6 and 7 years old that have not gained 50 points. All ponies 8 years old and over, will be deemed to be open. Points calculated……  Non-Members - Northern Area in particular is affected. Membership fees are seen as expensive - members don't see that they are benefitting by being a member. A non-member can compete at same show and pay a small levy. The non-member doesn't have same scrutiny applied regarding heights of ponies, open or novice etc. because simply not resources to monitor on the day. Either the society is a members-only society, or the membership fees are significantly reduced to retain current members and attract new members. A non-member can attend approximately 4 or 5 shows and compete in several classes before it becomes cost effective to be a member. Northern area runs 3 or 4 shows per year so therefore why would anyone see the benefit of membership.  The Rules Committee has re-affirmed the position in relation to this submission. A non-member may compete at three shows before deciding to become a member. Potential points earned from these shows will only be taken into account if the individual joins the Society immediately after the third show and requests a showing card at the time of taking out membership. Show organisers may request an up to date copy of the membership list from the IPS office to assist with identifying current members of the Society. Areas are reminded to request a copy of competitor’s membership cards when registering/paying entries into classes at shows. The rule now reads:  3. To facilitate a competitor, membership is available on a day-to-day basis for a maximum of three (3) I.P.S. affiliated shows. Such membership expires at the end of each day on which the subscription was paid. These members have no voting rights.

 3. c) Ponies that compete on a daily basis will not be eligible for qualifying points for annual awards unless the owner and rider become members immediately after their third show and request a showing card at that time. Points won will, however, be recorded regardless of membership status for future qualification and for the purpose of determining status.

 Derby to be open to include a starter stakes section and Mountain and Moorland Section with relevant Derby points recorded. An extra 10 points added for a clear in phase 1.  The Rules Committee has reviewed the submissions above and makes the following observations: o Starter stakes section may be added to the Derby schedule at the discretion of the show organisers. o Mountain & Moorland section may already compete in their appropriate height category so no change is proposed. o No additional points will be added for a clear round in phase 1.

The Rule now reads:  183. For ponies, mares or geldings, 4 years and over, with the same height and rider age criteria as in Working Hunter Classes. This competition is open to Starter Stakes (at the organisers discretion), 133cms., 143cms., 153cms. and 158cms. categories only.

 By its name, this competition envisages a much longer course of varied fences - at least 75% of which must be knockable.

 In the case of the Starter Stakes Class, the water hazard may be omitted at the organisers discretion.

 A Panel Course Builder must be used……..

 Change Judges Panel rules to allow senior judges who have years of experience, back onto panel without having to complete the assessment day. But we suggest that they are asked to come to a seminar to familiarise themselves with current rules etc. Also, senior judges from other recognised lists i.e. Connemara, ISA etc. Current Rule 258 reads “shows must choose judges from IPS panel or a panel recognised by the IPS”. PLEASE CLARIFY WHAT PANELS ARE RECOGNISED BY IPS.  The Rules Committee has reviewed the submissions above and makes the following observations: o In the interest of fairness and transparency, there will be no change to the current requirements with regard to the Judges Assessment day criteria. o For clarity, rule 258 has been amended and the Rule now reads:  258. Shows must choose judges for the I.P.S. Affiliated Classes from either the I.P.S panel or a panel recognised by the I.P.S. The following panels are recognised by the IPS: BSPS, NPS, WPCS and the CPS (for relevant classes). Individuals who are on other panels may be considered but they must make a written application to the Judges Chairman who will present their case to Council.

 Rule No:184b. Clarify what restricted fence height is. (Gold Cup)  The Rules Committee has reviewed the submission above and has decided to remove the term “restricted” as it is no longer relevant. The Rule now reads:  184. b) Working Hunter: Jumped over a Working Hunter Course of not less than ten obstacles (which must include a double) set at appropriate heights for the class specification.

 Rule No 165: Clarification on what snaffle bits are deemed suitable. Revert to the IPS previous list page 17 of old rule book which had diagrams and add to as necessary. Rule No 165 allows only suitable snaffle bits, however, rule no. 165a actually clarifies that a two or three ring snaffle is allowed in open, which hence must mean that they are not allowed in Novice unless incurring penalties.  The Rules Committee has decided to make some minor amendments to rule 165 as recommended by the WHP Committee submission above. The Rule now reads:  165. In Novice Working Hunter Classes, snaffle, 2 ring snaffle, Pelham with roundings and Kimblewick bits combined with a suitable noseband must be used, otherwise 15 penalties will be deducted from the score in Phase 1.

 Rule No 140 does not allow for pones over the age of 6 to compete in a NOVICE SHOW HUNTER CLASS. This is discouraging older yet novice ponies from entering any show class as they are at a severe disadvantage in an open class and unwilling to enter them. This is also discouraging new members who are often only willing to enter a flat class until they understand rules etc. as it is seen as a “safe “option. However, if they are ineligible to enter a novice ridden class they will be discouraged from entering any class, and from joining IPS. We understand that this rule was introduced to encourage young ponies however, currently the classes are close to empty. Novice ponies should be classed as Novice based SOLELY on the IPS points gained.  The Rules Committee has decided to make a minor revision to the rule in relation to the submission above. The Rules Committee believes that in the interest of encouraging new members (ponies and riders) it has been decided to increase the age limit for novice ridden classes to seven (7) years. This rule will be reviewed again for the 2018 season. The Rule now reads:  140. a) Ponies, mares or geldings, 4, 5, 6 and 7 years old that have not gained 50 points in Show Hunter Pony Classes at Shows affiliated to the Irish Pony Society including IPS Shows.

 3 shows as non-member:  The Rules Committee has re-affirmed the position in relation to this submission. A non-member may compete at three shows before deciding to become a member. Potential points earned from these shows will only be taken into account if the individual joins the Society immediately after the third show and requests a showing card at that time. Areas are reminded to request a copy of competitor’s membership cards when registering/paying entries into classes at shows. The Rule now reads:  3. To facilitate a competitor, membership is available on a day-to-day basis for a maximum of three (3) I.P.S. affiliated shows. Such membership expires at the end of each day on which the subscription was paid. These members have no voting rights.

 3. c) Ponies that compete on a daily basis will not be eligible for qualifying points for annual awards unless the owner and rider become members immediately after their third show and request a showing card at that time. Points won will however be recorded regardless of membership status for future qualification and for the purpose of determining status.

 Ponies tied to Lorries  The Rules Committee has noted this observation and decided to increase the fine from fifty euro (€50) to one hundred and fifty euro (€150) for the 2017 season. Failure to pay this fine or a repeat offence will result in expulsion from the show ground. The Rule now reads:  23. a) Ponies may be lunged in side reins in preparation for a class. Ponies may not be ridden in side reins, draw reins, grass reins and/or any other training aids whilst on the showground. Lunging may only take place in a designated are of the showground or a suitable, quiet area of the field. PONIES MAY NOT BE RIDDEN WHILST BEING LUNGED. Ponies may only be lunged by persons aged over 18 years.

Adults who are eligible to compete under class specifications may only ride or school ponies on which they are competing at shows. However, ponies 133cms. and under may be ridden in by rider members not exceeding 16 years on 1st January of the current year.

All shows organised by the I.P.S. will be permitted to charge a fine of €50 for contravention of the above. In the event of a fine not being paid within seven days, automatic suspension will occur, only to be lifted when payment of said fine is received.

 23. b) The tying of ponies to trailers/lorries poses a very real and serious health & safety risk to members and the ponies themselves. The I.P.S. strictly prohibits the tying of any ponies to trailers or lorries, regardless of the pony’s temperament.

All shows organised by the I.P.S. will be permitted to charge a fine of €150 for contravention of the above. In the event of a fine not being paid within seven days, automatic suspension will occur, only to be lifted when payment of said fine is received.

 For safety reasons, girls with long hair should have it tied up at all times.  The Rules Committee has noted this observation and decided to make an amendment to Rule 19. The Rule now reads:  19. Hair: In Working Hunter Classes only, long hair must be tied up/placed in a bun when competing in phase 1.

 Cannot have a pony measured until a date has been received from SJI – and this may be outside of the 21 days.  The Rules Committee has noted this observation and decided to make an amendment to Rule 14. The Rule now reads:  14 (xii) (b). If the IPS requests a re-measurement, an application for re-measuring must be made at an approved Measuring Centre within twenty one (21) days of the notification of the complaint or request. Failure to make the application within twenty one (21) days as requested by the I.P.S. will result in the subject pony ……..

 2 ring snaffles – not acceptable  The Rules Committee has decided to make some minor amendments to rules 20 and 228, following the submissions above. The Rules now read:  20. b) In Novice Show Pony & Show Hunter Pony classes, suitable Snaffle bits combined with a suitable noseband must be used.  20. c) In Open Show Pony and Open Show Hunter Pony Classes, Snaffle, double or Pelham bridles are permitted - the only conditions being that…….etc.  20. d) In Novice Working Hunter Classes, only the following bits will be acceptable: Snaffle, 2 ring Snaffle, Pelham with roundings and Kimblewick.  20. e) In Novice and Open Working Hunter Classes, Martingales and any nosebands are permitted but judges will pay particular attention to their effectiveness.  20. f) In Open Show Pony and Open Show Hunter Classes, flash nosebands may be used with a Snaffle bridle.  228. a) In Novice Working Hunter Classes, 2 ring Snaffle, Pelham with roundings and Kimblewick bits combined with a suitable noseband must be used, otherwise 15 penalties will be deducted from the score in Phase 1.  Although the ‘Sportsman’ classes seemed a good idea they have not been used to any purpose, and although the rule whereas novice classes are confined to 4, 5 and 6yr is essential for a fair playing field for the young and inexperienced pony, there is an opening for a class that was not either family pony or sportsman’s, but a showing category for ponies 7-12years that had not gained 50 points. This might be a way to help increase membership as I have heard people say that they will not join because their pony is over 6 but has done nothing, however, it must be stressed that novice classes are for novice ponies, not novice riders.  The Rules Committee has decided to make a minor revision to the rule in relation to the submission above. The Rules Committee believes that in the interest of encouraging new members (ponies and riders) it has been decided to increase the age limit for novice ridden classes to seven (7) years. This rule will be reviewed again for the 2018 season.  62. c) ……All Novice Ridden Classes, including Mini Show Pony, Mini Show Hunter and Intermediate, are confined to ponies 4, 5, 6 and 7 years old that have not gained 50 points. All ponies 8 years old and over, will be deemed to be open. Points calculated……

 Starter Stakes classes should be seen by both exhibitor and judge as a stepping stone between mini and 133cms classes, not just another 133cms class if the rider happens to be under 12. It seems that many of the children in their first year out of first ridden classes, who may not even have cantered in company, are having to compete against children who have, because of height or capability, been competing in starter stakes for 3 or 4 years. Rather than cut the show entries by bringing back the rule where one could not compete as both starter stakes and 133cms on the same day, it could be that a rider has 2 years only in starter stakes classes and must then progress to 133cms classes. The under 12 stipulation would remain.  The Rules Committee has noted this observation and decided to limit the number of years a rider may compete in the Starter Stakes classes to two years. The Rule now reads:  147. Open Show Starter Stakes Class For ponies, mares or geldings, 4 years old and over, not exceeding 133cms., suitable for and to be ridden by riders who have not attained their 12th birthday on the 1st January of the current year. Riders may only compete in this class for two (2) years, commencing from the 1st January 2017.

This restriction applies to all Starter Stakes and Working Starter Stakes Classes, commencing from the 2017 Showing Season.

 The overshowing of 1 – 3yr olds is becoming a welfare issue because of the points system. All young ponies and mares with foals should only be able to declare their points from 10 shows when sending in their showing cards. The choice of the shows would be up to the owner, and in the case of an equality of points the pony with the highest percentage of championships would win.  The Rules Committee has noted this observation and decided to limit the number of shows as proposed above. The Rule now reads:  64. Ponies in the Breeding & Youngstock classes must be shown without hind shoes and those, one-year-old and over, must wear a bit.

To be eligible for Championships, ponies must be registered with the I.P.S.

Points from 10 shows only will be taken into account for the IPS National Awards for Mares and Foals at foot, in-foal Mares and 1-3 year old youngstock. Points must be recorded on the showing card. In the event of a tie, the pony with the most Championships will be deemed overall Champion.

 Gold Cup Suggestion Rule Clarifications Please consider the following to be added to the Tom Robinson Gold Cup page: 184 . This competition is to be run over three disciplines a) No change b) No change add restricted heights details c) No change

Height Category” Discipline”

 Rosettes will be awarded 1 – 4 in each height category discipline: Working Hunter, Dressage and Show jumping. (48 rosettes)

Points Table to stay as is Height Category “Overall”  Rosettes will be awarded to 1 – 4 in each height category: Overall 133cms, Overall 143cms, Overall 153 cms, Overall 158 cms. (16 rosettes)

Ponies receive points (as per above table) for their placings in each discipline. The pony with the highest points will be the winner.

 Tom Robinson Gold Cup

 Rosettes will be awarded 1 – 6 in overall Tom Robinson Gold Cup Challenge  To calculate overall placing for the Tom Robinson Gold Cup all competitors scores, in each discipline will be ranked against each other e.g. the competitor with the best Working Hunter mark (no matter which height category) will be awarded 100 pts and so on down the placing’s.  This allows for the best ponies to be scored against each other and an overall winner selected to receive the Tom Robinson Trophy.

In the Event of a Tie Working Hunter:  If there is a parity of marks in Working Hunter – the highest jumping score will be awarded the higher placing. Dressage:  If there is a parity of points in Dressage – the highest collective score will be awarded the higher placing. Show Jumping:  The fastest time will be awarded the higher placing.  If competitors remain on the same scores – each will be allocated the same points for their relevant placing i.e. more than one competitor can receive the same points. However, the next placing will then be skipped. i.e. if two competitors are awarded points for 2 nd place. The next points allocated will be for 4th place.

 The Rules Committee has reviewed the submissions above in relation to the Tom Robinson Gold Cup and decided not to make any revisions to the rules. However, the following text will be added to the rule book to add further clarity. The Rule will now read:  184. After the table of points to be awarded in each section, the following text will be added: Individual height category competition: . In the event of a tie in the WHP competition, the highest jumping mark will be placed higher, if still a tie, then the highest way of going mark will be placed higher. . In the event of a tie in the Dressage competition, the highest Collective mark will be placed higher. . In the event of a tie in the Showing Jumping competition, then the fastest time will be placed higher. Overall Gold Cup competition: . In the event of a tie in the Gold Cup placings, the highest jumping mark will be placed higher. If still a tie, then the highest way of going mark will be placed higher.

Suggestions which have not resulted in a Rule change

 I am wondering if you could amend the rule whereby 123 show hunter ponies and riders are prohibited from competing in 128 Show pony class. The reason is: The class specification for both classes read the same. It would give a child a chance to ride at Agricultural shows where there is no 123 Show Hunter class & it would also help with entries in Show Pony Category as these classes seem to be dying out and we will once again be back to where we started 30 yrs ago when we went to the effort of getting shows to segregate the show pony section.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The Rules Committee believes that the current class structure provides ample opportunity for all children to be able to compete in a sufficient number of classes on the same day. The Rules Committee is making a recommendation to the Area Committees to offer assistance and support to their local Agricultural Show Committee colleagues in order to ensure that as full a schedule of classes as possible is made available to competitors.

 I am not requesting that the children who ride in 1st ridden or 1st year 1st ridden are allowed because these children do not canter together as a group. Also, maybe you might consider also that the ponies shown in young handlers do not have to be ridden on that day for I know a few children who would be interested in just showing but would not be confident enough to ride at shows yet.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. Ponies must be entered in a ridden class on the same day so as to demonstrate the suitability of the pony to be led by a young handler. It should be noted that the rider does not have to be the handler.

 At the Agricultural Shows where classes are titled 'Open Lead Rein' or 'Open First Ridden' both Show Ponies and Show Hunter Ponies are eligible to compete however points won in these classes are only allocated to 'Show Ponies' so should a Show Hunter Pony win the class the points are not allocated to the SHP category in which it is clearly trying to gain points in but allocated to a SP category which is not even relevant to the pony. However, at the same shows in Open First Year First Ridden classes, points won are allocated to the category in which the placed ponies are clearly competing. I feel that all three of the classes should be uniform and points won in all three classes should be allocated to the category in which that pony belongs.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The solution to this issue is to encourage the Agricultural Shows to clearly specify which category the class is open to on the schedule. The Rules Committee is making a recommendation to the Area Committees to offer assistance and support to their local Agricultural Shows Committee colleagues in order to ensure that as full a schedule of classes as possible is made available to competitors.

 The rule that prevents children from riding in ridden classes and lead rein and first ridden on the same day is a problem for us, we have a very tall 7yo who has an open 122 SHP, 138 SP, 133 SHP, 122 FR and a 122 M&M to the point where it is will probably prevent us from joining again next year as there is rarely the same rule in place at other shows except at Balmoral or Dublin, so instead of taking 5 ponies to the show (as we do at county shows and n England) we can only take the 3 small ponies and in fact we usually only take 2. I would suggest that children may not ride in lead rein classes on the same day as riding in open classes but they could ride in SP & SHP first ridden and the other open classes on the same day, the same as the M&M first ridden. It makes it very hard to bridge the gap of moving the kids up into bigger ponies and classes when they can’t do it alongside their FR ponies unless you do a show on Saturday with your LR & FR and Sunday with your hunter ponies and show ponies.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The Rules Committee believes that the current class structure provides ample opportunity for all children to be able to compete in a sufficient number of classes on the same day.

 A text service should be put in place to remind members of upcoming shows and the early discounted entry fee. I did not know about the GOLD Cup event recently held in Wexford as I did not see it on the home page of the IPS website, I assumed all shows were over, so I did not think to look under the working hunter / Shows section of the website. A text service here would have prompted me to look for the event and enter. The IPS needs to advertise more forcefully about the variety and types of classes run at the shows and advertise shows more regularly. The Area awards should be more eagerly advertised at shows to encourage people to become members. There needs to be more marketing of Member benefits i.e. points earned by ponies.  The Rules Committee has noted these observations and has passed them on to our PR representative and Area Committees for consideration/implementation.

 The IPS should allow more outings without being forced to become a member but no points earned unless one is a member, therefore no area prizes unless they become members.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. Our members frequently comment with regard to the benefits of being an IPS member - actioning this point would result in a dilution of the benefits of IPS membership which the Rules Committee is not prepared to consider at this time.

 There should perhaps be a monetary prize for the highest earning ponies in all categories. This would encourage members to attend IPS shows more regularly.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The point’s awards have previously resulted in welfare issues arising both for children and animals in some cases. Providing a financial incentive for the annual awards is considered not to be in the best interest of the Society or its members at this time.

 There is a need for courses to be built to heights as per the IPS rule book and for more interesting courses. Classes that run with courses too small become more of a show class rather than about the performance.  The Rules Committee has decided to refer this point to the Working Hunter Committee and the Area Committees for their consideration. It should be noted that, at the start of the season, it is considered prudent not to have the fences up to height but, of course, they must still present a challenge for the competitors and their animals.

 First Year Cradle Stakes and First Year First Riddens should be open to children not yet aged 8 on Jan 1st even if they have competed in First Year classes the previous year. Also, children aged nine before Jan 1st should not be allowed to compete in First Year First Ridden etc...  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The Rules Committee believes that the current class structure provides ample opportunity for all children to be able to compete in a sufficient number of classes on the same day.

 Novice WHP ponies should also have an age limit on them i.e. turn open after the year in which 50 points is reached or upon turning age 8, whichever comes first.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The Rules Committee believes that, in the interest of encouraging new members (ponies and riders), it has been decided to leave the age limit for novice WHP classes uncapped.

 Council members should be active in their own area if on council, e.g. attend meetings, awards night and help run shows.  The Rules Committee has noted these observations and suggests that they should be raised at the Area AGM’s/Area meetings.

 Ambulance to made compulsory at all IPS shows.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The IPS works closely with its insurance advisors and the current first aid provision is in keeping with the requirements as specified by our insurance provider.

 Three months’ notice for rules suggestions e.g. 8 days’ notice with horse of the year show in the middle of the 8 days not enough time to call meeting and discuss with members.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. Members are entitled to propose amendments to the rules at any stage throughout the year, albeit a cut-off point to enable any revisions to be included in the following years rule book is usually imposed in September every year.

 Height Certificate - should mean annual height certificate. Once a pony has been measured in the current year no objection to that certificate should be considered until the start of the next year. At the point of the next year then if necessary the pony should be asked to go to the Veterinary College. Similar procedure should apply to a challenge to a life height certificate.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The IPS believes that the current financial requirement imposed (in order to lodge a height objection) is set at a sufficient level to ensure that only legitimate measurement complaints are submitted.

 IPS council should be configured so that as a minimum all area chairpersons are on council, in addition to chair, secretary & treasurer. This would assist in each area having its voice.  The Rules Committee has reviewed the submission above. Council has representation from all but two Areas currently. Council agrees with this submission and has and continues to actively seek members from each Area Committee.

 Requirement for paramedic at all events needs reviewed. Most of the facilities that the Northern area use are equestrian facilities that run many events over the year. Their requirements are that if they are within an acceptable distance of a hospital then paramedics are not required. If Northern Area must provide this paramedic at all shows this will therefore finish the area. Northern Area cannot cover the costs (£250), within current entry fee structure to maintain profitability. Entry fees cannot be increased to cover as simply uncompetitive, and therefore competitors go elsewhere. Insurance company needs to understand the commercials of this requirement and seek alternative?  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The IPS works closely with its insurance advisors and the current first aid provision is in keeping with the requirements as specified by our insurance provider.

 I would like to suggest that the open and novice 158cms WHP should be included in the open and novice WHP championships, rather than in the intermediate championship, so that they may be judged against other ponies of their type. As it stands, the intermediate working hunters often miss out on a chance to display their most important pace, the gallop, due the championships sometimes taking place in smaller rings (free of fences) to cater for the show hunter and show riding type winners. This often results in the contestants not being asked to gallop, giving the ridden ponies an unfair advantage due to their, usually, more floating movement in the other paces.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions in relation to the submission above. However, the Rules Committee will request that Area Committees ensure the rings used for larger animals and, in particular, championship classes are appropriate to facilitate all ponies to demonstrate their paces. In addition, this point will be raised at the 2017 judge’s seminar to ensure that judges request that all animals are asked to extend.  Intermediates to be included in the height championships instead of being separate.  The Rules Committee has reviewed the submission above and has decided not to make any revisions in relation to the submission above.

 Criteria for becoming a Mountain and Mooreland Judge needs to be changed. Not everyone is in a position to travel to England. We suggest that a training clinic be offered to judges who are currently on IPS panel or recognised panels who may be interested in going on M & M panel.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. As not all breeds are available to be judged in Ireland, it is deemed essential that any training course must provide judges with a complete knowledge based on the relevant subject matter.

 Show Hunter Judges to be allowed to judge the second phase of the working hunter competition. See IPS website which states “a working hunter is a show hunter that jumps”.  The Rules Committee has reviewed the submission above and agrees with the recommendation of the WHP Committee and, therefore, “flat” judges may judge the second phase of working hunter classes. This has been passed to the Judges Chairman for inclusion in the 2017 judges list.

 The new marking sheet for the show hunter classes is proving cumbersome and too time consuming for judges. We suggest a marking sheet more like the 2nd phase marking sheet currently used by WH classes.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above.

 Rule 179 –Open working hunter lead rein – the committee feels that these classes should be looked at with regards to health and safety and insurance.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. However, we would make the following recommendations: o Leaders must wear appropriate, non-restrictive attire when competing in these classes. o Area Committees must take care when laying out the LRWH track, ensuring the ground is in good condition and the grass is cut to an appropriate length to ensure the jumps are visible.

 Could we suggest that the novice points be extended from 50 points to 75 points. 50 point is not enough to bring on a novice working hunter pony. As novice classes are not on every schedule ponies must enter combined classes where open points are earned. Novice classes are mainly on IPS run shows or on Area Show schedules where points and half are issued. If there are novice classes on schedules there are so few ponies competing that points are easily clocked up.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. As it stands, a pony must win 13 classes in order to lose its novice status, which the Rules Committee believes to be sufficient.

 Run qualifiers for the summer championship show for Working Hunter Classes. These would be held at Area and IPS run shows.  It is envisaged to run qualifiers for all open classes for the 2017 Championship Show.

 Secure sponsorship in the form of money for Working Hunter Championships at all shows but especially Summer Championship show.  This point has been passed to the WHP Committee for consideration.

 Try to secure qualifiers for some of the major UK Shows e.g. R.I.H.S, Burghley etc.  Qualifiers have been held for the RIHS and were poorly supported. These qualifiers require a premium to be paid in addition to the normal class entry fee and this has proven to be off-putting for our members. Securing qualifiers which are poorly supported runs the risk of the IPS not receiving additional qualifiers in the future.  Increase the advertising of the IPS and its many achievements to encourage new members. How many people know that two of our Olympians started in IPS.  The Rules Committee has noted these observations and has passed them on to our PR representative and Area Committees for consideration/implementation.

 Approach Tattersall’s Ireland re-running a Gold Cup Final in May in conjunction with their International 3 Day event, and run qualifiers for this at our IPS spring shows.  This point has been passed to the WHP Committee for consideration.

 Run a Derby League throughout the year.  This point has been passed to the WHP Committee for consideration.

 Have a survey “for or against” points awards. Do we have too many categories?  This point has been passed to the National Awards Committee for consideration.

 Suggest giving all ponies showing cards as part of their membership package at no extra cost.  The Rules Committee has noted this observation and is currently not in a financial position to remove the charge for the showing cards. Should the membership number increase, it may be possible to remove the charge for the showing cards in the future.

 There should be a representative from each sub-committee on the rules committee.  All of the sub Committees are currently represented on the Rules Committee.

 Website is not interactive and needs updating. Have links from all the major equestrian websites to our IPS website.  The Rules Committee has noted these observations and has passed them on to our PR representative for consideration/implementation.

 Have posters printed that can be put in all the major riding centres, or shops like TRI etc.  The Rules Committee has noted these observations and has passed them on to our PR representative and Area Committees for consideration/implementation.

 Currently there is a shortage of judges on the panel. We suggest the following list of people be contacted and invited to put their names forward for assessment. All are very interested and involved in the showing industry.  The Rules Committee has welcomed this initiative and passed the list to the Judges Chairman for consideration.

 Mini Grid  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above. The Rules Committee believes that the current class structure provides ample opportunity for all children to be able to compete in a sufficient number of classes on the same day.

 Warm-up area – in Class Specifications  The Rules Committee has noted these observations and will pass them on to the Area Committees for implementation.

 Perhaps the working hunter lead rein has run its day, as it is of no great advantage to the young rider. Those ready to jump would be much better starting off in first year cradle stakes, and maybe instead of calling it ‘First Year’ it should be confined to riders not 10 on the first of January. I noted that this year a couple of riders who did 1st year cradle stakes last year were not ready to progress to a 50cms course, and therefore gave the up altogether.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above, however, we would make the following recommendations: o Leaders must wear appropriate, non-restrictive attire when competing in these classes. o Area Committees must take care when laying out the LRWH track, ensuring the ground is in good condition and the grass is cut to an appropriate length to ensure the jumps are visible. o It is the responsibility of the parents and guardians of our younger members to decide when their children are in a position to progress from one class to the next and it is felt that the current class structures facilitate this appropriately.

 With the HSI processing our passports is it possible to drop the regulation regarding broodmares having to be in foal or with foal at foot to a stallion not exceeding 153cms. We are over-run with 128-133cms young ponies, and this would encourage the breeding of the 148-158cms ponies if the breeders could exhibit their mares and foals when in foal to or sired by a bigger stallion.  The Rules Committee has decided not to make any revisions to the rules in relation to the submission above as this would conflict with the Irish Pony Society studbook rules.