FAIRHORSEMANSHIP CHALLENGES Test#1(2015) for advanced level: Dressage inspired

TASK SCORES 1 Upward transition from halt to walk: Accuracy: …/5 From the halt, the handler asks the horse to walk Cues and responses: …/5 with him toward the 2nd task. Reinforcement: …/5 Horse’s well-being: …/5 Requirements: The horse must walk at handler’s shoulder level.

For maximum score: Horse should walk as soon as requested, not over take the handler, and walk calmly and willingly. JUDGE’S COMMENTS …

TASK SCORES 2 Trot on verbal cue: Accuracy: …/5 Handler cues the horse to trot. The cue should be Cues and responses: …/5 verbal but the handler may choose any word/sound. Reinforcement: …/5 Horse’s well-being: …/5 The handler should remain at walk while the horse maintains the trot for at least 5 strides.

For maximum score: The horse shouldn’t over take his handler. The handler may walk slightly faster to keep up with horse but cannot run.

JUDGE’S COMMENTS …

TASK SCORES 3 Square halt: Accuracy: …/5 After the trot the handler should cue his horse to Cues and responses: …/5 halt. (any cue can be used). Reinforcement: …/5 Horse’s well-being: …/5 For maximum score: The horse should perform a square halt and remain straight. JUDGE’S COMMENTS … TASK SCORES 4 10 diameter Circle: Accuracy: …/5 Handler and horse picks up the walk and execute a Cues and responses: …/5 10m circle. (most arenas are 20m wide) Reinforcement: …/5 Horse’s well-being: …/5 Requirements: Horse and handler walks side by side. You can do this exercise either from the left or the right.

For maximum score: the horse should bend laterally on the circle, step under with his inside hind-leg and stretch forward down. JUDGE’S COMMENTS …

TASK SCORES 5 Back up: Accuracy: …/5 Handler asks the horse to back up 7 steps. Cues and responses: …/5 Reinforcement: …/5 Requirements: No target stick may be used. At this Horse’s well-being: …/5 stage we expect horses to have learned to back up and back up to be on cue.

For maximum score: The horse should remain straight while backing up and not hollow his back. JUDGE’S COMMENTS …

TASK SCORES 6 Poll flexion: Accuracy: …/5 While standing, the handler cues his horse to Cues and responses: …/5 execute a flexion of the poll. The horse should Reinforcement: …/5 maintain flexion for at least 3 seconds. Horse’s well-being: …/5

For maximum score: Horse should not go beyond the vertical. Ideal position is on or just above the vertical. Head should remain in the middle. JUDGE’S COMMENTS …

Additional points removed: 0pts Additional points added: 0pts

Total Score: …/120pts Additional Comments: