S133 Kansas 4-H Horse Show Rule Book - K-State Research and ...

is given to the horse other than fitting and showing,
and apparent manners as affected by previous training.
The equipment used by the exhibitor must be
appropriate for the style and breed of horse being
shown. In English option, English-type halter or
bridle may be used.
Whips are permitted in the English option. If
whips are used, they should be used as an aid and
should never touch the horse. Excess movement of
the whip should be avoided.
Two handlers are not permitted, regardless of the
style or breed of horse being shown.
Lip chains will not be allowed on any horse in a
4-H horse show. Lead chains positioned over the
bridge of the horse’s nose will not be allowed. Lip
chains through the horse’s mouth will not be allowed.
The judge or designated show officials have
the authority to require the alteration, repositioning,
or removal of any piece of equipment that, in their
opinion, is unsafe, tends to give unfair advantage, or is
deemed inhumane.
Any horse that exhibits disruptive behavior or
becomes detached from its handler and is no longer
under control by the handler will be disqualified and
excused. The exception would be a horse that misbehaves
(rearing, backing, falling into others, etc.)
because of the inappropriate behavior of another exhibitor’s
horse. In that case, only the initiating horse
shall be disqualified and excused. The decision of the
judge on these matters is final.
Basis of Scoring Grooming
and Showmanship
The scoring procedure should be used as a general
guide for both exhibitor and judge. Fine or technical
points should never be overemphasized to the point
that they are given more weight than an effective job
of presenting a properly groomed and fitted horse.
• Appearance of Animal — 30 points
• Condition — 10 points
• Grooming — 10 points
• Trimming — 5 points
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