CENTRAL CAROLINA
WESTERN HORSEMEN’S
ASSOCIATION, INC.
OFFICIAL HANDBOOK
CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS
HORSE SHOW RULES
REVISED March 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Page
Title
Object
Officers
Election
Duties
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Point Secretary
Board of Directors
Number, Term and Qualifications
Vacancies
Election of Directors
Meeting of the Board of Directors
Regular Meetings
Special Meetings
Notice of Meetings
Quorum
Manner of Acting
Duties of the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors
Membership
Voting
Member in Good Standing
Eligibility to hold Office
Duration of Membership
Conduct
Dues
General Statement
Class Descriptions
Halter
Showmanship
Novice Go As You Please
English and/or Western Go As You Please
English and/or Western Pleasure Snaffle Bit (open)
Hunter Under Saddle
Pole Bending
Barrel Race
3-D Barrel Race (open)
Speed Barrel
English and Western Equitation/Horsemanship
Go As You Please Youth 6 Yrs and Under (assistance allowed)
Working Horse Class/Pattern (open)
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Gaited Go As You Please (open)
Senior Western Pleasure
Egg & Spoon (open)
Hunter Hack
Rules and Regulations
General Rules
Dress Code
Classified Ads
Returned Check Guideline
Promotors
Competitive points
Equipment
Western Classes
English Classes
Protests
Structure
Protestor Procedures
Committee Procedures
Disciplinary Action
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CENTRAL CAROLINA WESTERN HORSEMEN’S ASSOCIATION, INC.
OFFICIAL HANDBOOK
CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS
SECTION I
TITLE: This Association shall be known as the Central Carolina Western Horseman’s
Association, and shall at all times be operated and conducted as a non-profit Association in
accordance with the laws of the State of North Carolina.
SECTION II
OBJECTS: The purpose of this Association shall be to provide show places for its members,
to conduct all activities in a sportsman like manner and encourage the showing of all breeds
of horses. At all times it shall support youth programs.
SECTION III
OFFICERS: Officers of the Executive Committee shall be:
A. President C. Secretary and/or Treasurer
B. Vice-President D. Point Secretary
ELECTION: After nomination by the membership and review and approval by the current
Executive Board, the Board of Directors will be elected and installed at the last Membership
meeting in the calendar year and will assume their official duties January 1 and serve through
December 31 of that year. Officers may serve consecutive terms if elected by the
membership, and will have a vote on all matters concerning the Association. (The President
will not have a vote on the matters of the Association except in instances of a tie.)
Additionally, after conferring with the youth of the Association and having had adequate
discussion with the Board of Directors, the President shall appoint the Youth Leader(s) at the
last Membership meeting in the calendar year. The purpose of this is to have the Youth
Leader(s) on the Board so decisions regarding the Association and Youth Team issues can be
made with input from the youth through this/these representative(s). Youth Leader(s) will be
granted one vote in all matters of the Association.
DUTIES:
A. PRESIDENT: It is the duty of the President to call the meeting to order at the appointed
time, to preside at all meetings of the Association, Board of Directors, and Executive
Committee. To announce the business before Assembly in it’s proper order, to state and put
all questions properly brought before the Assembly, to preserve order and decorum, and to
decide all questions of order when a question is put to vote.
B. VICE-PRESIDENT: It is the duty of the Vice-President to act as representative of the
President when requested. To perform the duties of the President in the absence of the
President and become President for the unexpired term in case of death, resignation, or
incapacity of the President.
C. SECRETARY: The Secretary shall take and record accurate minutes of the proceedings
of all meetings of the Membership, the Board of Directors, and the Executive Committee
meetings. Conduct the correspondence of the Association and provide all Promoters with a
membership list with current mailing addresses. Preserve in a permanent file all records and
letters of value to the Association and its Officers. Deliver to the successor within fifteen
days after expiration of term of office, all books, records, and papers, requesting receipt
therefore.
D. TREASURER: The Treasurer shall have charge of all monies of the Association and
shall report thereon at all meetings. Collect dues from members, give a proper receipt
therefore keep a list of the names, addresses of all members. Pay all Bills upon the
authorization of the President, keep an itemized record, in a permanent file, of all receipts and
expenditures. Deliver to the successor within fifteen days after expiration of term of office,
all books, records, and papers, requesting receipt therefore.
E. POINT SECRETARY: The Points Secretary will edit, record and file Registration Forms
for each horse registered with the Association. Maintain a Point Record Book and record all
points as reported by the Show Promoters. The Point Secretary will give a quarterly report at
the Membership meetings.
SECTION IV BOARD OF DIRECTORS
A. NUMBER, TERM, AND QUALIFICATIONS: The number of Directors constituting
the Board of Directors shall be determined according to the allotment to each county
represented. Each Director shall serve a term of one year or until the General Election of
Directors. Directors need not be residents of the State of North Carolina but MUST be a
member in good standing. Any elected Director with three unexcused absences for Board
meetings will be automatically removed from office without further action, therefore,
opening his/her Directorship to be filled by an alternate from his/her county.
B. VACANCIES: Any vacancy occurring in the Board of Directors may be filled by the
affirmative vote of the majority of the remaining Directors even through less than quorum, or
by the sole remaining County Director. A Director appointed to fill a vacancy shall be
appointed for the unexpired term of his/her predecessor in office. Any Directorship to be
filled by reason of an increase in the authorized number of Directors shall be filled only by
Election as specified below.
C. ELECTION OF DIRECTORS:
1. Each Officer of the Association shall also be a Director by virtue of his/her office.
Additional Directors shall be elected as provided in Subsection 2 below.
2. Membership shall select from one to three Directors and Alternates, depending on the size
of membership at the time of elections, according to the following formula:
Memberships Directors/Alternates
5 - 15 One
16 - 30 Two
More than 30 Three
Alternates are encouraged to attend all Board meetings. Alternates may attend all meetings of
Directors. In the event any Director or Directors from the County or Chapter shall be absent
from a meeting of Directors, their votes may be given to the Alternate of his/her choice from
the same County or Chapter.
SECTION V MEETINGS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
A. REGULAR MEETINGS: A regular meeting of the Board of Directors shall be held at
the call of the President within two weeks of the end of the Fiscal year. In addition, the Board
of Directors may provide, by resolution, the time and place, for the holding of additional
regular meetings.
B. SPECIAL MEETINGS: Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by or
at the request of the President or any four Directors, as fixed by the person calling the
meeting.
C. NOTICE OF MEETINGS: Regular meetings of the Board of Directors may be held
without notice. The person or persons calling a special meeting of the Board shall, at least
two days before the meeting give notice therefore by any usual means of communication.
Such notice need not specify the purpose for which the meeting is called.
D. QUORUM: A Majority of the number of Directors fixed by these By-laws, shall
constitute a quorum for transaction of business at any meeting of the Board of Directors.
E. MANNER OF ACTING: Except as otherwise provided in these By-Laws, the act of the
majority of the Directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of
the entire Board of Directors.
SECTION VI DUTIES OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
A. The legal address of the Association shall be that of the current President or Secretary
upon installation into Office.
B. All Officers, Directors and/or Alternates, MUST be paid members before conducting any
Association business.
C. A committee appointed by the President from members of the Board of Directors shall
perform a Quarterly review of all monies in the Treasury and prepare a report to be given at
the next Board Meeting.
D. Before any member may be disciplined, suspended or expelled from the Association by
the Board of Directors, a thorough review of all facts and open discussion of the individual(s)
in question will be made.
E. A separate Youth Account shall be maintained by the Secretary/Treasurer. Youth
Director(s) will be chosen by the President after consulting with youth members and the
Board of Directors. The Youth Director(s) will have voting privileges, one vote if a couple is
acting as Directors. This is on a year to year basis. A Youth Director is required to attend
Board of Directors meetings.
F. Board Members shall take steps to ensure that all class winners and point information is
furnished to the Point Secretary in a timely manner from the Show Promoters.
G. The Board of Directors shall approve all shows, locations, Promoters, times, and classes;
including Promoter’s fees.
H. Rules governing the showing of horses in all classes will be drawn up by the Board of
Directors for the current year.
I. The Board of Directors should take steps to ensure that adequate funds remain in the
Association Treasury to operate during January through March of the upcoming year.
J. The President may appoint a Parliamentarian at any time he/she deems necessary. The
Parliamentarian will NOT have a vote at the meetings of the Board of Directors.
K. The Ex-Officio President has voting rights on the Board of Directors for one (1) year
following the serving term.
L. The By-Laws of this Association can ONLY be changed by a majority vote by the
membership.
M. All meetings of the Association shall be conducted with the Roberts Rules of Order as a
guideline when not specifically stated in these By-Laws.
SECTION VII MEMBERSHIP
Membership of the Association shall consist of active members of the CCWHA when annual
dues have been paid. The Association shall have two categories of Membership:
1) Individual Membership: One (1) person
2) Family Membership: To include spouses and all minor children in a single family. The age
for children under a family membership is eighteen years of age and under as of January 1st.
A. VOTING: All individuals and family members (12 years of age and older) shall be
entitled to one (1) vote in the affairs of the Association. A member MUST be in good
standing with the Association to have voting privileges.
B. MEMBER IN GOOD STANDING: Is defined as "an individual who has paid current
year’s dues and/or not have received any form of disciplinary action. For reinstatement as a
member in good standing, a member must petition the Board of Directors in writing.
C. ELIGIBILITY TO HOLD OFFICE: Is defined as "a member in good standing AND
has been a member in the prior year".
D. DURATION OF MEMBERSHIP: Membership in the Association shall terminate by
voluntary withdrawal as provided or by failure to pay annual dues or assessments. Terms of
membership shall be effective upon payment of Association dues and shall run from March
to March.
E. CONDUCT: Any member may be disciplined, suspended, or expelled from the
Association by the Board of Directors for improper conduct during meetings, shows or any
other functions of the Association.
F. DUES: The dues required for each class of membership shall be determined from time to
time by resolution of the Board of Directors. Membership dues are to be paid on an annual
basis (See D above).
GENERAL STATEMENT
The Central Carolina Western Horsemen’s Association, Inc. is an open breed horse show
organization whose purpose is to provide a quality, competitive atmosphere for the
enjoyment of all members and their guest.
CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
If at any time you are in doubt, the following class descriptions are provided for your
information and were adopted by the Board of Directors. Judges should ensure that all
breeds shown be judged on the merits of their specific breed. Due to many classes
constantly changing, all descriptions may not apply to a particular years Show Program.
HALTER Three Halter Classes are offered, determined by the age of the horse and exhibitor.
Horses are to be shown in an appropriate halter or bridle given the breed being shown. The
exhibitor should wear proper attire with respect to the breed being shown.
1. Weanling/Yearling Colts and Fillies (Horses 2 Year and Under) (Adults)
2. Youth at Halter (Youth 18 and Under)
3. Horses at Halter (Horses 3 Years & Over) (Adults)
4. Miniature Horse at Halter (Adults) (miniature height 36” & under)
Miniature horses will be measured from the last hair on the mane and must be 36” or less.
Miniature Conformation: A miniature horse of any size should lean the appearance of its fullsized counterpart in a miniaturized version of the particular horse that the animal most
resembles, whether it be a Quarter Horse, Arabian, or Thoroughbred type horse. Other breed
representation are slowly entering the miniature horse conformation types, but generally, the
two types are thought of as the Quarter Horse and the Arab type. The miniature horse should
be well proportioned with a level topline. The legs should be straight and sound. The Quarter
Horse type presents a more muscular body with a shorter, more muscled neck. The Arab type
usually is more slender with longer, slimmer legs and neck. A dished-face is also
characteristic of the Arabian. The eyes should be large and alert. Eye color may vary and will
not be penalized if eye color is not consistent. The ears should appear erect and forward.
Horses showing at halter are judged on their conformation, soundness, and quality. See
statement on "lameness". Presentation and cleanliness of the horse also affects placement
within the class. The Exhibitor should concentrate on "showing" the horse at all times. Judges
are allowed to "mouth" a horse if necessary in determining their age.
SHOWMANSHIP AT HALTER This class is open to all exhibitors, mares and geldings
only. Exhibitors are judged on their ability to fit and show their horse along with their poise
and alertness. Appearance of both the horse and the handler are important. The same
requirements are asked of all exhibitors; usually consisting of leading and posing the horse.
The Judge’s pattern should be posted at least one hour prior to the beginning of the class.
Points will be awarded & accumulated on the Exhibitor NOT the horse. All exhibitors may
enter the ring and then work individually or each exhibitor may be worked from the gate
individually. When exhibitors are worked individually from the gate, a working order is
required. The following maneuvers are considered acceptable: Lead the horse at a walk, jog,
trot or extended trot, or back in a straight or curved lines; stop; and turn 90 (1/4), 180 (1/2),
270 (3/4), 360 (full turn) degrees or any combination or multiple of these turns. The judge
must have exhibitors set the horse up squarely for inspection sometime during the class.
NOVICE GO AS YOU PLEASE/ RIDER This is a walk Go As You Please class for the
novice/ beginner rider. It offers the rider an opportunity to improve his/her show skills under
the acknowledgment of a qualified judge. English or Western style is allowed. Junior and
aged horses may be ridden. Any exhibitor who has NEVER EARNED A CCWHA YEAR
END AWARD in any performance class (with the exception of any child that wins a trophy
in the Go As You Please Equitation, Youth 6 Years and Under, Assistance Allowed Class)
may participate. NO POINTS WILL BE KEPT. Anyone, whether a member or not, who is
recognized as a trainer will be asked to leave the class regardless if they have ever won a year
end award with our Association.
NOVICE GO AS YOU PLEASE/ HORSE This is a walk Go As You Please class for the
novice/ beginner horse. It offers the horse an opportunity to improve his/her show skills
under the acknowledgment of a qualified judge. English or Western style is allowed. Junior
and aged horses may be ridden. Any horse who has NEVER EARNED A CCWHA YEAR
END AWARD in any performance class NO POINTS WILL BE KEPT.
ENGLISH AND/OR WESTERN GO AS YOU PLEASE Several "Go as You Please"
classes are offered. Some with both English and Western riders competing together, some
based on the age of the rider, and others with ponies only (56" & Under). These classes will
be judged at a walk and one other gait (rider’s choice): Trot or Canter (English), Jog or Lope
(Western).
Horses will be worked both ways on the rail. Horses are to be reversed to the inside (away
from rail); this may be done at a walk or jog/trot at the discretion of the Judge. Reversing
shall never be requested in a lope/canter. The Judge may ask that the Exhibitor back their
horses.
Junior horses (5 years & under) can be shown in any Go as You Please class with an
approved snaffle bit or bosal with TWO hands on the reins.
NOTE: Ponies MUST be measured prior to the beginning of their first class of the season to
ensure compliance with height requirements.
ENGLISH AND/OR WESTERN PLEASURE Several Pleasure classes are offered, some
based on the age and sex of the riders, and others offering a mix of horses and/or ponies (58"
& under) These classes will be judged on the performance of the horse in all three (3) gaits:
Walk; Jog or Trot; Lope or Canter.
These gaits should be performed on a reasonable loose rein and without undue restraint.
Horses will be worked both ways on the rail to demonstrate their ability with correct leads.
Horses are to be reversed to the inside (away from rail) ; this may be done at a walk or
jog/trot at the discretion of the Judge. Reversing shall never be requested in a lope/canter.
The Judge may ask that the Exhibitor back their horse.
JUNIOR WESTERN PLEASURE This is an Open class for horses 5 years and under. A
junior horse may be shown with an approved snaffle bit or a bosal using TWO HANDS on
the reins. Approved Curb bits may also be used; but must be used ONE HANDED.
The horse will be asked to perform all three gaits (walk, jog, and lope) both ways on the rail.
Horses are to be reversed to the inside (away from rail); this may be done at a walk or jog at
the discretion of the Judge. Reversing shall never be requested in a lope. The Judge may ask
that the Exhibitor back their horse.
ENGLISH/WESTERN PLEASURE SNAFFLE BIT (OPEN) This is an Open class for
horses 5 years and under. Horses are to be shown in a snaffle bit or a bosal. Exhibitors must
use BOTH hands on the reins. Horses will be judged on their ability to perform all three (3)
gaits (walk, jog/trot, lope/canter). These gaits should be performed on a reasonably loose rein
and without undue restraint. Horses will be worked both ways on the rail. Horses are to be
reversed to the inside (away from the rail). Reversing may be done at a walk or jog/trot at the
discretion of the Judge. Reversing shall never be requested in a lope/canter. The Judge may
ask that the Exhibitor back their horses.
HUNTER UNDER SADDLE Riders are to dress in proper English attire. These horses are
shown under hunt tack and are required to perform all three gaits (walk, trot, and canter) both
ways on the rail. Horses are to be reversed to the inside (away from rail) Reversing may be
done at a walk or trot at the discretion of the Judge. Reversing shall never be requested in a
canter. The Judge may ask that the Exhibitor back their horse. There are no jumps required.
POLE BENDING Three pole bending divisions are offered determined by the age of the
rider. These are timed events. The first pole is set 21 feet from the timer. Six poles are then
placed in a straight line, 21 feet from each other. From a running start, the rider proceeds to
the rear pole, turns, and weaves in and out of the pattern. This is then reversed. A five second
penalty is assessed for each pole knocked down.
Failure to follow the pattern will result in disqualification. The exhibitor may touch a pole to
keep it upright. A re-run will ONLY be allowed if the timer fails during the run. In the event
of tie, Exhibitors may choose to flip a coin or run again to determine the winner.
The rider may ride more then one horse in a class, but no horse shall be ridden more then
once in a class, regardless of who the rider is.
Pole Bending - 10 & under
Pole Bending - 11 thru 18
Pole Bending - Adults
BARREL RACE Three barrel classes are offered, determined by the age of the rider. These
are timed events. The barrel pattern will be standardized by requiring that there be 40’ from
the timer to the first barrel. In addition, the distance between the first and second barrels
should be 90’ and 100’ to the third. This pattern will be adjusted downward in increments of
5’ per move to fit the ring leaving a minimum of 25’ from the barrels to the sides of the ring.
The rider may choose the right or the left front barrel to start their pattern. A complete turn
must be made around each barrel. A five second penalty is assessed for each barrel turned
over. Failure to follow the pattern will result in disqualification. The exhibitor may touch the
barrels to keep them upright. A re-run will ONLY be allowed if the timer fails during the
run. In the event of a tie, the Exhibitors may choose to flip a coin or run again to determine
the winner.
The rider may ride more then one horse in a class, but no horse shall be ridden more then
once in a class, regardless of who the rider is.
Metal barrels are optional.
Barrel Race - 10 & Under
Barrel Race - 11 thru 18
Barrel Race – Adults
3-D BARREL RACE (OPEN) Refer to Class Description for Barrel Race regarding the
running of the pattern, penalties and general rules. NO POINTS WILL BE KEPT!! The
class entry fees (Jackpot) and any ADDED MONEY (if the minimum number of entries is
met) will be paid back to a predetermined number of places within each division as
determined by the Board. The objective of 3-D Barrels is to afford exhibitors of all ages the
opportunity to place their horses (based on their individual speeds) into three (3) separate
speed divisions. The winners will be determined in the following manner:
The exhibitor having the fastest overall time will become the 1st place winner in Division I.
A full one (1) second will be added to that winning time to determine the winner of Division
II. If there was no time run that exactly matches this number, the exhibitor having the
next highest (slower) time will be the winner of the 2nd Division. Another full one (1)
second will be added to the time determining the winner of Division III. Again, if there was
no time run that exactly matches this number, the exhibitor having the highest (slower)
time will be the winner of the 3rd Division. Knocking a barrel over is an automatic
disqualification.
TEXAS BARRELS OPEN (JACKPOT) (1)Three barrels are placed in a straight line, 60
feet apart, the first barrel being 30 feet from the timing line, which is 30 feet wide.
(Measurements are to the center of the barrels.) (2)The exhibitor shall cross the timing line,
pass the first barrel on either side, pass succeeding barrels on alternate sides, turn around the
third barrel, and return in the same manner to cross the timing line. (3)Knocking over a barrel
shall carry a 5-second penalty. Failure to follow the course shall cause disqualification. A
contestant may touch the barrel with his or her hands. (4)The course must be measured
exactly. If the course is too large for the available space, the pattern should be reduced by 5
feet between each barrel until the pattern fits the arena. At least 60 feet are required for a
stopping area.
SPEED BARREL Two speed barrel classes are offered, determined by the age of the rider.
These are timed events. The speed barrel pattern will be standardized by requiring that there
be one barrel set with a minimum of 100 feet from the timer in the center of the arena. From
a running start, the rider proceeds to the barrel, turns, and runs back to the starting point. A
five second penalty is assessed if the barrel is turned over. Failure to follow the pattern will
result in disqualification. The exhibitor may touch the barrel to keep it upright. A re-run will
ONLY be allowed if the timer fails during the run. In the event of a tie, the Exhibitors may
choose to flip a coin or run again to determine the winner.
The rider may ride more then one horse in a class, but no horse shall be ridden more then
once in a class, regardless of who the rider is.
Metal barrels are optional.
Speed Barrel - 18 & Under
Speed Barrel – Adults
GAME RIDERS MAY START NO FURTHER THAN 30 FEET FROM THE IN
GATE AND MUST STOP THEIR HORSES IN THE RING WITH THE GATE
CLOSED.
ENGLISH AND WESTERN EQUITATION/HORSEMANSHIP The riding ability of the
Exhibitor is determined by the Judge in this open class. Riders are required to perform a
predetermined pattern of moves involving lead and gait changes. The horse may be required
to back.
Only pattern work will be performed with these patterns being previously approved by the
Board. Patterns will not exceed 3 minutes and will NEVER require the exhibitors to mount
and dismount.
Exhibitors will not be disqualified from the class, but may be dismissed by the Judge if
he/she feels that enough time has elapsed to complete the pattern.
Pattern MUST be posted at least one hour prior to the beginning of the class. All exhibitors
must enter the ring and then work individually or each exhibitor may be worked from the
gate individually. When exhibitors are worked individually from the gate, a working order is
required. Exhibitors should be instructed to either leave the arena, fall into line, or fall into
place on the rail after their work. The whole class, or just the finalists must work at all three
gaits at least one direction of the arena. The following maneuvers are acceptable in a pattern:
walk, jog, trot, extended trot, lope or extended lope in a straight line, curved line, serpentine,
circle, or figure 8, or combination of these gaits and maneuvers; stop; back in a straight or
curved line; turn or pivot, including spins and rollbacks on the haunches, and/or on the
forehand; side pass, two track, or leg yield; flying or simple change of lead; counter canter; or
any other maneuver; or ride without stirrups. A back should be asked for at sometime during
the class. Judges should not ask exhibitors to mount or dismount.
GO AS YOU PLEASE EQUITATION YOUTH 6 YRS & UNDER (ASSISTANCE
REQUIRED) This class is for the beginner that is not quite ready to go in the ring without
some supervision. Children must be assisted by a person 18 years or older. Only one assistant
is allowed, and should be positioned at the head of the horse. No one will be penalized for
assistance. With the exception of 10 & Under Barrel and Pole Classes, participants may not
enter any other unassisted class for the rest of the show.
WORKING HORSE CLASS/OPEN (PATTERN) This class is for all ages and any type of
horse. There will be several simple patterns made up to complete. The Judge will pick a
pattern the day of the show and it will be posted one hour before the class.
SENIOR WESTERN PLEASURE Any horse that is 6 years and older can be shown in this
class. There are biting stipulations. This means the use of a Curb bit that has a solid or broken
mouthpiece, has shanks and acts with leverage. All curb bits must be free of mechanical
device and should be considered a standard western bit.
EGG AND SPOON This is an open class for exhibitors of all ages. Each person will receive
a spoon and a egg. You cannot hold your fingers on the egg at any time. The Judge will give
instructions for different gaits, (reverse, etc.) as each person’s egg falls off the spoon they are
to go to the center of the ring. There will be people in ring watching for fallen eggs to help
get the correct order of placing. The last person still on the rail with their egg is the winner.
All classes, with the exception of the following, will accumulate points for year end award
trophies.
Novice Go as You Please
Exhibition Poles & Barrels
Promoter’s Choice classes
All Jackpot Classes
**IF AT ANY TIME YOU ARE IN DOUBT ABOUT RULES ALWAYS REFER TO
THE MOST RECENT AQHA RULE BOOK **
GENERAL HORSE SHOW RULES & REGULATIONS
SECTION I GENERAL RULES
CCWHA Rules and Regulations will be enforced by the Board of Directors. These rules
apply to all participants (members and non members) in CCWHA sanctioned shows.
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The decision of the presiding Judge WILL BE FINAL.
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No Exhibitors or members in general shall approach the Judge for any type of
conversation until the entire show has concluded. Any violations to rule may result
in suspension of the member and/or family members for the remaining show season.
All Judges are to dress in proper attire.
The Promoter reserves the right to decline any entry.
If any show fees are in arrears and are not cleared by the following show, the
member’s ensuring point for the show in question and any ensuring shows will NOT
count. Points CANNOT be recovered, but will resume when the debt is paid or proof
of payment can be made.
All contestants must enter the show ring promptly.
Failure by the Exhibitor to enter the show ring without a clearly visible number will
result in disqualification in that class. It is the responsibility of the Exhibitor to ensure
that the correct number is recorded on their registration card in the announcer’s stand.
ONLY officers assisting management, judges, while judging, and riders in each class
are allowed in the ring.
Any complaints or questions concerning a class during a show should be brought to
the attention of the Promoter and/or the Show Committee/Director(s). ANY
DEVIATIONS FROM THIS RULE MAY RESULT IN SUSPENSION FOR
THE REMAINDER OF THE SEASON.
CCWHA does not approve of nor participate in gambling, the use of alcoholic
beverages, or profanity at any approved horse show.
Shirts and shoes are to be worn at all times at CCWHA approved events.
For the purpose of determining eligibility for competition, the age of horses shall be
figured by the calendar year, starting on the first day of January of the year foaled.
All Ponies MUST be measured to ensure that they are not over 58" BEFORE
THEIR FIRST SHOW (CLASS). That pony will NOT need to be re-measured for
the remainder of the same show season. The owners name, pony’s name, and height
will be recorded and kept throughout the show season. This must be repeated at the
beginning of show season of each new year. Youth advisor and/or president of the
Association will do the measuring. Ponies are eligible to compete in all classes not
specifically designated for horses.

YOUTH are defined as those exhibitors age 18 and under. Any person that is 18
years old as of January 1st will participate in the 11-18 division that year. Any person
that is 10 years old as of January 1st will participate in the 10 and under division that
year.

No STALLIONS may be shown by a Youth. Also, No stallions are allowed in any
youth classes and open classes where there are more than one horse in the arena at a
time.

Game exhibitors can start no further than 30’ from the in gate and must stop their
horses in the ring with the gate closed.

LAMENESS: The Judge may at his/her discretion disqualify a horse from any class
due to obvious lameness. This is defined as:
o -Consistently observable at a trot under all circumstances
o -Marked nodding, hitching, or shortened stride

o -Minimal weight-bearing in motion and/or at rest and inability to move
All animals showing at CCWHA shows must show proof of current negative coggins
beginning age 6 months and up. A negative coggins will be required at the gate.
DRESS CODE: Anyone showing CCWHA can show western classes in short sleeve
shirts/blouses. Shirts/blouses must have a collar and button down. No pullover shirts, tank
tops, sport bra blouses, sleeveless, or midriff showing tops. Still must wear other appropriate
attire as required by AQHA guidelines. (Western hat, belt, boots, long pants, or optional
equipment listed.)
English attire consists of short sleeve, sleeveless, long sleeve shirts w/appropriate collar.
Coats are optional. Other appropriate attire and equipment must be used as stated by AQHA
guidelines.
Gaming class attire and equipment follow AQHA guidelines except tee shirts, short sleeve,
and pullover shirts are allowed. No sport bra/blouses or midriff showing tops. Optional attire
include Western hats, boots and rubber bands. CLASSIFIED ADS: Members are allowed
one free, personal, horse related text ad per newsletter. Members are also allowed one free,
personal, horse related ad on our web site each month. Please limit to 50 words or less.
RETURNED CHECK GUIDELINES: Any check returned for any reason will be assigned
a $20.00 fee. In addition to the original amount due on the check, you will be required to pay
the return check fee charged by the bank. No check will be run through the bank again.
Repayment will be accepted in the form of Certified Check, Money Order, Cashier Check or
Cash. You will be given Two weeks to repay. After that, unless prior arrangements are made,
court proceeding will be started.
SECTION II PROMOTERS
A. Individual Show Promoters desiring a show may have it tentatively approved by
contacting the President of the Association. However, the Board of Directors shall approve
all shows, locations, promoters, times and classes.
B. The CCWHA will only approve show dates for the original Promoter’s ring. That
Promoter will see that the show is held the scheduled weekend.
C. Promoters are expected to follow and uphold our rules as stated in this rule book. Our
rules apply to all participants, members and non members.
D. Any Promoter wishing to give a show date to another group MUST inform the Board of
Directors no later than sixty (60) days prior to the scheduled show date.
E. Each Promoter’s ring will be inspected by an appointed Ring Committee prior to the first
approved show.
F. A previously determined Promoter’s Show Fee must be paid prior to the beginning of each
approved show.
G. Makeup shows may be held on the same weekend as a regular scheduled show.
H. All Promoter’s printed Show Programs should clearly display and define the "Promoter’s
Choice" class as separate from the approved program.
I. A Promoter having an approved CCWHA show must mail a copy of the Central Carolina
Western Horseman’s Association Rule Booklet to each Judge at least one week prior to the
scheduled show.
J. A promoter cannot use a Judge who has shown in a CCWHA show prior to judging a show
within a season.
K. A Promoter cannot use a Judge more than ONCE AT THE SAME ARENA in a show
season.
L. Show Promoters will be required to submit Class Winner Sheets to the Point Secretary
within one week after the show. Each Class Winner Sheet must be signed by the Judge.
Failure to comply could lead to disciplinary action by the Board.
M. Any complaint or question about a Class during a show is to be brought to the attention of
the Promoter and/or the Show Director/Committee.
N. Should a Promoter authorize, ignore, or overlook the use, sale, or display of alcoholic
beverages, or the use of abusive language by competitors or spectators:
1. No further horse shows will be approved or sanctioned for the Promoter involved until
such time as the Promoter can assure the Association in person (Board of Directors meeting)
such incident(s) will not re-occur.
2. Disciplinary action against competitors could be taken in the form of suspension from that
show, loss of points, or total expulsion from the Association.
O. All Show Promoters must follow the show program as previously approved by the Board
of Directors. Any additional classes must be added prior to the beginning of the show OR
at the end of the show. These classes will not count for points toward year end awards.
P. The printed show program must state whether classes are to receive trophies and/or
ribbons or money.
Q. If 51% or more of all scheduled classes are completed before the show is canceled due to
rain, or any other reason, the points earned will count.
R. A $40.00 Show Promoter’s Fee per approved show for CCWHA Member/Promoters or
individuals outside of the Association will be payable.
S. The CCWHA will:
1. Furnish to the Promoter an adequate supply of Class Winner Sheets.
2. Ensure that the electric timer is available to the Promoter at no additional charge.
3. Ensure that an Association President’s Representative (Show Director, show
committee) will be appointed and will preside during each approved show. He/She
shall be totally familiar with the Association’s Rules and Regulations.
T. All Promoters must send programs each week for their individual shows.
SECTION III COMPETITIVE POINTS
Points will begin accruing at the time membership dues are paid with NO retroactive period.
A. Show points shall be awarded to each horse or pony competing in an approved CCWHA
show in the following manner:
First Place...............7 Points
Second Place..........5 Points
Third Place.............4 Points
Fourth Place...........3 Points
Fifth Place..............2 Points
Sixth Place.............1 Point
B. A point system of 16, 32, 48, and 64 points will be used toward year end awards with a
minimum of fourteen (14) scheduled show dates. Any number of show dates less than this,
the point system will be adjusted and/or the points pro-rated. This decision will be made by
the current Board of Directors.
C. For a horse or pony to have points awarded toward year end awards, both the owner and
the exhibitor MUST be members in good standing of CCWHA. Each horse or pony MUST
be registered with the Points Secretary on a form as prescribed by the Board of Directors.
D. Upon sale of a horse during the show season to someone outside the Association, the new
owner is given thirty (30) days to join the CCWHA in order to keep the points accumulated
on the horse. If the horse is sold to an individual being a member of the CCWHA, the points
automatically transfer to the new owner.
E. All classes are eligible to receive points with the exception of the following:
-Novice Go As You Please
-All Promoter’s Choice Classes
-Exhibition Poles & Barrels
-All Jackpot Classes
F. A rider may show and accumulate points in more than one class and more than one
division. However, a Youth exhibitor may not show in Adult classes, nor may an Adult show
in a Youth class. Youth and Adult exhibitors may show in all OPEN classes.
SECTION IV EQUIPMENT
In any approved class, the Judge shall have the authority to require the removal or alteration
of any piece of equipment which in his/her opinion, is unsafe, would tend to give a horse an
unfair advantage, or that is believed to be inhumane.
Judges are to use their discretion in determining what bits are legal and illegal based on the
breed of the horse being shown.
WESTERN CLASSES - OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
- Rope or Riata
- Hobbles attached to saddle
- Protective boots and leg wraps, except in Western Pleasure, Showmanship at
Halter, Horsemanship, and Halter
- Tie-down and running martingales for speed events ONLY
- Spurs
- Chaps
- Gloves
ENGLISH CLASSES - OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
- Spurs without rowels
- Crops or bats
- English breast plate
- Braiding of mane and/or tail in Hunt Seat
GAITED CLASSES – OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
- Chains and/or weighted boots are strictly prohibited.
SECTION V PROTESTS
STRUCTURE: A Protest/Show Committee shall be formed prior to the first show of the
season. This committee consists of a Chairman, and four (4) Board members. The CCWHA
President shall serve as ex-officio member of this committee.
PROTESTER PROCEDURES: Protests will only be considered if filed in the following
manner:
The Protester shall immediately alert the Show Promoter AND a Show Committee
representative of his/her intent to file a protest. This notification must be done before the
next class has been "tied". If the protest concerns the last class of the show, the intent to
protest must be communicated immediately. The Protester should be prepared to pay $25 per
infraction being protested at the time of notification.
The Protester shall forward a formal protest statement to the Protest Committee Chair no later
than six (6) days after the date of the alleged incident. The statement must include:
-Separate statement for each alleged class infraction
-Specific reference to the alleged infraction (Refer to booklet)
-Full description of the alleged infraction
-Signature of the Protester
Protests will only be considered from CCWHA members in good standing.
COMMITTEE PROCEDURES: The committee shall meet within seven (7) days of
receipt of the statement to consider the protest and prepare a report to be submitted at the
next Board of Directors meeting. At this time, the Committee Chair shall recommend to the
Board whether or not to uphold or deny the protest.
Final recommendations concerning each protest statement shall require:
-2/3 majority vote by the Protest Committee AND
-2/3 majority vote by the Board of Directors
The Committee Chair shall inform the Protester of the final decision. This is to be done in
writing within three (3) days after the decision is made by the Board of Directors. All
correspondence will become property of the official records of the Association.
The $ 25.00 protest fee shall be:
0 Returned to the Protester if the protest is upheld.
0 Deposited to the Association bank account if the protest is denied.
NOTE: The Point Secretary shall NOT record any points of the protested class until a final
decision has been reached by the Board of Directors.
SECTION VI DISCIPLINARY ACTION
The Board of Directors has adopted and will enforce the following disciplinary measures in
all matters which are properly communicated to the Board. This communication MUST first
be through a Show Promoter and/or a member of the Association’s Show/Protest Committee.
AFTER informing these individuals, members may then voice their grievances to any
Officer and/or Director.
The FIRST WARNING will be verbal. This discussion will be held with the respective
member(s) and a minimum of at least two (2) current Board members. One of these Board
members MUST be the President.
The SECOND WARNING will be written. This warning will address the specific Rule
and/or Regulation which has been violated. The statement will explain the suspension from
the Association and the member(s) inability to accumulate any further points is the next
action to be taken. This type of communication will become part of the permanent record of
the Association.
The THIRD WARNING will result in full suspension from the Association for the remainder
of the year.