AQHA 2015 Rule Book | Page 112

h) Posting at the extended jog is acceptable. i) Touching or holding the saddle horn is acceptable 95.5 Patterns One of the suggested four (4) patterns can be used, however a judge may utilise a different pattern as long as all required manoeuvres and the three (3) (or more) optional manoeuvres are included. Should a Judge use one of their own patterns, it is recommended to not have the stop following an extended lope. 95.5 Ranch Riding Attire Well shaped hat, western boots, jeans, a shirt with long sleeves and a collar. Chaps and chinks are optional. 95.6 Ranch Riding Equipment a) No hoof polish b) No braided or banded manes or tail extensions. c) Trimming inside ears is discouraged. d) Trimming bridle path is allowed, also trimming of fetlocks or excessive (long) facial hair. e) Equipment with silver will not count over a good working outfit. Silver on bridles and saddles is discouraged f) It is suggested that competitors use a breast collar and a rear cinch. 95.8 Penalties A contestant will be penalised each time the following occur: One (1) point penalties Too slow per gait Over bridled Out of frame Break of gait at walk or jog for 2 strides or less Three (3) point penalties Break of gait at walk or jog for more than 2 strides Break of gait at lope Wrong lead or out of lead Draped reins Out of lead or cross cantering more than two strides when changing leads Trotting more than three strides when making a simple lead change Severe disturbance of any obstacle Five point penalties Blatant disobedience (kick, bite, buck, rear etc) for each refusal Placed below horses performing all manoeuvres Eliminates manoeuvres Incomplete manoeuvres Zero (0) Illegal equipment including hoof black, braided or banded manes or tail extensions Wilful abuse Major disobedience or schooling 95.9 No specific penalties will be incurred for nicks/hits on logs but deduction made in manoeuvre score No specific penalties will be incurred for over/under spins but deduction may be made in manoeuvre score Page 112