AQHA 2015 Rule Book | Page 140

Failure to exhibit change of speed when requested Severe Faults in the Overall Appearance of Exhibitor and Horse (avoids disqualification but will be placed below other exhibitors that do not incur a severe fault) include: Touching horse Grabbing the saddle horn or any other part of the saddle Cueing with the end of the romal Severe Faults of the Performance (avoids disqualification but will be placed below other exhibitors that do not incur a severe fault) include: Kicking at other horses, exhibitors, or judge Severe disobedience or resistance by horse including, but not limited to rearing, bucking, or pawing Disqualifications (will not be placed) include: Failure by exhibitor to wear correct number in visible manner Wilful abuse Excessive schooling or training Fall by horse or rider Illegal use of hands on reins Use of prohibited equipment Knocking over the cone or going off pattern Spurring in front of the shoulder 104. WESTERN PLEASURE A good pleasure horse has a free-flowing stride of reasonable length in keeping with his conformation. He should cover a reasonable amount of ground with little effort. Ideally, he should have a balanced, flowing motion. He should carry his head and neck in a relaxed, natural position, with his poll level with or slightly above the level of the withers. He should not carry his head behind the vertical, giving the appearance of intimidation, or be excessively nosed out, giving a resistant appearance. His head should be level with his nose slightly in front of the vertical, having a bright expression with his ears alert. He should be shown on a reasonably loose rein, but with light contact and control. He should be responsive, yet smooth, in transitions when called for. When asked to extend, he should move out with the same flowing motion. Maximum credit should be given to the flowing, balanced and willing horse which gives the appearance of being fit and a pleasure to ride. 104.1 A show may have up to four (4) western pleasure classes. a) If four (4) western pleasure classes are to be held, they will be the following: i) Senior western pleasure shown with a bit. ii) Junior western pleasure shown with either a bit, hackamore or snaffle bit. iii) Three year old western pleasure shown with either a bit or snaffle bit. iv) Two year old western pleasure shown with hackamore or snaffle. NB: This class can only be run from 1st January to 31st July in any year. b) If three (3) western pleasure classes are to be held, they will be the following: i) Senior western pleasure shown with a bit. Page 140