FAQs
Q: Can I use a pelham bit when showing in the Saddle Seat Equitation Division?
A: According to EQ117.2.a, Pelham bits are only allowed when showing in pleasure
equitation classes. Please remember that some equitation classes are breed
restricted and therefore, any breed division "equitation" rules regarding
tack would apply in those particular classes.
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Q: I have only shown in walk and trot classes at USEF licensed competitions.
I cantered one time in a winter tournament but that was a non-USEF licensed
competition. Am I still eligible to show in walk and trot equitation classes?
A: No. Per EQ119.4 and EQ119.17.e, riders competing in Walk/Trot Equitation
classes (including the UPHA Walk/Trot Challenge Cup) must never have shown
at a canter/lope in any class at any competition whether USEF licensed or not.
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Q: Do I have to win first place in order to qualify to ride in the USEF Saddle
Seat Medal Final? What about the USEF Saddle Seat Adult Medal Final?
A: No. Riders 17 & under qualify for the USEF Saddle Seat Medal Final by placing
either first or second in a qualifying class. Amateur riders 18 & over qualify
for the USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur Medal Final by receiving any ribbon in a
qualifying class.
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Q: I won a USEF Medal class. Why didn’t the horse show give me a medal?
A: USEF Medals are not awarded at the time of the competition. After the
competition submits the results to the Federation, the results are verified
and a medal will be mailed to you at your address on file directly from the
USEF office.
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Q: I thought that if a rider falls off in an equitation class, then he/she
is disqualified. Is that true?
A: No. USEF rule EQ118 states that the fall of a horse or rider does not
necessarily cause elimination, but is penalized at the judge’s discretion.
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Q: Are competitions required to post workouts?
A: No. Per EQ120, instructions (the pattern) can be posted at the judge’s
discretion provided it is announced and posted at least one hour prior to
the session in which the class is held. Competition management is encouraged
to post the workout more than one hour prior to the session if possible.
This means that if a workout is posted, it must be posted no later than 1
hour prior to the session but it does not mean that the judge or judges
are required to post a workout.
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Q: I have won three blue ribbons showing my horse in performance classes
(for example, 3-Gaited, 5-Gaited, Show Pleasure, etc.) but I have never won
any blue ribbons in an equitation class. Can I show as a Novice Equitation
rider?
A: No, not if your blues were won at USEF licensed competitions in classes
with more than one horse. USEF general rule GR135.2 states that the
Maiden/Novice/Limit status of both riders and drivers is affected by
winnings at Regular and Local competitions
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