Rules & Regulations

Classes will be judged by NSBA rules as written in the association’s official handbook. This includes all class and equipment rules unless otherwise defined in the NOHSA official handbook.

Small Fry Class Rules

Small Fry classes are for exhibitors aged 11 and under that are not ready to compete at a lope or canter. All Small Fry classes will be offered as Walk Jog or Walk Trot. Exhibitors may not cross-enter into any classes that require a lope or a canter. Horses entered into Walk Trot classes with one exhibitor may enter into classes that require a lope or a canter with another exhibitor. Riders aged 11 and under may choose to participate in 13 & Under classes, but will be ineligible to compete in any Small Fry 11 & Under classes (including Small Fry Showmanship 11 & Under). Small Fry exhibitors are welcome to participate in Youth Walk Trot, Youth Walk Jog, Open $250 Walk Trot, and Open $250 Walk Jog classes. 

Walk Trot Class Rules

Walk Trot classes are for Walk Trot or Walk Jog riders of any age. Exhibitors may not cross-enter into a class that requires a lope or a canter–this includes both qualifying and ancillary classes. Horses entered into Walk Trot classes with one exhibitor may be shown in a class with a lope or canter with another exhibitor. Rail work will not be included in any of the Walk Trot or Walk Jog pattern classes, including any Small Fry 11 & Under classes. 

Ranch Class Rules

Horses and riders entered in Ranch classes may cross-enter into Western and English All-Around Classes. Hoof polish, braided or banded manes and tail extensions are prohibited in any Ranch classes.

Ranch Conformation Class Rules

All horses entered in Ranch Conformation must also show in a Ranch performance class. This includes Ranch Rail, Ranch Reining, Ranch Riding, or Ranch Trail. The horse is not required to be shown by the same exhibitor in both the Ranch Conformation and Ranch performance class.