In NRHA competition, reining horses are judged individually as they complete one of eleven specified patterns. One or more judges score each horse between 0 and infinity with 70 denoting an average score. Each horse automatically begins the pattern with a 70. The judge can either add or deduct up to 1 and 1/2 points on each maneuver in half-point increments based on the "quality" of the maneuver. Penalties are also allocated for minor deviations from the pattern; major deviations result in a zero score for the go. As the judges watch the execution of the pattern, individual scribes keep track of each judge's maneuver scores on a score sheet as well as penalty marks. Scores are tabulated and announced at the end of each run. The judge's sheets with individual maneuver scores, penalties, and total scores are then posted for the benefit of the exhibitors following each class.
In scoring, credit is given for smoothness, finesse, attitude, quickness and authority when performing the various maneuvers. Controlled speed in the pattern raises the level of difficulty and makes the reining horse more exciting and pleasing to watch. Increased level of difficulty is rewarded with higher scores if the maneuvers are performed correctly.
The NRHA Handbook states:
"To rein a horse is not only to guide him, but to control his every movement."
Unchanged since 1966, that statement serves as the definitive guide to the judging of reining events.
HOW CAN I BECOME A JUDGE?
A prospective judge must attend an NRHA Applicant Seminar and upon passing the testing requirements as set forth by the Judges Committee will be eligible to attend an NRHA Judges School. Members outside of the U.S. and Canada can attend an NRHA Applicant Seminar and Judges School in their home country as they are scheduled. Upon passing the testing requirements of an NRHA Judges School or international judges school, those persons will then have their names submitted to the Board of Directors for consideration for final judging privileges.
DO I QUALIFY?
The applicant must be at least twenty-five (25) years of age and must have been an NRHA member in good standing for two consecutive years before he or she can be considered for approval as an NRHA judge.
WHERE ARE THE SCHOOLS AND SEMINARS?
There are three (3) NRHA Judges Schools offered in the United States each year, all are held in Oklahoma City, OK. The first school is held in January in conjunction with the NRHA Convention, the second session is held in March, and the third session in November.
NRHA Applicant Seminars and International Judges Schools are scheduled as requested by affiliate groups and organizations wishing to host one in their city and/or country.
FOR INFORMATION: To Host an NRHA Applicant Seminar In The U.S. or Canada or to Host an International Judges School call 405-946-7400.
