The competitor in this image is not wearing a magnetic device. However, if she was, the red circle indicates where it would be located. Such small devices have been used in the past in an effort to keep elbows in for proper position. Effective in AQHA competition as of June 1st, 2016, such magnetic devices will now be prohibited.
AQHA Publicity
According to Rule SHW 300.2, AQHA judges have the authority to require the removal or alteration of any piece of equipment or accoutrement which is unsafe, or in his opinion would tend to give a horse an unfair advantage or which he believes to be inhumane. AQHA judges will now have the authority to also disqualify exhibitors for any piece of accouterment or attire that would give an exhibitor an unfair advantage. The AQHA Executive Committee approved the addition of Rule SHW320.6 to the 2016 AQHA Official Handbook of Rules and Regulations, and the new rule will be effective June 1st.
The Executive Committee approved additional rule changes specifically for showmanship, horsemanship and hunt seat equitation classes. The new rules, all effective June 1st, include:
SHW320. ATTIRE
The judge will have the authority to disqualify the exhibitor for any piece of accouterment or attire, which in his or her opinion would tend to give a rider an unfair advantage.
SHW375. SHOWMANSHIP: Presentation and Position of Exhibitor.
Appropriate western attire must be worn; clothes and person are to be neat and clean. The use of any type of artificial aid including, but not limited to lighters, hay, dirt, sharp pins, magnetic device, etc. will result in disqualification.
SHW434. HORSEMANSHIP: Presentation and Position of Exhibitor.
Appropriate western attire must be worn. Clothes and person are to be neat and clean. The use of any type of artificial aid or magnetic device will result in disqualification.
SHW616. HUNT SEAT EQUITATION ON THE FLAT
SHW618.5 Appropriate English attire must be worn. Clothes and person are to be neat and clean. The use of any type of artificial aid or magnetic device will result in disqualification.
For more information on AQHA’s rules and regulations, visit www.aqha.com/handbook.
AQHA News and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more news and information, follow @AQHAnews on Twitter and visit www.aqha.com/news.
