Event Rules & Frequently Asked Questions
CSHA rules for Obstacle Challenge events are available online via this link: 2024 Bylaws and Rulebook - CSHA (californiastatehorsemen.org)
Hint: read chapter 19, Obstacle Challenge. This document is a great resource for those who want to compete, maybe participate in the State-wide championship in October, and/or volunteer to judge obstacles for their local club.
In addition to CSHA Rules, the event manager has some discretion related to a specific venue, such as allowing dogs onsite and offering non-competitive classes. You are welcome to e-mail Heather if you have specific questions or need more information than provided below at shrkshupe@duck.com.
Do I have to be a member of CSHA to participate? No
Do I have to be a member of Santa Cruz County Horseman's Association? No... But if you join camping is free for you and your horse! More info on joining our club here:
SCCHA Membership
Can we camp overnight? Yes! The campground will be open Friday-Monday for this event. Reservations are required during registration as paddocks are limited.
No charge for SCCHA members to camp. Non-Member camping: $25/night for non-members includes 1 paddock. (Kids camp for only $10/night). Non-riding guests are $10/night. Bringing two horses? 2nd horse is $15/night.
Dogs: Well-behaved dogs are allowed in the campground. Dogs must be on a leash or in a pen at all times. Dogs are not allowed in or near obstacle areas during the show.
Camping & Ground Use Rules are posted at the welcome kiosk, near the driveway. SCCHA Rules are also posted online: sccha.wildapricot.org/ClubRules
Don’t get disqualified! ALL Competition Obstacles are closed Friday until Saturday walk-thru. Also closed Saturday after the show until Sunday walk-thru. Entering the course or using obstacles when closed will get you disqualified. Avoid all areas marked by orange buckets and/or marked "Closed for Event"!
When do I get obstacle instructions & Go-order? Available at check-in, by 8am each morning. IMPORTANT: YOU MUST BE NEAR THE GATE ONCE YOUR DIVISION IS CALLED. More info at the Obstacle Walk-thru, 8:30 am Sat & Sun.
Don’t Miss the Obstacle Walk-thru with Judges Q & A! No Horses. Course must be clear)by 9:45am.
When does the show begin? 10am.
Can I ride more than one horse in the show? Yes, just register each horse separately.
Can more than one person compete on the same horse? Each horse can compete only once. However, a horse can go in the Schooling Class more than once. Just register each rider separately in the schooling division.
What's Schooling Class? Riders can ride through obstacles without competing. No score, but a great way to learn without any pressure. One go at each obstacle, plus optional advice from obstacle judges.
Helper/Trainers:
- Mini-Youth: must have an adult on the course, assistance/coaching is allowed
- Youth: must have an adult nearby, no coaching is allowed
- Adults: no coaching, is allowed during the competition
- More details are provided in the CSHA rules & bylaws, linked above
- Schooling: Helper/Trainer allowed on course for Kids under age 18
Gear: Saddle and Bridle are required for all divisions. Riders must wear safe footwear (e.g. boots with a heel.) Helmets are recommended for all. Helmets are REQUIRED for riders under age 18 whenever mounted (includes warm-up & campground).
How do I qualify for the state championship? Briefly, you join a CSHA regional program, then complete at least 3 sanctioned competitions by early October. More info at the show.
What’s for dinner on Saturday? We are planning on serving Apricot-glazed chicken for carnivores; Broccolini with Onion & Cheese sauce for vegetarians. Side dishes and dessert TBD.
Raffle Tickets can be purchased at check-in or at dinner Saturday. Those who donate a raffle prize get 5 free raffle tickets!
Can I volunteer or Audit? YES! E-mail Darren at morgansrule@sbcglobal.net. Volunteers can audit for free and can camp without a horse Friday-Sunday at no charge.
Cancellation Policy: Full refund less $10 for cancellations received via e-mail by 7/31/2024. No refund after that date. No refund for no-shows or those disqualified. Email address for cancellation: shrkshupe@duck.com
