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 campsites 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. 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 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 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.
When do I get obstacle instructions & Go-order? Available at check-in, by 8am each morning.
Don’t Miss the Obstacle Walk-thru! No Horses. Obstacle Course opens 8am. Judge’s walk-thru by division 8:30. Course closes (must be clear) by 9:45am.
When does the show begin? 10am. Kids go first, then adult riders. Go-Order available at check-in by 8am each morning.
What’s “Schooling” and “In-Hand”? These are non-competitive classes, to help those with a new horse, those who are new to obstacles, and those who want to share a horse. Schooling is riding your horse; In-hand is leading your horse.
When do Non-Competitive classes begin? After all competitive divisions are complete. More details at check-in.
Can I ride in the competition and also sign up for a non-competitive class? Yes. This is a good option if you want to go through the obstacles again. Note: Space & time is limited in each class, so we finish in time for dinner!
Can I share my horse with another participant? Maybe. Each horse can compete once each day. Second go must be in a non-competitive class (Schooling or In-hand.) OK to use a lesson horse multiple times in a non-competitive class. Call Heather before registering at 408.348.95l2.
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
- In-Hand & Schooling: OK to have a helper (parent/trainer/coach) on course. However, you must keep moving through obstacles after ONE try at each obstacle to avoid holding up other participants.
Gear: Saddle and Bridle are required for all Competitive divisions, Schooling Class, and Trail ride. Saddle is optional for In-hand Class, plus bridle &/ or halter/lead line managed by handler. 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 as well as trail ride).
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 Friday’s potluck.
What’s for dinner on Saturday? TBD! We are working on a simple dinner to be served in the clubhouse, with both vegetarian and carnivore options.
Volunteers! E-mail Darren at morgansrule@sbcglobal.net. Volunteers can audit for free, and can camp without a horse Friday-Sunday at no charge.