Equine Sports CouncilRulebook home

2026 · Version 7.3 · Effective March 2026

ESC Rule Book

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ESC Participant Code of Conduct

All rules / Open Ranch

OR6.0

Open Ranch Trail

OR 6.0 Open Ranch Trail Horses work individually, utilizing the arena to perform a combination of obstacles and maneuvers as prescribed by the judge. The course should have no less than six, but no more than ten obstacles/maneuvers. Patterns should be posted at least one hour prior to the performance. Standard Obstacles (strongly suggested, but not mandatory)

1. Walk-overs, Jog/trot-overs, Lope-overs: No more than five rails per obstacle, no more than ten inches high.

2. Opening, passing through, and closing a gate.

3. Walk over a wooden bridge.

4. Backing obstacle. Back through “L”, “U”, or “V” shape or chute.

5. Side-pass obstacle. Optional Obstacles (may include, but not limited to)

1. Carry an object from one area to another.

2. Drag an object of reasonable weight. Dally is required.

3. Remove and replace materials from a mailbox.

4. Ring a dinner bell.

5. Put on or pick up a slicker or coat.

Source pages 193–193 · Original page layout and illustrations