Tack & Apparel

RDS 5.0 Tack & Apparel Harness:

1. Required equipment includes square blinkers, a snaffle bit, and an attached overcheck rein (optional overcheck bit).

2. A breastplate featuring straight flaps, coupled with traces crafted in a rounded shape with flat ends, is required. In the case of pairs, English-style collars are utilized.

3. Martingales are mandatory. Breechings must be utilized in all Wagon classes.

4. In Horse Bike and Wagon classes (excluding Roadster Pony classes), the overcheck must remain attached to the water hook until the class concludes. If the check breaks or becomes detached, the entry must use a timeout to reattach it. If the check breaks or detaches a second time, the horse must be excused from the ring by the judge(s). In such cases, the horse will still qualify for the championship. Vehicles

1. Roadsters are to be presented with a Bike, Road Wagon, or Caffrey style Buggy. All vehicles must exhibit good appearance and stability.

2. Horse Bikes must adhere to a standard size of at least 48” width with a double seat.

3. If the judge determines a vehicle to be unsafe, the entry must be excused from the ring. Entries excused under these circumstances will still qualify for the championship, provided the vehicle complies with the rules. Appliances

1. Horses and ponies are not permitted to be shown with artificial appliances, except for those listed within this chapter as acceptable.

2. The use of shackles, draw reins, kicking straps, German martingales, or other training devices is prohibited in the competition ring.

3. Leather straps without appendages are permitted as action devices in warm-up areas on the competition grounds during or before a competition. Rubber or elastic exercising devices fastened with a stable ring on a simple leather strap are also acceptable, with the option of covering them with wool or fleece for protection. However, attaching elastic straps or devices to any portion of the harness or bridle is not allowed. Furthermore, using chains or rollers as action devices on the competition premises during or prior to a competition is strictly forbidden.

4. Inconspicuously applied hair in the tail is permitted.

5. The front feet may have protective boots. Attire

1. In Bike or Under Saddle classes, the entry is required to wear Roadster Silks, a cap, or protective headgear. Entry numbers must be displayed on the driver’s or rider’s back.

2. In Road Wagon classes, exhibitors are to wear a business suit with a hat of their choice. The entry number is worn on the driver’s back.

3. The use of electronic communication devices for coaching purposes outside the ring is prohibited in all Roadster Division classes, except for individuals with a permanent hearing impairment who are permitted to use such devices upon submission of written certification from a treating medical professional.

4. Exhibitors with disabilities (other than hearing impairment) will be provided reasonable accommodation upon submission of written certification from a treating medical professional's office, identifying the necessary accommodation for safe competition. The certification must be provided to the competition Manager/Steward within a reasonable timeframe prior to competing.

5. Protective headgear is strongly recommended for all participants in any class within the Roadster Division, unless otherwise mandated by local law.

6. Juvenile Exhibitors in Roadster to Bike or Roadster Under Saddle classes are required to wear well-fitted protective headgear while riding or driving anywhere on the show grounds. Helmets must be securely fastened and appropriately adjusted. RDS: Class Specifications