ATHENS AREA HUNTER JUMPER ASSOCIATION
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Rule 1- USEF Affiliation
The AAHJA is an affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation, and is therefore subject to all rules and penalties of the USEF. The AAHJA and its members are governed by current USEF rules unless these rules conflict with current AAHJA rules as described herein.
Rule 2- Membership Dues
2.A. Show Membership: The membership dues for a horse show affiliated with the AAHJA are $50 per horse show.
2.B. The annual individual membership dues for a senior member (amateur or professional) are $30.00, and the dues are $25.00 for a junior member (a rider under the age of 18). Family membership dues (3 members from the same immediate family) are $40.00. Dues for the current year must accompany each application for membership. The annual membership term is December 1- November 30. Membership will not be pro-rated.
2.C. Status: A Professional is any individual who teaches or trains riding students, and/or trains or rides horses for remuneration. An Amateur is any adult rider who is not a Professional. An individual may petition the Board to regain Amateur status, and will be granted such on a case by case basis through a majority vote of the Board. A Junior is any rider who, as of December 1 of the show year, is under the age of 18.
Rule 3- Registration of Horses and Ponies
3.A. In order for points to count toward AAHJA annual awards in any division, a horse must be registered with the AAHJA. The lifetime registration dues are $10.00. If the same owner registers three or more horses at the same time, the registration dues are $7.50 per horse. It is the owner’s responsibility to ascertain that a registration card has been issued.
3.B. No points will be counted toward the annual awards until the horse is registered. The horse must also be shown by a member and/ or owned by a member of AAHJA in order to accrue points. A horse that is not registered with the association may show at any AAHJA affiliated show, but no points will count toward annual awards. An individual may join and register a horse the day of a horse show, and AAHJA benefits begin immediately.
3.C. If an owner wishes to change a horse’s name, the owner must re-register the horse with the AAHJA under the new name. The fee for this is $5.00. The AAHJA must also be notified of change of ownership, but there is no recording fee for this change.
Rule 4- Recognition of Shows
4.A. Procedure:
1). Application: Any horse show wishing to become an AAHJA affiliated show must complete a show membership application, and the Board must receive this application and the show membership fee at least sixty days prior to the planned date of the show. In order to reserve a show date for the following year, a show must submit the application and fees by December 1. Senior shows maintain priority of pre-existing or open dates until the December Board meeting. Other dates will be given out on a first come- first serve basis. In order to hold an AAHJA show, an applicant must choose from the following: a). Show must hold two rings to accommodate the entire program. b). Show must be held on two days to accommodate the entire program. c). Shows may hold a full show with a partial program as accepted by the Board on one day in one ring. In order to be considered for AAHJA show membership, a show must hold at least five AAHJA recognized divisions. No more than one AAHJA sanctioned show may be held on the same weekend. Any one show manager may have no more than three sanctioned shows per calendar year approved at the November Board meeting. Additional shows may be presented for approval consideration to the AAHJA Board on an individual basis after the December 1 deadline.
2). Change of date: If a show wishes to change dates, the show must submit in writing the proposed change to the Board at least 30 days prior to the original date of the planned event. There will be a $5.00 fee for this change. Any canceled horse show forfeits the membership dues to the Association. Special consideration will be given for changes due to uncontrollable circumstances (i.e. weather). It is the show management’s responsibility to notify the general membership of any changes. Cancelled horse shows forfeit priority of their existing date.
4.B. Refusal of Recognition: The Board reserves the right to deny AAHJA recognition to any show that, by a majority opinion, it is deemed that refusal of recognition is in the best interests of the association. No recognition will be given to shows that fail to meet the minimum requirements stated by these By-Laws and Rules, and no recognition will be given to shows indebted to the association.
4.C. Prize Lists:
1). Submit to the Board: All shows must submit a copy of their prize list to the Board Steward for approval by the Board Steward allowing a five day turn around for approval before prize list mail out.
2). The prize list of every AAHJA affiliated show must contain the following:
a). The AAHJA page (or half page):
This horse show is an affiliated member of the Athens Area Hunter Jumper Association, and is held in accordance with the rules and regulation of the AAHJA. Any individual participating in this horse show is subject to these rules, and therefore is responsible for a knowledge and understanding of the rules of the Association. This horse show holds the following divisions that are recognized by the AAHJA for annual awards:
(List the recognized divisions with complete class specifications from the rule book, or use abbreviated class descriptions verbatim as provided in the show manager’s packet.)
b). The amount of entry fees and prizes offered in each class.
c). Names of officials and judges. “TBA” will not be accepted for any judge, show steward, or manager.
d). Exact date and location of show with directions.
e). Tentative time schedule and information concerning warm-up.
f). Statement concerning post entries and a full description of any additional fees charged, such as “office”, “schooling”, or “day” fees.
g). Entry blank with room for AAHJA membership number. The entry blank published in the prize list must be the one used the day of the show.
h). AAHJA membership form (may copy and reprint this form):
________________________________________________________________________
Athens Area Hunter Jumper Association
Membership Form
Please enroll me as a junior/ senior/ family^ (circle one)* member of the AAHJA for the year ________. I am enclosing a check** or money order for $___________.
Name(s):____________________________________________________________________________
Address:____________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________Zip________________
Home Phone:_____________________________________________E-mail_____________________
Barn/ Stable (that you ride out of):_____________________________________________________
Birthdate:(junior only)________________Status: (Circle one) Professional/ Amateur/ Junior***
Liability: I, _______________________, agree to allow my child(ren)’s trainer, ____________________________, to sign liability waivers at AAHJA horse shows for my child (ren),_______________________.Sign Name__________________________.
Annual Dues: Junior- $25.00, Senior- $30.00, Family- $40.00
*A junior member is under age 18, a senior member is age 18 or older, family membership is for three individuals of the same immediate family.
^ Family membership- Please fill out one form for each family member.
** Please make check payable to Athens Area Hunter Jumper Association and send to: AAHJA, 1350 Plantation Road, Madison, Ga. 30650.
***A Professional is any individual who teaches or trains riding students, and/or trains or rides horses for remuneration. An Amateur is any adult rider who is not a professional.
________________________________________________________________________
Each horse show is also required to provide a liability disclaimer to be signed by the exhibitor, parent, or trainer in their prize list which includes the AAHJA in all aspects of the disclaimer. Any classes or divisions that are not AAHJA recognized must be clearly identified in the prize list.
3.) Any farm wishing to hold an AAHJA show must present the classes in the order in which they are listed in the AAHJA Rule Book in Rule 9, with the exception of the Schooling Hunter Division (which may be held at any point between Divisions 8-12), and the Open Hunter Division (which may be held at any point between Divisions 16-18).
4.) Prize lists must contain general arena descriptions, i.e. Advanced ring is held in a grassy field with dimensions of 100’ X 200’.
Rule 5- Conduct of Shows
5.A. Entries: Entries must be open to all exhibitors, and the show is required to make notice of the show to all prospective exhibitors (i.e. sending out a prize list).
5.B. Minimum requirements:
1). All judges employed by an AAHJA recognized show must be approved by the Board at least 30 days in advance of the date of the horse show. All horse shows may refer to the list of approved judges published by the Board. A judge may only officiate at two AAHJA affiliated shows per year.
2). Show management must appoint an AAHJA approved Steward who will be the official representatives of the AAHJA, and will be responsible for settling any disputes or questions concerning AAHJA rules and regulations. An approved steward must be present for the entire show, and this duty can be divided between two people. The show steward, as the representative of AAHJA, must not be employed by the show in any other office, or be affiliated with the host farm.
3). Every show must provide qualified medical personnel on call for the entire duration of the show, including warm-up.
4). Show management must eliminate any entry that is ineligible.
5). Show management must submit to the AAHJA Point Secretary original show result reports postmarked within 7 days of the completion of the show. Show management must also include original judge’s cards and a master list of all exhibitors and horses with their respective AAHJA numbers.
6). During the warm-up period in the competition arena, there must be a qualified show official managing the ring for the full period.
7). The warm up period in the competition arena may have no more than six horses in the ring at one time. The amount of time allowed to each rider is up to the discretion of the show management. When space allows, show stewards may authorize additional horses.
8). The schooling area used by the horse show must be of sufficient size to ensure safe schooling. At least two jumps, one of which must be an oxer, must be available in the schooling area at all times. Each jump must have an ample number of poles to allow for ground lines on both sides of the jump. If breakage occurs, the pole must be immediately replaced.
9). Classes may only be held after dark if sufficient lighting is available. It is the duty of the show stewards to determine if lighting is adequate.
10). It is show management’s discretion to hold classes within a division back-to-back, and management must explain the procedure of back-to-back classes to all exhibitors.
11). Champion and Reserve Champion awards must be given out for all AAHJA recognized divisions.
12). Class or ring changes from schedule must be announced at least 15 minutes prior to the class and may not be altered if the change prevents pre-registered riders from competing.
13). Show management is required to provide the judge with the abbreviated AAHJA Rule List published by the Board of Directors. Show management must also provide at the secretary stand: a.) an AAHJA and a USEF Rule Book. b.) a USEF approved measurement stick. Management can borrow the AAHJA owned stick, but it is his or her responsibility to attain and return the stick to the President within three days. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH ANY PART OF THIS RULE WILL RESULT IN A $50 FINE FOR EACH VIOLATION.
Rule 6- Stewards
6.A. Application: Any senior member wishing to become an AAHJA approved steward must be at least 18 years of age and must submit an application to the Board in writing. In order to be an AAHJA steward, and applicant must pass the AAHJA steward test with a 90% prior to accepting their first stewarding job. The Board will develop the standards for the AAHJA stewards, and shall publish the names of all current AAHJA stewards.
6.B. Duties: All AAHJA stewards are required to do the following:
1). Rule on disputes and answer questions concerning AAHJA rules at any show at which he or she is officiating.
2). Receive complaints about AAHJA rule violation from any member, and file a report about such complaint to the Board. In the event that a member wishes to report a rule violation or file a protest, he or she must use the official Rule Violation Protest Form provided by the steward or show management.
3). Attend at least 50% of all general membership meetings and attend Board meetings at which you are called to discuss a dispute or complaint.
4). Conduct all pony measurements which he or she is called upon to do following current USEF Guidelines with an approved USEF measuring stick.
5). Stewards must be present on the show grounds from the beginning of the warm-up to the end of the show.
Rule 7- Protests, Charges, and Hearings
7.A. Conduct of Hearings: Except as herein discussed, Chapters 6 of the USEF Rule Book shall govern procedures of any protests, charges, and hearings of the AAHJA. The Board is required to meet within 30 days of report of any protest or appeal of a decision made by a show steward or show management. The Board shall have final decision over violations concerning AAHJA rules.
7.B. Penalties: The Board reserves the right to impose such penalties for rule violations as provided by Chapter 7 of the USEF. First offenses for rule violations may be subject to a fine not to exceed $50. Second violation of the same rule will result in a fine not to exceed $75. Third violation of the same rule will result in withdrawal of AAHJA show status.
Rule 8- Pony Measurement
No animal may be shown in a pony class without a current measurement card issued by the AAHJA. Each pony must be measured at the first horse show they compete at for that year. A pony must be measured every year until it reaches the age of six, at which time a permanent measurement card will be issued. Measurement procedure shall follow the procedure provided by the USEF Rule Book, and must be conducted by a show steward. AAHJA accepts GHJA and USEF permanent cards for pony measurement.
Rule 9- Show Specifications
9.A. Division Specifications: The AAHJA offers the following divisions and classes. All hunter divisions consist of two fence classes and one flat class. All equitation divisions consist of one fence and one flat class. Hunter courses shall simulate obstacles found in the hunt field such as natural rails, gates, walls, etc. All hunter and equitation courses shall consist of at least seven and no more than ten fences (excluding the first Tracy Ragan McKenna Crossrail fence course).
a). Pre Beginner- This division is open to riders in their first year of showing. The division consists of three classes, a Walk Equitation, a Walk/ Trot One at a Time Pleasure, and a Walk/ Trot One at a Time Equitation. Rider may only cross enter the two Walk/ Trot classes in the Beginner I division. In the instance of a tie for Champion or Reserve Champion, the results of the 3rd class will serve as the tie breaker.
1). Junior Beginner I- This division is geared to riders who are under 18 and in their first or second year of showing and have never shown above the beginner level. Riders are ineligible for this division if they have placed first, second, or third in the AAHJA Year End Awards in this division or if they have ever shown above the 18 inch height. Division consists of three classes- two Walk/Trot classes (one Under/Saddle, where points are accrued by the rider, and one Equitation, to be run in that order) and a Walk/Trot/Canter One at a Time Equitation Class. Suitability of mount to be stressed. Rider may cross enter Tracy Ragan McKenna Crossrail Equitation division and the Crossrail Medal only. Please refer to Rule 9.B. for cross-entry. In the instance of a tie for Champion of Reserve Champion, the results of the 2nd class will serve as the tie breaker.
2). Adult Beginner I- Same as Junior Beginner I, except that the rider must be 18 years or older.
3a). Tracy Ragan McKenna Crossrail Equitation-This division is geared to riders who are in their first or second year of showing and have never shown above the beginner level. Riders are ineligible for this division if they have placed first, second, or third in the AAHJA Year End Awards in this division or if they have ever shown above the 18 inch height. Classes are to be judged on equitation. Rider is not to be penalized for trotting the course. Division consists of three classes- two crossrail classes not to exceed 18” (one class to be once around two outside lines and one class to be twice around) and a flat class held at the walk, trot, and canter both directions. Flat class will be split to canter if entries are large to ensure safety of horses and riders. Rider may cross enter into the Crossrail Medal and the appropriate Beginner I division, or the Crossrail Medal and the Crossrail Hunter division, but not both. Please refer to Rule 9.B. for cross-entry.
3b). Adult Crossrail Equitation- Same as Tracy Ragan McKenna Crossrail Equitation, except the rider must be 18 years or older.
4). Crossrail Hunter-This division is geared to riders who are in their first or second year of showing and have never shown above the beginner level. Riders are ineligible for this division if they have placed first, second, or third in the AAHJA Year End Awards in this division or if they have ever shown above the 18 inch height. Classes over fences to be judged as a regular hunter class with no penalty for trotting the course or trotting through lead changes. At least one change of direction is required. Suitability of mount is to be stressed. Rider may cross enter into the Crossrail Medal and the Tracy Ragan McKenna Crossrail Equitation division, or the 18” section of the Green Rider Hunter and Green Rider Equitation division. Please refer to Rule 9.B. for cross entry.
5). Green Hunter 18” or 2’- This division is open to green horses and ponies in their first or second year of showing over fences greater than 18” crossrails. This division follows the same course and procedure specifications as the Green Rider Hunter. 18” Green Hunters may not cross enter any other division unless the rider is eligible for 18” divisions. 2’ Green Hunters may cross enter any other division where the fence height does not exceed 2’. Please refer to Rule 9.B. for cross entry.
6). Green Rider Equitation 18”- This division is open to riders in their first or second year of showing over fences greater than 18” Crossrails. Courses to consist of simple verticals or crossrails with no width (i.e. gates, flower boxes) but that meet the height specifications. No in and outs, oxers, roll tops, or walls to be used. At least one change of direction is required. Competitors are not to be penalized for simple changes. Riders may cross enter into the Crossrail Medal, Crossrail Hunter, the Green Rider Hunter, and the 18” Green Hunter if mounted on a green horse. Division is to consist of one over fences and a flat class to be judged on Equitation. Please refer to Rule 9.B. for cross entry.
7). Green Rider Hunter 18” or 2’- This division is open to green riders in their first or second year of showing over fences greater than 18” Crossrails. This division is offered in two height sections, 18” and 2’, to be judged together. Rider must choose one height section in which to show. Competitors are not to be penalized for simple changes. Courses to consist of simple verticles with no width (ie. gates, flower boxes) but that meet the height specifications. No in and outs, oxers, roll tops, or walls to be used. At least one change of direction is required. Riders showing at the 18” height may cross enter only the Green Rider Equitation, the Crossrail Medal, the Crossrail Hunter, and the 18” Green Hunter if mounted on a green horse. 2’ Green Riders may cross enter only the Green Equitation and the 2’ Green Hunter if mounted on a green horse. The Green Rider Hunter division may be split and pinned separately as an 18” division and a 2’ division if entries warrant. Please refer to Rule 9.B. for cross entry.
8). Schooling Hunter 2’- Open to all horses and ponies. To be judged over a course not to exceed two feet in height. No in and outs, but oxers may be used which do not exceed two feet in width. At least one change of direction is required.
9). Short Stirrup Hunter 2’- Open to horses and ponies shown by a junior rider 12 years of age and under. Riders are eligible for this division for two years, and should never have shown over fences exceeding two foot in height. Competitors will be penalized for trotting the course. Riders may cross enter any 2’ schooling division and their age group equitation up to 2’6”. Riders may not cross enter into Pony Hunter or the Pony and Junior Medal Classes. To be judged over a course of fences no greater than two feet in height or width. No in and outs. At least one change of direction is required.
10). Long Stirrup Hunter 2’- Same course and procedure specifications as the Short Stirrup Hunter division, except rider must be over 12 years of age. Long Stirrup riders may cross enter any class that does not exceed 2’6” in height.
11). Short/ Long Stirrup Equitation 2’- Follows the same specifications as divisions (9) and (10) above, respectively. To be judged on equitation of rider.
12). Junior Equitation (12 & Under) 2’- Open to riders twelve years of age and under on horses or ponies. Fences are not to exceed two feet in height or width. No in and outs.
13). Pony Hunter 2’ & 2’6”- Open to ponies shown by an amateur. Small ponies must jump 2’, medium ponies may opt to jump two foot or two feet six inches, and large ponies must jump two foot six inches. Course may consist of oxers not to exceed two feet in width and in and outs.
14). Junior Equitation (13-17) 2’6”- Open to riders age 13 to 17 on horses or ponies. Fences are not to exceed two foot six inches in height and two foot in width. In and outs may be used.
15). Adult Equitation 2’6”- Same as (12) above, except open to senior riders on horses or ponies.
16). Children’s Hunter 2’6”- Open to junior riders on horses or ponies. Fences are not to exceed two foot six inches in height and two foot in width. In and outs may be used.
17). Adult Amateur Hunter 2’6”- Same as Children’s Hunter except open only to senior members.
18). Open Hunter 2’6”- Open to all riders, horses, and ponies. Fences are not to exceed two foot six inches in height and two foot in width. In and outs may be used.
19). Junior/ Amateur Hunter 3’- Open to junior and adult amateur riders on horses and ponies. Fences are not to exceed three feet in height and two foot six inches in width. In and outs may be used.
20). Working Hunter 3’- Same as Junior/ Amateur Hunter, except open to all riders.
21). Schooling Jumper 2’6”-2’9”- Open to all riders on horses or ponies. To be shown over a jumper-type course of fences between two foot six inches and two foot nine inches in height. In and outs may be used. Spreads are not to exceed two foot three inches in width. Division consists of three classes, the first class to be held according to USEF Table II, Section 2(b), the second class to be held according to USEF Table II, Section 1, and the third class to be held according to USEF Table II, Section 2(c).
Table II, Section 2(b) consists of two rounds; a first round course and a shortened jump off course. All riders with a clear first round will stay in the ring for their jump off round. Table II, Section I consists of one round judged on faults and speed. Table II, Section 2 (c), Power and Speed, consists of a first round course judged on faults. Riders clear after the first round continue immediately onto the speed round without interruption.
22). Open Jumper 3’-3’3”- Same as Schooling Jumper.
23). AAHJA Medal Classes- See Rule 10, Section A. of this rule book.
9.B. Cross Entry: Due to the number of beginner divisions in the association, this chart is provided to ease any confusion about cross entry.
If you are in: You may cross enter:
Pre Beginner: 2 W/T Classes in Beg. I
Beginner I: TRM Crossrail Eq & Crossrail
TRM Crossrail: Crossrail Medal & Beginner I OR Crossrail Medal & Crossrail Hunter
Crossrail Hunter: TRM Crossrail Eq & Crossrail Medal OR Green Rider Eq & Green Rider Hunter 18”
Green Rider Eq.: Crossrail Hunter, Green Rider Hunter, Crossrail Medal & Green Hunter 18” (if riding green horse)
Green Rider Hunter 18”: Crossrail Hunter, Green Equitation, Crossrail Medal, and Green Hunter 18” (if riding a green horse)
Green Rider Hunter 2’: Green Eq and Green Hunter 2’ (if riding a green horse)
Green Hunter 18": 18" divisions is rider is eligible
Green Hunter 2': Any non-beginner division not exceeding 2’
9.C. General Specifications:
1). Horses and ponies may compete in under saddle classes without competing over fences, but points will not count toward annual awards unless the horse or pony competes over fences in the same division sometime during the year.
2). Only riders holding amateur status may compete in any class that is specified solely for amateurs. Amateur status is defined in Article 808 of the USEF Rule Book. It is the responsibility of show management and the show stewards to reject any entry that does not comply with this rule.
3). Horses and ponies may enter no more than 7 over fences classes at any one show, no exceptions. Riders may enter no more than two hunter divisions of consecutive height.
4). Show management reserves the right to combine or cancel any division in which entries number fewer than three. In order for points to count toward AAHJA year-end awards, each class of each division must have at least three entries. Divisions that are combined will be run and pinned together, and points will be kept accordingly for AAHJA annual awards. The following divisions may be combined:
a). Junior Beginner I and Adult Beginner
b). TRM Crossrail Equitation and Adult Crossrail Equitation
c). Short Stirrup and Long Stirrup
d). Children’s Hunter and Adult Hunter and Open Hunter and Pony Hunter
e). Junior/ Amateur Hunter and Working Hunter
f). Short/ Long Stirrup Equitation and Age-group equitation- Run at correct height for each group.
g). Short/ Long Stirrup Medal, Pony Medal, and Junior/ Adult Medal- Run at correct height for each group.
h). Crossrail Medal & Green Rider Medal- Run with correct specs for each.
i). Green Hunter and Green Rider Hunter
5). Attire and Turnout:
Competitors at AAHJA shows are required to show in:
a). either tall boots and breeches or jodphurs and paddock boots.
b). show shirt with choker.
c). black hard hat (All riders must wear an ASTM approved helmet at all times when mounted.)
d). show jacket (beginners are not required to have a show jacket, but they are recommended for all riders). Show management may waive jackets in cases of excessive heat.
The following items are recommended for all riders. Although riders will not be penalized for variations to recommended attire, overall presentation in the ring may effect a judge’s decision.
a). black gloves.
b). long sleeved show shirt with monogrammed choker or pin..
c). garter straps for jodphurs.
d). belt.
e). hair contained in a hair net and completely contained in hard hat.
f). plain black crop.
All horses need to be properly turned out for showing. All horses must be:
a). bathed and groomed.
b). clipped.
c). have mane pulled (braiding is not required).
6). No martingales are allowed in flat classes of any kind. Only standing martingales are allowed in hunter and equitation fence classes.
7). Polo wraps and boots are allowed only in equitation and jumper classes, not hunter classes. In the event of questionable footing, the judge and both AAHJA stewards may make a joint decision to allow protective leg gear to be used in any and all classes. This decision must be announced prior to the start of the show.
8). The 3" Rule: Show management is allowed to vary the height of the required jump specifications by 3", higher or lower, in the following divisions: Green Hunter (#5) and Schooling Hunter (#8) through Open Jumpers (#22).
9.D. Abuse and Misconduct Clause: The show stewards or show management reserves the right to eject from the show grounds with loss of all entry fees and possible suspension and/or expulsion from the association any rider, owner, trainer, or person affiliated with such who is found to be cruel or abusive to an animal, or discourteous to any show official. Abuse is defined in the USEF Rule Book under Article 302.
Rule 10- AAHJA Medal Classes
10.A. Specifications: The AAHJA offers the following medal classes: Crossrail Medal 18”, Green Rider Medal 18”, Short/ Long Stirrup Medal 2’, Pony Medal 2’ & 2’6”, Junior Medal for Riders on Horses 2’6”, and Adult Medal 2’6”. The Crossrail Medal is for those riders who are in their first and second year of showing and have not shown over jumps larger than 18”. The Green Rider Medal is for those riders who are in their first or second year of showing over fences greater than 18” Crossrails. The Short/ Long Stirrup Medal is for those riders (junior and adult) who are in their first or second year of showing over fences higher than 18 inches, and have not competed over fences greater than two feet in height, excluding age-appropriate equitation classes. Both the Pony and Junior Medal for Riders on Horses are for junior riders. The Adult Medal is for adult amateur riders. In the Pony Medal, small ponies jump 2’, mediums may opt to jump 2’ or 2’6”, larges jump 2’6”. Medal classes are equitation classes to be judged over a course of 8-10 fences not to exceed the appropriate height requirement. Only crossrails are to be used in the Crossrail Medal Class. Only verticles of no width may be used in the Green Rider Medal Class. Oxers may be used in Short/ Long Stirrup, Pony, Junior Horse, and Adult Medal classes only. In and outs may be used in Junior Horse and Adult Medal classes only. At least 50% of riders (a minimum of 4) who complete the course will be called back for additional flatwork. Flatwork to count 25%. All of these riders may be asked for additional testing over fences. Crossrail Medal and Green Rider Medal riders may be asked to perform USEF tests 1-8, excluding #2. Short/Long Stirrup Medal riders may be asked to perform USEF Tests 1-8 (see below). Pony Medal riders may be asked to perform USEF Tests 1-11. Junior and Adult Riders may be asked to perform USEF Tests 1-19, but will not be asked to change horses (Test 16) due to liability. At least four riders must enter the class for placings to count toward the Medal Finals. If a rider wins the Crossrail Medal Finals, the Green Rider Medal Finals, or the Short/Long Stirrup Medal Finals, they are no longer eligible to compete in that respective class.
10.B. USEF Tests:
1. Halt (4 to 6 seconds) and/or back.
2. Hand gallop.
3. Figure eight at trot, demonstrating change of diagonals.
4. Figure eight at canter on correct lead, demonstrating simple change of lead.
5. Work collectively at a walk, trot, or canter.
6. Pull up and halt (4 to 6 seconds).
7. Jump obstacles on a figure eight course.
8. Answer question(s) regarding basic horsemanship, tack and equipment and conformation.
9. Ride without stirrups, or drop and pick up stirrups.
10. Jump low obstacles at a walk and trot as well as at a canter.
11. Dismount and mount. Individually.
12. Turn on the forehand.
13. Figure eight at canter on correct lead demonstrating flying change of lead.
14. Execute serpentine at a trot and/or canter on correct lead demonstrating simple or flying changes of lead.
15. Change leads on a line demonstrating a simple or flying change of lead.
16. Change horses.
17. Canter on counter lead (no more than 12 at a time).
18. Turn on the haunches from the walk.
19. Demonstration ride of approximately one minute. Rider must advise judge beforehand what ride he plans to demonstrate.
10.C. Medal Finals: The AAHJA Medal Finals will be held at the end of the calendar show year at an AAHJA sponsored show. The AAHJA will have a maximum of six Medal Finals classes (Crossrail Medal Finals, Green Rider Medal Finals, Short/Long Stirrup Medal Finals, Pony Medal Finals, Junior Medal Finals for Riders on Horses, and Adult Medal Finals) to be held at the AAHJA Finals horse show at the end of the show season. These classes will follow the Medal class specifications described in Section 10A. above. Riders must qualify to ride in the Finals. The top 10 riders with points accrued throughout the year in each medal class will qualify for the Medal Finals at the Year End Horse Show. A rider need not use the horse or pony on which he or she qualified. If a rider qualifies for both the Pony and Junior Horse Finals, he or she may ride in both. If a rider competes in a Medal Class or a division that disqualifies him or her from eligibility in the Crossrail, Green Rider, or Short/ Long Stirrup division, he or she may not ride in the respective Medal Finals at the end of the year. A rider who wins the Crossrail, Green Rider Medal, or Short/Long Stirrup Medal Finals may not show in that respective class again. A rider who wins the Finals twice in the Pony, Junior, or Adult Finals may not show in that class again. The course will be posted 1 hour before the start of the class. Riders are then allowed to walk the course. An official order of go will be posted 1 hour before the start of the class.
Rule 11- The AAHJA Finals Show
1). AAHJA will hold a year-end finals show each year over a weekend set by the Board and to be managed by the Board or outside show manager hired by the Board.
2). The first day is to be run as a regular AAHJA show held in two rings. The second day consists of Classics and the Medal Finals classes. Points will count double toward year-end awards for the second day of the Finals Show.
3). In order to compete on the second day (Sunday) of the Finals Show weekend a rider must have competed in at least one AAHJA show during the calendar year.
Rule 12- AAHJA Annual Awards
12.A. Minimum Requirements:
1). In order for an annual award to be presented in a division, the division must have been held and judged at a minimum of three different recognized shows throughout the year with a minimum of three ribbon winners in each class of the division.
2). If there are less than six horses or ponies with points accrued in any division, the Board reserves the right to combine the division with another like division, or eliminate the division for the purpose of annual awards.
12.B. Divisions: The AAHJA offers annual awards in the following divisions:
a). Pre- Beginner
1). Junior Beginner
2). Adult Beginner I
3a). TRM Crossrail Eq.- 18”
3b). Adult Crossrail Eq.- 18”
4). Crossrail Hunter- 18”
5). Green Equitation - 18’’
6). Green Rider Hunter- 18’ & 2’
7). Green Hunter- 18’ & 2’
8). Schooling Hunter- 2’
9). Short Stirrup Hunter- 2’
10). Long Stirrup Hunter - 2’
11). Short/Long Stirrup Eq.- 2’
12). Pony Hunter -2’ & 2’6”
13). Junior Eq. (12 & under)- 2’
14). Junior Equitation (13-17)- 2’6”
15). Adult Equitation- 2’6”
16). Children’s Hunter- 2’6”
17). Adult Amateur Hunter- 2’6”
18). Open Hunter- 2’6”
19). Junior/Amateur Hunter- 3’
20). Working Hunter- 3’
21). Schooling Jumper- 2’6”-2’9”
22). Open Jumper 3’-3’3”
12.C. Scoring: Points for year end awards will be accrued according to the following scale:
1st place- 10 points
2nd place- 6 points
3rd place- 4 points
4th place- 2 points
5th place-1 points
6th place- ½ point
Champion- 20 extra points
Reserve Champion- 12 extra points
If a tie exists for Champion or Reserve Champion of a division at a horse show, the horse and rider with the most points over fences wins the award. In the Pre-Beginner division, the results of the 3rd class will serve as the tie breaker. In the Beginner I division, the results of the 2nd class will serve as the tie breaker. If a tie still exists, the show management shall call for a judged hack-off between the tied entries.
12.D. An updated point sheet will be made available monthly by the Point Secretary for riders to check for errors. It is the responsibility of each member to assure that the point standings are correct. Any application for corrections must be submitted to the Board in writing within 60 days of publication of the disputed points. No point changes will be accepted after two weeks subsequent to the Finals Show. The Board shall not be held liable for computing errors.
12.E. The AAHJA encourages individuals to donate perpetual trophies. Any person or group wishing to donate a perpetual trophy must submit a written request to the Board.
12.F. Each year a committee shall be elected to select a recipient of the Good Sportsmanship Award with criteria and regulations to be designated by the committee and voted on by the AAHJA Board of Directors.
12.G. Any member winning a Champion Annual High Point award in the Pre-Beginner, Beginner I, Crossrail Equitation, or Crossrail Hunter Divisions shall not be eligible to receive a year end award in that division again.
12.H. Year End Awards will be placed as follows: a.) The Pre-Beginner Division through the Long Stirrup Equitation Division, excluding Schooling Hunter, pins through tenth place. b.) Any division with twenty or more horses pins through tenth place. c.) Any division with 12-19 horses pins through eighth place. d.) Any division with 1-11 horses pins through sixth place.
Rule 13- Amendments
The Board reserves the right to alter, amend, or add to these rules by majority vote if it deems such changes necessary to the advancement of the association. At least 15 days notice must be given to all members of any proposed rule changes.
2009 AAHJA APPROVED STEWARDS
Please Note: This list of approved stewards includes all of the people that have passed the AAHJA stewards test. If you know of someone who would like to become an AAHJA steward, please contact a board member to receive a test.
Vickie Bryans 706-342-3029
Tonia Dolph 706-369-0860
Stacey Grosvenor 706-207-5390
Christy Johnson 706-357-9817
Kathy Jones 678-549-7012
Kat DeMas Mulkey 706-342-7577
Kim Ohlsson 706-254-3255
Stephanie Parker Cumming 706-342-8528
Heidi Platt 706-705-4125
Jennifer Scott 770-207-6783
Ginny Smith 706-255-2696
Jenny Woods 706-202-0747
ATHENS AREA HUNTER-JUMPER ASSOCIATION
BY-LAWS
Section 1- Mission Statement
The goal of the Athens Area Hunter-Jumper Association shall be to standardize and promote all local hunter-jumper shows and other related activities within the Athens area and to act on behalf of exhibitors, sponsors, spectators, and management.
Section 2- Membership
2.A. Membership Year: The membership year shall run from December 1 to November 30.
2.B. Individual Membership: Senior, Junior, and Family membership shall be given to applicants upon receipt by the Vice President of the membership application and the annual fee. Senior members are those individuals who are 18 years and older. Junior members are those individuals who are under the age of 18. For the purpose of age, an individual maintains the age he or she is as of December 1 for the entire show year. Family membership is given to a maximum of three individuals in the same immediate family. For the purpose of voting power, only Senior members may vote. Each Senior member holds one vote. For the purpose of status, a Professional is any individual who teaches or trains riding students, and teaches, trains, or rides horses for remuneration. An Amateur is any adult rider who is not a Professional.
2.C. Show Membership: Show membership is given to farms or individuals wishing to hold an AAHJA rated horse show upon receipt of the membership application and fee and approval by the Board of Directors. One responsible individual (a Senior member) will serve as applicant. In order for a horse show to be recognized by the AAHJA, the show must have approved show membership at least two months prior to the date of the show. The proper horse show procedure and minimum requirements are stated in Rules 4 and 5 of this Rule Book.
2.D. Membership meetings: There will be a maximum of 4 general membership meetings, held quarterly, including an annual election meeting. The Board of Directors shall publish a calendar with dates and locations of all meetings and horse shows.
Emergency meetings: Emergency meetings may be called by the President or a group of three or more of the Board of Directors. Emergency meetings can also be called at the request of not less than twenty senior members.
Quorum: For all meetings of the AAHJA, 25% or 20 Senior members shall constitute a quorum.
Section 3- Directors
3.A. Membership and Election: The affairs and business of the AAHJA shall be managed by its Board of Directors, consisting of 6 officers and up to 3 Senior members who reside in the Athens Area. Each Director shall be elected from the voting membership at the annual election meeting to serve a term of one (1) year with no term limits for reelection. Directors shall receive no remuneration for their services to the Board. Each Director serves from the time of election until the time that a successor is elected the following year.
3.B. Powers: In addition to the powers given to the Board of Directors by these By-Laws, the Board may use all such powers of the Association and do all such lawful acts that it deems necessary to conduct the business of this Association properly. The Board of Directors has the power to make full decisions on any questions pertaining to the rules of the Association, and may from time to time make and change any rules and regulations not inconsistent with these By-Laws for the management of the Association’s business and affairs. The Board of Directors has the power to employ, and at its discretion remove or suspend, such personnel as it deems necessary to manage the Association. The Board by vote of two-thirds its membership, may, after a hearing censure, suspend and/or expel any member of the Association whose conduct is found harmful to the best interests of the Association or is in violation of any of its By-Laws or Rules.
3.C. Meetings: Meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held at a time and place that is fixed by resolution of the Board, and the Board must meet at least three times per year. A member of the Board of Directors cannot miss two Board meetings without a valid excuse and still maintain Director membership status. A member of the Board must also attend at least three of the horse shows sanctioned by the AAHJA during the year.
3.D. Order of Business: The order of business at meetings of the Board of Directors shall be:
1. reading and disposal of any unapproved minutes.
2. report of officers.
3. unfinished business.
4. action upon application for membership to the Association.
5. new business.
6. adjournment.
3.E. Quorum: 50% of the Directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and this quorum shall act as the Board of Directors for the meeting. If a quorum is not present at a meeting, the present members may adjourn the meeting until a quorum is obtained.
3.F. Vacancies: Any permanent vacancy to the Board for any reason may be filled by an election among a quorum of the remaining directors. If the vacancy has not been filled at any meeting of the members, the members at such meeting may fill the vacancy.
Section 4- Officers
4.A. Term and Election: The Board of Directors, as soon as may be possible following the annual general election, shall elect by majority vote of the Board the following officers: President, Vice President, Recording Secretary, Point Secretary, Treasurer, and Board Steward from the Board membership. From time to time the Board may also elect any other officers, agents, or employees as it deems necessary. All officers shall serve at the discretion of the Board, and any officer can be removed from office on the majority vote of the Board members. A vacancy may be filled for the unexpired term by the Board of Directors.
4.B. Powers and Duties: Without restricting the general powers given by these By-Laws and any duties called upon the officers by the Board, it is expressly declared that the officers shall have the following powers and duties:
1. President: The president will oversee all business and transactions required for management of the Association.
2. Vice-President: The vice-president will oversee business in absence of the president. The vice-president will also publish the yearly Rule Book and necessary AAHJA forms, as well as handling all membership duties.
3. Recording Secretary: The recording secretary will have the following duties: keeping minutes at all meetings; receiving and filing all reports of Board members, officers, and employees; furnishing copies of minutes of all meetings to the Board and as needed to the general membership; handling all correspondence; publishing a quarterly newsletter with show calendar and point updates.
4. Point Secretary: The point secretary will have the following duties: receiving show results from show secretaries; recording and tabulating points for year end awards; furnishing copies of point standings at each horse show and to members as needed to check for error.
5. Treasurer: The treasurer shall have the following duties: having the authority and the responsibility for the safekeeping of Association funds; signing all financial transactions; receiving all Association mail, and forwarding all membership applications to the Vice-President.
6. Board Steward: The Board Steward will oversee order at meetings, approve all show prize lists, handle all protests and complaints, and bring such protests to the Board for voting.
Section 5- Committees
The Board of Directors holds the power to create as it deems necessary any committee to help manage the affairs of the Association.
Section 6- Amendments
The By-Laws of the AAHJA may be repealed or amended by new By-Laws adopted by a quorum of the Board of Directors at any regular or emergency meeting for regulation and management of the Association.