SHW112.1 For classes run concurrently or separately, the points available to the intermediate/progressive class will be based on the number of intermediate/progressive entries in the class.
SHW112.2 The number of points available to the open level entries will be the total number of both intermediate/progressive and open level entries in the class.
SHW112.3 Approval may be obtained to hold junior and senior classes when applicable, except western pleasure, reining and working cow horse events which may be divided into three classes.
SHW112.4 No 2-year-old may be shown in any performance class prior to July 1 of its 2-year-old year, except in showmanship at halter.
SHW112.5 Jumping, team penning, ranch sorting and all green classes are all-age classes only.
SHW112.6 Only junior horses 5 years old and younger may be exhibited in junior classes.
SHW112.7 Only senior horses 6 years old and older may be exhibited in senior classes.
SHW112.8 Junior and senior classes, junior and hackamore/snaffle bit classes or all three classes (senior, junior and snaffle bit/hackamore) may be combined only when there are two or less entries in one or both divisions, or all-age classes split at the direction of the judge and the show management with the unanimous consent of all exhibitors involved in the class (or classes) in question. If a show wishes to combine a junior and senior bit reining class and has a hackamore/snaffle bit reining class, the hackamore/snaffle bit class still will be recognized as an approved class. Entries will be accepted after a class is combined. If classes are combined and additional entries are accepted such that there are now three or more entries in both open classes or youth divisions, classes must be split back the way they were originally offered.
SHW112.9 In all performance classes where each entry performs individually, the order of competition shall be determined by show management drawing lots. Horses entered in any class must be assembled in ample time for judging to start on time and continue without delay. They must remain in readiness until dismissed by the judge. A tardy contestant may be denied competition.
SHW112.10 In all performance classes, horses are to be ridden astride, except in pleasure driving where they will be driven, and in showmanship where they are led with a halter.
SHW112.11 It is mandatory that shows with multiple judges and arenas that offer the option of work at will for trail, western riding and working hunter must group like exhibitors together. Working orders for each group may be worked in a random order. For example, if the caliber of exhibitors and/or horses for Novice and 13 and under is similar, they would be worked as one group. Then, if the caliber of exhibitors and/or horses for Select, Junior and 14 to 18 are similar, they would be worked in a different group and could compete on a more difficult course. The same pattern must be used within each group.
SHW112.12 It is mandatory all patterns and courses be posted at least one hour prior to the class commencing.
SHW112.13 The score in the eliminations or go-rounds, and the score of each horse in the finals, or the score in the finals only will determine the final placings; consistency of performance to be recognized as a major factor.
SHW112.14 Any show that does not offer the required halter/performance halter classes in the open division will not have its results recognized.
SHW112.15 AQHA strongly recommends show management provide a youth division for exhibitors, 18 years of age and under, and an amateur division for eligible exhibitors.