2026 Handbook

Pdf version of the 2026 Handbook

Finalized November 2025

2026 Schedule

Show #1
March 21^st– 22^nd,2026
Mosaic Arena
2450 NE Roan St.
Arcadia, Fl
Show #2
June 27^th– 28^th, 2026
Jacksonville Equestrian Center
13611 Normandy Blvd.
Jacksonville, Fl
Show #3
September 12^th-13^th, 2026
Florida Horse Park
11008 S Hwy 475
Ocala, Fl
Show #4
November 21^st-22^nd, 2026
Okeechobee Agri Center
4200 State Road 70 East
Okeechobee, Fl
Banquet
January 2027- TBD

Sunshine State Mounted Drill Team Association, LLC

Contact Us at:

www.facebook.com/SSMDTA

ssmdta22@gmail.com

www.SSMDTA.com

Statement of Purpose

Sunshine State Mounted Drill Team Association, LLC was founded on the principles of fair play, fellowship, sportsmanship and competition. The Association is dedicated to promoting the sport of mounted drill team riding for entertainment and competition. We encourage teams to use all the equine skills they possess whether riding for entertainment or competition. Remember above all else ….

DRILL TEAM RIDING IS FOR FUN!!!!

It is the intention of the Sunshine State Mounted Drill Team Association to develop and bring together as many drill teams as is possible throughout the state of Florida, and to hold competitions and events throughout the year, one of which will be the banquet for the purpose of naming an Annual State Champions.

The Sunshine State Mounted Drill Team Association, LLC rules and by-laws handbook is protected by US Copyright Laws and no part may be copied or duplicated without the express permission of the Managing Members. Possession of the handbook does not constitute permission or grant the right to duplicate or otherwise copy the material for personal or professional gain.

The copyright covers all printed text within the handbook and any graphic illustrations contained within.

By-Laws and Rules

Be it here known this body shall be recognized and known as the Sunshine State Mounted Drill Team Association, LLC. The State of Florida under the Charter Number L13000084404 charters this Association. Being organized as a Non-Profit organization for the purposes of promoting fellowship, good sportsmanship and fairness in competition in drill team riding. The following by-laws govern all those present and future members of the Sunshine State Mounted Drill Team Association, LLC.

Managing Members

President: Show Secretary:

Nichole Sandeen Rebekah Zoerhof
16931 W. Prestwich Drive
Loxahatchee, FL 33470
(561) 310-1041

The Association is managed by up to three (3) managing members. The duties of these members will include, but are not limited to:

Presiding over meetings, ensuring the by-laws, rules and regulations of the Association are enforced.
Record and maintain minutes of all meetings.
Collect dues, competition entry fees, donations and monies collected from any fund raiser and keep records of.
Pay bills in a timely manner.
Set up 4 shows and a banquet for each year.

Show Secretary and Show Manager Duties

Main point of contact for teams and judges for the duration of the show.
Show Secretary and President will make the final decision on all items during the show.
Run the Captain’s Meeting at the shows.
Track drill times and put them on the score sheets.
Calculate and assess penalties, if any, and input on score sheet.
Collect score sheets from all judges (may have a runner appointed by show staff)
Total all sections of the score sheets and calculate the placings for each division.
Fill in the placing sheet for announcer to read at awards.
Assist the Announcer with music check and sound levels for all teams.
Make copies of score sheets for each team to be picked up at the end of the competition.
Assist in handing out awards and score sheets
Save copies of score sheets for the association
Arrange meals for all judges, announcers and show secretary
Pay the judges at the end of the competition
Responsible for all score sheets and audio recordings.
Get teams copy of recordings and final score totals (by the Friday after the show)
Requests for additional shavings while at the show.
Facility and RV site issues.

Association Meetings

An annual meeting will be held at the discretion of the managing members. Two (2) members from each team are allowed to represent their team. The floor will be open for discussion but must be placed on the agenda ahead of time. This will allow us to keep the meeting to a short length. This will allow teams to provide feedback on changes needed for the following year, so the Handbook can be ready by the 4^th qualifier. Other meetings may be called throughout the year at the Managing Members’ discretion.

General Rules & Information

This is a non-profit club. The President and secretary will retain all rights to make any final decisions throughout the course of the show season. This includes, but is not limited to, show dates, venues, class lists, prizes, judges, and any issues that are brought up by team captains throughout the year.
Per Florida law, any rider under the age of 16 must wear a helmet while riding at any time. Nicole’s Law requires children younger than 16 to wear a helmet while riding a horse on public land. Parents of children who break the law can be fined $500. This law was put into effect October 1, 2009. HOWEVER, our insurance requires 18 and under to wear a helmet.
Safety helmets are not required by riders older than 18 years and may be used at the discretion of the teams. Teams will NOT be penalized if they choose to wear safety helmets. This will not count as a non-conformity in costuming. Safety is a main concern and helmets are encouraged.
In the interest of safety and fair play, the use of firearms or any explosive device is NOT allowed to be utilized in anyone’s drill.
Stallions may only be ridden and handled by an adult, over the age of 21, who is experienced and knowledgeable in handling a stallion.
Un-sportsmanship-like conduct will NOT be tolerated. Any member or person associated with a team member who shall conduct themselves in a manner as to disrupt or do anything calculated to disturb the harmony of the Association, shall warrant a team being reprimanded and possibly disqualified. If conduct is observed, it shall be brought to the attention of the Managing Members for review. Loss of temper resulting in abuse of people or animals will result in expulsion of team/persons involved. If more than 3 offenses are reported during a show, the team will be disqualified.
Each team needs to contribute to the other team’s encouragement and moral support with a positive attitude. Moments of frustration are common to all members, but a positive mental attitude should be maintained even when the going gets tough.
Excessive abuse of animals may be grounds for dismissal from the event. A repeat offense by the same individual will result in expulsion. Anyone witnessing an act of abuse should report it to a Managing Member or the Show Secretary. The team and individual will be spoken to. If 3 offenses are noted at a show, that team or individual will be disqualified from the show.
Any rules that are broken can/will be given negative points in the category closest to the offense. A negative point allotment up to but not limited to 20% of that category. To be determined by show president, secretary and judges.
Dogs must always be on a 6’ leash and under the control of a handler.
Please keep all children and animals away from the arena rails.
Spectators are encouraged to watch performances, but we ask that you move in the grandstands in-between rides only to minimize noise.

Insurance

Association insurance is due yearly. If the treasury funds permit, the Association shall pay all the insurance fees. In the case of insufficient Association funds, the cost of the insurance will be divided among the current member teams.

Termination

The Sunshine State Mounted Drill Team Association, LLC reserves the right to terminate its association with any member at any time. Refunds of membership dues will not be honored.

Dissolution

Upon the dissolution of SSMDTA by the Managing Members, any remaining funds in the treasury shall be divided and distributed equally among the current paid members.

Team and Member Registration:

A team must be declared with one designated coach to SSMDTA via website.
All active members will be declared by said coach via website.
Only verified coaches are permitted at show booth/office at any time.
All active members are then required to log on to http://www.ssmdta.com and register and sign all release and waivers.

Membership and Annual Dues

Any person may join SSMDTA. The membership year runs from January 1 – December 31. Annual dues are $35 per person.

Each person wishing to join MUST fill out the Membership Form online and digitally sign the liability waiver.

All riders must be members of the Association to participate in any of the shows. Additionally, all Coaches, Captains, Co-Coaches and Co-Captains are required to be members of the Association.

A Team is defined as a group with a SINGLE point of contact being the one designated coach. Communication will go to the main point of contact for each team, but other information will be posted on our website and Facebook page. Managing members strive to respond to coaches as quickly as possible.

Show Registration:

Entry forms are available at http://www.ssmdta.com and can be filled out online. Entry fees will have an Early Bird price if submitted 30 days prior to the competition. Regular pricing will start 3 weeks prior to the competition. Late pricing will be 10 days prior to the competition.
For Early Bird Pricing ALL music and write-ups should be submitted at the same time. If not all submitted at that time the price difference of when everything is submitted will be charged to the team.
Each team may have sub teams ie: Sunshine team may have Sunshine Youth team, Sunshine Novice team and Sunshine Open team, but each sub team must submit their own entry form and qualify themselves by entering 3 out of the 4 shows.
Every horse must have a current negative Coggins. No exceptions
Every horse is required to have a paid stall
Each team must reserve sufficient tack stalls to keep the aisles clear.
Music must be submitted ahead of the show to be placed on the computer. Music should be submitted with your entry form. Changes can be made, up until the Wednesday prior to the show. No changes will be allowed at the show.
Should a team need to withdraw after they have sent in their entry fee, a request should be sent in writing to the Association (via email ssmdta22@gmail.com) 10 days ahead of said competition to receive a reimbursement or credit for next show, otherwise the fee is forfeited. President may overrule if extenuating circumstances arise.
The Order of Go will be published prior to the competition. If any special needs are required in line up, the team manager needs to notify the association at the time of entry submission.
A voluntary Zoom meeting will be held a week prior to the show for any questions and concerns any team may have.

Show Rules and Information:

Order of go will be provided and will be ridden as listed. HOWEVER, if a team is delayed due to a costume change, or an emergency arises, and another team is ready and willing to ride prior to their time, show management will allow it to keep the show on time. Teams can be asked to ride prior to the time listed on the order of go if they are ready.
Teams need to be at the arena entrance AT THEIR ASSIGNED TIME. Should there be a need to extend that time, coaches will reach out to show management and will be assessed on an individual basis.
Teams will be allotted 10-15 minutes of arena time. This time will be used for setting of your cones, Courtesy Lap, and drill performance.
Before each team starts a drill, you can make a courtesy lap around the arena. During that time the Announcer will read a short introduction about your theme/ costume. At each of the qualifiers, only the costumed and Rodeo classes will have an introduction read. This is a great opportunity to tell the audience how your theme is represented (costumes, music, etc.).
Introductions must be submitted with your entry forms. Changes can be made, up until the Wednesday prior to the show. No changes will be allowed at the show.
During actual drill competition, internal/external signaling from the sidelines will not be allowed and result in negative points. Signaling includes, but is not limited to, talking to the team members, hand signals, whistles(external), head nods, etc. Beginner and novice will not be penalized for internal coaching.
In the event of a fallen rider, please do not rush the arena. The whistler must blow 2 whistles to halt the drill. The riders in the arena must freeze in their spots. Music will be stopped. Please allow the coach, show staff and parents (if applicable) to assess the situation. If additional assistance is needed, the coach/show staff/parent will request it.
If there is a costume malfunction (for safety) in that a team is losing a leg wrap or other safety issue, the Managing Members, Judges or Show Secretary may stop the drill with NO penalties to the team. The team manager can also have the drill stopped by notifying the Managing Members or Show Secretary and NO penalties will be deducted. A double whistle will be made to stop the drill.
In the event of a problem in the arena during a team’s ride that is beyond their control (i.e., loose animals, sound system malfunction, spectator interference and acts of God), a team may request a Re-Ride from the Show Secretary. The Show Secretary will confer with the judges and will make the final decision if the Re-Ride request is approved.
Each team is responsible for providing their own gatekeeper. None will be provided for by SSMDTA. Gates MUST be closed for safety reasons. Should a team run a drill without closing the gate, a 200-point penalty will be added for that class.
After completion of riding your drill, teams must then open the arena gate and WALK out of the arena. Failure to do so will incur a 50-point deduction for that class. This is a safety hazard and is not to be taken lightly.
Any rules that are broken can/will be given negative points in the category closest to the offense. A negative point allotment up to but not limited to 20% of that category. To be determined by show president, secretary and judges.

Music

Music should be free of profanity such as: Swearing, cursing, racial slurs, and sexual innuendos. If profanity is heard the team will receive 0 points from all judges in the music category for that ride. To be determined by judges and show management.
The whistler is responsible for giving a thumbs up to the announcer when the music is to be started for their drill. The announcer needs an indication so that he/she knows when to start the music or if the music is too loud or not loud enough.
If incorrect music is played, teams should not start their drill, but notify the Show Secretary, Show Manager or Announcer to have the correct music played.
If a team’s music stops or glitches due to an issue with the sound system ONLY, the team may restart with NO penalties. Except for a rider’s fall, the drill can only be stopped by the Team’s Coach. Otherwise, music should continue playing throughout

Flag Protocol

Flag Order – (Right to Left or Front to Back)
1. American Flag
2. State flag
3. Armed Forces flags (in order below)
a. Army
b. Marines
c. Navy
d. Air Force
e. Space Force
f. Coast Guard
4. City flag (only if State flag is used)
5. Team flag
6. Sponsor flag
Flag Staffs – Heights
Normally flags should fly above a rider’s head about 6” to not block their view. Therefore, as a guide, if you want to carry a 4’ x 6’ flag, you will need a 10’ pole (4+6=10). A 3’ x 5’ flag needs an 8’ pole, etc. This calculation may not always work for taller riders. For a uniform look, flag poles may be cut (adjusted), or flag boots may be positioned in a manner so all flags on a team appear to be the same height.
Flags – General Information
No flags on the team should be higher or larger than the American Flag. A small sticker on a flagpole can mark where riders need to hold the pole to keep flags facing forward. The lighter a flag is, the easier it is to handle. No flag should leave the arena before the American Flag.
General Flag Carriage – Riders
Riders carry flags on their right in a steady manner with shafts and/or poles perpendicular to the ground (regardless of the drill speed…no leaning forward or backward). Elbows should be bent in a right angle and held close to the body. Flags need to be kept free-flying and not allowed to wrap around poles. All flags (except the American Flag) should be dipped in honor of the American Flag, the National Anthem, or the Pledge of Allegiance of the American Flag. Flags are dipped by fully extending the right arm forward, not to the side.
American Flag Carriage – Riders
Riders must always carry the American Flag on their right, straight upright, perpendicular to the ground. Elbows should be bent in a right angle and held close to the body. The American Flag is NEVER dipped. Regardless of the drill speed the American Flag NEVER leans forward, backward or outward. It should always be free-flying and not allowed to wrap around the shaft. The American Flag should not be allowed to touch the ground. American Flag horse/rider should have skills capable of carrying the National Flag. If an American Flag is dropped during drill, it should be rescued immediately and placed back in its position.
The American Flag – Position in Maneuvers:
The position of the American Flag during drill shall always be to the front or to the right of
all other flags and all other riders. In a single file the American Flag shall lead all other flags
and riders. In pairs, fours, eights, obliques or full team abreast, the American Flag shall be to the right and/or in front of all other flags and riders. When performing a Crack the Whip, the American Flag should be on the outside and the team should be traveling counterclockwise.
In a Chevron the American Flag should always be at the front point leading other riders. When
in a Circle, the American Flag must leave the formation first and be in a leading position. In a counterclockwise Pinwheel, American Flag(s) should be in the far outside positions. When performing a clockwise Pinwheel, American Flag(s) should be the center pivots. When performing other maneuvers remember to always place the American Flag in the front position and/or to the right of all other flags and riders. At NO time may the American Flag back up (signifies retreat) in a maneuver. On exiting an arena, no other flag may leave the arena before the American Flag; the American Flag leads the exit.

Practice Day/Time:

A Practice Schedule will be published with order of go for each team to have an assigned time on Friday before the show.
Teams will have a certain timeframe allotted and may ONLY have that time to practice in the arena. Unless time is marked open, then teams can share the arena for desensitizing.
Music will not be played via the sound system for anyone’s practice. You may bring personal speakers to play music during your practice time.
The Arena is CLOSED after all practice times have been completed.

Class Lists:

Compulsory

Short Program

Beginner: Beginner Theme, Beginner Freestyle, Beginner Quad

Youth: Youth Theme, Youth Freestyle, Youth Quad

Novice: Novice Theme, Novice Freestyle, Novice Quad

Open: Open Theme, Open Freestyle, Open Quad

Rodeo

Mashup

Divisions:

The following classes will make up said divisions. Each division will have a qualifier high point and a year-end high point. Teams must ride in ALL defined classes to qualify for each high point. Points from each class will be totaled to define the winner.

Beginner: Beginner Theme, Beginner Freestyle, Beginner quad

Novice: Novice Theme, Novice Freestyle, Novice Quad

Youth: Youth Theme, Youth Freestyle, Youth Quad

Open: Open Theme, Open Freestyle, Open Quad

Theme Classes at each show:

A costume is an outfit worn to create the appearance characteristic of a particular period, person, place, or thing.

Theme Classes for Beginner, Novice, Youth, Open are full costume at all shows. Theme classes must wear matching costumes. Your costumes, tack and music should blend to create a theme or story that is carried throughout your drill.

All Freestyle, Quad, and Rodeo Classes at each show:

Freestyle and Quad classes will be performed with formal Rodeo Attire at assigned shows.

Formal Rodeo Attire is long sleeve button up shirts, jeans/pants, boots and tack uniformity.

Rodeo class will be performed at all qualifiers in formal rodeo attire. Long sleeve button-up shirts, jeans, boots, and cowboy hats (helmets).

Show #1: Open Quad & Open Freestyle

Show #2: Youth Quad & Youth Freestyle

Show #3: Novice Quad & Novice Freestyle.

Show #4: Beginner Quad & Beginner Freestyle.

Inspection

Teams will not be standing for formal Inspection. All teams during courtesy laps for themed events will stop along railing in front of the judges, do a barrel turn, then continue with courtesy lap Your tack will receive scores under the Appearance category. Costumes will receive a score under Theme/ Costume.

Judges look at your General Appearance, Costume/Theme unity, Tack Uniformity (bridles, reins, breast collars, pads and leg wraps). This does NOT include tie-downs spurs, saddles or rear cinches.

At qualifiers the Rodeo and Theme classes will always be in costume. Open, Youth, Beginner and Novice classes will each costume at a single qualifier.

Classes that are not showing in costume at qualifying competitions will wear attire consisting SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots. Tack, saddle pads, splint boot can match team colors. If attire is not followed the team will receive a 20-point deduction from appearance per score sheet from that class. Cowboy hats, Baseball caps and visors are allowed. Helmets may be substituted for any without penalty. Flags and Props are allowed, except for beginners, novice, compulsory, short, and mashup.

If a team is required to wear a costume/ formal attire in a class and choose not to, the team will be given a 0 in the Theme/ Attire category on all score sheets in the class.

Judges

Judges will be announced at the coaches zoom meeting before the show.
The judges’ decisions will be final and will not be reversed.
If two or three judges are used, then both/all judges will judge all sections of the score sheet. Both scores will be added together for the grand total.
The scoring is the Judge’s opinion of the drill (their interpretation) to the rules and the team’s drill.
Judges are to score all categories and penalties on the score sheets if possible.
Judges will be seated in the grandstands. Do not sit near the judges or talk to them during the competition.
The judges may also be asked to assist with handing out the awards to the teams.
Judges usually stay after the awards on Sunday to talk with teams. Please take advantage of this one-on-one feedback.

Score Sheets

Score sheets will be available for coaches before the shows. This way the coach can see how points are to be allotted
Score sheets shall be handed out to the team manager or designated team representative at the end of the competition. Each team will receive the original of the score sheet. The carbon copy becomes the property of SSMDTA to remain on file for a period of one year.
In case of a tie for any placement, the team with the higher spacing section score will take the higher placement. Should there be a need to further break a tie, the highest score in Alignment would follow and the timing/coordination. If those are all the same, it will be determined by difficulty of drill.
The judges will be responsible for scoring all sections of the Official Scoring Sheet. They agree to do so according to the format provided for in the Judges section. After each performance the judges will turn their score sheets into the Show Secretary who will assess any penalties and will total each section. Once turned in, the judge cannot have the score sheet back, although the Show Secretary may bring the score sheet back to a judge if he/she has questions on what a number says or if a number is missing off the score sheet. The judge may only have 1 team score sheet at a time. Each team is judged individually and not compared against each other.
Any changes made on a score sheet by a judge must be initialed by that judge in ink. It is the judge’s responsibility to do a final check and make sure that all changes are indeed initialed in ink.
In the event of a technical malfunction with music, confirmed by the Announcer, teams will be given the highest music score issued by each judge within that class, if a rerun is not opted for.

Penalties

Exceeding Time Limit: (-10)

The time starts when the first horse breaks the plane of the performing team’s “designated” arena. (This will be determined by each team’ s use of SSMDTA’s provided cones. If a team doesn’t mark their field, it may be assumed by a judge that they are using the entire arena.) The time will end when the last horse’s tail leaves the team’s “designated” arena. If a team goes under or over the allotted time, it shall incur a 10-point penalty. Penalties shall be deducted from specified areas on the official score sheets.

Fall of Horse/Rider (-20/-100)

A fall of a horse or rider due to horse behavior, faulty equipment, etc. shall incur a twenty (20) point penalty will be incurred for that ride. This penalty will be assessed per incident. If the fall of a horse/rider is due to a collision between two or more horses, collision of horse or rider with gate or wall, a one hundred (100) point penalty will be incurred. This penalty will be assessed per incident. The Fall of Horse/Rider penalty includes Re-Grouping for fallen rider, so a Re-Grouping penalty shall not be added on top of a Fall of Horse/Rider penalty unless other team members need to re-group. Penalties shall be deducted from specified areas on the official score sheets. * All Riders are to halt in place in formation and wait until ready to restart.*

Re-Grouping (-10)

Shall incur a ten (10) point penalty, per incident will be incurred for that ride. Re-grouping penalty shall be assessed when an obvious loss of direction occurs. Should a piece of broken/failed equipment, tack or gear cause a member to stop, a regrouping penalty will be added. Penalties shall be deducted from specified areas on the official score sheets.

Internal/External coaching: (-50)

If internal verbal or external coaching is noticed by the judges or SSMDTA Staff, a 50-point penalty will be assessed – along with a notation of the nature of the violation. All non-verbal (whistle) coaching are required to be utilized SOLELY inside the team’s designated arena. Should a rider exit prior to drill completion, they are prohibited to continue communication or whistle. Internal verbal and external coaching will NOT be penalized on Beginner or Novice Classes. Penalties shall be deducted from specified areas on the official score sheets.

Failed gate closure: (-200)

It is the responsibility of each team to close the gate before starting their drill routine. If a team fails to close the gate, a 200-point penalty will be incurred for that ride. This is a LEGAL requirement by our insurance. Penalties shall be deducted from specified areas on the official score sheets.

Failure to walk out of the arena: (-50)

It is the rider’s responsibility to make sure that their horse is under control and walking out of the arena. If a rider fails to walk out of the arena a 50-point penalty will be incurred for that ride. Penalties shall be deducted from specific areas on the official score sheet.

Fielding less riders: (-25)

If a team fails to provide the minimum number of riders for a specific class, the team can choose to take a 25-point penalty and participate in the class. Penalties shall be deducted from specified areas on the official score sheets.

Breaking Canter/ Exceeding Trot: ( -25)

In classes such as Rodeo, Beginner, and Novice where gaits are required. If breaking a canter in the Rodeo class a 25-point penalty will be incurred for that ride. If exceeding a trot is not permitted in the class a 25-point penalty will be incurred for that ride. Penalties shall be deducted from specific areas on the official score sheet.

Out of Bounds: (-2 per occurrence)

Should a horse step out of set bounds, created by cones, a two (2) point penalty, per incident will be incurred for that ride. Penalties shall be deducted from specified areas on the official score sheets.

Year-end qualifications:

To qualify for end of year awards, teams need to compete in at least three out of the four competitions.
Non-qualified teams will not place and will not earn points.

Awards

Awards will be given for 1-6 place in each class at every show
Divisional highpoint qualifiers will be announced at each show
Additional awards will be handed out at show management’s discretion.
Traveling Trophies
Traveling trophies are awarded at each show for teams to enjoy for a year.
Qualifier #1 = Judges’ Choice
Qualifier #2 = Horsemanship Award
Qualifier #3 = Sportsmanship Award
Qualifier #4 = Golden Shovel

At the year-end banquet, awards will be given out for Best Music, Best Costume, highpoint score for the season, customized state championship awards and other awards at managements discretion.

High Point

To qualify for high point the team must compete in all 3 classes of each division entered.

High Point at each qualifier will be determined by the total points given by all judges.

High point for state champion will be the combined total given by all judges, for all shows.

State Champions

State Champions will be determined by the total points given by all judges, for all shows. The team with the largest point total in each class and Division will be the state champion.

Best Music

Best music will be determined by the average music points given by all the judges at all the shows attended

Best Costume/ Theme

Best costume will be determined by the average theme/costume points given by all the judges at all the shows attended.

Compulsory:

Description:

Open to all teams. A pre-written drill will be provided for all the teams and will be used for an entire show year. Teams will be judged on the execution of each move and this division will have a separate score sheet.

Compulsory drill is available at http://www.ssmdta.com in the current year show information.

Attire:
There will NOT be costumes for this division at any competition. The attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots. No props or flags permitted.

Gaits:
There are no gait requirements for this class, But points can be earned for each gait used.

Time:
No time limit.
Please be considerate of the show schedule and be expeditious with your ride.

Riders: Minimum of 4 riders.

Required Drill:

1. Pairs

2. Open Heart

3. Figure 8 X 2

4. Circle X 2

5. Pinwheel X 2

6. Sweep X 2

7. Pick up

8. Crack the Whip X 2

9. Full Team sweep X 1

10. Company Front

11. Chevron

12. Do si Do X 2

13. Set up for weave

14. Weave

15. Circle

16. Single file out

17. Diamond Cross

18. Roll Back

19. Cross

20. Suicide Charge

21. Button Hook

22. Scoop

23. Pairs

24. Heart

25. Pairs

26. Roll Back

27. Roll in Pairs Exit

Short Program

Description:

The purpose of the Short Program is for teams to put together a short drill that incorporates 6 pre-determined moves. These can be done in any order, and any additional moves can be added to facilitate the setting up of any moves. Maneuvers may be performed in a variety of ways to allow for originality. Disqualification will be implemented if a team fails to complete the 6 required maneuvers.

Teams will be judged on: How many maneuvers are incorporated into a smooth working drill; Lines and circles; Suitability of music to maneuvers performed; Spacing, Timing, Alignment, Pace; Uniqueness and originality in presentation of the drill; Showmanship; Performance of all Maneuvers; and Equitation and Horsemanship. Props and Flags are NOT allowed at all competitions.

Each team participating is required to submit a list of their maneuvers in order of how they will appear in the drill. A maneuver copy can be a written list or an arrow diagram. Please highlight or indicate the 6 required moves as they appear in the drill to make it easier for the judges to see in their copy.

Attire:
There will NOT be costumes for this division at any competition. The attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots.

Gaits:
There are no gait requirements for this class, but points can be earned for each gait used.

Time: 3 – 5 minutes.

Riders: Minimum of 4 riders

Required Maneuvers:

Descriptions of the moves can be found in the Move Glossary at http://www.ssmdta.com.

Rodeo

Description:
This class is all about “flash and dash” and “pizzazz”.

You will be judged on Execution of Drill, Performance and Manner of Horses, Originality and Uniqueness of Presentation, Degree of Difficulty, Showmanship, Rider Equitation and General Impression. The emphasis will be on Showmanship and Entertainment. Props and Flags are allowed at all competitions.

Attire:
Formal rodeo attire required for all qualifiers. Long sleeve button-up shirts, jeans, boots, and cowboy hats.

Gaits:
Canter Only. No stop, walk or trot.

Time: Less than 5 minutes.

Riders: Minimum of 4 riders.

Mash up Class:

Description:
2 teams, with the same number of riders each, work together on a provided drill which can be found on the website.

Attire:
There will NOT be costumes for this division at any competition. The attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots.

Gaits:
Beginner/Novice will have walk and trot required.

Open/ Youth will have trot, and canter required.

Time: No time limit.

Riders: Minimum of 4 riders.

This class can be entered at any show and there is no need to qualify to compete at the State Championships.

Youth Freestyle

Description:

This division is for riders 18 and under. The exception to this is that ONE adult rider (over the age of 18) may ride with the youth riders. Rider’s age will be determined on January 1st of each year, and they will remain that age for the competition year. All Youth riders under the age of 19 are required to wear a helmet while riding at any time during the event.

This class allows you to showcase your team and its style.

Attire:

Formal Rodeo Attire for this class is required at the 2nd shows. The other 3 shows attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots.

Gaits:
Trot and Canter are required.

Time:
6 – 8 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum of 5 riders.

Youth Quad

Description:

This class allows you to showcase your team and its style with just 4 riders.

Attire:

Gaits:
Trot and Canter are required.

Time:
4 – 6 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum and Maximum of 4 riders.

Youth Theme

Description:

This class allows you to showcase a specific theme. Your costumes, tack and music should blend to create a theme or story that is carried throughout your drill.

Costumes:
Costumes for this class are required at ALL shows.

Gaits:

Trot and Canter are required.

Time:
5 – 8 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum of 4 riders.

Beginners Freestyle

Description:

This division is for riders 18 and under. Exception to this is that TWO adult riders (over the age of 18) may ride with the youth riders in a leadership and/or safety capacity. Rider’s age will be determined on January 1st of each year, and they will remain that age for the competition year. All Youth riders under the age of 19 are required to wear a helmet while riding at any time during the event.

The purpose of this class is to allow brand new youth riders the opportunity to compete in drill while still learning the art of riding and horsemanship.

You will be judged on Spacing, Alignment, Timing & Coordination, Degree of Difficulty, Manners & Performance of Horses, Crowd Appeal, Variety, Appearance, Music and Horsemanship.

Props and Flags are NOT allowed at any of the competitions for the Beginners division.

The Internal/External Coaching Penalty is removed for this class.

Attire:

Formal Rodeo attire for this class is required at 4^th show. The other 3 shows attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots.

Gaits:
Walk and Trot Only

Time:
3 – 5 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum of 5 riders.

Note:
The same horse/rider combo may also ride in Novice division classes, but may not participate in any Youth, Open or Rodeo classes.
Adults serving as Leader/Safety riders are exempt from this.

Beginners Quad

Description:

This division is for riders 18 and under. Exception to this is that TWO adult riders (over the age of 18) may ride with the youth riders in a leadership and/or safety capacity. The rider’s age will be determined on January 1st of each year, and they will remain that age for the competition year. All Youth riders under the age of 19 are required to wear a helmet while riding at any time during the event.

The purpose of this class is to allow brand new youth riders the opportunity to compete in drill while still learning the art of riding and horsemanship.

You will be judged on Spacing, Alignment, Timing & Coordination, Degree of Difficulty, Manners & Performance of Horses, Crowd Appeal, Variety, Appearance, Music and Horsemanship.

Props and Flags are NOT allowed at any of the competitions for the Beginners division.

The Internal/External Coaching Penalty is removed for this class.

Attire:

Formal Rodeo attire for this class is required at the 4th show. The other 3 shows attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots.

Gaits:
Walk and Trot Only

Time:
3 – 5 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum and Maximum of 4 riders.

Note:
The same horse/rider combo may also ride in Novice division classes, but may not participate in any Youth, Open or Rodeo classes.
Adults serving as Leader/Safety riders are exempt from this.

Beginners Theme

Description:

The purpose of this class is to allow brand new youth riders the opportunity to compete in drill while still learning the art of riding and horsemanship.

You will be judged on Spacing, Alignment, Timing & Coordination, Degree of Difficulty, Manners & Performance of Horses, Crowd Appeal, Variety, Appearance, Music and Horsemanship.

Props and Flags are NOT allowed at any of the competitions for the Beginners division.

The Internal/External Coaching Penalty is removed for this class.

Costumes:
Costumes for this class are required at ALL shows.

Gaits:
Walk and Trot Only

Time:
3 – 5 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum of 4 riders.

Note:
The same horse/rider combo may also ride in Novice division classes, but may not participate in any Youth, Open or Rodeo classes.
Adults serving as Leader/Safety riders are exempt from this.

Open Freestyle

Description

This class allows all teams to compete against each other. There are no restrictions on the age or number of horses.

This class allows you to showcase your team and its style.

Attire:

Formal Rodeo attire for this class is required at the 1st show. The other 3 shows attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots.

Gaits:
Trot and Canter are required.

Time:
6 – 8 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum of 5 riders.

Open Quad

Description
This class allows all teams to compete against each other. There are no restrictions on age.

This class allows you to showcase your team and its style with just 4 riders.

Attire:

Formal Rodeo attire for this class is required at the 1st show. The other 3 shows attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots.

Gaits:
Trot and Canter are required.

Time:
4 – 6 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum and Maximum of 4 riders.

Open Theme

Description

This class allows all teams to compete against each other. There are no restrictions on the age or number of horses.

This class allows you to showcase a specific theme. Your costumes, tack and music should blend to create a theme or story that is carried throughout your drill.

Costumes:
Costumes for this class are required at ALL shows.

Gaits:
Trot and Canter are required.

Time:
5 – 8 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum of 4 riders.

Novice Freestyle

Description

This is the perfect opportunity to aid in working on new riders, horses, maneuvers, costumes, etc. It allows for feedback from the judges without the pressure of the other divisions. The purpose of the Non-Canter Division is mainly for new riders and/or new horses but can be used for teams that prefer to ride at the Walk/Trot only.

This class allows you to showcase your team and its style.

Attire:

Formal Rodeo attire for this class is required at the 3rd show. The other 3 shows attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots.

Gaits:
Walk and Trot Only

Time:
4 – 6 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum of 5 riders.

Note:
The same horse/rider combo cannot be ridden in any other Youth, Open or Rodeo classes. They may enter Beginner division based on their age.

Novice Quad

Description

This class allows you to showcase your team and its style with just 4 riders.

Attire:

Formal Rodeo Attire for this class is required at the 3rd show. The other 3 shows attire will consist SOLELY of Polo, short-sleeved Team shirts, with team logo and well-fitted jeans/pants with boots.

Gaits:
Walk and Trot Only

Time:
3 – 5 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum of 4 riders.

Note:
The same horse/rider combo cannot be ridden in any other Youth, Open or Rodeo classes. They may enter Beginner division based on their age.

Novice Theme

Description

This is the perfect opportunity to aid in working with new riders, horses, maneuvers, costumes, etc. It allows for feedback from the judges without the pressure of the other divisions. The purpose of the Non-Canter Division is mainly for new riders and/or new horses but can be used for teams that prefer to ride at the Walk/Trot only.

This class allows you to showcase a specific theme. Your costumes, tack and music should blend to create a theme or story that is carried throughout your drill.

Costumes:
Costumes for this class are required at ALL Qualifiers.

Gaits:
Walk and Trot Only

Time:
3 – 6 minutes.

Riders:
Minimum of 4 riders.

Note:
The same horse/rider combo cannot be ridden in any other Youth, Open or Rodeo classes. They may enter Beginner division based on their age.

Judge’s Guide

SPACING–

Riders and/or sets should maintain an equal distance between them whether vertically or horizontally; the distance may vary as long as it is consistent. Riders keep their bodies lined up, side by side, when working in pairs, threes, fours, company fronts, etc.
Riders need to be engaged in the drill at all times and watch each other to ensure they are in the right place at the right time.
Riders need to adjust their horses’ speed (without breaking gait), faster or slower, to hit their marks. These split-second adjustments need to be made quickly and smoothly to maintain good spacing and alignment at all times.
Riders need to pass through and/or cross in front or behind each other without hesitation; no holding back or rushing to get through an opening.

A team should work extra hard to perfect these basic drill elements in their routine. This category is weighted heavily in competition. It is also an element of safety as poor spacing enhances the opportunity for collision or contact with other riders.

ALIGNEMENT-

When going around corners, outside rider(s) must speed up, inside rider may need to slow down to keep proper alignment.
Lines and columns should be straight; riders should track directly behind, or in the same tracks as the rider in front of them.
Circles are round and centered

TIMING & COORDINATION-

How team members work together to perform the maneuvers.
No missed holes, collisions, etc.
A team should always have the same cadence and speed.
A well-coordinated team will move as a unit and be smooth in its maneuvers. This includes the ability of the team to foresee the necessity to adjust its speed to the maneuver without breaking gait.
Spacing is to be maintained.
Gaits are to be maintained

BRISKNESS OF DRILL-

Riders/ horses will be scored on speed with which maneuvers are executed
Precision with which maneuvers are executed
Alertness with which maneuvers are executed
Team’s overall attitude and visual communication

PERFORMANCE OF HORSES-

Horses will be scored on how well they performed the drill routine in this category.
Horses should not bulk, shy, or rear, but work freely and willingly in the drill routine.
The gait of all horses should be consistent.
If performing a circle at a canter, all horses need to canter.
If the team trots, all horses should trot, etc. Some maneuvers, as in a pinwheel or arena sweep, do require horses to be at different speeds to perform the maneuver properly and this is expected and acceptable.

MANNERS OF HORSES-

Horses will be scored on how well they act/behave during the drill performance
Horses are expected to be obedient, quiet and responsive.
No biting, kicking, or bucking.
Easy to control and responsive to the rider’s commands.

ORIGINALITY OF PATTERNS (How different were the patterns?)–

uniqueness of patterns
different moves throughout drill.
Different combinations

VARIETY OF PATTERNS-

The number of maneuvers of different types performed by a team.
The pattern should not be all circles or all lines.
A team moving from one maneuver to another without repeating should receive credit for variety.

ATTRACTIVENESS OF PATTERNS-

Symmetry of maneuvers
Definition of maneuvers
Continuity between maneuvers
Smooth flow between maneuvers

SPECTACULARITY-

Sharp Execution of maneuvers
Lack of setup moves
Drill presented in a manner pleasing to an unbiased audience

CROWD APPEAL-

A team’s routine should keep the crowd engaged and not bored.
Drill should be presented in a manner pleasing to an unbiased audience.
Sharp execution of maneuvers.

APPEARANCE-

Horse tack, rider apparel and flags will be scored on eye appeal and how well items match in this category.
Horses are expected to have matching tack apart from saddles and bits (what one horse wears all horses wear).
All tack should be clean and in good working order.
Team apparel should be appealing, impressive, neat and clean.
Horses should be clean without shavings, or dirt stains visible
A team’s uniform or costume should set them apart from other teams.
Teams should strive to match tack, apparel, flags and accessories as much as feasibly possible for a uniform look.
Non- Theme all teams should wear matching short sleeve team polos, proper fitting jeans/pants and boots.

THEME-

Teams will be scored on how well their costumes relay the theme of their drill routine.
Imagination and creativity play a huge part in the costuming of riders and horses In the Theme Classes.
Apparel, whether fantasy, comical, attractive, captivating, and even elaborate should match the theme and music chosen for a routine.
Items on the riders and horses should be attached securely (SAFETY)
Teams are scored on how well their costumes relay the theme of their routine.
Imagination and creativity play a huge part in the costuming of riders and horses in the Theme classes.
Rodeo will be performed in formal rodeo attire- long sleeve button-up, jeans, boots, and cowboy hats

DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY-

Teams will be scored on how difficult the routine was to perform in this category. More difficult maneuvers, little or no repeated maneuvers, and less use of set up maneuvers (going all the way out to the rails and back in before performing the next maneuver) increases a drills difficulty level.
Routines that require multiple lead rider changes are more difficult than following the leader type drill.
If a team carries flags properly, this can add to a team’s degree of difficulty.
A controlled closeness between riders, with no bumping (rider/horse contact), is more difficult.
Difficulty is gauged not only by the foregoing, but also by the speed in which the drill is ridden. It is much more difficult for a team to do maneuvers smoothly and well at a faster pace/speed; however, a team’s control and precision should NEVER be sacrificed for an increase in speed; controlled speed comes with much practice. Only when a team is ready should a coach consider an increase in speed (SAFETY first and foremost).

USE OF AIDS, RIDER POSITION –

Teams will be scored on how well riders rode in this category.
Riders should always display good horsemanship skills.
If riding in a western saddle, no posting.
Riders should hold the reins in a like manner either one-handed in the same hand, or two handed.
Riders should keep loose hands, if riding one-handed, low and quiet with very little movement; if riding two handed, keep elbows low.
Riders should sit straight in saddles and have a balanced seat without having to hold on.
AT NO TIME should a rider be excessively harsh in the correction of their horse.

RIDERS ABILITY TO MAINTAIN GAITS THROUGHOUT DRILL-

Maintain matching gaits, ie. If it is a canter move all riders are maintaining a canter without breaking into a trot.

GENERAL IMPRESSION–

Teams will be scored on the overall quality and effect of their drill routine in this category.
Maneuvers should be placed in the arena for maximum audience enjoyment, i.e., during some portions of a drill, a quad team may need to downsize their performance area (not use entire arena) for a more centered, dramatic effect (spectacularity is lost when four riders are separated far apart during an entire drill).
Routines should have symmetrical and definition of maneuvers.
Maneuvers should be connected in a manner to flow from one maneuver to another smoothly and with limited use of set up maneuvers.
There should be a good use of riders working in pairs, 3’s, 4’s, 5’s, etc. (when possible) to add variety and excitement to a drill routine.

WALK- use of walk moves

TROT- use of trot moves

CANTER- use of canter move

MUSIC-

Teams will be scored on their music selection(s) and how it complements their routine.
Music tempo should match the pace of the horses in the drill routine.
In theme classes, teams will be scored on how well their music goes along with the theme of their drill routine.
Music should be exciting, entertaining or inspirational to coordinate with the drill’s theme and costuming.
Music may be serious or funny to relay a message, tell a story, or promote a belief.
Where more than one song is used, music should be combined smoothly and with little delay between them.
Music should be upbeat and exciting to entertain the audience.

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