The Arabian Horse Association released a list of updates to the In Hand/Breeding division for this year's U.S. National Arabian & Half-Arabian Championship Horse Show, to be held in Tulsa, Oklahoma, October 20-28, 2017.
FOUR KEY AREAS
1. Comparative scoring system/ring procedure at the 2017 US Nationals. After speaking with USEF and the Horse Council, this is going to require a rule change. A completely comparative system can happen but needs to be done at the AHA Convention this year. We can and will make changes to the scoring system to get it as close to a comparative system as possible for the 2017 US Nationals. We will use the in-ring procedure for all breeding/in-hand classes with 3 judges with one penalty judge. The class procedure and scoring system will be dependent on the number of horses in each class. Classes with 11 or more horses we will have to hold a semi-final that will advance to a final. In the semi-final we will use a three judge MOS system (utilizing the Arabian Scoring System). Ten horses will advance to a final that will be judged using a comparative system. Scores will not be posted until after the FNL. Horses that advance from the Finals to the Championships will be judged using the Comparative system. After the judging of all horses, they will stand in front of each judge with their ranking. Classes with 10 or fewer horses the class will follow the following procedure. Only a Semi Final/ Final (SF/F) will be scheduled for the class. Horses will be ranked based on the MOS system.The SF/F will utilize the in-ring procedure. After the judging of all horses, they will stand in front of each judge with their ranking. Scores will not be announced until after the Champion, Reserve Champion & Top Ten have been announced. The US Show Commission and the AHA Commission will support a resolution to be written for convention, the resolution is currently being drafted by the Breeding/In Hand Committee - Chairman is Isaac Taylor.
2. Focus on making the show exciting through Entertainment/Excitement/Ambiance * In-ring procedure will be used for all halter classes to increase excitement. * Carol Steppe has been appointed lead for entertainment, 2nd color commentating announcer, and a new music provider. * All Amateurs will be allowed one handler to walk up the tunnel with them. * For all classes, there will be a designated bagger that will be located halfway up the tunnel in the circle, if desired by the handler. We will be asking people to sign up for this position.
3. Representation from the halter community so communication with the US National shows commission is improved
4. Halter schedule/halter & performance classes in the main arena on Friday and Saturday evening. As well as a revised class schedule.
-- via AHA |