Trail Triathlon Horse Judging Criterion for Perfect Score

Condition

Before

Resting heart rate under 48 BPM
Back clear of soreness and raw abrasions
Mouth Bars clear of abrasions
Legs and suspensories clean and clear of soreness
Hooves well cared for and of proper length
Pinch test shows hydration as normal
Moves sound for in-hand out and back

During

No more than ten minutes to pulse down to under 60 BPM
Pinch test shows hydration as normal

After

No more than fifteen minutes to pulse down to under 48 BPM
Back clear of soreness and raw abrasions
Mouth Bars clear of abrasions
Legs and suspensories clean and clear of soreness or cuts/abrasions
Hooves show no obvious signs of wear or damage due to ride
Pinch test shows hydration as normal
Moves sound for in-hand out and back

Manners

Before

Cooperates with Judges during the preliminary exam
Stands still as rider approaches and mounts
Moves off only on rider command
Starts the ride at a walk

During

Cooperates with Judges during the rest stop exam
Horse looks at obstacles
Moves through obstacles on rider command
Does not rush or go off trail
Rider is clearly in control at all times

After

Cooperates with Judges during the final exam
Stops forward motion on rider command
Stands still while rider prepares to dismount
Waits quietly until rider on ground
Does not move until rider takes lead rope and requests forward motion

Timing

Meets pulse down criterion for rest stop and final exam
Completes the ride within the required completion time window