IMHA Show Schedule
Subject to change
FRIDAY
Saturday
7 AM Trail Setup
8 AM JUDGES MEETINGg
9 AM CLASS 1 YOUTH SHOWMANSHIP
AMATURE SHOWMANSHIP
ADULT PROFESSIONAL SHOWMANSHIP
CLASS 2 YOUTH IN HAND OBSTACLES
ADULT AMATEUR IN HAND OBSTACLES
ADULT PROFESSIONAL IN HAND OBSTACLES
CLASS 3 YOUTH IN MOUNTED OBSTACLES/COMPULSORIES
AMATEUR MOUNTED OBSTACLES/COMPULSORIES
ADULT PROFESSIONAL MOUNTED OBSTACLES/COMPULSORIES
6PM EVENING ACTIVITY - MUSTANG PHOTO/VIDEO SHOOT - SOCIAL GATHERING
7 AM Trail Setup
Sunday
8AM COWBOY CHURCH
9AM CLASS 4 YOUTH WESTERN/ENGLISH PLEASURE
ADULT AMATEUR WESTERN/ENGLISH PLEASURE
ADULT PROFESSIONAL WESTERN/ENGLISH PLEASURE
CLASS 5 YOUTH MUSTANG VERSATILITY (RAIL AND TRAIL)
ADULT AMATEUR MUSTANG VERSATILITY (RAIL AND TRAIL)
ADULT PROFESSIONAL MUSTANG VERSATILITY (RAIL AND TRAIL)
NOON AWARDS & MOVE OUT
Inaugural Show
Class Descriptions
Showmanship
Description: A handler presents their mustang in-hand, executing a set pattern that demonstrates control, responsiveness, and style. Judging Criteria: Accuracy of the pattern and handler’s positioning Horse’s response to subtle cues (set-up, pivots, straight lines) Clean presentation of both horse and exhibitor Team impression and overall polish Scoring Notes: Higher marks are awarded for crisp execution and smooth communication. Deductions for missteps, poor spacing, lack of attention, or failure to follow pattern.
In-Hand Obstacle / Compulsory
Description: This two-part class tests both groundwork versatility and precision. In the first phase, handlers guide their mustangs through a trail pattern, negotiating obstacles that highlight responsiveness, patience, and willingness. In the second phase, the horse performs a modified in-hand reining pattern where compulsory maneuvers—such as pivots, backing, and controlled stops—are demonstrated. Judging Criteria: Trail Pattern: calmness, accuracy, and willingness in negotiating obstacles Compulsories: correctness, straightness, and smooth execution of maneuvers Handler’s control, positioning, and presentation throughout both phases Scoring Notes: Credit is given for fluid transitions, precision, and soft communication. Penalties may include refusals, resistance, off-pattern execution, or unsafe handling.
Mounted Obstacle / Compulsory
Description: This two-part class tests both groundwork versatility and precision. In the first phase, handlers guide their mustangs through a trail pattern, negotiating obstacles that highlight responsiveness, patience, and willingness. In the second phase, the horse performs a modified in-hand reining pattern where compulsory maneuvers—such as pivots, backing, and controlled stops—are demonstrated. Judging Criteria: Trail Pattern: calmness, accuracy, and willingness in negotiating obstacles Compulsories: correctness, straightness, and smooth execution of maneuvers Handler’s control, positioning, and presentation throughout both phases Scoring Notes: Credit is given for fluid transitions, precision, and soft communication. Penalties may include refusals, resistance, off-pattern execution, or unsafe handling.
Western / English Pleasure
Description: Horses are shown on the rail in either Western or English tack, judged on manners, movement, and suitability as a pleasure horse. Judging Criteria: Consistency and correctness of gaits (walk, jog/trot, lope/canter) Manners: relaxed, obedient, and responsive Quality of movement: balance, cadence, and softness Rider’s ability to present horse in proper style for discipline Scoring Notes: Credit for steady rhythm, smooth transitions, and a pleasant overall picture. Penalties for breaking gait, head tossing, rough transitions, or poor attitude.
Mustang Versatility – Rail & Trail
Class ConceptThe Mustang Versatility Class combines traditional rail work with obstacle challenges. Horses must demonstrate obedience, consistency, and responsiveness to the rider, while also showing confidence and adaptability when called to negotiate obstacles. Horses that are able to perform up to a higher obstacle level will always outscore horses that perform only at lower levels. Format Rail Work Riders begin on the rail under judges’ command (walk, trot, canter, reverse, halt, etc.). Riders must maintain spacing and a steady, consistent pace. Obstacle Calls Obstacles are placed on the inside track or center of the arena, each marked with a visible number (1, 2, or 3). When the judge or announcer calls a rider number and obstacle number, that rider must leave the rail to negotiate tone of two obstacles with that number. Obstacle Levels There will be a total of six obstacles in the class: two for each level of difficulty/gait (two walk, two trot, two canter). Of the two obstacles in each gait, riders will only be required to ride one obstacle of that level. Obstacle 1 (Walk): pole weave, flag barrel, object drag. Obstacle 2 (Trot): trot poles, hanging ride-through obstacles. Obstacle 3 (Canter): Raised pole or small jump, narrow passage, low bridge, cone or pole weave, rubber mat, Garrocha circle or similar
General Show Rules
Show Rules & Competition Guidelines General Eligibility: Horses do not need to be IMHA registered to compete however they must be BLM or forest service mustangs. Only IMHA-registered horses are eligible to earn points and IMHA achievement awards. Riders are not required to be IMHA members to enter. Membership is encouraged and provides a discounted entry fee plus eligibility for points tracking and year-end awards. Class Participation: Horses may be shown Western, English, in any IMHA class, including in-hand divisions. Horses and riders will be judged by the standards of the discipline they represent: A Forward seat rider is expected to demonstrate correct English equitation and position. A Western rider is expected to ride in a Western seat with appropriate posture and balance. A Dressage rider is expected to meet basic dressage seat and presentation requirements. Tack & Equipment: All tack must be safe, clean, and appropriate for the discipline declared by the rider. Bits and Rein Use: Riders may use a direct rein (two hands) at any time when using a bit designed for direct reining (e.g., snaffle). When a solid or curb bit is used, the expectation is that the horse be shown primarily in an indirect (neck rein) style. In-hand classes require a halter and lead, or other equipment as specified in the posted pattern. Exhibitor Conduct & Attire: Exhibitors must present themselves in attire appropriate to the discipline they are representing. Neatness, safety, and respect for the horse will be considered in judging. Helmets are strongly encouraged in all divisions; youth riders are required to wear ASTM/SEI-certified helmets per event regulations. Judging Standards: Judges will evaluate exhibitors by discipline standards, horsemanship, horse’s manners and movement, and class-specific criteria as published in the show program. Judge’s decisions are final. Concerns may be filed with show management in accordance with IMHA protest procedures. Sportsmanship & Welfare: Exhibitors must uphold IMHA’s Code of Ethics and Animal Welfare Policy at all times. Any mistreatment of horses, poor sportsmanship, or unsafe conduct may result in disqualification or removal from the event.
