IMHA March Mustang Show Schedule
March 13 - 15 Yamhill Oregon
Subject to change or adjustment
FRIDAY
5 PM Move in/Setup
Saturday
7 AM Trail Setup
8 AM JUDGES MEETINGg
9 AM CLASS 1 YOUTH SHOWMANSHIP
AMATURE SHOWMANSHIP
ADULT PROFESSIONAL SHOWMANSHIP
CLASS 2 YOUTH - OBSTACLE/FREESTYLE - IN HAND
ADULT AMATEUR - OBSTACLE/FREESTYLE - IN HAND
ADULT PROFESSIONAL - OBSTACLE/FREESTYLE - IN HAND
CLASS 3 YOUTH - OBSTACLE/FREESTYLE - MOUNTED
ADULT AMATEUR - OBSTACLE/FREESTYLE - MOUNTED
ADULT PROFESSIONAL - OBSTACLE/FREESTYLE - MOUNTED
Adult classes may be combine
Sunday
7 AM COWBOY CHURCH
8AM CLASS 4 YOUTH - PRECISION PATTERN - IN HAND
ADULT AMATEUR - PRECISION PATTERN - IN HAND
ADULT PROFESSIONAL - PRECISION PATTERN - IN HAND
CLASS 5 YOUTH - PRECISION PATTERN - MOUNTED
ADULT AMATEUR - PRECISION PATTERN - MOUNTED
ADULT PROFESSIONAL - PRECISION PATTERN - MOUNTED
11AM CLASS 6 YOUTH - RAIL & TRAIL
ADULT AMATEUR - RAIL & TRAIL
ADULT PROFESSIONAL - RAIL & TRAIL
NOON AWARDS & MOVE OUT
March 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.
OBSTACLE/FREESTYLE - IN HAND
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.
OBSTACLE/FREESTYLE - MOUNTED
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.
Precision Pattern (In Hand)
Precision In-Hand Class The Precision In-Hand Class is designed to evaluate accuracy, control, and effective communication between handler and horse through a defined in-hand pattern of deliberate maneuvers. Competitors will complete a posted pattern consisting of movements that may include straight lines, circles of specified size, halts, backing, transitions between walk and trot, and directional changes. The pattern tests the handler’s ability to guide the horse’s body with clarity, consistency, and correct positioning while maintaining balance, rhythm, and willingness throughout the pattern. The pattern will be timed, not to reward speed, but to encourage consistent flow, preparation, and purposeful forward movement. Exhibitors are required to complete the pattern within a designated time window. Performances completed faster or slower than the prescribed timeframe may be penalized, as both rushing and lack of forward intent detract from accuracy, balance, and quality of execution. Judging will be based on: Accuracy and correctness of figures and geometry Consistency of pace, rhythm, and straightness Smoothness and clarity of transitions and halts Willing, guided response and body control of the horse Handler position, effectiveness, and overall precision of execution Patterns for the Precision In-Hand Class are created specifically for IMHA competitions and combine technical elements drawn from groundwork, showmanship, and in-hand training traditions. These patterns are original IMHA designs and are not discipline-specific tests. This class is appropriate for horses and handlers with a solid foundation in basic in-hand maneuvers and is intended to reward thoughtful, accurate horsemanship across a variety of training backgrounds.
Precision Pattern (Mounted)
Precision Ride Class (Mounted) The Precision Ride Class is designed to evaluate accuracy, control, and effective communication between horse and rider through a defined mounted pattern of deliberate maneuvers. Competitors will ride a posted pattern consisting of movements that may include circles of specified size, straight lines, transitions between gaits, stops, and directional changes. The pattern tests the rider’s ability to guide the horse’s body with clarity, consistency, and correct positioning while maintaining balance, rhythm, and willingness throughout the ride. The pattern will be timed, not to reward speed, but to encourage consistent flow, proper preparation, and forward intent. Exhibitors are required to complete the pattern within a designated time window. Rides completed faster or slower than the prescribed timeframe may be penalized, as both rushing and lack of purposeful movement detract from accuracy, balance, and quality of execution. Judging will be based on: Accuracy and correctness of figures and geometry Consistency of pace, rhythm, and balance Smoothness and clarity of transitions Willing, guided response and body control of the horse Rider position, effectiveness, and overall precision of execution Patterns for the Precision Ride Class are created specifically for IMHA competitions and combine technical elements commonly found in dressage, reining, and stock horse pattern classes. These patterns are original IMHA designs and are not discipline-specific tests. This class is appropriate for horses and riders with a solid foundation in basic maneuvers and is intended to reward thoughtful, accurate horsemanship across a variety of riding backgrounds.
Rail & Trail
Class Concept The Rail & Trail 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.