Ease of Handling Phase



Ease of Handling in Working Equitation is the second phase of the competition.  This phase involves negotiating the horse around obstacles that test the attributes of the correct working horse.  These attributes include: 

• Rhythm, Relaxation, Regularity
• Obedience and confidence
• Acceptance of and Response to the Aids
• Suppleness of the Bend and Roundness
• Impulsion
• Straightness
• Collection and Balance

This phase also tests the attributes of a correct working rider.  These attributes include:

• Balance and Relaxation
• Flexibility
• Strength
• Coordination
• Feel

(See Appendix "D" for the Glossary of Working Equitation Terms)

At the Preliminary level Canter or Trot may be used in the obstacles with no penalty for trotting the individual obstacle.  However, under the Notes For The Course score the Canter will be awarded a coefficient of 1.5, a combination of trot and canter a coefficient of 1.25, and trotting the course will be a coefficient of 1.

All obstacles are numbered in order of completion.  Markers will also indicate the start and finish of the obstacle zone as well as the direction with the red marker being on the rider's right and the white marker being on the rider's left.

Please Refer to Obstacles section for specific guidelines regarding Ease of Handling.

Disqualifications for the Ease of Handling Phase

(See Also General Disqualifications)

1 Any rider entering an obstacle backward (without the red flag on the right) will be disqualified.

2 Failing to cross start line in Ease of Handling or Speed within 45 seconds of being called or signaled to start.

3 Failure to salute judge.

4 Three refusals at one obstacle. 

5 Beginning any phase without permission to start.

6 Not completing an obstacle.

7 Failing to start and finish at the designated start and finish lines.

8 Showing the horse an obstacle prior to starting the test.

9 Failing to complete the obstacles in the assigned order.

10 An error in the course, without correction.

11 Refusal of more than 15 seconds to perform an obstacle.

12 All four of the horse's feet leaving an obstacle

13 More than three complete strides of canter in the Walk Trot or Novice  levels.