To be shown in western equipment and attire. Mules to work over/through a maximum of 8 obstacles in a course of unnumbered, unrelated obstacles, each with its own point value. Preferably the course is different from the regular trail course. Ideally, obstacles should be re-arranged. Example: obstacles with higher or similar points should be arranged on opposite sides of the show area.
- All mules shall have the same amount of time to negotiate obstacles before “time is up” and double whistle sounds. May work at own pace between obstacles. Obstacles requiring a specific gait (such as lope over poles or jog over poles) will be adhered to. Failure to maintain required gait for obstacle will result in no points awarded.
- Each obstacle may be ridden twice, but not in succession.
- If ridden a third time, no points will be awarded.
- No points shall be awarded if an obstacle is disturbed (unless designed to be disturbed), or re-ridden after it is disturbed. Judge shall declare obstacle dead by means of a single whistle. Show management is encouraged to use some measure to determine if the obstacle has been disturbed during each ride.
- Obstacles that are refused or missed may be reworked if not disturbed.
- Signal will sound when time is up, double whistle.
- Riders may finish obstacle they are working then proceed through the finish marker and total time on course will be recorded.
- The placing (s) are determined by high score. Total time on course will decide ties. If tie remains with score and time, judges may set up a ride off.
- To be shown in western equipment and attire. Protective boots are allowed.
- If a mule steps out/off of an obstacle (i.e. Back through, box, or off the side of a bridge when entered on the end), a zero score for this attempt will be given and the contestant should move on. If undisturbed it can be worked again but only after another obstacle has been attempted.