To be driven at a trot over a prescribed course of obstacles (paired markers) with no set route. The number of obstacles to be proportionate to the dimensions of the driving area. Not to exceed 20 obstacles.
Typically obstacles in this type class are not measured for each entry, but are set at 9 feet at the start of the competition, and only reset in the event of a knockdown.
After passing the starting line, the driver shall proceed through each obstacle to the designated finish line, choosing his own route. Each obstacle is to be negotiated once and only once but may be approached from either direction.
Course faults are scored as penalty seconds and are added to the driver’s elapsed time. Placing(s) are determined on a low total time basis. Ties for first will be decided by a drive-off (unless otherwise stated in the prize list).
Driving through an obstacle again / 10 seconds each time
Missing an obstacle / Elimination
Break in gait (see Rule 359)
1st break from trot / 5 seconds
2nd break from trot / 5 seconds
3rd break from trot / 5 seconds
4th break from trot / Elimination
Prolonged canter or walk / Elimination
Disobedience and/or groom dismounting (cumulative over course)
1st incident / 5 seconds
2nd incident / 10 seconds
3rd incident / Elimination
Starting before signal / Elimination
Failure to cross starting line within one minute of signal / Elimination
Off-course / Elimination
Exceeding Time Limit (2 X Time allowed) / Elimination
Failure to carry whip (Rule 326)(single driving only) / Elimination
Use of a tie-down or over-check / Elimination
Breakage of harness or vehicle / Elimination
Appropriate hat and dress should conform with style of turnout. (see rule 328) No baseball type hats or floppy hats allowed. Single drivers will wear gloves and carry a whip in hand. Lap robe or knee rug is required. Gloves are required in Hitch class, lap robe, or knee rugs are optional.