PONY RACING RULES 2020 - The Pony Club
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PONY RACING
RULES 2020
£3.50 pcuk.org 1CONTENTS
Page
Objectives 4
Pony Racing Committee 5
PART 1 – GENERAL RULES OF PONY RACING
Rule:
1. Dress 6
2. Equipment 10
Saddlery 10
Permitted Martingales and Breast Plates 13
3. Action After a Fall 14
4. Head Injury and Concussion 14
5. Suspension from competing for Medical Reasons 17
6. Unseemly Behaviour 17
7. Performance-Enhancing Drugs 17
8. Disqualification 18
9. Protests or Objections 18
10. Sponsorship 18
11. Insurance 18
PART 2 – ADMINISTRATIVE RULES FOR PONY CLUB PONY RACING
12. Entries 19
13. Withdrawals 19
14. Abandonment 19
15. Health and Safety 20
16. Legal Liability 20
17. Medical and Veterinary 20
PART 3 – RULES FOR PONY RACING
18. Riders 21
19. Ponies 21
20. Weighing out 23
21. Procedures Prior to Weighing In 23
22. Weighing In 24
23. The Race 24
24. Clerk of the Scales 25
25. Exercise 25
26. Starter and Starting 25
Appendix A – Head Injury and Concussion Flowchart 27
pcuk.org 3OBJECTIVES THE PONY CLUB
PONY RACING COMMITTEE
To provide an opportunity for all Members interested in Racing to compete
against each other and to encourage a high standard of riding.
All Rules are made by The Pony Club Volunteer Committees including
Every eventuality cannot be provided for in these Rules. consultation with others.
In any unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, or any other issue in The Pony Club Office provides administrative support and any queries
connection with Pony Club Pony Racing, it is the duty of the relevant officials or questions relating to these rules must be directed to the Chairman of
to make a decision in a sporting spirit and to approach as nearly as possible the relevant sport.
the intention of these Rules. It is the competitors’ responsibility to ensure
that they are complying with the Rules of the competition.
Chairman Charles Barnett
When a rule states District Commissioner, Centre Proprietor also applies, and Tel: 01978 806152 / racingchairman@pcuk.org
where Branch is stated, Centre applies.
Members Deborah Custance-Baker – Area Representative
Sara Tremlett – Area Representative
Christine Barratt-Aitken
Jane Clark
Maureen Costello
Ruth Hurley
As a Member of The Pony Club, I stand for the best Patrick Scott
in sportsmanship as well as in horsemanship. Louise Shephard
I shall compete for the enjoyment of the game well
played and take winning or losing in my stride, remembering
that without good manners and good temper,
sport loses its cause for being. I shall at all times The Pony Club
treat my horse with due consideration. Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2RW
Tel: 02476 698300
pcuk.org
ponyracing@pcuk.org
Health and Safety:
safety@pcuk.org
© 2020 The Pony Club
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by means,
electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise
without the prior permission of The Pony Club. NOTE: Rules which differ from those of 2019, or need special emphasis,
appear in bold type (as this note). New Rules are also side-lined.
4 pcuk.org pcuk.org 5PART 1
jockey skull cap must be worn with no fixed peak, peak type
extensions or noticeable protuberances above the eyes or to the
GENERAL RULES FOR
front, and should have an even round or elliptical shape with a
smooth or slightly abrasive surface, having no peak or peak type
PONY RACING
extensions. Noticeable protuberances above the eyes or to the
front not greater than 5mm, smooth and rounded in nature are
permitted. A removable hat cover with a light flexible peak may be
used if required.
1. DRESS ∙ It is strongly recommended that a jockey skull cap is worn for
New equipment is not expected, but what is worn must be clean, neat, tidy cross-country riding over lower fences (less than 80cm) as there is
and safe. The Competitor is ultimately responsible for complying with all research evidence that a fall onto the fixed peak can result in an
Rules relating to Dress for the particular Discipline they are participating in. over extension of the neck backwards with the potential for serious
injury.
a) Hat Rule 2020 ∙ No recording device is permitted (e.g. hat cameras) as they may
It is mandatory for all Members to wear a protective helmet at all have a negative effect on the performance of the hat in the event
times when mounted with a chinstrap fastened and adjusted so as of a fall.
to prevent movement of the hat in the event of a fall. This rule ∙ The fit of the hat and the adjustment of the harness are as crucial
defines the quality of manufacture that is required. The individual as the quality. Members are advised to try several makes to find the
sports also have additional requirements with regard to colour and best fit. The hat should not move on the head when the head is
type. It is strongly recommended that second-hand hats are not tipped forward. Most helmet manufacturers recommend you visit a
purchased. qualified BETA (British Equestrian Trade Association) fitter.
∙ Hats must be replaced after a severe impact as subsequent
The hat standards accepted as of 1st January 2020 are detailed in the table protection will be significantly reduced. Hats deteriorate with age
below: and should be replaced after three to five years depending upon
the amount of use.
Allowed ∙ Hats, must be worn at all times (including at prize giving) when
Hat Standard
Safety at the mounted with a chinstrap fastened and adjusted so as to prevent
Mark following
activities: movement of the hat in the event of a fall.
∙ For Show Jumping and Mounted Games the cover, if applicable,
PAS 015:1998 or 2011* with BSI Kitemark All activities shall be dark blue, black or brown only.
∙ For Dressage, hats and hat covers must be predominately black,
navy blue or a conservative dark colour that matches the rider’s
VG1 with BSI Kitemark All activities
jacket for Area competitions or above. The Pony Club Hat silk is also
acceptable.
Snell E2001* onwards with the official Snell label and number All activities ∙ The Official Steward / Organiser may, at his discretion, eliminate a
competitor riding in the area of the competition without a hat or
with the chinstrap unfastened or with a hat that does not comply
ASTM-F1163 2004a onwards with the SEI mark All activities with these standards.
AS/NZS 3838, 2006 onwards All activities Hat Checks and Tagging
The Pony Club and its Branches and Linked Centres will appoint Officials,
who are familiar with The Pony Club hat rule, to carry out hat checks and tag
∙ For cross-country riding (over 80cm) including Eventing, each hat that complies with the requirements set out in the hat rule with an
Tetrathlon, Horse Trials, Pony Racing (whether it be tests, rallies, aquamarine Pony Club hat tag. Hats fitted with an aquamarine Pony Club,
competition or training) and Mounted Games competitions, a British Eventing (BE) or British Riding Club (BRC) hat tag will not need to be
6 pcuk.org pcuk.org 7checked on subsequent occasions. However, The Pony Club reserves the d) Body Protector Rule 2020
right to randomly spot check any hat regardless of whether it is already The Pony Club does not make the use of body
tagged. protectors compulsory, except for all Cross
Country riding and Pony Racing whether it be
Tagging indicates that a hat meets the accepted standards, NO check of the training or competing. If a Body Protector is worn
fit and condition of the hat is implied. It is considered to be the responsibility for any Pony Club activity it must meet BETA
of the Member’s parent(s) / guardian(s) to ensure that their hat complies 2009 Level 3 standard (purple label) or BETA 2018
with the required standards and is tagged before they go to any Pony Club Level 3 standard (blue and black label).
event. Also, they are responsible for ensuring that the manufacturer’s
guidelines with regard to fit and replacement are followed. For general use, the responsibility for choosing body protectors and
the decision as to their use must rest with Members and their
b) Hair – In the interest of safety, long hair must be secured parents. It is recommended that a rider’s body protector should not
appropriately in a hairnet. be more than 2% of their body weight. When worn, body
protectors must fit correctly, be comfortable and must not restrict
c) Footwear movement. BETA recommend body protectors are replaced at least
i) Only racing boots (with a well defined every three to five years, after which the impact absorption
cut heel) may be worn with racing irons. properties of the foam may have started to decline.
All racing boots MUST have a smooth, thin
sole and well defined cut heel (minimum BETA 2009 Level3 (purple label) body protectors will continue to be
5mm). accepted at Pony Club competitions until 1st December 2024.
If jodhpur/riding boots are worn they must have a smooth, thin
sole and well defined square cut heel. Riders who choose to use the Woof Wear Body Cage EXO must
Only standard riding or jodhpur boots with a well defined lodge a key with the Event Organiser when they collect their
square cut heel may be worn. Plain black or brown half chaps number.
may be worn with jodhpur boots of the same colour. Tassels
and fringes are not allowed. No other footwear will be Air Jackets
permitted, including wellington boots, yard boots, country When an air jacket inflates the sudden noise startles horses in the
boots, “muckers” or trainers. immediate vicinity thereby causing difficulties for the other
Boots with interlocking treads are not permitted, nor are the members of a ride if used in a group ride in a confined area, e.g. an
boots or treads individually. indoor school or outdoor manège. Air jackets are therefore not
Stirrups should be of the correct size to suit the riders boots encouraged for group rides.
(see the Stirrup rule). Laces on boots must be taped for
Mounted Games only If a rider chooses to wear an air jacket in Cross Country or Pony
ii) Half chaps (black or brown) are permitted. Tassels are not Racing, it must only be used in addition to a normal body protector
allowed. which meets the BETA 2009 Level 3 standard (purple label) or BETA
iii) Riders must wear beige, white or cream jodhpurs, breeches or 2018 Level 3 standard (blue and black label). Parents and Members
racing breeches (see Rule 10 – Sponsorship). must be aware that riders may be permitted to continue after a fall
iv) Silks / racing / Cross Country colours are to be provided by the in both competition and training rides for Cross Country and/or
competitors. Long sleeves – as a minimum shoulders must be Pony Racing, provided the rider has been passed as fit to continue
covered. by First Aid Providers. In the event of a fall, it must be fully deflated
or removed before continuing, after which, the conventional body
protector will continue to give protection. Air jackets must not be
worn under a jacket and number bibs should be fitted loosely or
with elasticised fastenings over the air jacket.
8 pcuk.org pcuk.org 9e)
Medical Armbands / Cards will be disqualified from the race. The Official Steward has absolute discretion
Medical armbands are advised if members are not accompanied by to forbid the use of any bit, gadget or spur which he considers cruel or misused.
a responsible adult, including hacking on roads and are
compulsory for Pony Racing and for Endurance rides. Ponies must be turned out with well fitted and properly maintained
Riders must wear their Medical Armbands at all times when Saddlery. Badly fitting or unsafe tack may result in disqualification.
mounted with the correct card enclosed.
These MUST be worn on the rider’s arm or the shoulder protector/ Any misuse of a bit/bridle will be reported to the DC/Centre Proprietor, Area
pad of their body protector. Representative and Training Chairman. Any reported riders will be recorded
and monitored.
f) Electronic Devices (i.e. headphones, mobile phones etc. enabling a) Saddles – Type optional.
another person to communicate with the rider) are not allowed Racing Saddles ‘made up’; (including the girth, irons, leathers and
whilst the rider is competing. surcingle / overgirth – with a leather strap and buckle) measuring
No recording device is permitted (e.g. head / bridle cameras etc.). less than 16” (40.6cm) in length (from front arch to cantle) and
weighing less than 3lb (1.36kg) are not permitted. If a Racing Saddle
g) Jewellery – No jewellery is allowed for safety reasons, other than a is used they must be used with a Racing Breastplate or Girth.
wristwatch, a wedding ring, a stock pin worn horizontally or a tie clip. b) Saddle Cloths – Any solid colour is permitted. Contrasting piping is
It is recommended that stock pins are removed for Cross Country. permitted. Branch logos are allowed when competing for the
Members who are contemplating piercing their ears or any other part Branch; logos must not exceed 200 sq. cm. This does not preclude
of their body should be aware that they will not be allowed to the wearing of clothing for horses or riders that has been presented
participate in any Pony Club mounted equestrian activities until such by sponsors of the Championships in the current or previous years.
a time as the “sleepers” can safely be removed. The reason for this is c) Stirrups should be of the correct size to suit the rider’s boots. They
that “sleepers” have, in the past, caused injuries following falls. This must have 7mm (¼”) clearance on either side of the boot. To find
rule will be strictly enforced. this measurement, tack checkers should move the foot across to one
side of the stirrup, with the widest part of the foot on the tread.
In the event of a person being unable to remove permanent From the side of the foot to the edge of the stirrup should be 14mm.
jewellery, it must be adequately protected by being covered by Note: There are now many types of stirrups marketed as ‘safety
a sticking plaster or other appropriate material prior to stirrups’. All riders must ensure that their stirrups are suitable for
presenting at tack check. The wearing of such jewellery while their type of footwear, the activities in which they take part and
competing is at the risk of the member / parent / guardian. that the stirrup leathers are also in good condition.
There are no prescribed weight limits on metal stirrups, however
All Equipment will be checked by an Official Tack Steward. with the advent of stirrups of other materials, weight limits are
seen to be given by manufacturers. Any person buying these
2. EQUIPMENT stirrups, should, take particular notice if weight limits are on the
Saddlery box or attached information leaflets.
New equipment is not expected, but what is worn must be clean, neat, Neither the feet or the stirrup leathers or irons, may be attached to
tidy and safe. the girth, nor the feet attached to the stirrup irons.
Only racing boots (with a well defined cut heel) can be worn with
It is the competitors’ responsibility to ensure that their tack is in accordance racing irons or jodhpur boots/riding boots with stirrup irons may be
with the rules and that they present themselves for inspection. worn.
d) A surcingle/overgirth (with a leather strap and buckle) and Neck
Any competitor who presents to the mandatory tack check in the wrong Strap is mandatory as is an Irish Martingale unless a running/bib
Saddlery / Equipment will not be allowed to race until they decide to martingale is worn. The surcingle/overgirth must be done up on
re-present in the correct Saddlery / Equipment. the nearside below the rider’s foot.
Any competitor who then changes their tack after the Tack Inspection
10 pcuk.org pcuk.org 11e) Bridles – For safety reasons leather bridles are recommended. The use of string, twine or cord in or round the horse’s mouth is
Reins must be stitched to or fastened by a buckle or attached by a also not permitted.
loop to the bit. They must not be attached by a billet.
The Micklem Multibridle is permitted. Note: Due to a variety of girths available on the market now being
Any rider deemed to have used their reins in the manner of a whip referred to as humane girths, it was felt a description was required
may be disqualified from the race. to specify the style / design of girth that was not permitted for Pony
f) See images of Permitted Martingales and Breastplates. Club. Description as follows –
g) Nosebands – Nosebands – only one may be worn. If a Combination, A humane girth is described as having non-independent straps
Kineton, drop noseband or similar is worn with a Standing that will loosen if one of the straps were to break.
Martingale, then a Cavesson noseband must be used. Nosebands n) Bits – All synthetic bits must be black, brown or white.
must be correctly fitted and should not cause discomfort. Bitless bridles including hackamores are not permitted.
Nosebands must not incorporate chain or rope. Sheepskin
nosebands are permitted. Nose nets are permitted during Any unusual decoration of the horse with unnatural things, such as ribbons,
competition and warm-up. Nose nets must be discreet, black, white flowers, glitter etc. in the mane/tail or applied to the coat is forbidden. Red
or brown and cover the nose only, leaving the mouth and bit visible. bows in the tail are permitted for ponies that kick.
h) Bit guards made entirely of rubber and smooth on both sides are
permitted. Permitted Martingales and Breastplates
i) Competitors using Saddlery and Gadgets which are not allowed in
the competition will be eliminated. Lungeing in side reins, but not
bearing, check or balancing reins, is permitted.
j) No pony shall enter the Parade Ring or run in shoes which has
protrusions on the ground surface other than calkins or studs on
the hind limited to 3/8” in height. The parent / legal guardian is
A B C D
responsible for ensuring that their pony is shod in accordance with
the requirements of the Pony Racing Regulations. Ponies may race
unshod.
k) Every pony running in a race shall carry a number cloth provided
by the Organiser and the parent / legal guardian is responsible for
ensuring it is worn so that the number is clearly visible and is the
correct one for the pony. Parent / legal guardians are also E F G H
responsible for ensuring that their ponies are properly saddled
when they leave the parade ring.
l) It is the parent / legal guardian’s responsibility to ensure the child A: Running Martingale
and pony equipment meets the specifications required to compete. B: Hunting Martingale
m) The following are not permitted in any recognised pony race C: Racing Breastplate
– jewellery whips, watches, bandages, nickel bits, nickel stirrup irons, D: Bib Breastplate
blinkers, hoods, eyeshields, eyecovers, visors, sheepskin/leather E: Irish Martingale
cheek pieces, ear plugs, nasal strips, tongue ties, Humane Girth (a F: Neck Strap
humane girth is described as having non-independent straps that G: 5 point Breastplate
will loosen if one of the straps were to break), seat savers, hoof boots, H: Standing Martingale* Not Permitted – Elastic Neck Collar
Grass Reins/Balance Support Reins, Split Reins, Bridge Reins, Ernest
Dillon Reins, Market Harboroughs and side, running, draw or check Note:
reins (a side, running, draw or check rein is one which is attached to * Standing Martingales may be attached only to the cavesson portion
the saddle, girth, martingale or breast plate on the horse). of the noseband fitted above the bit.
12 pcuk.org pcuk.org 133. ACTION AFTER A FALL The person who does this assessment will depend on the first
Any competitor who has a fall or sustains a serious injury anywhere at the aid cover that is in place for that activity. Depending on the level
competition site MUST see the medical personnel on the day and be passed of first aid cover then the exact process of diagnosing whether
fit to ride before riding that horse in a further test or before riding any other the member has suffered:
horse. • No head injury / concussion
• Suspected head injury / concussion
4.HEAD INJURY AND CONCUSSION • Confirmed head injury / concussion.
(i) General Advice Each option is talked through in more detail below.
Head injuries and concussion are life threatening and potentially
life changing incidents. Serious head injuries are usually obvious, From the assessment being carried out it may be immediately
but concussion can be very subtle and not always immediately obvious that there is no cause for concern. In the course of Pony
apparent. Club activities, The Pony Club is well aware that there are different
kinds of falls and that assuming every fall leads to a head injury
Head injuries result from a mechanical insult to the head, and can would be counterproductive to the aims of the organisation. We
cause traumatic brain injury, possibly leading to permanent ask that reasonable care is taken to ensure members / riders have
disability or death. not sustained a serious head injury or concussion.
Concussion is a disturbance in brain function caused by a direct or (iii) Unconsciousness
indirect blow to the head. Some people describe concussion as If a member / rider is unconscious following an incident they
mild traumatic brain injury. Concussion should be seen as part of a should be treated as if they are suffering with a confirmed
spectrum of brain injury with traumatic brain injury at one extreme concussion and the steps in points vii) below should be followed.
and no injury at the other. Typically concussion cannot be seen on
standard brain scans, which makes it difficult to diagnose (iv) Who can diagnose head injury or concussion?
objectively. Repeated injury to the head can worsen an already Diagnosis of a head injury or concussion (both confirmed and
pre-existing concussion, even if the time between injuries is suspected) can be carried out by any level of first aid cover
counted in days or weeks. officiating at a Pony Club activity. These could be a trained or
qualified first aider (including a coach), a paramedic or a doctor. If
The Pony Club wants to ensure members / riders attending Pony there is any doubt as to the diagnosis the member / rider should see
Club activities enjoy themselves and get the most out of riding. At the highest level of first aid cover that is present and they should
the same time, they must also balance that enjoyment with make the diagnosis. If the first aid cover at the activity cannot reach
members’ / riders’ safety. This may mean on occasion that a definite diagnosis then they should refer the member / rider to a
members / riders are asked not to ride by officials who believe they hospital or a doctor off site for them to make a diagnosis.
may have sustained a concussion either at the time of injury or
from a previous injury (which may not have been sustained whilst It would be more usual for a trained or qualified first aider to say
riding). they suspect a head injury or concussion than to diagnose it
Parents / guardians, members, officials and other riders must themselves. If they are the highest level of first aid cover available
respect this decision. It is a decision sometimes made without at the activity that will mean the member / rider has to go off site
having objective evidence, but it is made in good faith and in the to have the diagnosis made by a doctor.
pursuance of avoiding further harm. The member / rider should not ride again until they have been
seen by a doctor. This may mean that the rider will miss any part of
(ii) Incidents that could cause head injuries or concussion an activity or competition.
Any member / rider who, at a Pony Club activity, suffers an incident
that could cause head injury or concussion (for example, a fall from (v) Actions to be taken in the event of a suspected head injury or
their horse / pony) should be assessed. suspected concussion diagnosis
If a diagnosis of a suspected concussion or head injury is made by a
first aider, they should advise the parents / guardians to take the
14 pcuk.org pcuk.org 15member / rider to hospital. A concussion may be sustained outside Pony Club activities, for
Any member / rider who has been diagnosed with a suspected or example at riding activities organised by other BEF member bodies or
confirmed head injury or concussion should not be left alone and must at school football / rugby / hockey matches. It is for parents / guardians
be returned to the care of their parents / guardians where appropriate. ultimately to make a decision about the welfare of their child.
Once a diagnosis of suspected head injury or concussion is made
by the highest level of official first aid cover present at the activity, However, if a Pony Club official in charge of any Pony Club activity
then that decision is final. No one may overrule that decision on becomes aware that a member has sustained a suspected or
the day if it is made in good faith. If a member / rider is advised to confirmed head injury / concussion and has been advised not to
see a doctor because of suspected head injury or concussion and take part in any potentially hard contact activities for three weeks,
the parents / guardians decide not to allow the member to be they should not allow the member to take part in any mounted
examined (either at the activity or in hospital), the member will not activities and/or any unmounted activities that could potentially
be allowed to ride again on the day and will be treated as if they involve hard contact for three weeks, unless the member or their
have sustained a confirmed head injury / concussion. Depending parents / guardians can produce appropriate medical evidence of
on the circumstances, the decision not to allow further fitness to ride dated at least 10 days after the initial injury,
examination may be considered a safeguarding issue.
See Appendix A – for Head Injury and Concussion Flowchart
Where a member / rider is diagnosed with a suspected concussion
by a first aider or paramedic and that member / rider subsequently 5. SUSPENSION FROM COMPETING FOR MEDICAL REASONS
sees a doctor who is sure that they do not have a concussion and If a rider is banned/suspended from competing in any sport for medical
did not suffer a concussion and will provide evidence that they are reasons, they should not compete at any Pony Club event until passed fit for
satisfied that the member / rider is well, that member / rider will be the sport in which they are banned/suspended. It is the responsibility of the
treated as if they did not sustain a concussion. rider or parent/guardian to ensure that this rule is adhered to.
(vi) Actions to be taken in the event of a confirmed head injury or 6. UNSEEMLY BEHAVIOUR
confirmed concussion Unseemly behaviour on the part of riders, team officials, or team supporters
In the event of a diagnosis of a confirmed head injury or confirmed will be reported as soon as possible by the Official to The Pony Club Office.
concussion, the doctor will advise the member not to ride or take Offenders may be penalised by disqualification of the Branch or Branches
part in any activity that potentially involves hard contact for three concerned for a period up to three years. Any competitor who in the opinion
weeks. They will advise the member that they could, after 10 days, of the Official Steward, or Organiser, has been extremely rude or aggressive
ask a doctor, who is experienced in assessing concussion (including towards any officials at a competition, or who has behaved in an aggressive
in children where appropriate), whether they have any concerns or unfair manner to their horse may be disqualified.
about any ongoing concussion problems. If that doctor is happy to
certify that the member is not suffering with a concussion, the 7.PERFORMANCE-ENHANCING DRUGS
member may ride again, providing evidence regarding that a) Equine
decision is provided. If no evidence that such an assessment has Controlled Medication
been made, the member should not take part in any Pony Club It is clearly essential for the welfare of the horse that it is given
riding activity and/or any unmounted activity that may involve any appropriate veterinary treatment if and when required and that
hard contact for at least three weeks after the initial injury. this should include appropriate medication. Medication, however,
may mask an underlying health problem and horses should not
(vii) Actions to be taken in the event of a diagnosis of a confirmed compete when taking medication where such medication may
or suspected head injuries/ concussions outside of Pony Club have a detrimental effect on the horse’s welfare.
activities b) Human
The Pony Club has no official way of automatically knowing about Performance-enhancing drugs are forbidden.
members who sustain a confirmed or suspected head injury / c) All competitors should be aware that random samples may be
concussion outside of Pony Club activities. taken for testing from both themselves and/or their horse.
The protocol used will be that of the relevant adult discipline.
16 pcuk.orgPART 2
8. DISQUALIFICATION
The Official Steward or Chief Judge may disqualify a competitor at any stage
ADMINISTRATIVE RULES
of the competition
a) for dangerous riding, or
FOR PONY RACING
b) if, in their opinion, the horse is lame, sick or exhausted, or
c) for misuse of whip, spur or bit, or ill-treatment of the horse, or
d) for any breach of the rules, or
e) for unseemly behaviour, including bad language 12.
ENTRIES
f) Any person who has been disqualified through the British a) To enter a Pony Club Race Day, the Combination of Member and
Horseracing Authority or Pony Racing Authority (PRA), so long as Pony must have since 1st July the previous year participated in;
their disqualification continues, shall not attend, enter, run, train, i) a minimum of 2 (ridden) working rallies or
own or ride a Pony in any Pony Club Race Day. If any entry made by ii) a minimum of 1 (passed) PRA/PC Training Day
a person disqualified be mistakenly or inadvertently accepted, the b) Member and Pony combination must be still eligible to compete in
same shall, despite such acceptance, be void and the Pony shall the race they have entered by the close of entries.
not be qualified to be entered or to start. c) Entries shall close at the time advertised. Failure to submit before
the specified date will result in the entry being declined.
9. PROTESTS OR OBJECTIONS i) Only entries received on the Official Entry Form will be accepted.
Objections must be made in writing and addressed to the Organiser of ii) Any entry which is received without the entry fee will be declined.
The Pony Club Race Day. They must be accompanied by a deposit of £50. d) All Entry Forms must be signed by a District Commissioner/Centre
Protests or objections must be made not later than half an hour after the Proprietor confirming that the rider is a current Member of their
published Race Start Time. Branch/Centre at the close of entries. An email or letter from the
District Commissioner/Centre Proprietor will also be accepted.
10. SPONSORSHIP e) Maximum 12 runners per race–in the event of over-subscription,
In the case of competitors and horses, no form of advertising, and this races may be divided, and a waiting list may be kept.
includes a sponsor’s name, may appear on the competitor’s or horse’s f) Should a breach of eligibility be proven, the offender will be
clothing and equipment at any Pony Club competition. This does not disqualified.
preclude the wearing of clothing for horses or riders that has been presented g) The Judges’ decision is final.
by sponsors of the Championships in the current or previous years. Sponsors
at Area Competitions must not be business competitors of the main 13. WITHDRAWAL (for all competitions)
sponsors of the discipline, and must be approved by The Pony Club Office. If a Branch or Centre withdraws a team or individual prior to the closing
date for a competition, a full refund of entry and stabling fees will be
Any advertising material that is used by sponsors, whether it be in the form made, less an administration charge. Withdrawals after the closing
of display banners or programme material, must be tasteful, and not date for a competition will not be refunded except on production of a
inappropriate to the image of The Pony Club. vet certificate or medical certificate
11. INSURANCE 14. ABANDONMENT (for all competitions)
The Pony Club Third Party Legal Liability Insurance Policy is extended to give In the event of a competition being abandoned, for whatever reason, a
cover for all the official Area Competitions and the Championships. Details of refund of 50% of the entry fee will be given. In such an instance the
this insurance are given in the “Administrative Notes” in the current issue of refund process will be communicated and must be followed.
The Pony Club Handbook.
In the event of any accident, loss or damage occurring to a Third Party or to
the property of a Third Party (including the general public and competitors)
no liability should be admitted, and full details should be sent at once to The
Pony Club Office.
18 pcuk.org pcuk.org 19PART 3
15. HEALTH AND SAFETY
Organisers of this event have taken reasonable precautions to ensure the
RULES FOR PONY RACING
Health and Safety of everyone present. For these measures to be effective,
everyone must take all reasonable precautions to avoid and prevent
accidents occurring and must obey the instructions of the organisers and all
the officials and stewards. 18.
RIDERS
a) All riders must be Members of The Pony Club.
16. LEGAL LIABILITY b) All riders must be aged 9 on 1st January in the current year to
Save for the death or personal injury caused by the negligence of the compete in Pony Club Race Days. Riders can race up until and
organisers, or anyone for whom they are in law responsible, neither the on the day of their 17th birthday.
organisers of this event or The Pony Club nor any agent, employee or c) All riders must walk the course with the nominated official and
representative of these bodies, nor the landlord or his tenant, accepts any must attend the briefing at the start of the race day. Riders will be
liability for any accident, loss, damage, injury or illness to horses, owners, notified of this by the individual Race Organiser. Non-attendance
riders, spectators, land, cars, their contents and accessories, or any other will result in not being allowed to ride.
person or property whatsoever, whether caused by their negligence breach d) All riders must not have ridden in a Point-to-Point (does not
of contract or in any other way whatsoever. Entries are only accepted on this include Point to Point “Young Riders” Pony Racing).
basis. e) Riders may ride more than once on a Pony Club Race Day.
f) Riders competing in 138cm and under Open Races must weigh a
17. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY minimum of 7st 10lb.
a) Medical - for further details on Medical Cover, please see the Health Riders competing in 148cm and under Open Races must weigh a
and Safety Rule Book or go to www.pcuk.org minimum of 9st.
b) Veterinary - for further details on Medical Cover, please see the Health Members must supply their own lead and weight cloth.
and Safety Rule Book or www.pcuk.org
19. PONIES
A tarpaulin should be available to cover a horse should one be killed, a) All ponies must be aged between 5 and 20 years.
and the telephone number of the Hunt Kennels or Knacker noted in the b) Open to ponies 128cm and under, 138cm and under and 148cm
Secretary’s Tent. See the Health and Safety Rule Book for further details. and under.
PARENTS / LEGAL GUARDIANS MUST SIGN THE ENTRY FORM CONFIRMING c) Stallions can only be ridden by Members if they have obtained
THAT THEY HAVE READ THESE RACING RULES AND THAT THEY AGREE TO written permission from their District Commissioner/Centre
ABIDE BY THEM. PARENTS / LEGAL GUARDIANS MUST ALSO SIGN THE Proprietor and in the interests of safety must wear identifying discs
PARENTS DECLARATION ON THE REVERSE OF THE ENTRY FORM. on their bridle.
d) No pony that has raced under the rules of any recognised turf
authority may compete in PCPR.
e) If there is a discrepancy and the height of a pony is found to exceed
the maximum height (if a JMB Certificate is not provided), the pony
will be disqualified.
f) Stables will not be provided for ponies.
g) All ponies entered do so under the condition that they may be
routine-tested for prohibited substances in accordance with BHA
regulations.
h) No pony may compete in more than one race on the same day.
20 pcuk.org pcuk.org 21i) Vaccinations Winter Series competitions, the most recent booster
EVENTS THAT ARE HELD AT SOME VENUES MAY BE SUBJECT injection must have been given within the six calendar
TO ADDITIONAL RULES. months prior to the date of the competition.
E.G. ANY HORSE / PONY ENTERING A LICENSED RACECOURSE
PROPERTY MUST COMPLY WITH THE VACCINATION e) No horse / pony may compete on the same day as a
REQUIREMENTS AS SET BY THE BRITISH HORSERACING relevant injection is given or on any of the 6 days following
AUTHORITY. such an injection.
SIMILAR RESTRICTIONS APPLY IN THE CASES OF POLO
VENUES. The Record of Vaccination in the horse / ponies passport
must be completed by the veterinary surgeon, signed and
IN ADDITION, IF YOU ARE INTENDING TO COMPETE UNDER FEI, stamped line by line.
BRITISH EVENTING, BRITISH SHOW JUMPING OR BRITISH
DRESSAGE RULES YOU WILL NEED TO ENSURE YOU ARE NOTE: We also remind owners of the importance of
COMPLIANT WITH THEIR RULES. vaccinations and to ensure that their vaccination records
are up to date. The vast majority of confirmed cases
To protect the health of other competing horses and the reported by the Animal Health Trust are in unvaccinated
biosecurity of the venue, the following rules will apply to all horses. We continue to recommend that if it has been
Pony Club Competitions: longer than six months since the last vaccination, owners
should discuss a booster with their veterinary surgeon.
a) Passports
A valid passport and vaccination record: 20. WEIGHING OUT
• must accompany the horse / pony to all events a) The parent / legal guardian is responsible for ensuring that the
• must be available for inspection by the event officials pony carries the correct weight, where relevant, in accordance with
• must be produced on request at any other time the Regulations and for ensuring that the pony as named at the
during the event time of entry is the pony that runs in the race.
b) When weighing out or weighing in the rider must put on to the
b) No horse / pony may compete (or be present at the event scale and include in their weight everything that the pony is to
as a companion) unless it has a Record of Vaccination carry or has carried, except the bridle, skullcap, goggles, breastplate
against equine influenza completed by the veterinary or breastgirth, neck strap, rings, plates and anything worn on the
surgeon who gave the vaccination, signed and stamped pony’s legs.
line by line, which complies with the Minimum Vaccination In addition when weighing out, the number cloth will also be
Requirements. excluded from the scale but must be presented to the Clerk of the
Scales at the time.
c) The Minimum Vaccination Requirements for a horse / c) A 2lb allowance will be made for the body protector.
pony are that it has received:
• a Primary Vaccination followed by a Secondary Vaccination 21. PROCEDURES PRIOR TO WEIGHING IN
given not less than 21 days and not more than 92 days after After completion of the race and upon dismounting:
the Primary Vaccination; and a) The Rider must neither accept anything from any person nor
• if sufficient time has elapsed, a booster vaccination given discard anything that the pony has carried in the race which might
not less than 150 days and not more than 215 days after the affect the weight upon weighing-in.
Secondary Vaccination and further booster vaccinations at b) Riders must always remove their own saddles (permission for
intervals of not more than a year apart assistance may be given).
c) The Riders should then go at once with the saddle to the Weighing
d) At competitions at Area level and above including Room to report to the Clerk of the Scales.
Grassroots Regional Championships and the finals of the
22 pcuk.org pcuk.org 2322. WEIGHING IN 24. CLERK OF THE SCALES
a) The first four riders must weigh-in. The Clerk of the Scales shall:
b) Immediately after pulling up, the riders of the first four ponies in a) Weigh the riders in accordance with the Regulations.
each race must ride their ponies to the place appointed for b) Display changes on the screen or number board or have
unsaddling. announced alterations to the following information published in
The ponies shall remain at the appointed place until ordered to be the official racecard;
taken away. (i) declared ponies
The other riders may dismount within a reasonable distance in (ii) colours
the unsaddling area. c) Furnish the Starter with a list of runners.
c) It shall be a breach of the Regulations for a rider to dismount d) Should a pony be withdrawn the cause must be stated at once
before reaching a place appointed for that purpose, unless they over the public address system if a pony is withdrawn which
can satisfy the Stewards and Officials that they were justified by indicates whether such pony has come under Starter’s Orders.
the circumstances. They shall also immediately report to the Stewards and/or Officials
d) If a rider does not present themselves to be weighed in, their pony where a pony is withdrawn by order of the Starter.
shall be disqualified, unless the Stewards and Officials are e) In all cases weigh in the riders
satisfied that they were justified in not doing so by reason of f) Should an Objection be lodged or an enquiry be called for an
illness, accident or other extraordinary circumstance, that they announcement must be made immediately over the public
weighed out at not less than their correct weight and that the address system.
proper weight was carried throughout the race.
e) When weighing in, a rider shall include in their weight everything 25. EXERCISE
that the pony has carried in the race except as provided in the Lungeing of a horse is only permitted in areas designated by the organiser
above Regulations (see Weighing Out). who may also prohibit it completely at their discretion. If allowed, lungeing
f) If a rider weighs in at 2lb or more over the weight at which they may be carried out by either the rider or other persons. Lungeing of a horse
weighed out they shall be disqualified. and rider is prohibited.
g) If a pony carries less than the weight they should carry during the
race in accordance with the conditions they shall be disqualified. 26. STARTER AND STARTING
h) When the riders have weighed in to the satisfaction of the Clerk of a) Ponies may not be led to the start other than in exceptional
the Scales at not less than the weight at which they weighed out, circumstances.
the Stewards and Officials shall authorise the announcement of Permission must be given by the Organiser/Chief Steward.
“weighed in” provided the Judge has announced and confirmed b) Every pony shall be at the Start ready to start at the appointed time.
his decision to the Clerk of the Scales on all placings. After the c) A Jockey skull cap must be worn by anyone leading a pony at the
announcement has been made no alteration shall be made. Start. The hat must conform to the current Pony Club Hat Rule and
the chinstrap must be fastened at all times.
23. THE RACE d) All riders who arrive at the Start must immediately place
All ponies running shall be saddled in the Pre-Parade Ring and then themselves under the control of the Starter where girths will be
brought into the Parade Ring at a reasonable time before the signal to checked by an Official and tightened as necessary.
mount is given for the race in which they are engaged. (This may be e) The ponies must be started by the Official Starter, or the authorised
specific to a particular Racecourse). substitute, and all races shall be started with a Flag.
f) Following the recall flag ponies which complete the course shall
not be considered as having obeyed the recall flag and shall be
withdrawn by the Starter.
g) Should the Starter declare a false start and the recall flag not be
raised, the race shall be void, unless all the ponies pull up before
completing the course.
The Starter’s decision is Final.
24 pcuk.org pcuk.org 25Procedure: APPENDIX A
The Starter is in charge, therefore, all instructions given by the Head Injury and Concussion Flowchart
Starter MUST be adhered to.
When girthing is complete the Starter in charge shall mount the Start
rostrum.
1. Has the member been involved in an incident that could have
When girthed up ponies will walk round on course some distance caused a head injury or concussion, e.g. a fall from a horse?
No Yes
back from the Start.
Member to be referred to hospital for
No action required 2. Was the rider unconscious
When the Starter wishes the field to walk forward he will raise his further assessment. Member must not ride
Yes at any point?
again that day and should be returned to
flag to indicate this and also give the normal voice instructions. The the care of their parents / guardians.
No
Advanced Flag Operator will simultaneously raise their flag which Member should not be left alone.
should also be visible to riders. 3. What medical cover do
4a. Has the Doctor / Paramedic you have onsite?
confirmed the member has suffered
Doctor or Paramedic
(Route A)
The field must come forward at a walk and no faster than a jig jog. from a head injury or concussion?
Yes
No
Trained or Qualified First Aider,
including coaches (Route B)
The start will be effected by the dropping of the flag when the field
Member does not
have approached the Starter in a such a way that he is satisfied ride again for 5a. Has the Doctor / Paramedic diagnosed
the member as suffering from a suspected Member to be assessed by first aider
that the start will be safe and fair. three weeks at
any activities and head injury and / or suspected concussion? before being allowed to continue
should follow
medical No
Races will not be started if the field break into a canter/gallop instructions given Yes
Yes 4b. Has the member suffered a confirmed or
by the medical
before the flag is lowered. professional. This No action required suspected head injury / concussion?
may include
immediate
Member to be referred to hospital immediately for a
referral to
If the above happens the Starter will wave his flag to indicate that hospital
suspected head injury for further assessment. Member
Unsure
No
must not ride again that day and should be returned
the race will not be started and the field must pull up. The Advance depending on
symptoms. to the care of their parents / guardians and should not
No action required
Flag Operator will also wave their flag to enable riders furthest be left alone.
Refer to a Doctor /
Hospital for further
away from the Starter to understand that the race will not be assessment Member
started. must not continue
riding until they have
6. Has the hospital confirmed the
member has suffered from a head been assessed.
injury or concussion?
Should the field be unable to pull up the Starter will continue to
wave his flag and declare a false start which will be reciprocated by No
Yes
the Advanced Flag Operator. No action required
Member does not ride again for
three weeks at any activities and
should follow medical instructions
given by the medical professional.
If the race is not started at the first attempt the field will regroup at 7. Do the parents / guardians want the
the marker poles and a standing start to the satisfaction of the member to ride again before the three
week period has passed?
Starter will be effected by flag. There will not be a further attempt
at a walk-in start and runners will not be sent back further than is No Continue as planned - Member does not ride again for three
weeks and should follow professional medical advice about
necessary to regroup at the marker poles. Yes
restarting any contact sport.
The Starters will report offending riders to the Stewards.
Medical evidence of member’s fitness is required before they can ride again.
Please note,
Note: This letter must be obtained from a medical professional (Doctor,
if you are
hospital consultant, etc) and dated at least ten days after the incident where
unsure at any
the injury was sustained. stage, follow
the ‘yes’
route.
26 pcuk.orgThe Pony Club Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2RW
Tel: 02476 698300 Fax: 02476 696919 Email: enquiries@pcuk.org
Incorporated as a Company Limited By Guarantee Registered in England No: 3072475
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