nor should cues create a reaction whereby the horse over reacts. (i.e.. side passing or back too far). The horse should approach an obstacle as cues (i.e. straight on, side pass) and not avoid direct approach. the horse should stand quietly while mounted (no movement of feet). If the horse is tied, the horse should stand quietly and not pull back.

Rider's control:
The Rider must maintain control of the horse at all times. This will be maintained by having the Rider control either with the reins or lead rope. Rider's control of the horse is whether mounted or in-hand. The Rider should also control the horse by knowing HOW to ask for their horse to execute the obstacle as well as keep the horse under control if the horse shies or spooks.When in-hand the Rider shall lead the horse slightly to the side of them with the horse's head even with the Rider's shoulder. While leading the horse the Rider should not let the horse crowd or lean on them.

Balance:
This applies to both rider and horse. The Rider should be well balanced in the saddle. For uphill, the Rider should be in line with the trees, vertical to horizon, with legs balanced under them and not hitting horse's flanks. Lifting out of the saddle to relieve pressure on the horses back. The Rider can take hold of the mane to gain balance but not hitting the back of the cantle. For downhill, the Rider should lean slightly back, staying light in the saddle. The Rider is not to lean excessively forward, back or sideways. The horse is to be balanced while negotiating obstacles. For downhill obstacle hindquarters should be under the horse and the horse should not lean on the forehand. While negotiating stepovers, the horse is to be balanced and pick up feet and avoid clipping and stumbling. The Rider can stay balanced by looking ahead and not at the horse feet while negotiating obstacles.

On course:
The Rider is to follow directions as given and stay on course. Excessive response, avoidance or Rider's misunderstanding of the direction will be penalized. The participant must remain within the boundaries of the obstacle as marked. Avoiding or going outside marked boundaries constitutes being off course.

Passing on an obstacle:
It is the Rider's responsibility to pass an obstacle they deem as beyond their team's skill level. Safety and common sense should always be kept in the participant's mind. The team has three opportunities to attempt an obstacle; demerits to be assessed for each attempt. After the horse refuses three times the Rider is disqualified for this obstacle and receives penalty points.