Reining - There are three (3) approved patterns for this class. Maneuvers include at least one circle in both directions, changing leads in each direction, at least one 360-degree turn in each direction, a rollback in each direction, stop and back. See below for Patterns I, II & III.
Working the cow - After the rider completes the reining pattern, he will call for the cow. Be sure you are very clear to the cattle handlers as to when you are ready for your cow. One cow will be turned out into the arena. Upon receiving the cow, you will exhibit your horse's ability to work the cow in the designated end of the arena for a sufficient amount of time. Then you will take the cow down the fence making at least one turn each way. Make sure on your first turn you have passed the center marker before making that turn, otherwise, there is a penalty.
Roping - The rider is judged on how he/she handles their rope. The horse/rider team must then rope and bring the cow to a stop. The horse is judged on its ability to rate, track and stop the cow. You are allowed two loops to be thrown in catching the cow. The rider's rope cannot be tied hard to the saddle horn. It is not necessary for the rider to make a catch. However, if there is no catch, you will receive a -7 maneuver score, a -5 no catch penalty and a -5 for not stopping the cow. If using a breakaway, and you make the catch, you are only penalized a -5 for not stopping the cow.
See the NVRHA's score sheets for all 5 classes for the scoring system. The pluses and minuses as well as minor and major penalties are clearly described. For further information on this category, refer to our current Rules & Regulations, or, contact us for any clarification of this event www.nvrha.org.
The following are the current riding patterns.
