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[RC] CTR - Sharon HahnIt depends on the sanctioning organization. In the upper midwest, competitive rides are sanctioned by UMECRA (www.umecra.com), not NATRC. There are no obstacles or horsemanship judging in UMECRA. The goal is to finish the course within the "ideal" 10-minute window with your horse in the best possible shape. If you are late or early, points are deducted. Horses have P&R taken 10 minutes after passing the timer and points are deducted for each beat/breath over the "perfect" score of 9 pulse/2 respiration (in 15 seconds). Horses also stand an exam similar to a best condition exam at the end of the ride and are evalulated and points deducted for lameness, soreness, tendon fill, scratches/cuts/girth sores, etc. So the fittest horse finishing in the allotted time wins. In order to bring P&R down as low as possible, it is common to walk the last mile or 2 into camp. Also, in a UMECRA competitive ride, no sponging is allowed except in natural water on the trail, you must ride the whole way (no leading your horse), and there are point deductions for using splint boots and the like (because they can prevent interference cuts that would otherwise result in point deductions). --
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