During Category of Progression
Evaluations, exhibitors are observed and rated by a panel of
evaluators as the team performs certain tasks. For each task, evaluators
assign
scores for the horse, handler, and horse handler team based on a 0 to 8 scale. When a horse/handler
team
earns the
specified minimum
score
or higher for a Category of Progression evaluation,
the
team is awarded
an achievement patch for that category and is
encouraged
to enter the next category
in the progression from ground
work to riding. Category
achievements are solely associated
with a
specific horse/handler team and may not be
transferred to other team
combinations
(different horse or handler). All exhibitors,
regardless
of score, will receive their evaluation
forms from
all evaluators.
For category
evaluations, each horse/handler team will be scheduled for an evaluated
session
as well as unjudged time to constructively conclude their session as
needed. Some segments
will take place in a pen containing only horse/handler team, while
others may take place in an
arena, giving waiting teams the opportunity to observe others before
beginning their own,
evaluated session.
All classes will be evaluated according to
the following eight (8) areas of consideration,
where the focus is on the horse, handler, and overall team:
