BRC Presents:

Ranch Trail Competition

Sunday 22nd June 2025

Bungendore Showground, Mathews Lane, Bungendore NSW 2621

BRC Members Only

Prizes to 3rd place & Ribbons to 6th

What is a Ranch Trail class?

A Ranch Trail class should test the horse’s ability to cope with situations encountered while being ridden through a pattern of obstacles generally found during everyday property work. The horse/rider team is judged on correctness, efficiency, and pattern accuracy with which the obstacles are negotiated, and the attitude and mannerisms exhibited by the horse.

Judging emphasis is on identifying the responsive and well-mannered horse which can correctly navigate and negotiate the course.

The Course
The Ranch Trail course will include no less than six (6) and no more than nine (9) obstacles.
There are mandatory Obstacles and/or manoeuvres:

• Ride over logs on the ground.
• Gate Opening, passing through and closing a hinged swinging gate (not a rope gate).
• Bridge (walk only).
• Backing an L, V, U or zig zag shape or in a straight line.
• Side-pass any object which is safe and of any length

Optional Obstacles:
Optional obstacles may be used provided the obstacles can be found in everyday ranch work.
Examples are:

• a jump obstacle (maximum height 35 cm)
• only live or stuffed animals which would normally be encountered in an outdoor setting
• carry object from one part of the arena to another
• remove and replace materials from a mailbox
• trot through cones
• swing rope or throw rope at a dummy steer head
• step in and out of obstacle

• put on drizabone or coat
• stand to mount with mounting block
• walk through water obstacle
• open gate on foot
• pick up feet
• walk through brush
• ground tie
• lead at the trot

Scoring
Each competitor begins with 70 points. Points are awarded on the quality of each manoeuvre but penalties also apply; for instance, if an obstacle is knocked or for a break of gait. More specific details on scoring will be available to competitors prior to the event.
 

Classes available
There will be two classes – Class A will be walk and trot only. Class B will include walk trot and canter.
There is a maximum of two horses per rider.
 

Saddlery and Attire
A saddle and bridle is required, preferably western style in keeping with the theme of the day (but not required - dressage, stock or all purpose saddles are fine, too!). Riders are encouraged to wear western type attire, typically jeans, a long sleeve western shirt or jacket and suitable riding boots. However, a helmet must be worn at all times when mounted.

The draw and details of the pattern to be ridden will be emailed in the week prior to the competition.

Cost is $25 for each ride of the pattern.  Riders may ride two (2) different horses but horses may compete only once.

• Scratch fee = $15
• Change fee = $10