The first part of this page is dedicated to the reining horse
Reining is a judged event designed to show the athletic ability of a ranch type horse in the confines
of the show arena. In NRHA competition, contestants are required to run one of nine approved
patterns. Each pattern includes small slow circles, large fast circles, flying lead changes, roll backs
over the hocks, 360 degree spins done in place, and the exciting sliding stops that are the hallmark
of the reining horse.
In NRHA competitions, reining horses are judged individually as they complete one of nine specified
patterns. One or more judges will score each horse between 0 and infinity with 70 denoting an
average score. Each horse automatically begins the pattern with a 70. The scoring system then gives
or takes away up to 1 and 1/2 points on each maneuver, and penalties may be accrued for incorrect
performance maneuvers. As the judges watch the horse's execution of the pattern, a scribe keeps
track of each judge's maneuver scores on a score sheet as well as penalty marks. Scores are then
tabulated and announced at the end of each run. The judges' sheets with individual maneuver scores
and total scores are then posted for the benefit of the exhibitors following each class.
In scoring, credit is given for smoothness, finesse, attitude, quickness and authority when performing
the various maneuvers. Controlled speed in the pattern raises the level of difficulty and makes the
reining horse more exciting and pleasing to watch. Increased level of difficulty is rewarded with
higher scores if the maneuvers are still performed correctly. The NRHA Handbook states, "To rein
a horse is not only to guide him, but also to control his every movement." That description has
remained unchanged since 1966 and serves as the definitive guide to the judging of reining events.