GAITED MULES
General Gaited Rules - Saddleseat and Western
A. In regard to rules governing Gaited Mules in NASMA shows, every effort has been made to include all rules governing these mules in this Gaited Section. However, should there be any questions not addressed in this section regarding the exhibition of Gaited Mules in a NASMA approved event, NASMA rules in this official rule book will apply.
B. ATTIRE & TACK See Saddle Seat OR Western Attire depending on the class
1. In all Gaited Mule Western classes, western attire and tack is to be used. Mules will be shown in a western saddle.
a. Optional equipment: spurs, chaps, gloves, rope or riata
b. Prohibited equipment: Australian saddles, cavasson, crops, mechanical hackamores, martingales, training paraphernalia, action devices, tie downs, tack collars, jerk lines.
2. In all Gaited Mule English type classes, Saddle Seat attire and cutback saddles are mandatory.
3. In Saddle Seat classes a saddle seat habit of a two or three button saddle suit of a solid conservative color is correct both day and evening.
4. In all Gaited Mule Western type classes, exhibitors are required to wear long-sleeved shirts. Western hats. pants and boots in stock type halter, gymkhana events and western performance classes. Safety helmets are optional.
5. In all Gaited Mule Driving type classes, Drivers should be dressed conservatively according to the style of present day, either Western or English is acceptable. Ladies wearing a skirt should wear a lap apron. A hat of choice, long sleeves and gloves are required.
6. In all Gaited Halter Mule type classes, either English or Western attire adhering to the above rules is acceptable.
C. TACK All mules must use English tack, except where division or class rules permit otherwise. All mules must use a Standard Walking Mule Single Rein Bridle and Bit, except where division or class rules permit otherwise. Neither quick change bridles and reins nor gag bits with no shanks are allowed. Curb chains are permitted
1. BITS: Gaited bits are recognized as any standard Walking Horse bit. Severe bits are discouraged and bleeding from the mouth or muzzle is reason for disqualification. These bits are curbs with a solid or broken mouthpiece. A description of a legal Gaited Mule bit for Mules 5 yrs and older and Mules 4 yrs and younger includes:
a. 9½ maximum length shank . Shanks are measured from the very top of the metal to the very bottom of the metal, including the rings to which the cheeks and reins are attacked. Shank may be fixed or loose.
2. BRIDLES: Mules will be shown in standard Walking Mule Bridles with closed English type reins in English classes and split or romal reins in Western classes. Curb chains must meet the approval of the judge and be at least on-half inch in width and must lie flat against the jaw of the mule.
3. ENGLISH TACK
a. SADDLE: English cutback saddles of the flat or deep seat forward seat, Australian and stock seat saddles are prohibited.
b. BRIDLE: All mules must use a Standard Walking Mule Single Rein Bridle and Bit
c. WHIPS: Whips can be used in under saddle classes (English only) and halter classes but must not exceed 4 feet in length including the snapper.
4. WESTERN TACK.
a. SADDLE: Western tack requires a western style saddle.
b. BRIDLE: Western tack requires a western style bridle with no cavasson. Any standard Walking Horse bit is acceptable with a shank length of the bit 9 ½ inches. Curbs are allowed, chain or leather, but must be at least ½ inch wide and must lay flat against the mule’s jaw. Split or romal reins are also allowed.
c. WHIPS: Whips are not allowed in western classes.
5. DRIVING TACK: Also see Driving Rules.
a. FINE HARNESS: A correctly fitting harness is essential for the comfort of the harness mules and donkeys. A wider saddle is suggested for two wheeled vehicles as more weight rests on the mules and donkey’s back. Narrower saddles are more appropriate for four wheeled vehicles.
b. BRIDLE: should fit snugly to prevent catching on the vehicle or other pieces of harness. A throatlatch and a noseand or cavasson is mandatory.
(1) Martingales and overchecks are prohibited in obstacle classes.
(2) Failure to comply incurs elimination.
(3) Bits
(a) Snaffle bits and other types of traditional driving bits are allowed. Bits may be covered with rubber or leather.
(b) Legal bits include:
ii) Half cheek snaffle
iii) Liverpool
iv) Elbow Driving
v) Bradoon Overchecks
c. WHIP: An appropriate whip shall be carried at all times while driving. The thong on the whip must be long enough to reach the shoulder of the farthest mules and donkeys. A driver not in compliance will be disqualified.
D. SHOEING Toe length must exceed the height of the heel by one (1) inch or more. The length of the toe shall be measured from the coronet band, at the center of the front pasterns along the front
1. BAREFOOT - Barefoot mules may be shown in flat shod classes, however, judge must disqualify lame or tender footed mules.
2. Flat Shod Mules - Applying to all four feet, the mule is shod flat hoof to toe. The shoe shall be made in a manner either conventional or hand made. The shoe must not exceed 2 inch in thickness or 12 inches in width. No pads allowed. No additional weight shall be allowed on or in the hoof, other than the shoe and nails. Lubricants in the pastern area, action devices, pads and artificial appliances are prohibited on the Flat-Shod Pleasure Mules.
3. HEAVY SHOD - Plantation Shod - Applying to all four feet, the mule is shod with a shoe not to exceed 2 inch in thickness and 12 inch in width; with no bare plate or other weight inside the shoe. The caulk must not exceed a one inch turnback and the shoe must not extend more than 3 inch beyond the hoof at the toe. The heel of the shoe must not extend beyond the bulb of the mule's heel to the ground. The use of barium is permitted on the caulks of the pleasure shoes, but the thickness of the shoe and caulk with the barium must not exceed 1inch. Welded on clips are not permitted on flat-shod mules. Clips that are drawn from the shoe itself are permitted.
4. LIGHT SHOD - Applying to all four feet the mule is shod with a shoe no wider than : inch and no thicker than d inch with the exception of the caulk, which must be no thicker than : inch, and the turnback shall not exceed one inch. The shoe is not to extend beyond the bulb of the mule's heel when a perpendicular line is drawn from the bulb of the mule's heel to the ground. The use of barium is permitted on the caulks of the pleasure shoes, but the thickness of the shoe and caulk with barium must not exceed f inches. The use of hoof bands on lite-shod mules is not permitted in the show ring or on the show grounds. Welded on clips are not permitted on flat shod mules. Clips that are drawn from the shoe itself are permitted.
5. SHOW MULES ARE NOT TO BE SHOWN AT NASMA APPROVED EVENTS. A Show Mule (Shown with pads) is a mule that has received training to enhance the natural gaits associated with its breed type. Such mules perform with boots or action devices which give an added dimension to their performances in the ring
E. GENERAL GAITED RULES -
1. All mules must exhibit a saddle gait other than a trot - such as a smooth, easy gait such as a single-foot; a running walk, a rack, a stepping pace; Paso Fino; Foxtrot; etc.
3. AGE DIVISIONS: Gaited Mule classes are divided into age groups designated by 4 years and younger and 5 years and older. The age divisions for Stock Mules designated by Junior (5 years and under) and Senior Mule (6 years and over) classifications do not apply to Gaited Mules.
4. Should classes be offered for breeding jacks, no youth may show a jack.
F. WALKING MULE GAITS
1. FLAT WALK is a true, bold, and four-cornered, with fore legs moving straight in an elevated arc, and with a pronounced and cadenced head motion. The rear legs should follow through close to the ground, comfortable and over striding the front tracks. Stiff legged front or rear leg motion and irregular gait, especially when entering the ring, are typical of the movement of a sore mule and the judge must immediately excuse any mule exhibiting this type of motion from the ring.
2. RUNNING WALK is the same general motion as the flat walk, but with additional speed. The mule shall exhibit a smooth gliding, overstepping, four cornered gait with greater stride and accelerated head motion. The running walk should be a free and easy gait. Mules exhibiting an exaggerated, hesitating way of going, are not in form. Twisting the hocks or stiff-legged rear leg motion shall also be considered a deviation from the true running walk and a mule exhibiting these ways of going should be penalized.
3. CANTER is to be smooth and straight on both leads, not walling behind, but cantering on both ends with a rolling, rocking chair motion, comfortably in hand. Exaggerated "pumping" of the mule at the canter is not considered good form.
4. Judging Considerations- The Walking Mule should move freely in each gait and proceed in a smooth fluid, rhythmic manner. At all gaits, the mule should be flexed at the poll with muzzle slightly tucked. Stiff front or rear leg motion, stumbling bucking knees, lack of rhythmic timing, pointing, or favoring a particular leg, necessity for excessive pumping or bumping of the mule, or any tendency to rack, pace, or other deviation from the true walk are not considered good form and shall be penalized in judging.
G. RACKING MULE GAITS
1. SHOW WALK is a smooth collected, showy four-beat gait
2. SLOW RACK is a relaxed four beat gait showing style and grace.
3. FAST RACK shows the same style and action as the Slow Rack but with speed. Form should not be sacrificed for speed.
4. STYLE RACK is an accelerated version of the slow rack emphasizing showiness and pride.
5. Judging considerations- In each of the first three gaits the Racking Mule must be collected and presented well, and the rider must be relaxed and smooth in the saddle. At no time should the mule exemplify a gait with animated hock action. The Racking Mule must exhibit good conformation and be free of blemishes and unsoundness. The Racking Mule should not exhibit an exaggerated head nod in the Slow Rack or Fast Rack. It should not exhibit an exaggerated hock action with the rear legs, but its stride should be long and natural. The front leg action should exhibit a curved rolling motion rather than the legs following a straight line commonly termed 'pitching or pointing".
H. GAITS OTHER THAN WALKING AND RACKING
All mules must exhibit a saddle gait other than a trot, running walk or a rack. This would include those mules who exhibit a foxtrot, paso fino gait, single foot, stepping pace. Classes should be divided into slow gait & fast gait or slow gait & favorite gait.
I. GAITED MULE CLASSES: All the following classes, including the Walking Mule, Racking Mule and Gaited Mule classes can again be divided into Amateur, Youth, Ladies, Gentlemen’s Amateur Ladies, Amateur Gentlemen’s or open classes. In addition, it is recommended that class lists specify Western or Saddle Seat tack and attire in each class.
1. WALKING MULE DIVISION –
a. 4 years and Younger Walking Mule Class Two , Options: (1) Mules perform two gaits: the flat walk and the running walk both directions of the arena Mules to be backed at the judge’s discretion. (2) Mules perform three gaits: the flat walk, the running walk and canter both directions of the arena Mules to be backed at the judge’s discretion. (3) Exhibitors are expected to show in Saddle Seat attire unless specified on the class list.
b. 5 years and Older Walking Mule Class: Two . Options (1) Mules perform two gaits: the flat walk and the running walk both directions of the arena Mules to be backed at the judge’s discretion. (2) Mules perform three gaits: the flat walk, the running walk and canter both directions of the arena Mules to be backed at the judge’s discretion. (3) Exhibitors are expected to show in Saddle Seat attire unless specified on the class list.
2. RACKING MULE CLASSES:
a. Style Racking: for any age or sex racking mule. Mules will be asked for two gaits, slow rack and the style rack, both directions of the arena. The style rack should show more animation and speed than the slow rack.
b. Speed Racking: mule to perform three gaits, the slow rack, the show rack and the speed rack both directions of the arena. Credit shall be given to the most consistent mule that shows excessive speed. A mule that breaks gait shall be penalized.
c. Racking Mule Class: Mules to perform two gaits, the slow rack and the show rack. Entries may be shown in Saddle Seat or Western attire at the discretion of the Show Secretary. Exhibitors are expected to show in Saddle Seat attire unless specified on the class list.
3. GAITED MULE CLASSES:
a. GAITED MULE ENGLISH PLEASURE: for any age mule or any type of gaited mule, to be shown in Saddle Seat attire and tack and can perform two or three gaits including slow gait, favorite gait and the canter. The mule should be ridden on a looser rein and display a smooth ground covering stride that is suitable for the trail. The mule should easily turn to the outside of the ring when asked to reverse.
b. GAITED MULE WESTERN PLEASURE: for any age mule or any type of gaited mule, to be shown in Western attire and tack. If the mule is not a green mule or is over the age of 4 and is being shown with a shanked bit, it must be shown with one hand on the reins and no cavasson. If the mule being shown in a snaffle two hands shall be used on the reins. The mule should be ridden on a looser rein and display a smooth ground covering stride that is suitable for the trail. The mule should easily turn to the outside of the ring when asked to reverse.
c. GAITED MULEMANSHIP/EQUITATION: (1) In the Equitation Division, the exhibitor, as opposed to the mule, is judged. Exhibitors are judged on their seat, hands, and their ability as it relates to the performance of the mule, appointments of the mule with the rider, ring showmanship, and overall presentation. (2) A class designed to evaluate the rider’s ability to execute a set of maneuvers prescribed by the judge with precision and smoothness while exhibiting poise and confidence and maintaining a balanced, functional and fundamental correct body position. The ideal mulemanship pattern is extremely precise with the rider and animal working in complete unison, executing each maneuver with subtle aids and cues. The pattern may include, but should not be limited to the following maneuvers: gait a serpentine without breaking at the slow gait or favorite gait; perform a figure eight at the slow gait or favorite gait; be able to track a straight line in a gait; stop when asked; back on command; canter and break to a slow gait without trotting.
d. GAITED OBSTACLE TRAIL: A minimum of six obstacles will be used, three of which are mandatory and at least three others selected from the approved list.
Mandatory Obstacles:
1. GATE - The gate must be set up so that it is a minimum of four feet in length and four feet in height and so that the contestant can open from his right side or left side. The rider may not change hands or lose control of the gate while passing through.
2. BRIDGE - A bridge with a wooden floor at least 6 feet in length not to exceed twelve inches in height and with or without side rails not less than thirty-six inches apart will be used. Mules must not be asked to trot over or lope over bridge.
3. BACK THROUGH –
a. Back through and around at least three markers.
b. Back through L, V, U, straight or similar shaped course. May be elevated no more than 24”.
Optional Obstacles:
1. Water hazard (ditch or small pond). No metal or slick bottomed boxes will be used.
2. Simulated water hazard made of a plastic tarp, secured to the ground, so that it will not become affixed to the mule’s foot when a mule passes over the simulated water.
3. Serpentine obstacles at a walk or a jog. Spacing to be a minimum of 6’ for a jog.
4. Carry an object, other than a live animal and of a reasonable size and weight from part of the arena to another. (Only objects which reasonable might be carried on a trail ride may be used.)
5. Ride over at least four logs or poles. They can be in a straight line, curved, zigzag or raised. The space between the logs is to be measured and the path the mule is to take should be the measuring point. The space for walkovers shall be 20-24”; trot overs 3’-3’6”, lope overs 6-7’. Walkovers may be elevated 12” and should be minimum of 22” apart. The height should be measured from the ground to the top of the element. Trot overs may be elevated 12” and should be a minimum of 3’ apart. Lopeovers cannot be elevated. Trot overs cannot be elevated in novice, 13 & under or 10 & under classes. All elevated elements must be placed in a cup, notched block, or otherwise secured so they can not roll.
6. Put on and remove a slicker. When this obstacle is used, it will be so located that the rider can ride to the slicker, put it on and remove it and return it to a designated place. Reins may be held or dropped on the neck of the mule or over the saddle horn while so doing.
7. Side pass (may be elevated to a 12” maximum.) An object of such a nature and length which is safe and lying on the ground may be used to demonstrate the responsiveness of the mule to leg signals. The obstacle may be designed to require the mule to side pass either or both ways or in a pattern.
8. Box: An obstacle consisting of four logs or rails, each 5’ to 7’ long, laid in a square. Each contestant will enter the square by riding over log or rail as designated. When all four feet are inside the square, rider should execute a turn, as indicated and depart.
9. Mail Box - Remove and/or replace items. Side pass is optional.
10. Lime Circle - Requiring a turn on the forehand with front feet inside and back feet turning on outside of lime circle. May also be performed with hind feet in circle showing a pivot.
11. Drag or Pull - An object other than an animal or fowl which can be reasonable pulled or dragged without the contestant having to daily may be used. Dallying is not allowed.
12. Any other safe and negotiable obstacle which could reasonably be expected to be encountered on a trail ride and meets the approval of the judge may be used.
Prohibited Trail Obstacles:
1. Tires
2. Live animals
3. PVC pipe
4. Jumps
5. Rocking or moving bridges
6. Water box with floating or moving parts
7. Flames, dry ice, fire extinguisher
8. Logs or poles elevated in a manner that permits such to roll.
9. Ground Tie
10. Dismounting
(3) The course must be designed to require each mule to demonstrate walk, trot and gait somewhere between the obstacles as part of the working course.
(4) Final consideration of the judge will include quality and smoothness of performance of the mule and neatness and ability of exhibitor. The ideal trail mule will negotiate the course with surefootedness; looks at the obstacles, but does not hesitate, yet does not rush along the course; moves willingly without excessive urging of exhibitor. Mule should show willingness to stand quietly on the bridge and not rush off. At the gate, the obstacle is not complete unless the gate is closed and should be judged accordingly. Mule should position himself at all times to enable the exhibitor to keep a hand on the gate until the gate is closed.
(5) Entry may be either English or Western, but not a combination of both. Western exhibitor must hold reins in one hand (the exception being a mule four (4) or under wearing a bosal or ring snaffle) and should not be changed during the performance except while working the gate, if necessary. English entries may be ridden with both hands on the reins. Any type hackamore is not permitted with the exception of a bosal.
e. GAITED MULES AT HALTER: HALTER DIVISION
(1) Halter class entries are presented in hand, in either a halter or bridle as dictated by the specific class requirements
(2) Attire for this class may be either English or Western, but not a combination of both, and must be clean and neat.
(3) Whips not to exceed four (4) feet in length including snapper are permitted for use by exhibitors, unless shown in western. Whips are not permitted in Western showmanship.
General Gaited Rules - Saddleseat and Western
A. In regard to rules governing Gaited Mules in NASMA shows, every effort has been made to include all rules governing these mules in this Gaited Section. However, should there be any questions not addressed in this section regarding the exhibition of Gaited Mules in a NASMA approved event, NASMA rules in this official rule book will apply.
B. ATTIRE & TACK See Saddle Seat OR Western Attire depending on the class
1. In all Gaited Mule Western classes, western attire and tack is to be used. Mules will be shown in a western saddle.
a. Optional equipment: spurs, chaps, gloves, rope or riata
b. Prohibited equipment: Australian saddles, cavasson, crops, mechanical hackamores, martingales, training paraphernalia, action devices, tie downs, tack collars, jerk lines.
2. In all Gaited Mule English type classes, Saddle Seat attire and cutback saddles are mandatory.
3. In Saddle Seat classes a saddle seat habit of a two or three button saddle suit of a solid conservative color is correct both day and evening.
4. In all Gaited Mule Western type classes, exhibitors are required to wear long-sleeved shirts. Western hats. pants and boots in stock type halter, gymkhana events and western performance classes. Safety helmets are optional.
5. In all Gaited Mule Driving type classes, Drivers should be dressed conservatively according to the style of present day, either Western or English is acceptable. Ladies wearing a skirt should wear a lap apron. A hat of choice, long sleeves and gloves are required.
6. In all Gaited Halter Mule type classes, either English or Western attire adhering to the above rules is acceptable.
C. TACK All mules must use English tack, except where division or class rules permit otherwise. All mules must use a Standard Walking Mule Single Rein Bridle and Bit, except where division or class rules permit otherwise. Neither quick change bridles and reins nor gag bits with no shanks are allowed. Curb chains are permitted
1. BITS: Gaited bits are recognized as any standard Walking Horse bit. Severe bits are discouraged and bleeding from the mouth or muzzle is reason for disqualification. These bits are curbs with a solid or broken mouthpiece. A description of a legal Gaited Mule bit for Mules 5 yrs and older and Mules 4 yrs and younger includes:
a. 9½ maximum length shank . Shanks are measured from the very top of the metal to the very bottom of the metal, including the rings to which the cheeks and reins are attacked. Shank may be fixed or loose.
2. BRIDLES: Mules will be shown in standard Walking Mule Bridles with closed English type reins in English classes and split or romal reins in Western classes. Curb chains must meet the approval of the judge and be at least on-half inch in width and must lie flat against the jaw of the mule.
3. ENGLISH TACK
a. SADDLE: English cutback saddles of the flat or deep seat forward seat, Australian and stock seat saddles are prohibited.
b. BRIDLE: All mules must use a Standard Walking Mule Single Rein Bridle and Bit
c. WHIPS: Whips can be used in under saddle classes (English only) and halter classes but must not exceed 4 feet in length including the snapper.
4. WESTERN TACK.
a. SADDLE: Western tack requires a western style saddle.
b. BRIDLE: Western tack requires a western style bridle with no cavasson. Any standard Walking Horse bit is acceptable with a shank length of the bit 9 ½ inches. Curbs are allowed, chain or leather, but must be at least ½ inch wide and must lay flat against the mule’s jaw. Split or romal reins are also allowed.
c. WHIPS: Whips are not allowed in western classes.
5. DRIVING TACK: Also see Driving Rules.
a. FINE HARNESS: A correctly fitting harness is essential for the comfort of the harness mules and donkeys. A wider saddle is suggested for two wheeled vehicles as more weight rests on the mules and donkey’s back. Narrower saddles are more appropriate for four wheeled vehicles.
b. BRIDLE: should fit snugly to prevent catching on the vehicle or other pieces of harness. A throatlatch and a noseand or cavasson is mandatory.
(1) Martingales and overchecks are prohibited in obstacle classes.
(2) Failure to comply incurs elimination.
(3) Bits
(a) Snaffle bits and other types of traditional driving bits are allowed. Bits may be covered with rubber or leather.
(b) Legal bits include:
ii) Half cheek snaffle
iii) Liverpool
iv) Elbow Driving
v) Bradoon Overchecks
c. WHIP: An appropriate whip shall be carried at all times while driving. The thong on the whip must be long enough to reach the shoulder of the farthest mules and donkeys. A driver not in compliance will be disqualified.
D. SHOEING Toe length must exceed the height of the heel by one (1) inch or more. The length of the toe shall be measured from the coronet band, at the center of the front pasterns along the front
1. BAREFOOT - Barefoot mules may be shown in flat shod classes, however, judge must disqualify lame or tender footed mules.
2. Flat Shod Mules - Applying to all four feet, the mule is shod flat hoof to toe. The shoe shall be made in a manner either conventional or hand made. The shoe must not exceed 2 inch in thickness or 12 inches in width. No pads allowed. No additional weight shall be allowed on or in the hoof, other than the shoe and nails. Lubricants in the pastern area, action devices, pads and artificial appliances are prohibited on the Flat-Shod Pleasure Mules.
3. HEAVY SHOD - Plantation Shod - Applying to all four feet, the mule is shod with a shoe not to exceed 2 inch in thickness and 12 inch in width; with no bare plate or other weight inside the shoe. The caulk must not exceed a one inch turnback and the shoe must not extend more than 3 inch beyond the hoof at the toe. The heel of the shoe must not extend beyond the bulb of the mule's heel to the ground. The use of barium is permitted on the caulks of the pleasure shoes, but the thickness of the shoe and caulk with the barium must not exceed 1inch. Welded on clips are not permitted on flat-shod mules. Clips that are drawn from the shoe itself are permitted.
4. LIGHT SHOD - Applying to all four feet the mule is shod with a shoe no wider than : inch and no thicker than d inch with the exception of the caulk, which must be no thicker than : inch, and the turnback shall not exceed one inch. The shoe is not to extend beyond the bulb of the mule's heel when a perpendicular line is drawn from the bulb of the mule's heel to the ground. The use of barium is permitted on the caulks of the pleasure shoes, but the thickness of the shoe and caulk with barium must not exceed f inches. The use of hoof bands on lite-shod mules is not permitted in the show ring or on the show grounds. Welded on clips are not permitted on flat shod mules. Clips that are drawn from the shoe itself are permitted.
5. SHOW MULES ARE NOT TO BE SHOWN AT NASMA APPROVED EVENTS. A Show Mule (Shown with pads) is a mule that has received training to enhance the natural gaits associated with its breed type. Such mules perform with boots or action devices which give an added dimension to their performances in the ring
E. GENERAL GAITED RULES -
1. All mules must exhibit a saddle gait other than a trot - such as a smooth, easy gait such as a single-foot; a running walk, a rack, a stepping pace; Paso Fino; Foxtrot; etc.
3. AGE DIVISIONS: Gaited Mule classes are divided into age groups designated by 4 years and younger and 5 years and older. The age divisions for Stock Mules designated by Junior (5 years and under) and Senior Mule (6 years and over) classifications do not apply to Gaited Mules.
4. Should classes be offered for breeding jacks, no youth may show a jack.
F. WALKING MULE GAITS
1. FLAT WALK is a true, bold, and four-cornered, with fore legs moving straight in an elevated arc, and with a pronounced and cadenced head motion. The rear legs should follow through close to the ground, comfortable and over striding the front tracks. Stiff legged front or rear leg motion and irregular gait, especially when entering the ring, are typical of the movement of a sore mule and the judge must immediately excuse any mule exhibiting this type of motion from the ring.
2. RUNNING WALK is the same general motion as the flat walk, but with additional speed. The mule shall exhibit a smooth gliding, overstepping, four cornered gait with greater stride and accelerated head motion. The running walk should be a free and easy gait. Mules exhibiting an exaggerated, hesitating way of going, are not in form. Twisting the hocks or stiff-legged rear leg motion shall also be considered a deviation from the true running walk and a mule exhibiting these ways of going should be penalized.
3. CANTER is to be smooth and straight on both leads, not walling behind, but cantering on both ends with a rolling, rocking chair motion, comfortably in hand. Exaggerated "pumping" of the mule at the canter is not considered good form.
4. Judging Considerations- The Walking Mule should move freely in each gait and proceed in a smooth fluid, rhythmic manner. At all gaits, the mule should be flexed at the poll with muzzle slightly tucked. Stiff front or rear leg motion, stumbling bucking knees, lack of rhythmic timing, pointing, or favoring a particular leg, necessity for excessive pumping or bumping of the mule, or any tendency to rack, pace, or other deviation from the true walk are not considered good form and shall be penalized in judging.
G. RACKING MULE GAITS
1. SHOW WALK is a smooth collected, showy four-beat gait
2. SLOW RACK is a relaxed four beat gait showing style and grace.
3. FAST RACK shows the same style and action as the Slow Rack but with speed. Form should not be sacrificed for speed.
4. STYLE RACK is an accelerated version of the slow rack emphasizing showiness and pride.
5. Judging considerations- In each of the first three gaits the Racking Mule must be collected and presented well, and the rider must be relaxed and smooth in the saddle. At no time should the mule exemplify a gait with animated hock action. The Racking Mule must exhibit good conformation and be free of blemishes and unsoundness. The Racking Mule should not exhibit an exaggerated head nod in the Slow Rack or Fast Rack. It should not exhibit an exaggerated hock action with the rear legs, but its stride should be long and natural. The front leg action should exhibit a curved rolling motion rather than the legs following a straight line commonly termed 'pitching or pointing".
H. GAITS OTHER THAN WALKING AND RACKING
All mules must exhibit a saddle gait other than a trot, running walk or a rack. This would include those mules who exhibit a foxtrot, paso fino gait, single foot, stepping pace. Classes should be divided into slow gait & fast gait or slow gait & favorite gait.
I. GAITED MULE CLASSES: All the following classes, including the Walking Mule, Racking Mule and Gaited Mule classes can again be divided into Amateur, Youth, Ladies, Gentlemen’s Amateur Ladies, Amateur Gentlemen’s or open classes. In addition, it is recommended that class lists specify Western or Saddle Seat tack and attire in each class.
1. WALKING MULE DIVISION –
a. 4 years and Younger Walking Mule Class Two , Options: (1) Mules perform two gaits: the flat walk and the running walk both directions of the arena Mules to be backed at the judge’s discretion. (2) Mules perform three gaits: the flat walk, the running walk and canter both directions of the arena Mules to be backed at the judge’s discretion. (3) Exhibitors are expected to show in Saddle Seat attire unless specified on the class list.
b. 5 years and Older Walking Mule Class: Two . Options (1) Mules perform two gaits: the flat walk and the running walk both directions of the arena Mules to be backed at the judge’s discretion. (2) Mules perform three gaits: the flat walk, the running walk and canter both directions of the arena Mules to be backed at the judge’s discretion. (3) Exhibitors are expected to show in Saddle Seat attire unless specified on the class list.
2. RACKING MULE CLASSES:
a. Style Racking: for any age or sex racking mule. Mules will be asked for two gaits, slow rack and the style rack, both directions of the arena. The style rack should show more animation and speed than the slow rack.
b. Speed Racking: mule to perform three gaits, the slow rack, the show rack and the speed rack both directions of the arena. Credit shall be given to the most consistent mule that shows excessive speed. A mule that breaks gait shall be penalized.
c. Racking Mule Class: Mules to perform two gaits, the slow rack and the show rack. Entries may be shown in Saddle Seat or Western attire at the discretion of the Show Secretary. Exhibitors are expected to show in Saddle Seat attire unless specified on the class list.
3. GAITED MULE CLASSES:
a. GAITED MULE ENGLISH PLEASURE: for any age mule or any type of gaited mule, to be shown in Saddle Seat attire and tack and can perform two or three gaits including slow gait, favorite gait and the canter. The mule should be ridden on a looser rein and display a smooth ground covering stride that is suitable for the trail. The mule should easily turn to the outside of the ring when asked to reverse.
b. GAITED MULE WESTERN PLEASURE: for any age mule or any type of gaited mule, to be shown in Western attire and tack. If the mule is not a green mule or is over the age of 4 and is being shown with a shanked bit, it must be shown with one hand on the reins and no cavasson. If the mule being shown in a snaffle two hands shall be used on the reins. The mule should be ridden on a looser rein and display a smooth ground covering stride that is suitable for the trail. The mule should easily turn to the outside of the ring when asked to reverse.
c. GAITED MULEMANSHIP/EQUITATION: (1) In the Equitation Division, the exhibitor, as opposed to the mule, is judged. Exhibitors are judged on their seat, hands, and their ability as it relates to the performance of the mule, appointments of the mule with the rider, ring showmanship, and overall presentation. (2) A class designed to evaluate the rider’s ability to execute a set of maneuvers prescribed by the judge with precision and smoothness while exhibiting poise and confidence and maintaining a balanced, functional and fundamental correct body position. The ideal mulemanship pattern is extremely precise with the rider and animal working in complete unison, executing each maneuver with subtle aids and cues. The pattern may include, but should not be limited to the following maneuvers: gait a serpentine without breaking at the slow gait or favorite gait; perform a figure eight at the slow gait or favorite gait; be able to track a straight line in a gait; stop when asked; back on command; canter and break to a slow gait without trotting.
d. GAITED OBSTACLE TRAIL: A minimum of six obstacles will be used, three of which are mandatory and at least three others selected from the approved list.
Mandatory Obstacles:
1. GATE - The gate must be set up so that it is a minimum of four feet in length and four feet in height and so that the contestant can open from his right side or left side. The rider may not change hands or lose control of the gate while passing through.
2. BRIDGE - A bridge with a wooden floor at least 6 feet in length not to exceed twelve inches in height and with or without side rails not less than thirty-six inches apart will be used. Mules must not be asked to trot over or lope over bridge.
3. BACK THROUGH –
a. Back through and around at least three markers.
b. Back through L, V, U, straight or similar shaped course. May be elevated no more than 24”.
Optional Obstacles:
1. Water hazard (ditch or small pond). No metal or slick bottomed boxes will be used.
2. Simulated water hazard made of a plastic tarp, secured to the ground, so that it will not become affixed to the mule’s foot when a mule passes over the simulated water.
3. Serpentine obstacles at a walk or a jog. Spacing to be a minimum of 6’ for a jog.
4. Carry an object, other than a live animal and of a reasonable size and weight from part of the arena to another. (Only objects which reasonable might be carried on a trail ride may be used.)
5. Ride over at least four logs or poles. They can be in a straight line, curved, zigzag or raised. The space between the logs is to be measured and the path the mule is to take should be the measuring point. The space for walkovers shall be 20-24”; trot overs 3’-3’6”, lope overs 6-7’. Walkovers may be elevated 12” and should be minimum of 22” apart. The height should be measured from the ground to the top of the element. Trot overs may be elevated 12” and should be a minimum of 3’ apart. Lopeovers cannot be elevated. Trot overs cannot be elevated in novice, 13 & under or 10 & under classes. All elevated elements must be placed in a cup, notched block, or otherwise secured so they can not roll.
6. Put on and remove a slicker. When this obstacle is used, it will be so located that the rider can ride to the slicker, put it on and remove it and return it to a designated place. Reins may be held or dropped on the neck of the mule or over the saddle horn while so doing.
7. Side pass (may be elevated to a 12” maximum.) An object of such a nature and length which is safe and lying on the ground may be used to demonstrate the responsiveness of the mule to leg signals. The obstacle may be designed to require the mule to side pass either or both ways or in a pattern.
8. Box: An obstacle consisting of four logs or rails, each 5’ to 7’ long, laid in a square. Each contestant will enter the square by riding over log or rail as designated. When all four feet are inside the square, rider should execute a turn, as indicated and depart.
9. Mail Box - Remove and/or replace items. Side pass is optional.
10. Lime Circle - Requiring a turn on the forehand with front feet inside and back feet turning on outside of lime circle. May also be performed with hind feet in circle showing a pivot.
11. Drag or Pull - An object other than an animal or fowl which can be reasonable pulled or dragged without the contestant having to daily may be used. Dallying is not allowed.
12. Any other safe and negotiable obstacle which could reasonably be expected to be encountered on a trail ride and meets the approval of the judge may be used.
Prohibited Trail Obstacles:
1. Tires
2. Live animals
3. PVC pipe
4. Jumps
5. Rocking or moving bridges
6. Water box with floating or moving parts
7. Flames, dry ice, fire extinguisher
8. Logs or poles elevated in a manner that permits such to roll.
9. Ground Tie
10. Dismounting
(3) The course must be designed to require each mule to demonstrate walk, trot and gait somewhere between the obstacles as part of the working course.
(4) Final consideration of the judge will include quality and smoothness of performance of the mule and neatness and ability of exhibitor. The ideal trail mule will negotiate the course with surefootedness; looks at the obstacles, but does not hesitate, yet does not rush along the course; moves willingly without excessive urging of exhibitor. Mule should show willingness to stand quietly on the bridge and not rush off. At the gate, the obstacle is not complete unless the gate is closed and should be judged accordingly. Mule should position himself at all times to enable the exhibitor to keep a hand on the gate until the gate is closed.
(5) Entry may be either English or Western, but not a combination of both. Western exhibitor must hold reins in one hand (the exception being a mule four (4) or under wearing a bosal or ring snaffle) and should not be changed during the performance except while working the gate, if necessary. English entries may be ridden with both hands on the reins. Any type hackamore is not permitted with the exception of a bosal.
e. GAITED MULES AT HALTER: HALTER DIVISION
(1) Halter class entries are presented in hand, in either a halter or bridle as dictated by the specific class requirements
(2) Attire for this class may be either English or Western, but not a combination of both, and must be clean and neat.
(3) Whips not to exceed four (4) feet in length including snapper are permitted for use by exhibitors, unless shown in western. Whips are not permitted in Western showmanship.