AWE STANDARDS GUIDELINE - Australian Working Equitation Inc

AUSTRALIAN WORKING EQUITATION INC
AWE STANDARDS GUIDELINE
March 2014. Version 1
Australian Working Equitation has recognised the requirement to implement a
guide brochure to ensure the cultural aspects of the World Association
Working Equitation are preserved so that Working Equitation is a defined and
recognised sport.
In general there has been lots of enquiry in relation to standards to ensure that
the integrity of the sport is maintained.
Construction of obstacles that are outside limitations and guidelines can be
dangerous and in accordance with the WAWE rules a host club is not allowed
to use obstacles that would disadvantage other riders at the competition.
An example of this is the construction of a bridge that may otherwise be a
design for a pedestrian creek crossing. Or a gate that is made of steel with
open spaces and sharp protrusions or pins to hold it in place.
The WAWE regulations have a range of structural and layout requirements that
are intended to retain the identity of the sport as “Working Equitation”
This guideline will provide the following
a) Standards
b) Obstacle Dimensions and minimum requirements
c) Sample Course Instructions
d) Sample Course Obstacle Layout
e) Safety Management
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Standards
The WAWE rules and regulations have set out the type of equipment required
for obstacles and the design of the layouts.
The information must be preserved to retain the identity of Working Equitation
as a sport.
If the integrity of Working Equitation is compromised then the sport becomes
a segregated activity within another form of sport.
To uphold the intended objectives and standards of Working Equitation is
honouring the objectives of the founders when it was formed in Portugal and
respecting the implementation of those objectives by the World Association
Working Equitation.
Obstacle Dimensions and Minimum Requirements
The following information is from the WAWE rule book or other documented
recommendations that further underpins the need to create standards and
guidelines for clubs to adhere to and consider at the construction stage of
obstacles.
a) Riding Arena. Recommended minimum size if 70m x 30m (Page 15
WAWE Rules, tab 1)
b) Obstacle standards should not be allowed to be adjusted to allow the
host club the opportunity to surprise the riders (Refer to page 15 of the
WAWE rules, tab 3)
c) The bridge and the gate are the most common obstacles that are
constructed without use of the minimum guidelines set out by WAWE.
While there are reasonable reasons for people to use various object
designs for training and horsemanship purposes, there is no allowance
for the objects to be used for competitive purposes if the obstacle does
not conform to the minimum construction guidelines and the “Surprise”
element as described above at “B”. Constructing a bridge made of steel
and using a design intended for a creek crossing is not an acceptable
design and is likely to cause breaches of the rules and safety standards.
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d) The Bridge must be no less than 3m long and no more than 4m long and
1.5m wide. It must be a minimum 200mm above ground and made of
wooden planks with slopes either ends. The bridge must be flat at the
highest point to allow the horse to stand on the bridge at the flattest
area if it was to stop at the middle point of the bridge. The bridge
surface should not be slippery or made of materials that would cause it
to be slippery (Refer to WAWE rule page 20). The bridge barriers should
not prevent the escape or otherwise cause a horse to panic. The
preferred method is to have collapsible sides or sides that would
otherwise be low enough to allow the horse to escape if it slipped or
panicked.
e) The gate: Should be constructed of wood and wire mesh (to prevent
horse head or hooves entering gaps) and be closed with an iron hoop.
The 2 up rights should be no less than 2m apart to allow a 2m wide
opening. The gate should be a minimum 1.3m high but not more than
1.5m high. The gate should not have openings without cross bars or
mesh that could allow a horse to enter its head. The gate should not be
secured using long pins or have protruding edges or points if it is
dislodged or knocked over. Blunt weights, pot plants or sand bags should
be used to secure the gate to prevent it from falling
f) Drums: Drums should not have bare metal edges without a form of
protective cushioning to prevent the drum from the potential to cause
injuries. The drum can be made from plastic or wooden wine barrels but
will still be required to have blunt edges or cushioned edges.
g) The Stock Pen. The international standard is a 6m outer barrier and a 3m
wide internal barrier. The stock pen should not be less than 6m and can
be up to 8m for training and exposure purposes. The inner barrier can be
less than 3m for training purposes as well. The objective is to train the
horse to traverse the outer limit of the barrier. The outer barriers should
consist of sides no more than 1.3m and the inner barrier can be up to
2m high or as little as 300mm high depending on the course design. The
construction materials should be blunt with no protruding edges that
may cause injury or part of the rider to get caught on something.
h) The Bull: The design of a bull should consider that if the bull head is
facing the direction the rider is approaching then this may lead to other
issues to consider.
a) If the bull head has sharp edges (such as horns) then the tips and
edges should be constructed so that the edges are blunt and
sufficient not to allow a stirrup to get caught on the edge.
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b) The ring holder be constructed so that it is away approximately
300mm away from the edge of the bull to allow some room for the
horse and rider to be at a safe distance from the bull.
c) That the construction of the base no protrude any more than 200mm
from the edge of the bull so that the horses hooves have sufficient
room to traverse past the bull without knocking the base.
d) Ideally the bull design should be made so that the bull has no base
protruding at the ring pick up side of the bull.
The above descriptions are the main indicators that people enquire about
or have concerns about with competitions and training of the obstacles.
While there is a multitude of obstacles such as bendy poles, tables, poles
and bull designs there simply needs to be some attention drawn to safety
concerns in all construction of equipment.
Course Instructions
The following information can be used as a guide for instructions to riders but
also can be useful for formulating and building a course for a competition.
In preparation for your Ease Of Handling Ride: For the Obstacle Map Below
a) Riding order is the same as the dressage draw for both EOH and the speed
phase. So make sure you have completed a gear check, are ready and
warmed up with minimum 7minutes to spare before your turn to ride the
EOH. Keep track of who is in front of you to help determine how much time
you have to warm up and prepare, but please note any
scratchings/eliminations may bump you forward in the order timing.
b) After the previous rider has finished, walk around the outside of the course to
introduce yourself/horse, class/level, test etc. to the judges tables. You may
nod or salute the judges at this point. This is your opportunity to impress the
judges with your presentation of the horse and your attire/tack.
c) Return to the start line area and wait for the judges to ring the bell, do not
enter without invitation. You will be required to start within 30seconds of the
bell. Canter is desired from the start line to the 1stobstacle on left lead.
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d) Where there is a requirement to walk the last 2m of approach to an obstacle
the objective is to only walk from the mark but it is recommended that the
transition be between no earlier than 4m from the obstacle and no less than
3m from the obstacle to allow for a smooth transition and not just a halt then
walk transition at the 2m line.
e) Remember to briefly acknowledge the judges on the fly when you have
finished your ride while leaving the course
1) Bridge: WALK ONLY permitted on the bridge/t in all levels at all times including
speed.
a) Objective is to approach bridge in the centre while displaying least
resistance in approach and over bridge.
b) Walk must commence 2m from the bridge to enter and 2m from the bridge
at exit before transition.
c) Cones will indicate the distance before and after bridge.
2) Double Slalom: Enter with (No 2) 1st pole on your right leg on the right lead/rein.
a) Proceed bending through poles to end finishing on right leg/lead/rein.
b) The aim is to achieve flying changes in the mid section of the slalom.
c) Simple changes, walk or controlled trot with correct bend and flexion would
gain better recognition by the judges.
d) Make the best decisions for your ability to obtain the maximum scores
possible for your level.
e) Maintain consistent distances away from poles that isn’t cutting in nor going
to wide.
3) Stock Pen: Enter on left side-Circle right on right lead
a) Exit pen to 4. (pole or cone).
b) Objective is to canter pen, exit to 4 and do a simple/flying change at half way
point from pen to 4.
c) Canter, trot, walk the stock pen with accuracy between the fence and inner
barrel, calmness and confidence.
4) Stock Pen Turn Point: Separate score for turn-around/pirouette
a) Options at 4 are to walk with a shoulder (FQ) yield back to the stock pen,
Pirouette, or forward turn, or
b) Canter the turn point in a half circle and return to stock pen on left lead.
c) Walk or trot the turn point with a slow and controlled turn.
d) Canter or walk Pirouette
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5) After turn then a left lead canter is desirable for best results to enter the stock
pen.
6 R) Side Pass to Right, horse facing in either direction of travel for best results or
straight or away from direction of travel.
a) Ensure walk at least 2m before the poles and calmly walk to position
maintaining momentum. Calmness/ smooth movements would be favourable.
b) Objective is to side pass the entire pole length without touching or moving the
poles with correct foot falls for best results. Rider to face the direction of travel.
Horse can face direction of travel, straight ahead or bend away from direction of
travel. Proceed to next pole.
7 L) Side Pass to Left: with as above requirements
a) Display controlled movements. Calm and smooth movements that require the
least effort by the rider.
b) Objective is to side pass entire length without bumping poles or moving them
with fluidity of movement.
8) Bridge: WALK ONLY permitted on the bridge in all levels at all times including
speed.
d) Objective is to approach bridge in the centre while displaying least
resistance in approach and over bridge.
e) Walk must commence 2m from the bridge to enter and 2m from the bridge
at exit before transition. Cones will be used to indicate the distance.
9) Gate: Open and close gate with right hand only. Try to do it slowly and with small
steps
1) Approach gate square & directly perpendicular and hind quarter yield the
horse to the gate to be parallel.
2) Walk is required by a 2m distance from the gate marked with cones.
(penalties apply if not walking by the 2m mark)
3) Ensure correct positioning to allow the least amount of reaching to the latch
for best results.
4) Open without letting go with your right hand..
5) Objective is to open gate sufficient for horse and rider to fit through without
bumping gate.
6) Yield back to close the gate while maintaining your right hand on the gate.
10) Drag the sack with a lead rope. Approach rope hitch and grab rope with your
right hand. Drag the sack about 10m to the next rope latch and place rope on the
latch. Walk only is required.
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11) Jump: At a suitable speed to your horse’s ability with safety being foremost
priority.
a) Objective is to demonstrate calmness and confidence by horse and rider in
both the approach and over the jump.
b) The exit of the jump will also be considered for continuity and rhythm.
c) Prepare your horse for a change of lead while going over the jump
12) 3 Barrels Clover-leaf: Enter centre of barrels with the number 12 on your right
leg 1st, 360o right turn, then left U-turn the centre barrel, then right 360o exit to
jump.
a) Objective is to canter the barrels but trot and walk is acceptable. Select the
best option for your current level.
b) Attempt to enter/exit the half way points between the barrels
c) Display control by not allowing the horse to cut inside the barrels or go to far
away from the barrels
Select a suitable distance around barrels and maintain consistency for all
barrels for best results.
a) Bell Corridor: Walk/trot/canter to bell, ring bell, rein-back out of the L shape.
b) Objective to display calm and controlled rein back without bumping poles and
moving them.
c) Small steps in rein back is favourable. Controlled, collected, relaxation is most
desirable.
13) Garrocha: Pick up Garrocha lance pole with your right hand only while circling
the barrel 360o+
a) Objective is to approach the barrel at a pace that will allow ease of turn in
either walk trot or canter.
b) Attempt to grab the Garrocha at the point at which you will hold the
Garrocha during the ride to minimise the need to adjust the pole length.
c) Prior adjustment of reins prior to holding the Garrocha will minimise the
need to adjust reins during the ride.
14) For safety it is recommended that the Garrocha not be allowed to flop around
so as to allow it to bump the hind.
Bull Ring Pick-UP: Use the Garrocha in your right hand to lift the ring off the
bull on the fly at walk, trot, canter.
a) Objective is to display least resistance and accuracy in the approach and at
canter.
b) Accuracy in the pass as the ring is being removed from the bull.
c) Quality of walk, trot, canter - no slowing of chosen pace - "on the fly"
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d) When attempting bull ring pick-up, ensure pole is out away from body,
under the forearm, but not under the arm pit.
15) Garrocha Return: Circle barrel, Place Garrocha with care in barrel with thick end
down, thin point end up, with ring still on Garrocha. (Don't throw pole into
barrel - may ricochet out and the score will be affected by this)
a) Objective is to display quality of circle and the return of the Garrocha.
b) A full 360 is permitted but may also be a half turn if the return is successful
c) Do not allow the Garrocha to bounce out of barrel. If it does bounce out
then dismount, pick up pole, remount and place back in the barrel. Or
simply leave it and learn by the experience.
d) The speed does not compulsory require a 360 around barrel but it may be a
better option depending on the course instructions. The speed phase allows
the pole to be replaced without doing a circle of barrel.
16) Figure 8 Barrels: Enter with the number on your right hand side. Do a 360 and
re enter the centre. Exit the centre of barrels to the left and complete a 360 and
then proceed to the next obstacle
a) Aim for the centre of barrels for entry and exit.
b) A flying change at the centre point
c) Consistent circles to achieve best results.
d) Walk, trot or canter paces
17)
Jug: Halt in correct position,
a) Objective is to have a square halt and remain still while you lean down to
grab the jug until the jug is returned.
b) Horse positioned in correct location to make reaching for the jug as easy as
possible.
c) Lift jug high above your head to signal completion of the course.
d) Proceed toward the judges and acknowledge as you exit on a lose rein at a
walk.
a) Do not start course until after introduction & saluted judges table and bell sounds.
b) NO LIVE CROSSING IS PERMITTED. Crossing over other obstacles is not permitted
unless the obstacle has been completed already ie; "dead".
c) Leave arena on a loose rein and acknowledge and thank the judges.
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Below is a sample Obstacle Course Map
Safety
AWE rules have an integrated safety management system because the safety
management is in conjunction with how Working Equitation is undertaken and
managed.
The following information should be a minimum safety standard when
conducting activities of Working Equitation.
Individual assessment of each site should also be undertaken to further ensure
the onsite safety management is at the highest level.
A pre site safety analysis is required before events proceed and a site layout
should be available to all participants and the public.
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1 INTRODUCTION
The discipline of Working Equitation was created with the objective of
promoting the different types of equitation techniques developed in countries
that use the horse to work on the farm.
The aim is to preserve and perpetuate not only this type of equitation but also
the cultural traditions of each country and their horses.
The four founder countries of Working Equitation are Portugal, Spain, France,
and Italy. Now this discipline is practiced in many countries like Sweden,
Germany, United Kingdom, Brazil, USA and has now made its way to Australia.
Each country has its own rules for its National levels but the rules for
International competitions are the same for all countries. WAWE provide the
international rules.
These rules have been created with Australian riders and working traditions in
mind and from the World Association for Working Equitation as a guide.
2 GENERAL INFORMATION
Each competition is comprised of 3 sections. The final result is determined by
totalling the score from all three sections.
The three sections are:




Dressage (Equitation Tests)
Ease of Handling (with obstacles) and
Timed Obstacles (with obstacles).
In Team and International Competitions a fourth section is included
which is a Cattle Penning Test.
OUTSIDE ASSISTANCE: No outside assistance is allowed in any phase of
Working Equitation Competition. Violation will mean elimination. Outside
assistance is defined as, but not limited to: verbal or non-verbal signals from
anyone else that would unfairly help a competitor while competitor is being
judged.
Callers are allowed for the dressage phase. Test must be read in English unless
permission is granted by the Jury before the competition for another language
to be used.
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3 SAFETY MANAGMENT PLAN
References: AWE Rules, EA Risk Management Guidelines: EA Sample Event Risk
Management Plan
The objectives of Australian Working Equitation INC is to maintain affiliation
with Equestrian Australia as a registered association club to obtain standard
recognition and guidance as it grows.
This process will require that all members abide with EA safety standards and
codes of conduct that are available to new or interested members on
www.equestrian.org.au
It will be a requirement for the committee and all the AWE Inc members to
comply with EA rules or rulings submitted at any time during membership.
Failure to comply with rules and regulations as stipulated by EA may result in
cancellation of membership to AWE or its affiliated clubs. Any EA breach may
require compliance to the discipline policies of EA.
AWE Inc Representatives & Organisers:
Event Organisers must have adequate facilities and knowledge for competition
or events for the safety of both horse and rider. Demonstrated equine skill,
management & knowledge will be required to be a representative on behalf of
AWE Inc.
3.1.
3.2.
3.3.
This safety management plan must read in conjunction with the
rules and regulations of Working Equitation as set out in this
document in order to better understand the processes or
requirements that affect the safety aspects of any event, training,
instruction and directives by authorised representatives of
Australian Working Equitation Inc.
Waivers must be signed by all attendees (Competitors and
officials) of an AWE event. (The only exception to this is the
general public) All officials, competitors, judges, stewards, show
managers and volunteers must sign the waiver for the competition
day.
Trainers must have a written certificate from an authorised and
insured certifying organisation. The person who has given
authority must have a minimum Certificate 4 in training and
assessment and sound knowledge and experience with working
equitation. The system of accreditation must retain written
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records of the assessment and the examination must be passed in
order to qualify. Other forms of prior learning could be assessed
to qualify as a recommended trainer.
3.4. An AWE authorised person would be a person who is either a
Committee member, a person that has been delegated a process
on behalf of the committee, a person who has been engaged by
the committee to represent the committee on its behalf.
3.5. It is the responsibility of all officials, competitors, judges,
stewards, show managers, etc., involved in a competition event of
AWE to know and follow these rules and safety requirements.
3.6. It is the responsibility of the event management and any officials,
etc., to enforce the rules of Working Equitation before, during,
and after any sanctioned competition.
3.7. The lunging area must be separate from the riding warm-up area.
3.8. The judge and gear steward has the right to ask the competitor to
drop the bit out of the horse's mouth for a bit check at the
conclusion of their test. The competitor has the right to ask that a
groom with a halter and lead be present for the bit check. For
safety, if the bit is to be dropped out of the mouth, then a halter
should be fitted first. A new pair of disposable gloves must be
worn each time. There is also the option of having a gear check
after the test, but gear check is compulsory.
3.9. There is a timer required for the obstacle speed phase only. The
timer starts when the start is crossed and ends when the finish
line is crossed. The rider must leave the ring at a walk after
crossing the finish line. All times will be noted on the rider's score
sheet.
3.10. Dressage Times are set prior to the show.
Ease of Handling order is determined by the dressage scores, and
riders will go from lowest to highest score. For simplicity the
order of the dressage may also be the order of the EOH and the
timed event.
The Speed Phase order is determined by the lowest combined
score from both the Dressage and the Ease of Handling phases for
international competition.
3.11. The appropriateness (legality and safety) of both tack and attire
will be checked prior to the competitor's entry into the
competition ring by an official appointed by the committee. Refer
to allowable equipment.
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3.12. Gear Check Steward: The person with this responsibility will be
appointed by the AWE committee and will be a person who has
demonstrated ability and experience with horse related activities
including saddle fit, appropriate attire & footwear, riding, ability to
detect faulty or defective issues with tack. This person has the
authority to report a rider from entering or continuing to ride or
prepare to ride as they see fit for the purpose of safety to horse
and rider. This person also has authority to report a rider or horse
continuing in any form as they see fit if either horse or rider is not
sound, unhealthy, lame or injured in any way that may cause
safety issues to itself or other persons or horses.
3.13. Safety Official: The person with this responsibility has the
authority at any time to cease any activity that may inflict harm to
a horse, a rider, a spectator, a member of the public or any other
person or property that may be put at risk due to an activity that is
not authorised under the rules and codes or AWE Inc or EA. To
assist the safety officer there will be nominated Technical
Delegates, and Ground Jury.
3.14. Incident Prevention: AWE Inc has provided a safety analysis
process that will be carried out prior to commencing a
competition or training event. This process is listed in the
addendums to this document as “AWE Event Management Plans”
and is available on request.
3.15. 1st Aid: A person or persons delegated as a 1st aid representative
will possess a current 1st aid certificate and will be required to
wear a coloured vest that is vastly different from other officials or
AWE representatives so that the 1st aid persons are easily
identifiable during an event. It is preferred that a 1st aid official
wears a red vest and an AWE official wears a green/yellow vest.
(St Johns Vest)
3.16. Helmets: All riders must comply with the relevant stipulations for
the event Helmet regulation unless otherwise allowable to provide
a helmet waiver such as an international competition. Generally a
helmet must be worn at all EA events.
3.17. Waivers: A waiver document must be completed before attending
an event or proceeding to carry activities related to the event. It is
a condition of entry to the grounds and facilities that the waiver is
supplied or completed before proceeding to carry out activities
related to the horses. All persons must locate the appropriate
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3.18.
3.19.
3.20.
3.21.
official to provide or complete the waiver before unloading or
attempting to carry out activities related to horses or riding
purposes. Failure to provide or complete the waiver within this
time frame may result in being asked to cease the activity or leave
the location or grounds. A copy of the waiver is available in the
“Event Management Plans” and available on request. Electronic
acceptance of the waiver also constitutes acceptance of the
waiver
Pre- Event: Safety Induction & Discussion: A riders/officials
briefing is required between all committee members, riders,
volunteers and representatives before proceeding to commence
the event. The discussions should cover subjects including and
most importantly, safety of the riders and horses, safety aspects of
the grounds and facilities and the emergency response
requirements. This information should be made available via a PA
system so as to ensure that everyone is able to attend the brief
and listen to the information as it is being presented.
Mounting/Dismounting: This should only occur when there is
sufficient room so as not to cause any horse to spook, bolt or
move quickly from the sudden movement of
mounting/dismounting. There should also be sufficient warning
given to others if a rider has to dismount in a space where it would
be beneficial and safer for the horses to give way with extra room
to allow safe dismount.
Riding: All riding should be done without causing intentional pain
to a horse. The rider should be capable of the class or respective
level elected. No cruelty will be tolerated and immediate removal
from the horse or being asked to leave the grounds may be
required. AWE officials will have the authority to remove any rider
that is deemed to have been cruel to a horse whether the horse is
being ridden or on the ground. Riders must also comply with
regulations and codes set out by EA. An example is the “dangerous
riding rules for eventing” that is covered in point form.
Securing Horses and Traversing The Venue: Horses must be tied or
secured with suitable clearance from other horses so as not to
cause or allow kicking, tangling or being able to access another
horses food. Use of tie up strings or blocker ties should be used so
the horse can get free in the event of something scaring it or
another horse/dog etc attacking it. When leading a horse there
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should be vigilance to ensure horses are not in proximity to be
able to kick another horse or human. There should also be
awareness that horses can be unpredictable and steps taken to
foresee events potentially occurring and then avoiding them
wherever possible. Horses are not to be allowed loose to roam or
feed in any designated public/pedestrian/parking areas and should
be securely lead in safe allocated zones as per a venue plan. A
sample venue plan is attached in the “Event Management Plans”.
3.22. Horses Can Be Unpredictable: All horses no matter how well
trained can have reactions to things that humans may NOT
interpret as being dangerous. This aspect should always be an
integral part of any horse event safety strategy and all persons
should maintain this in mind when attending any AWE event.
3.23. Noises that are sudden may affect horse behaviour: Be aware that
loud music, a PA system, a crowd of people or a noise created by a
moving object may have the effect of upsetting the horse. Signs
may be required where there is the potential for noises to
interfere with horse activities.
For further feedback on this document or how it could be improved. Please use
the link below for an on line survey.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ZVR5CXQ
Please be advised that if this document is to be relied upon for anything that the document refers to
that there is no liability or warranty accepted by AWE.
The document is to be used as a guide and used for the benefit of preserving Working Equitation as
a sport and not just a function within other sports.
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