How to Organize a Horsemanship Standards Testing Kristen M. Wilson Extension Horse Specialist University of Maryland Revised 7/27/11

Knowledge Standards Consists of: Written Test Request copies from County Extension Office Oral Practicum (hands on) Sections

Riding Levels Major Sections Include: Horse Management Horse and Rider Turnout Tack Riding

Contact Approved Examiner List of approved examiners can be found at or from County Extension Office Examiner does not have to be from host county Contact examiner as early as possible

Testing Location & Date Most important step Knowledge Test Facility Considerations – Does not require horses Quiet environment Tables & Chairs

Testing Location & Date Riding Test Facility Considerations: Parking and space availability Riding and longing areas Footing suitability and fencing conditions Availability of jumps, cavaletti, and/or ground poles Bathroom facilities Overall safety of facility Weather conditions and forecast

Example Schedule Time 8:30amArrive and settle horse (bandage if necessary) 9:00amBriefing with candidates, parents, IO, and examiners 9:30amKnowledge Oral Test 11:00amRiders Present to Turnout Station 11:30amLunging Candidate #1 11:45amLunging Candidate #2 12:00pmLunch 12:30pmKnowledge Written Test 1:30pmRiding – Flat Work, Grid Work, and Jumping 3:30pmWrap Up and Test Results

Request Knowledge Tests County Extension Offices have written tests and keys on file Request the number of copies you will need for each test ahead of time

Paperwork Needed UME Health Forms Release Forms Accident Report Forms Proof of negative Coggins test

Volunteers Vital aspect of the testing Suggested volunteer jobs: Impartial Observer (IO) Testing manager Assist examiner Direct traffic Jump course set up / Moving jumps Run refreshment stand Hold or supervise horses and 4-Hers

Impartial Observer (IO) Must be an individual familiar with the requirements of the relevant Standard, and with testing procedures and philosophy Must be present for Level 5 & 6 testings, but recommended for county-wide testings as well

Impartial Observer’s Function a. To watch the conduct of the test and note any unusual circumstances regarding horses, facilities, weather conditions, schedule, etc., which might affect one or more candidates. b. To encourage a positive and friendly atmosphere. c. To explain the order of the test to parents and other observers.

Impartial Observer’s Function d. To act as a buffer between parents, spectators, and Examiners who are under the obligation of completing the test on schedule. e. To gather information from parents during the testing, and listen to any expression of negative feelings.

Impartial Observer’s Function f. To report impartially on the conduct and circumstances of the test, on the candidate/examiner/spectator relationship, and the overall atmosphere of the test. g. Comments that are overheard about an individual candidate’s progress are strictly confidential and are not to be discussed with anyone during or after the testing.

Refreshments Lunch should be provided if testing runs all day Suggest that 4-H member bring food and/or that food will be provided Water in coolers should be available

Spectators/Pets Spectators are encouraged Dogs and other animals should not be allowed on the grounds Private facilities may have additional requests of the group

Safety Safety is of the utmost importance Examiners responsibility to check out facilities and weather Helmets and appropriate attire are to be worn at all times

Safety 4-H members or spectators acting in an unsafe manner should be reported to the examiner Ignoring safety guidelines will be grounds for dismissal Consider securing EMT or nurse

Preparation Clinic Plan “mock” testing or prep clinic several weeks in advance Can be: Subject oriented Run exactly like a real testing

Necessary Equipment Knowledge and Riding levels require that 4-Hers identify specific items Discuss ahead of time who is responsible for bringing what equipment

Special Needs It is the candidates responsibility to notify the examiner of any special needs that a 4-H member may have All attempts to meet the needs should be taken UME Special Needs Notification Form can be used

Rider Turnout Checklist Make sure you have all necessary equipment and appointments All tack and apparel should be clean, safe, and well- fitted. Take pride in your appearance!

Required Apparel ASTM-SEI approved riding helmet Sleeved shirt Jodhpurs, breeches, or jeans Chaps (optional) Gloves (optional) Belt Hard soled, heeled riding boots Spurs (optional) Hair net (optional) Proof of passing previous level Copy of completed dressage test if necessary UME Health Form

Horse Turnout Checklist Horses should be well conditioned and groomed appropriately All riding levels should have: Halter Lead rope or shank Grooming tools and kit Fly spray and mask when necessary Saddle Saddle pad Girth Bridle Any other boots, pads or gear necessary for safety Proof of a negative Coggins test

Horse Turnout Checklist Level 3 – Two (2) protective boots May be splint, ankle, bell or other Horse blanket Could be provided by examiner Level 4 – Stable bandage materials for one bandage Padding, wraps, and fasteners

Horse Turnout Checklist Level 5 – Shipping bandage materials for one bandage Padding, wraps, and fasteners Lunging equipment May include cavesson, lunge line, lunge whip, and boots Shipping equipment May include shipping boots or wraps, halter padding, head bumper, tail wrap, blanket, etc. as deemed necessary for safety

Horse Turnout Checklist Level 6 – Stable and shipping bandage materials Tail Wrap Lunging equipment May include cavesson, lung line, lunge whip, boots, side reins

Examiner’s Checklist Post any emergency numbers and any information available Introduction and orientation Turnout and safety inspection Riding and Knowledge work

Introduction and Orientation Introductions Verify 4-H members eligibility and negative Coggins for each horse Explain the schedule for the day Go over expectations and rules, emphasizing safety Note any potential hazards or facility rules

Turnout and Safety Inspection Are all helmets ASTM-SEI approved? Do all helmets fit properly? Is the 4-H member neat and appropriately dressed? Is the tack clean and in good condition? Does the tack fit the horse and is it appropriate for the discipline? Does the horse appear fit and well cared for? Is the horse sound?

Riding and Knowledge Work Are the 4-H members safety conscious and sportsmanlike? Do the horses appear suitable and prepared for the work? Do any 4-H members appear to be having difficulty with the work? Do the 4-H members meet the Standards as listed on the test sheets?

If a fall occurs… Make sure 4-H member is not hurt before getting up Take plenty of time before 4-Her remounts Assess situation of member, horse, and tack Discuss the cause of the fall and prevention of other falls Notify 4-H member’s parent of incident Complete an accident report form

How to Organize a Horsemanship Standards Testing Kristen M. Wilson Extension Horse Specialist University of Maryland Revised 7/27/11