Rules and Regulations

VIRTUAL EQUINE EVENTS: OFFICIAL SHOW RULES AND REGULATIONS

I. GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND ADMINISTRATION

A. INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Virtual Equine Events (VEE) has developed this comprehensive set of rules to establish uniformity and consistency in judging criteria and event procedures across all VEE-hosted competitions, including virtual shows. The primary objectives are to ensure fairness, clarity for judges, and a standardized framework for all participants. These regulations define the classes eligible for any year-end awards program and are subject to regular modification based on the evolving needs of the competition.

B. SPORTSMANSHIP AND CONDUCT

1. Expected Conduct: Exemplary sportsmanship and ethical behavior are mandatory for all members, exhibitors, and associated persons. Participants must conduct themselves in a respectful manner at all times. Disrespectful or hostile behavior regarding competition outcomes, including placings, points, or results, will not be tolerated and undermines the integrity of the event.

2. Consequences: Inappropriate conduct toward show staff or other exhibitors may result in significant disciplinary action, including the forfeiture of any awards or points earned during that show period. Exhibitors who forfeit awards or points are not entitled to refunds for entry fees, or past shows.

3. Animal Welfare and Abuse Policy: VEE maintains a zero-tolerance policy against the inhumane treatment or abuse of equines and other competing animals. Abuse is determined based on the established standards of individuals experienced and educated in accepted equine training techniques. Violators found guilty of abuse may face severe disciplinary actions.

C. LIABILITY DISCLAIMER

VEE, including all affiliated committees, partners, and team members, assumes no responsibility for any loss, injury, damage, or debts related to any show or event. All exhibitors and associated persons participate entirely at their own risk.

II. SHOW ENTRY AND ELIGIBILITY

A. ELIGIBILITY AND REGISTRATION

1. Exhibitor Status: Exhibitors participating in VEE-Hosted Shows are required to complete the official show entry process to compete or be eligible for any offered awards.

2. Equine/Animal Registration: Full breed registration is not required unless the animal is already registered with a breed organization, in which case it must be shown under its registered name.

3. Eligibility for Year-End Awards: To qualify for any VEE Year-End High Point Awards, competitors must participate and submit entries in a minimum of four (4) VEE-Hosted Shows within the calendar year, and these shows must be within the same class or division for which the competitor seeks the award.

B. ENTRY LIMITS AND RESTRICTIONS

1. Multiple Entries: An exhibitor may show as many registered horses as desired in any class.

2. Rider Limitation: A rider may show the same horse only once per class, with the following exceptions:

1. Dressage: Multiple entries per horse/rider combination are allowed, provided each entry is for a different test.

2. Different Levels/Seats: Multiple entries are permitted if the class allows for different seats (e.g., Western Trail and Hunt Seat Trail) or different levels (e.g., Walk/Trot and Walk/Trot/Canter).

3. Age Restrictions for Horses: Horses under the age of two may not participate in performance (ridden) classes before July 1 of their two-year-old year. They may compete for points only in in-hand classes such as conformation, showmanship, and in-hand trail.

4. Stallions: Stallions may be shown by members of all ages, including youth, unless prohibited by local law.

C. FEES AND REFUNDS

1. Payment and Judging: All class entry fees must be paid in full at the time of entry for the submission to be judged.

2. Refunds: Entry fees are generally non-refundable. No refunds will be issued for missed submission deadlines or incorrectly submitted entries. Refunds are only considered in cases of substantiated veterinary or human health issues.

III. VIRTUAL EVENT SUBMISSION STANDARDS

A. VIDEO AND PHOTOGRAPHY REQUIREMENTS

1. Video Requirement: Still photos are not accepted for any classes unless explicitly stated in the class list.

2. Camera Placement: The camera must be placed to ensure the entire horse and rider/handler are clearly visible throughout the entire performance.

1. The camera should not obstruct the view of the performance.

2. The horse and rider/handler should occupy as much of the screen as possible to allow for clear evaluation.

3. Recommended Placement:

1. Middle of the arena for rail classes;

2. along the long side of the arena for pattern classes;

3. at the "C" position for classic dressage tests.

B. VIDEO SUBMISSION RULES

1. Timeliness and Date Verification: Videos must be filmed and submitted within the designated show month. Videos filmed prior to the show month will not be accepted.

2. Date Stamp: Videos must be date stamped using one of the following methods:

1. Using the recorder's built-in time/date stamp function.

2. Displaying a written or typed paper with the date at the beginning of the video.

3. Verbally announcing the date at the beginning of the video.

IV. APPEARANCE AND EQUIPMENT (TACK AND ATTIRE)

A. GENERAL APPEARANCE AND ATTIRE

1. Presentation: All clothing and tack must be neat, clean, and appropriate for the discipline being shown.

2. Torso Coverage: The entire torso must be covered; bare midriffs are strictly prohibited.

3. Footwear: Riders are required to wear boots or shoes with a heel of at least 1/2 inch and no more than 2 inches.

4. Helmets and Safety: Riders may wear a helmet in any class, but a helmet is mandatory in all over fences classes.

5. Penalties for Attire: Failure to wear proper attire will result in a penalty but will not result in disqualification.

6. Inclement Weather: Riders may wear rain gear in wet conditions, and in cold weather, vests, jackets, or coats may be worn.

B. "OPEN SHOW" ATTIRE RULE

If a show is advertised as an "Open Show," riders may wear t-shirts, short sleeve shirts, or similar attire in all classes. Ball caps, soft caps, western hats, or helmets are all permitted. Proper heeled boots must still be worn.

C. EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

1. Poles and Fences: Wooden poles are preferred, but PVC poles are allowed. Fences must be safe and may be homemade.

2. Markers: Markers are required for all pattern-based classes. Cones are preferred, but any safe, visible marker is acceptable.

3. Boots and Wraps: Boots or wraps are prohibited in conformation, showmanship, pleasure, or flat equitation classes.

1. Exception: Horse boots such as Scoot Boots are allowed in all classes. Bell boots, skid boots, tendon boots, and polo wraps are only allowed if specified for a particular class.

D. PROHIBITED TACK AND EQUIPMENT

1. Training Aids: Draw reins or training forks are prohibited in any judged classes.

2. Chemicals: Caustic chemicals (such as mustard oil, ginger, or kerosene) may not be used on horses.

3. Weights: Weighted shoes, boots, or wraps are prohibited.

4. Harmful Equipment: No metal (tacks, pins, wire, or barb wire) should touch the horse underneath the leather, nylon, or rope of any halter or bridle.

5. Live Animals: Live animals are not allowed to be used as obstacles or for maneuvers in any class.

DISCIPLINE TACK REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS

In Hand

Whips/Spurs: Spurs and riding whips are prohibited in all in-hand classes.

Halters: Halters may be constructed from leather (with or without silver embellishment), nylon, or rope materials.

Lead Lines: Lead lines equipped with a chain are permissible, provided the chain is positioned only under the chin or over the nose. Chains may not be placed through the horse's mouth.

Bridles: A bridle is an acceptable alternative to a halter for horses presented in a hunter or saddle-type manner.

Western

Bridle: The bridle utilized must not incorporate a cavesson or noseband.

Bits: All standard Western bits are permitted, ranging from ring snaffles to spade bits, encompassing both non-leverage (snaffle) and leverage (curb) types, regardless of the horse's age.

Bitless: Bitless equipment, including side pulls and bosals (hackamores) when used with a mecate, is also acceptable.

Hand Usage: One or two hands may be employed with non-leverage bits and bosals. Leverage (curb) bits require the use of one hand only.

Reins: Must be split reins or romals in all judged classes. Curbs: Leverage bits must be paired with a curb chain or strap of a minimum 1/2 inch width. The curb component must be flat leather or a single or double chain.

Prohibited Equipment (Judged): Gag bits and mechanical hackamores are prohibited in judged classes. Martingales, draw reins, training forks, and tiedowns are prohibited in all judged classes.

Saddle: A Western saddle (leather or synthetic) is required.

Boots: Standard horse boots are restricted to use in Reining, Ranch, and timed events, subject to the exceptions noted below.

Equitation

Bridle: A bridle with a cavesson is mandatory. Figure 8 and flash cavessons are permissible.

Bits: Any standard Hunt Seat bit, from a ring snaffle to a spade bit, is permitted. Double bridles (Pelham or Weymouth with bradoon) are permitted and require two reins.

Crops: Riding crops are permitted but may only be applied to the shoulder or behind the girth. Misuse of the crop may result in penalties or disqualification.

Saddle: Required saddles include traditional forward seat, all-purpose, close contact, or jumping Hunt Seat saddles (leather or synthetic). Dressage saddles are also allowed in flat classes.

Saddle Pads: Saddle pads may be any color and may be shaped, rounded, or squared.

Dressage

Saddle: For classic dressage, a traditional dressage saddle, or a forward seat, all-purpose, or close contact Hunt Seat saddle is required.

Bits: Classic Dressage: Snaffle bit.

Western Dressage: Snaffle or curb bit.

Western riders must utilize a leather or synthetic Western saddle.

Hand Usage: Two hands may be used on any bit allowed under the respective seat's tack rules.

Gaited

Tack: Tack must conform to the appropriate riding style (Western, Hunt Seat, or Saddle Seat). Additionally, tack and equipment appropriate for the breed in native dress may be worn. Hand Usage: Riders are permitted to use two hands on any bit allowed.

Ranch Horse

Tack: All tack must comply with the requirements detailed in the Western Tack section.

Silver: Silver ornamentation on tack must be kept to a minimum and may be subject to penalty at the discretion of the judge.

Dressage and Western Dressage Rules for Virtual Equine Events Horse Show

1. General Competition Rules

• Eligibility: A horse and rider combination may compete in no more than two consecutive levels at a single competition.

• Once a horse and rider combination earns 65% or higher at a level, they are required to move up.

• Code of Conduct: Riders must adhere to USDF/WDAA standards of sportsmanship and fair play.

• Judging Standards: All submissions will be evaluated by a dressage judge.

2. Arena Requirements

• Dimensions: Arena size must be as close as possible to standard (20x40m or 20x60m, depending on the test).

• Markings: Use clearly visible letters, cones, or markers to delineate test movements and corners.

• Footing: Arena footing must be safe and suitable for dressage.

3. Video Specifications

• Videos must be submitted by the specified deadline.

• Videos filmed during other competitions or previously judged will not be accepted.

• Recording Guidelines:

  • Videos must be unedited, continuous recordings.

  • Videos must be steady, clear, and in focus.

  • The horse and rider must remain in frame throughout the test.

  • Natural background sound must be audible. Silent videos will not be accepted.

• Orientation:

  • Videos must be filmed in landscape mode.

• Camera Position:

  • The camera should be placed at C, where the judge would typically be seated.

  • The videographer must position the camera to capture the entire arena and rider at all times.

• Signage:

  • Before starting, display a sign with the following:

    • Date of filming

    • Rider’s name

    • Class number and test

    • Download the filming sheet here

4. Dress Code and Tack Requirements

• Attire:

  • Helmet and boots are required for Dressage. Helmets are strongly encouraged for safety in Western Dressage.

  • Show attire is preferred but correct schooling attire is acceptable.

• Tack: USDF/WDAA-compliant tack, including saddles, bridles, bits, and spurs, is required.

  • Illegal equipment will result in disqualification.

5. Performance Rules

• Test Execution: Riders must perform the selected dressage test accurately and in sequence.

• Calling Tests: Tests may be called.

• Coaching: Coaching during the test is prohibited.

6. Judging and Scoring

• Criteria: Scoring will follow USDF/WDAA guidelines, evaluating accuracy, gait quality, rider effectiveness, and overall harmony.

• Feedback: Judges will provide scores and comments to help riders improve their performance.

7. Submission and Participation Restrictions

• Single Use: Each video can only be submitted to one virtual competition.

• Original Footage: Videos filmed during other competitions or previously judged will not be accepted.

• Timeframe: Videos must be recorded within the designated show period.

8. Disqualifications

• Failure to meet arena, attire, or equipment standards.

• Edited or incomplete video submissions.

• Breach of USDF/WDAA rules, such as coaching or improper behavior.

9. Awards and Results

• Placings: Results will be posted online following judging.

• Prizes: Ribbons, certificates, or other awards will be mailed to winners.

10. Judge's decisions are final

Equitation Rules for Virtual Equine Events Horse Show

1. General Guidelines

• Eligibility:

  • Riders must comply with the competition's entry requirements (e.g., age, experience level).

  • A horse and rider combination may compete in no more than two consecutive levels at a single competition (e.g., Beginner & Novice or Novice & Intermediate).

• Video Submission:

  • Videos must be submitted by the specified deadline.

  • Videos must be unedited and filmed in landscape orientation.

  • Each video may only be submitted to one online show.

2. Arena Setup

• Arena Size:

  • Arena elements are to be set as close to specified distances as possible according to the designated test.

• Markings:

  • Clearly mark pattern elements using cones, poles, or other visible markers.

  • Ensure all required elements for the equitation test are clearly delineated.

• Safety:

  • The arena must be safe and free from hazards.

3. Attire and Turnout

• Rider Attire:

  • Helmet and boots are required.

  • Show attire is preferred but correct schooling attire is acceptable.

• Horse Turnout:

  • Horses must be presented clean, well-groomed, and appropriately tacked.

  • Tack must meet USEF equitation rules (e.g., no prohibited bits or martingales).

4. Test Requirements

• Pattern:

  • Riders must follow the designated test pattern precisely.

• Execution:

  • Tests must demonstrate proper equitation, including:

    • Position of the rider

    • Use of aids

    • Accuracy of the pattern.

5. Video Specifications

• Videos must be submitted by the specified deadline.

• Videos filmed during other competitions or previously judged will not be accepted.

• Recording Guidelines:

  • Videos must be unedited, continuous recordings.

  • Videos must be steady, clear, and in focus.

  • The horse and rider must remain in frame throughout the test.

  • Natural background sound must be audible. Silent videos will not be accepted.

• Orientation:

  • Videos must be filmed in landscape mode.

• Camera Position:

  • The videographer must position the camera to capture the entire arena and rider at all times.

• Signage:

  • Before starting, display a sign with the following:

    • Date of filming

    • Rider’s name

    • Class number and test

    • Download the filming sheet here

6. Prohibited Actions

• Coaching during the test is not allowed.

• Editing or altering the video in any way will result in disqualification.

• Videos filmed during another competition or that have been previously judged will not be accepted.

7. Penalties and Disqualifications

• Riders may be penalized or disqualified for:

  • Failure to follow the pattern.

  • Improper attire or tack.

  • Unsafe or unethical riding practices.

8. Awards and Results

• Placings: Results will be posted online following judging.

• Prizes: Ribbons, certificates, or other awards will be mailed to winners.

9. Judge's decisions are final

Showmanship Rules for Virtual Horse Show

1. Eligibility

• Showmanship classes are open to all breeds.

• Handlers must compete in their appropriate age group and division.

• A horse and handler combination may compete in no more than two consecutive levels at a single competition (e.g., Beginner & Novice or Novice & Intermediate).

2. Arena Setup

• Use clear and visible markers (such as cones) to set up the pattern according to the posted class diagram.

• The area should be large enough for the horse to perform the pattern safely and comfortably.

• Ensure the ground surface is level and safe for both horse and handler.

3. Video Specifications

• Videos must be submitted by the specified deadline.

• Videos filmed during other competitions or previously judged will not be accepted.

4. Recording Guidelines

• Videos must be unedited, continuous recordings.

• Videos must be steady, clear, and in focus.

• Zoom must be used.

• The horse and handler must remain in frame at all times.

• Natural background sound must be audible. Silent videos will not be accepted.

5. Orientation
   

• Videos must be filmed in landscape mode.

6. Camera Position

• The camera must be set up as indicated on the pattern.

• When presenting your horse for inspection, the judge or camera will video each side (left, front, right, and back) for several seconds, ensuring the judge has enough time to evaluate each view. The camera can either move about the horse, or if using a pivo or similar the handler can move the horse to show each side to the camera.

7. Signage

Before starting, display a sign with the following:

• Date of filming

• Handler’s name

• Class number and pattern
  [Download the filming sheet here]

• Or verbally announce yourself to the camera.

8. Showmanship Pattern Requirements

• Handlers must perform the approved pattern for the class exactly as posted.

• Performance will be judged on precision, smoothness, and the overall appearance of the team.

• Handlers should demonstrate effective communication, control, and confidence while leading.

• Emphasis should be on the handler’s ability to present the horse, execute precise maneuvers, and maintain correct positioning.

9. Coaching and Assistance

• No coaching or verbal assistance is allowed during the performance.

10. Handler Attire

• Show attire is preferred, but neat and professional schooling attire is acceptable in your preferred discipline - English or Western.

11. Horse Turnout

• Horses must be presented clean, well-groomed, and appropriately fitted for the halter class.

• Tack must consist of a clean, well-fitting halter and lead.

• Mane and tail should be neatly presented, and overall turnout should reflect proper show preparation.

12. Judging Criteria

• Judges will score based on overall presentation, pattern accuracy, handler’s poise and control, smoothness of execution, and the horse’s responsiveness.

• Attention to detail, precision in transitions, and the overall impression of teamwork between horse and handler will be key scoring factors.

• Judges will provide feedback highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

13. Awards and Results

• Placings: Results will be posted online following judging.

• Prizes: Ribbons, certificates, or other awards will be mailed to winners.

14. Judge’s Decisions Are Final

15. Disqualification

• Handlers will be disqualified for failure to follow the correct pattern, unsafe practices, inappropriate behavior toward the horse, or submission of videos that do not meet the stated guidelines (e.g., silent videos, edited footage).

Trail Class Rules for Virtual Equine Events Show

1.Eligibility

• Trail classes are open to all breeds.

• Riders must enter the appropriate division based on their experience level (e.g., Youth, Amateur, Novice).

• Riders can compete across different levels but must stay within the appropriate age division.

2.Arena Setup

• The arena should be set up with obstacles that reflect the Trail class specifications.

• Obstacles should be clearly visible and accessible for the judge to evaluate from the video.

• Cones, poles, or markers should be used to define obstacle boundaries if needed.

• Obstacles may include, but are not limited to:

  • Gate

  • Logs (for crossing)

  • Sidepass poles

  • Water hazard

  • Bridges

  • Backing obstacles

3.Obstacles and Maneuvers

• Any deviations from the pattern or failure to complete an obstacle correctly will result in penalty points.

• The rider must demonstrate control, precision, and smoothness in completing each obstacle.

4.Video Requirements

• Video Specifications

  • Videos must be submitted by the specified deadline.

  • Videos filmed during other competitions or previously judged will not be accepted.

  • Recording Guidelines:

    • Videos must be unedited, continuous recordings.

    • Videos must be steady, clear, and in focus.

    • The horse and rider must remain in frame throughout the test.

    • Natural background sound must be audible. Silent videos will not be accepted.

  • Orientation:

    • Videos must be filmed in landscape mode.

  • Camera Position:

    • The videographer must position the camera to capture the entire arena and rider at all times.

  • Signage:

    • Before starting, display a sign with the following:

      • Date of filming

      • Rider’s name

      • Class number and test

      • Download the filming sheet here

5.Judging Criteria

• Judges will evaluate the performance based on the AQHA Trail class standards:

  • Proper execution of each obstacle

  • Smoothness and control

  • Rider’s position and seat

  • Horse’s responsiveness to cues

  • Overall presentation

• Penalties will be assigned for mistakes such as:

  • Knockdowns

  • Breaking gait

  • Failure to perform obstacles correctly

  • Excessive delays or refusal to attempt obstacles

6.Coaching and Communication

• Coaching during the test is not allowed.

• No verbal communication, whistles, or cues should be heard in the video.

• The video should only contain the natural sounds of the performance (e.g., hoofbeats, background noise).

7.Video Submission

• Videos must be submitted by the competition deadline.

• Each video can only be submitted for one online show.

• The video should not have been previously judged in another competition.

• Any video suspected of being filmed in another competition will not be scored.

8.Disqualification

• Disqualification may occur if:

  • The video is edited or altered.

  • The rider fails to complete the pattern.

  • Disqualification may also occur for failure to follow AQHA’s official rules for Trail classes.

9.Awards and Results

• Placings: Results will be posted online following judging.

• Prizes: Ribbons, certificates, or other awards will be mailed to winners.

10.Judge's decisions are final

Western Horsemanship Show Rules for Virtual Horse Show

1. Eligibility

• Western Horsemanship classes are open to all breeds.

• Riders must compete in their appropriate age group and division.

• A horse and rider combination may compete in no more than two consecutive levels at a single competition (e.g., Beginner & Novice or Novice & Intermediate).

2. Arena Setup

• Use clear markers for the pattern, such as cones or poles, placed appropriately for visibility by the judge.

3. Video Specifications

• Videos must be submitted by the specified deadline.

• Videos filmed during other competitions or previously judged will not be accepted.

• Recording Guidelines:

  • Videos must be unedited, continuous recordings.

  • Videos must be steady, clear, and in focus.

  • The horse and rider must remain in frame throughout the test.

  • Natural background sound must be audible. Silent videos will not be accepted.

• Orientation:

  • Videos must be filmed in landscape mode.

• Camera Position:

  • The videographer must position the camera to capture the entire arena, all obstacles and rider at all times.

• Signage:

  • Before starting, display a sign with the following:

    • Date of filming

    • Rider’s name

    • Class number and test

    • Download the filming sheet here

4. Western Horsemanship Test Requirements

• Riders must follow the approved pattern for the class.

• Riders should demonstrate control, precision, and a smooth, balanced seat.

• Performances should emphasize horsemanship, including correct use of aids, transitions, and patterns.

• Riders must maintain a correct riding position throughout the test.

5. Coaching and Assistance

• No coaching is allowed during the performance.

6. Rider Attire:

• Helmet are required for riders under 18.

• Show attire is preferred but correct schooling attire is acceptable.

7. Horse Turnout:

• Horses must be presented clean, well-groomed, and appropriately tacked.

• Tack must meet AQHA standards (e.g., no prohibited bits or martingales).

• Proper tack and equipment must be used, including a western saddle and bridle.

8.Judging Criteria

• The judge will score based on rider position, control, smoothness, pattern accuracy, and overall performance.

• Attention to detail in the pattern execution, use of aids, and overall horsemanship will be key factors in scoring.

• Judges will provide feedback on performance, with emphasis on areas for improvement and positive elements of the ride.

9. Awards and Results

• Placings: Results will be posted online following judging.

• Prizes: Ribbons, certificates, or other awards will be mailed to winners.

10. Judge's decisions are final

11. Disqualification

• Riders will be disqualified if they fail to follow the correct pattern, perform unsafe practices, or submit videos that do not meet the submission guidelines (e.g., silent videos, edited footage).

Virtual Equine Events Challenge Rules and Regulations

1. Honor System

• All challenges operate on the honor system. Competitors are expected to complete all required activities and exercises honestly and without misrepresentation.

2.Challenge Duration

• Competitors must complete all required activities and exercises within 30 days from the date of entry.

• The start date is defined as the date your entry is submitted and confirmed.

3.Completion Requirements

• Each challenge includes specific tasks or exercises that must be completed by the competitor and their horse.

• Competitors are responsible for adhering to the guidelines provided for each challenge to ensure consistency and fairness.

4.Safety First

• Safety is a priority. Competitors must use appropriate tack and equipment and adhere to proper safety practices at all times.

• Helmets are strongly recommended for all mounted activities.

5.Eligibility

• Challenges are open to individuals of all skill levels unless otherwise specified.

• Competitors are responsible for ensuring their horse is physically and mentally prepared to participate.

6.Entries and Fees

• Entries must be submitted with the required information and entry fee by the stated deadline.

• Fees are non-refundable unless otherwise specified in the terms and conditions.

7.Privacy and Consent

• By participating in a challenge, competitors consent to their name, likeness, and submissions being used for promotional purposes by Virtual Equine Events.

• Personal information will not be shared outside the scope of the event without prior consent.

8.Modifications to Rules

• Virtual Equine Events reserves the right to modify these rules and regulations at any time. Participants will be notified of any changes that may affect their participation.

Photo Contest Rules

To keep our contests fair, fun, and safe for everyone, please review the following photo rules before submitting your entry:

1. Original Work

   a. All photos must be original and taken by the rider/handler or someone with their permission.

   b. You must have full rights and ownership of the photo. Stock images, professional photos you don’t own, or borrowed photos are not allowed.

2. No Watermarks

   a. Photos must be submitted without watermarks, logos, or text overlays.

3. Photo Permissions

   a. By submitting an entry online, you agree to all contest rules.

   b. You grant Virtual Equine Events llc full permission to use your photo(s) on their website, social media, and promotional materials.

   c. Virtual Equine Events llc will always give credit to the owner when possible.

4. Photo Quality

   a. Photos must be clear, well-lit, and show the subject (horse, rider, or stall door) fully.

   b. Blurry, dark, or incomplete photos may be disqualified.

5. Multiple Entries

   a. Riders may enter more than one class using the same photo only if rules allow (e.g., costume photo across all Halloween classes).

   b. Each entry must be submitted separately.

6. Edits & Filters

   a. Basic edits (cropping, brightness, contrast) are acceptable.

   b. Heavy editing, filters, or digital effects that alter the original appearance of the costume, horse, or decorations are not permitted.

7. Safety Reminder

   a. All photos must reflect safe and respectful handling of horses. Unsafe setups or handling will result in disqualification.

8. Liability

   a. By entering, you acknowledge participation is at your own risk. Virtual Equine Events LLC is not liable for any injury, loss, or harm to horse, rider, or property related to participation.