Largo Race Rules 2008! Input needed asap!

[paintedhorizon]

If you want any changes, you must tell me now.

2008 PFHA
LARGO RACE RULES!!


The Largo Race shall be offered at the National Show as Entertainment. There is no eligibility requirement for the race and no show points will be awarded. The first 16 (sixteen) entries will be accepted. This will be on a first come; first serve basis.

There must be at least 8 entries for the Largo Race to be held. The deadline for entries will be the same as entries for the Grand National show. When the deadline for entries has passed, in the event that 8 entries have not entered, all entries will have 100% refund of entry fees and there will be no Largo Race scheduled.

Largo Race Rules shall be as follows:

(1) Each participant will be introduced by exhibitor name and horse name during heats and the final class. Prize money will be awarded to the 4 winners the Final Race.

(2) Appointments (tack and attire) shall be the same as in the Paso Pleasure class.

(3) Heats will be held on Thursday, September ___, 2008 immediately following Class #81. There will be 4 (four) heats with a total of 4 (four) participants per heat. The first place winner of each heat will continue on to race in the final heat on Saturday, leaving a total of 4 competitors on Saturday. If there are less that 16 but 8 or more, the participants per heat will remain the same with only the number of heats to be adjusted.

(4) All participants must be at the warm-up arena at the completion of Class #81. Failure to meet this requirement may eliminate competitors from participating in the qualifying heats.

(5) The race shall be conduced at a "largo" four beat gait, without any break of gait. Horses breaking gait will be held for five seconds at the spot they broke gait.

(6) At a minimum, one judge shall monitor all horses in their section of the arena, if four judges, each judge will monitor one side of the arena. Each rider will wear a number, an arm band, or some other easily identifiable item. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(7) When a judge determines a horse has broken gait, the exhibitor will be identified either through an announcement system, whistle or other appropriate means. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(8) It is the responsibility of all riders to be at the warm-up arena at the conclusion of Class 81 to receive heat designations, and specific rule announcements. Failure to appear on time may result in disqualification from the heats.

(9) No horse shall cut in front of another so as to cause the other to break gait or create a hazardous situation.

(10) No horse shall cut across the arena or the inside track formed or marked for the race.

(11) The distance to be run shall be the equivalent of ½ mile (4 laps of the Perry, GA arena).

(12) All contestants must be pre-entered in accordance with the Grand National Show Prize List which states by September ___, 2008.

(13) A rotating trophy donated by the Sunshine Paso Fino Horse Association will be awarded to the Grand National Champion of the Largo Race.

(14) The total amount due from each entry is $200 with the breakdown as follows:

a. $100 for prize money (100% pay back)
b. $100 to cover the stall and bedding for the horse.

(15) Horses already entered in the National show and have paid all entry fees, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay $50 entry fee.

(16) The 100% payback system is as follows:

• First place: 50%
• Second Place : 30%
• Third Place: 15%
• Fourth Place: 5%

[Soltera]

If there are less that 16 but 8 or more, the participants...

..Minor typo...

[Abejita]

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/conduced

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/conducted

Do the horses have to be PFHA registered

[lisa l aka marci]

If you want any changes, you must tell me now.

2008 PFHA
LARGO RACE RULES!!


The Largo Race shall be offered at the National Show as Entertainment. There is no eligibility requirement for the race and no show points will be awarded. The first 16 (sixteen) entries will be accepted. This will be on a first come; first serve basis.

There must be at least 8 entries for the Largo Race to be held. The deadline for entries will be the same as entries for the Grand National show. When the deadline for entries has passed, in the event that 8 entries have not entered, all entries will have 100% refund of entry fees and there will be no Largo Race scheduled.

Largo Race Rules shall be as follows:

(1) Each participant will shall (and make adjustments as you go through - shall is mandatory language - will is wishy-washy) be introduced by exhibitor name and horse name during heats and the final class. Prize money will be awarded to the 4 winners the Final Race.

(2) Appointments (tack and attire) shall be the same as in the Paso Pleasure class.

(3) Heats will be held on Thursday, September ___, 2008 immediately following Class #81. There will be 4 (four) heats with a total of 4 (four) participants per heat. The first place winner of each heat will continue on to race in the final heat on Saturday, leaving a total of 4 competitors on Saturday. If there are less that 16 but 8 or more, the participants per heat will remain the same with only the number of heats to be adjusted.

(4) All participants must be at the warm-up arena at the completion of Class #81. Failure to meet this requirement may eliminate competitors from participating in the qualifying heats.

(5) The race shall be conduced at a "largo" four beat gait, without any break of gait. Horses breaking gait will be held for five seconds at the spot they broke gait.

(6) At a minimum, one judge shall monitor all horses in their section of the arena, if four judges, each judge will monitor one side of the arena. Each rider will wear a number, an arm band, or some other easily identifiable item. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(7) When a judge determines a horse has broken gait, the exhibitor will be identified either through an announcement system, whistle or other appropriate means. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(8) It is the responsibility of all riders to be at the warm-up arena at the conclusion of Class 81 to receive heat designations, and specific rule announcements. Failure to appear on time may result in disqualification from the heats.

(9) No horse shall cut in front of another so as to cause the other to break gait or create a hazardous situation.

(10) No horse shall cut across the arena or the inside track formed or marked for the race.

(11) The distance to be run shall be the equivalent of ½ mile (4 laps of the Perry, GA arena).

(12) All contestants must be pre-entered in accordance with the Grand National Show Prize List which states by September ___, 2008.

(13) A rotating trophy donated by the Sunshine Paso Fino Horse Association will be awarded to the Grand National Champion of the Largo Race.

(14) The total amount due from each entry is $200 with the breakdown as follows:

a. $100 for prize money (100% pay back)
b. $100 to cover the stall and bedding for the horse.

(15) Horses already entered in the National show and have paid all entry fees, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay $50 entry fee.

(16) The 100% payback system is as follows:

• First place: 50%
• Second Place : 30%
• Third Place: 15%
• Fourth Place: 5%

My comments highlighted above....otehrs are already addressed.

[paintedhorizon]

2008 PFHA
LARGO RACE RULES!!


The Largo Race shall be offered at the National Show as Entertainment. There is no eligibility requirement for the race and no show points will be awarded. The first 16 (sixteen) entries will be accepted. This will be on a first come; first serve basis.

There must be at least 8 entries for the Largo Race to be held. The deadline for entries will be the same as entries for the Grand National show. When the deadline for entries has passed, in the event that 8 entries have not entered, all entries will have 100% refund of entry fees and there will be no Largo Race scheduled.

Largo Race Rules shall be as follows:

(1) Each participant shall be introduced by exhibitor name and horse name during heats and the final class. Prize money shall be awarded to the 4 winners the Final Race.

(2) Appointments (tack and attire) shall be the same as in the Paso Pleasure class.

(3) All horse entrants must be registered PFHA horses.

(4) Heats will be held on Thursday, September ___, 2008 immediately following Class #81. There will be 4 (four) heats with a total of 4 (four) participants per heat. The first place winner of each heat will continue on to race in the final heat on Saturday, leaving a total of 4 competitors on Saturday. If there are fewer than 16, but as many as 8 or more, the participants per heat will remain the same with only the number of heats to be adjusted.

(5) All participants must be at the warm-up arena at the completion of Class #81. Failure to meet this requirement may eliminate competitors from participating in the qualifying heats.

(6) The race shall be conducted at a "largo" four beat gait, without any break of gait. Horses breaking gait will be held for five seconds at the spot they broke gait.

(7) At a minimum, one judge shall monitor all horses in their section of the arena, if four judges, each judge will monitor one side of the arena. Each rider will wear a number, an arm band, or some other easily identifiable item. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(8) When a judge determines a horse has broken gait, the exhibitor will be identified either through an announcement system, whistle or other appropriate means. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(9) It is the responsibility of all riders to be at the warm-up arena at the conclusion of Class 81 to receive heat designations, and specific rule announcements. Failure to appear on time may result in disqualification from the heats.

(10) No horse shall cut in front of another so as to cause the other to break gait or create a hazardous situation.

(11) No horse shall cut across the arena or the inside track formed or marked for the race.

(12) The distance to be run shall be the equivalent of ½ mile (4 laps of the Perry, GA arena).

(13) All contestants must be pre-entered in accordance with the Grand National Show Prize List which states by September ___, 2008.

(14) A rotating trophy donated by the Sunshine Paso Fino Horse Association will be awarded to the Grand National Champion of the Largo Race.

(15) The total amount due from each entry is $200 with the breakdown as follows:

a. $100 for prize money (100% pay back)
b. $100 to cover the stall and bedding for the horse.

(16) Horses already entered in the National show and have paid all entry fees, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay $100 entry fee.

(17) The 100% payback system is as follows:

• First place: 50%
• Second Place : 30%
• Third Place: 15%
• Fourth Place: 5%

[SandyMM]

2008 PFHA
LARGO RACE RULES!!


The Largo Race shall be offered at the National Show as Entertainment. There is no eligibility requirement for the race and no show points will be awarded. The first 16 (sixteen) entries will be accepted.
Why only 16? If the race becomes popular enough, the heat races would take care of eliminating extras.

There must be at least 8 entries for the Largo Race to be held.
Why? There are pointed classes that don't have as many as 8 entries. If there aren't 8 entries, eliminate the heat races and just have the finals. Even if the entry/stall fees are returned, it doesn't compensate them for travel expenses to come to an event that gets cancelled. 'Regular' classes aren't canceled just because there aren't 'enough' entries... If a contestant shows up - PFHA owes them the event they entered and paid for.

(2) Appointments (tack and attire) shall be the same as in the Paso Pleasure class.
This is a race... comfortable, neat, and safe should take priority over 'pretty'.

There will be 4 (four) heats with a total of 4 (four) participants per heat. The first place winner of each heat will continue on to race in the final heat on Saturday, leaving a total of 4 competitors on Saturday. If there are less that 16 but 8 or more, the participants per heat will remain the same with only the number of heats to be adjusted.
I _really_ don't like this rule.... It does not guarantee the fastest/best gaited horses meet in the finals for the right to compete for the trophy and cash prize. In fact, it is mathematically possible that the best 4 horses could be assigned to the same heat (if this is done by random assignment), allowing less gaited, slower horses to claim national placement/prize money over much better horses.

Worst case, out of 16 entries, you could end up with the fastest (1) followed by (5), (9), and (13) as the horses claiming for National honors of National Champion, Reserve National Champion, 3rd National Champion, 4th National Champion... Not to mention which - it would (worst case) take away any excitement when the horses would be so mismatched for the final race.

At the _very_ least, 1/2 of the entries in each heat should move forward. I think heats, semi-finals, then finals - with a minimum of 6 - would be far more fair and exciting for the spectators.....or replace the whole thing with a double-elimination head to head bracketed match races... _that_ would be exciting!

(10) No horse shall cut in front of another so as to cause the other to break gait or create a hazardous situation.
What penalty and what recourse to the entrant who has been 'injured'... There should be a '3 strikes and you're out rule'. Any horse can get bumped or jostled out of gait- that's racing, but by the 3rd time - it's no accident and the horse needs to be pulled. Also should be a double penalty for someone who ignores judges' calls to stop.

(11) No horse shall cut across the arena or the inside track formed or marked for the race.
I would not penalize if the horse steps inside to avoid a wreck. If a horse intentionally cuts across the markers that's one thing - It's another thing if you get crowded out (or in).

(12) The distance to be run shall be the equivalent of ½ mile (4 laps of the Perry, GA arena).
REALLY bad idea - not long enough to let the really good horses separate themselves out from the horses who consistently break gait and not long enough to be exciting for the crowd...

(14) A rotating trophy donated by the Sunshine Paso Fino Horse Association will be awarded to the Grand National Champion of the Largo Race.
The trophy is _not_ physically awarded to the winner, but the horse's (and rider's?) name _is_ engraved on the trophy which is displayed (I hope) at the PFHA National office. In 2007, the winner received a National Champion Show trophy and National Champion ribbon. (Hanging on my wall... yay! ;) )

(15) The total amount due from each entry is $200 with the breakdown as follows:

a. $100 for prize money (100% pay back)
b. $100 to cover the stall and bedding for the horse.

(16) Horses already entered in the National show and have paid all entry fees, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay $50 entry fee.
Patently unfair and slanted toward the show entrant. It discourages the pleasure/largo horse owner from entering. Stall fees not withstanding (what happened to comping at least some stalls for entertainment?), why should non-show entrants pay double the entry fee compared to ('regular class') show entrants.

By far - I would prefer double elimination head to head race brackets which would give every entrant two chances to compete and would require the final winner to win decisively over the 2nd place horse... And yes, I would be happy to set them up...

[paintedhorizon]

Sandy, re-read #16 in my last post.

PFHA has redone some of these changes themselves, and JUST gave it to me today. That's why I need everyone's help.

[paintedhorizon]

Rules redone. How about these?

2008 PFHA
LARGO RACE RULES!!


The Largo Race shall be offered at the National Show as Entertainment. There is no eligibility requirement for the race and no show points will be awarded.

If there are 8 entries or less, then the heat races will be elimnated and there will only be the final Largo Race. The deadline for entries will be the same as entries for the Grand National show.

Largo Race Rules shall be as follows:

(1) Each participant shall be introduced by exhibitor name and horse name during heats and the final class. Prize money shall be awarded to the 4 winners the Final Race.

(2) Appointments (tack and attire) shall be the same as in the Paso Pleasure class.

(3) All horse entrants must be registered PFHA horses.

(4) Heats will be held on Thursday, September ___, 2008 immediately following Class #81. There will be 3 (three) heats with a total of 6 (six) participants per heat. The first and second place winner of each heat will continue on to race in the final heat on Saturday, leaving a total of 6 (six)competitors on Saturday. Heats will be adjusted as necessary.

(5) All participants must be at the warm-up arena at the completion of Class #81. Failure to meet this requirement may eliminate competitors from participating in the qualifying heats.

(6) The race shall be conducted at a "largo" four beat gait, without any break of gait. Horses breaking gait will be held for five seconds at the spot they broke gait.

(7) At a minimum, one judge shall monitor all horses in their section of the arena, if four judges, each judge will monitor one side of the arena. Each rider will wear a number, an arm band, or some other easily identifiable item. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(8) When a judge determines a horse has broken gait, the exhibitor will be identified either through an announcement system, whistle or other appropriate means. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(9) It is the responsibility of all riders to be at the warm-up arena at the conclusion of Class 81 to receive heat designations, and specific rule announcements. Failure to appear on time may result in disqualification from the heats.

(10) No horse shall cut in front of another so as to cause the other to break gait or create a hazardous situation. If one horse breaks this rule more than twice, this horse will be eliminated from the race.

(11) No horse shall cut across the arena or the inside track formed or marked for the race. If any horse does cut across the arena or the inside track, they will be held for five seconds at the spot they cut across.

(12) The distance to be run shall be the equivalent of 1 mile (8 laps of the Perry, GA arena).

(13) All contestants must be pre-entered in accordance with the Grand National Show Prize List which states by September ___, 2008.

(14) A rotating trophy donated by the Sunshine Paso Fino Horse Association will have the winners name engraved on on said trophy which is displayed at the PFHA National office. The winner received a National Champion Show trophy and National Champion ribbon.

(15) The total amount due from each entry is $200 with the breakdown as follows:

a. $100 for prize money (100% pay back)
b. $100 to cover the stall and bedding for the horse.

(16) Horses already entered in the National show and have paid all entry fees, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay $100 entry fee.

(17) The 100% payback system is as follows:

• First place: 50%
• Second Place : 30%
• Third Place: 15%
• Fourth Place: 5%

[SandyMM]

Sandy, re-read #16 in my last post.

PFHA has redone some of these changes themselves, and JUST gave it to me today. That's why I need everyone's help.
Sorry - missed that.... :o

[SandyMM]

If there are 8 entries or less, then the heat races will be elimnated and there will only be the final Largo Race. The deadline for entries will be the same as entries for the Grand National show.
This sets a very bad precedent for PFHA to eliminate this class - it is also a larger number than is required to run the final race. So - if there are less than 8 entries, the heat races should be eliminated and on the finals run. What if there are 8 entries and someone doesn't show up? Is the race cancelled after everyone shows up?

This race is _extremely_ popular with the spectators and really showcases a side to the Paso Fino breed that should be showcased. This race will only get more popular if more people who focus on accurately gaited _speed_ largo Pasos are encouraged to enter along with the Pasos that are in 'regular classes'. It may be entertainment, but spectators should be entertained by the excellent quality of these horses' largos, not by the antics of some entrants who enter as a joke...

[ErinC]

how long do you have?
I will call Debbie and have her take a look.

[paintedhorizon]

You're delving into this too seriously. No, it won't be cancelled. Nowhere does it say the race will be cancelled NOW, in the revised version. It says 8 entries OR LESS. Of course, whose to say they'll use the rules I re-submit. All I can do is what nobody else here is willing to do, write them up and send them in.



Erin, she said for the January meeting but didn't give me a deadline.

[motorgypsy]

Having a horse that broke gait stop where it is for five seconds is just asking for a wreck. Sometimes horses are very close together and the rider of the one/s behind can't even see the gait of the horse in front so have no idea the horse has broken gait. When the horse in front stops the one behind could run them down and the sizes of these horses varies greatly so there could be serious injury if a big one runs down a small one with a fragile rider. There really needs to be a pit area for the stops.

[paintedhorizon]

2008 PFHA
LARGO RACE RULES!!


The Largo Race shall be offered at the National Show as Entertainment. There is no eligibility requirement for the race and no show points will be awarded.

If there are 8 entries or less, then the heat races will be eliminated and there will only be the final Largo Race. The deadline for entries will be the same as entries for the Grand National show. The Largo Race will be held no matter as long as there are at least 4 entries.

Largo Race Rules shall be as follows:

(1) Each participant shall be introduced by exhibitor name and horse name during heats and the final class. Prize money shall be awarded to the 4 winners the Final Race.

(2) Appointments (tack and attire) shall be the same as in the Paso Pleasure class.

(3) All horse entrants must be registered PFHA horses.

(4) Heats will be held on Thursday, September ___, 2008 immediately following Class #81. There will be 3 (three) heats with a total of 6 (six) participants per heat. The first and second place winner of each heat will continue on to race in the final heat on Saturday, leaving a total of 6 (six)competitors on Saturday. Heats will be adjusted as necessary.

(5) All participants must be at the warm-up arena at the completion of Class #81. Failure to meet this requirement may eliminate competitors from participating in the qualifying heats.

(6) The race shall be conducted at a "largo" four beat gait, without any break of gait. Horses breaking gait will be held for five seconds either at the inside of the ring or outside of the ring, whichever they are closer to.

(7) At a minimum, one judge shall monitor all horses in their section of the arena, if four judges, each judge will monitor one side of the arena. Each rider will wear a number, an arm band, or some other easily identifiable item. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(8) When a judge determines a horse has broken gait, the exhibitor will be identified either through an announcement system, whistle or other appropriate means. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(9) It is the responsibility of all riders to be at the warm-up arena at the conclusion of Class 81 to receive heat designations, and specific rule announcements. Failure to appear on time may result in disqualification from the heats.

(10) No horse shall cut in front of another so as to cause the other to break gait or create a hazardous situation. If one horse breaks this rule more than twice, this horse will be eliminated from the race.

(11) No horse shall cut across the arena or the inside track formed or marked for the race. If any horse does cut across the arena or the inside track, they will be held for five seconds at the spot they cut across.

(12) The distance to be run shall be the equivalent of 1 mile (8 laps of the Perry, GA arena).

(13) All contestants must be pre-entered in accordance with the Grand National Show Prize List which states by September ___, 2008.

(14) A rotating trophy donated by the Sunshine Paso Fino Horse Association will have the winners name engraved on on said trophy which is displayed at the PFHA National office. The winner received a National Champion Show trophy and National Champion ribbon.

(15) The total amount due from each entry is $200 with the breakdown as follows:

a. $100 for prize money (100% pay back)
b. $100 to cover the stall and bedding for the horse.

(16) Horses already entered in the National show and have paid all entry fees, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay $100 entry fee.

(17) The 100% payback system is as follows:

• First place: 50%
• Second Place : 30%
• Third Place: 15%
• Fourth Place: 5%

[stratton]

I have never had the pleasure to watch a largo race,but I have watched countless speed racking classes. I too believe that it would be a disaster to both watch and participate in a race that required you to stop for gait penalty.

In speed racking their are many horses that break gait, because of the high speeds and many horses in a small arena. There are a couple of judges that will mark down the horses# if it breaks gait but they do not disrupt the flow of the race. At the end of the class the judges confer and the fastest horse with the least amount of gait faults wins the class

I think it's important to note. The Largo race shouldnt be about the fastest horse,but the fastest in correct gait without breaking.


Stratton

[motorgypsy]

You know I don't see why the judges couldn't just record the gait breaks during the race, have the racers line up at the end, compute the penalties (the race could be timed and put a five second penalty for each gait break) and declare a winner??? This would mean no stopping at all. Although I don't have a problem with stopping inside or outside the arena and reentering at a safe time.

By the way - we have ridden in four or five largo races and the stopping is a distraction but gait breaks must be penalized. People would be livid if a horse won that broke gait repeatedly won. It's bad enough that some of the racers aren't particularly isochronal all the time but to allow a horse that is cantering or trotting to win would be a disaster.

Was the fact that the entries must be PFHA registered in there? It needs to be or people could enter racking horses or TW's or standardbreds.

[SandyMM]

If there are 8 entries or less, then the heat races will be eliminated and there will only be the final Largo Race. The deadline for entries will be the same as entries for the Grand National show. The Largo Race will be held no matter as long as there are at least 4 entries.
Thanks, PH - two misreads in one afternoon - I apologize again! I'm just cross-eyed from unpacking boxes in the new place over the past week... :o

#1 - This is a race - first one across the finish line wins. Penalties keep the wrong people from crossing the finish line first. If I wanted to pay the judges to decide, I'd get a sighted horse and enter a point class.
#2 - It isn't a speed racking class with a clogged ring - at most there will be 6 horses at a time... If you can't 'drive' your horse around 5 other horses in the ring - you shouldn't be in the ring.
#3 - Don't enter if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe or feel you would present a safety hazard to others. It's a race - let the racers race.
#4 - If you're obviously slower than everybody else - move to the outside - way to the outside - especially if you think there's the faintest possibility your horse might break gait.
#5 - If you tailgate, you're the problem.
#6 - If more than 2-3 horses lap you, you are not in contention. Pull into the center when it is safe to do so. That's common in a number of racing formats.
#7 - If you have racing in your blood, the finish line _is_ the prize. There is no substitute for crossing first!

If you think you have a horse who can race and stay in gait at least most of the time, come on and meet us at the starting line....

[paintedhorizon]

It takes the excitement out of the race if the judges have to confer about who won what. I believe having the racers move to the inside or outside track will take care of that.

Ditto to sandy on these two points.


#1 - This is a race - first one across the finish line wins.

#7 - If you have racing in your blood, the finish line _is_ the prize. There is no substitute for crossing first!

[lisa l aka marci]

Couple of typos from PHs last post of the rules...double word, 'winner receives', add the word 'the'.....

I too think that the stopping can be dangerous, it should be specifically spelled out before the heats to make sure people know....maybe if they are on the outside, stop there, if close to the inside, stop there......OR - have a small area designated on either side of the ring as a 'penalty box' - when identified, you have to stop there and wait 5 seconds.........even a single cone, or 2 cones to mark it - that way if a horse runs it over no big deal.....and it gives a visual for the riders to steer away from......

(14) A rotating trophy donated by the Sunshine Paso Fino Horse Association will have the winners name engraved on on said trophy which is displayed at the PFHA National office. The winner received a National Champion Show trophy and National Champion ribbon.

(15) The total amount due from each entry is $200 with the breakdown as follows:

a. $100 for prize money (100% pay back)
b. $100 to cover the stall and bedding for the horse.

(16) Horses already entered in the National show and have paid all entry fees, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay the $100 entry fee.

[Kerry W]

Hey Michele...thanks for doing this. I know you're not a PFHA member, you don't yet have a horse, and that makes it an even more remarkable example of getting in there and doing something for the breed. Kudos! ;)

[GregM]

Having participated in Largo heats and finals in '06 and '07 as well as at other shows and raced in quite close quarters several times I have never seen an incident where a horse stopping for a penalty was hit from behind, even with 8 horses in a heat or final. Horses being passed are most often being lapped and the faster horses are moving to go around them anyway. The first few seconds at the start get a little crazy but after that it sorts out pretty well. It really is a lot of fun. I don't think 8 is too many.

[ErinC]

posting for a friend!
""Timed heats 4 horses at a time and then the top 4 horses go on to finish
that would ensure the fastest horse wins- and not more than 4 horses ever in
the final or the heats.

Also horses that go over cones (except for safety reasons) should be
disqualified. Last year when I was in the horse were knocking cones down
racing through out of control and it was very dangerous.

Also very IMPORTANT - No Horse Shall wear a fly mask- THE BLIND HORSE that
won scared my horse at the starting line- he had never seen a fly mask
before we do not use them here- and he reared straight up and totally
freaked out- if the blind horse wants to go in fine but it can not wear a
mask with a helmet underneath that could spook a horse . I spent months
training for the race a paid a lot of money to travel over 1000 miles to
enter the largo race and the horses that went on the the finals (except for
the blind horse he did gait) were not even gaiting . I was told by the judge
that they decided 10 min before the race that they would not stop horses
that were not in gait as not to break the flow of the race. Only if they
popped up or cantered - totally unfair race and a waste of time and money
and it was dangerous.

Can you post this and find out who is in charge of making the rules so I can
contact them?""

[GregM]

I fail to see how anyone could be absolutely sure exactly what spooked a horse. The Nationals arena is full of things that can spook a horse like screaming people, camera flashes, loud music, loud announcements, banners, people leaning over the rail, etc. The blind horse wears a Zilco racing hood to keep dirt out of his eyes because he can't SEE the dirt coming at him to close his eyes. He needs it. He wears it whenever he is ridden.
Several horses were stopped for breaking gait in the heat and the final, I don't what race you were watching. It's no more dangerous than ANY class that calls for a largo and then a walk, which is ALL the pleasure classes. And how many horses are in those? I rode in a pleasure class of 32 last year. I was nearly squeezed into a judge. The Largo race is far safer than that.

[SandyMM]

posting for a friend!
""Timed heats 4 horses at a time and then the top 4 horses go on to finish
that would ensure the fastest horse wins- and not more than 4 horses ever in the final or the heats.
I would love to see head to head match races in double elimination brackets.

Also horses that go over cones (except for safety reasons) should be
disqualified. Last year when I was in the horse were knocking cones down
racing through out of control and it was very dangerous.
Actually, the race last year was one of the more in-control races in recent years. Starts are always a little exciting, but I think limiting it to 6 per heat/final will help.
Also very IMPORTANT - No Horse Shall wear a fly mask- THE BLIND HORSE that won scared my horse at the starting line- he had never seen a fly mask before we do not use them here- and he reared straight up and totally freaked out-if the blind horse wants to go in fine but it can not wear a mask with a helmet underneath that could spook a horse.
I think the professional Zilco racing hood is the least distraction any horse could possibly have in an arena full of screaming spectators, palm trees, anxious horses, sound system, lights, signs, banners..... and - dare I say - a few nervous riders...

I have ridden Bronce in that hood (it is neither a flymask, nor is there a 'helmet' underneath it) to protect his eyes among literally hundreds of horses in a huge variety of situations - including in afterhours practice in the arena at Nationals with 50+ horses - not _one_ other horse has ever spooked at him or his protective hood. In fact, Bronce and his hood are _so_ unassuming and _so_ not intimidating, that the person who wrote the article in this month's PFHW about 'stories behind the champions) called him a gelding.... LOL - guess he wasn't wild enough to be considered a stallion! (Bronce says - don't mess with my love life! All my girls are quite happy with me - thank you very much! LOLOL!)
I spent months training for the race a paid a lot of money to travel over 1000 miles to enter the largo race and the horses that went on the the finals (except for the blind horse he did gait) were not even gaiting . I was told by the judge that they decided 10 min before the race that they would not stop horses that were not in gait as not to break the flow of the race. Only if they popped up or cantered - totally unfair race and a waste of time and money and it was dangerous.
You pay your money, you take the same chances as everybody else who enters. Last year, 4 of us were severely 'impeded' at the start by another competitor... We gathered up our horses and finished the race. I figured it cost me a money spot at the finish. That's the breaks.

[motorgypsy]

Sorry your friend had a bad experience. One year my mare threw a bucking fit and almost ran down a judge when she was spooked by the race music and handkerchief. Another year both our mares refused to largo. They just aren't very predictable in such a chaotic situation. These are extremely well behaved, posse certified, well trained and very very experienced paso finos who do parades at night even with out a pause. Who knows what prompted them to do this??

Bronce's mask doesn't bother most horses but if it bothered mine I'd sure buy some fly masks and use them. They are great horsey sun glasses by the way.
You ride the largo race just because you love to largo and you love the experience and opportunity to show off your horse. I'd highly recommend it to anyone with a good largo horse.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN - PASO LARGO!!!

[CarolU]

Michelle, having done this before, you will never make everyone happy, so go with what has worked before. Don't make it any more work for the show staff or it won't happen. KISS

Sounds good...go for it.

[GregM]

You ride the largo race just because you love to largo and you love the experience and opportunity to show off your horse. I'd highly recommend it to anyone with a good largo horse.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN - PASO LARGO!!!

I'd agree with that 100%. It's tremendous fun.

[SandyMM]

Bronce's mask doesn't bother most horses
A single complaint by an unidentified unhappy exhibitor in a 'chaotic situation' notwithstanding... I have _never_ seen _any_ horse even give Bronce's hood a second glance. To blame a horse's misbehavior on the hood is kind of silly

The only semi-legitimate complaint about the hood came from a show official and lasted less than 30 seconds - when he realized who the horse was (Bronce's fame preceeds him apparently) and that the hood was for eye protection and _not_ to keep a sighted horse from seeing anything (apparently some 'trainers' are using hoods with completely solid eye cups to temporarily blind horses at a show... nice, eh?

[paintedhorizon]

Okay, here's the final list. See how this looks guys.

2008 PFHA
LARGO RACE RULES!!


The Largo Race shall be offered at the National Show as Entertainment. There is no eligibility requirement for the race and no show points will be awarded.

If there are 8 entries or less, then the heat races will be eliminated and there will only be the final Largo Race. The deadline for entries will be the same as entries for the Grand National show. The Largo Race will be held no matter as long as there are at least 4 entries.

Largo Race Rules shall be as follows:

(1) Each participant shall be introduced by exhibitor name and horse name during heats and the final class. Prize money shall be awarded to the 4 winners the Final Race.

(2) Appointments (tack and attire) shall be the same as in the Paso Pleasure class.

(3) All horse entrants must be registered PFHA horses.

(4) Heats will be held on Thursday, September ___, 2008 immediately following Class #81. There will be 3 (three) heats with a total of 6 (six) participants per heat. The first and second place winner of each heat will continue on to race in the final heat on Saturday, leaving a total of 6 (six)competitors on Saturday. Heats will be adjusted as necessary.

(5) All participants must be at the warm-up arena at the completion of Class #81. Failure to meet this requirement may eliminate competitors from participating in the qualifying heats.

(6) The race shall be conducted at a "largo" four beat gait, without any break of gait. Horses breaking gait will be held for five seconds either at the inside of the ring or outside of the ring, whichever they are closer to.

(7) At a minimum, one judge shall monitor all horses in their section of the arena, if four judges, each judge will monitor one side of the arena. Each rider will wear a number, an arm band, or some other easily identifiable item. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(8) When a judge determines a horse has broken gait, the exhibitor will be identified either through an announcement system, whistle or other appropriate means. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(9) It is the responsibility of all riders to be at the warm-up arena at the conclusion of Class 81 to receive heat designations, and specific rule announcements. Failure to appear on time may result in disqualification from the heats.

(10) No horse shall cut in front of another so as to cause the other to break gait or create a hazardous situation. If one horse breaks this rule more than twice, this horse will be eliminated from the race.

(11) No horse shall cut across the arena or the inside track formed or marked for the race. If any horse does cut across the arena or the inside track, they will be held for five seconds at the spot they cut across.

(12) The distance to be run shall be the equivalent of 1 mile (8 laps of the Perry, GA arena).

(13) All contestants must be pre-entered in accordance with the Grand National Show Prize List which states by September ___, 2008.

(14) A rotating trophy donated by the Sunshine Paso Fino Horse Association will have the winners name engraved on said trophy which is displayed at the PFHA National office. The winner will receive a National Champion Show trophy and National Champion ribbon.

(15) The total amount due from each entry is $200 with the breakdown as follows:

a. $100 for prize money (100% pay back)
b. $100 to cover the stall and bedding for the horse.

(16) Horses already entered in the National show and have paid all entry fees, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay the $100 entry fee.

(17) The 100% payback system is as follows:

• First place: 50%
• Second Place : 30%
• Third Place: 15%
• Fourth Place: 5%

Kerry, thank you VERY much. One of these days I might become a member, but for now, I'm okay with not being one.

[SandyMM]

For clarity and continuity, I would put #9 immediately after #5 since they both address the same issue... or combine them for simplicity. Other than that it looks good - thanks

[paintedhorizon]

Okay, here's the final list. See how this looks guys.

2008 PFHA
LARGO RACE RULES!!


The Largo Race shall be offered at the National Show as Entertainment. There is no eligibility requirement for the race and no show points will be awarded.

If there are 8 entries or less, then the heat races will be eliminated and there will only be the final Largo Race. The deadline for entries will be the same as entries for the Grand National show. The Largo Race will be held no matter as long as there are at least 4 entries.

Largo Race Rules shall be as follows:

(1) Each participant shall be introduced by exhibitor name and horse name during heats and the final class. Prize money shall be awarded to the 4 winners the Final Race.

(2) Appointments (tack and attire) shall be the same as in the Paso Pleasure class.

(3) All horse entrants must be registered PFHA horses. All contestants must be pre-entered in accordance with the Grand National Show Prize List which states by September ___, 2008.

(4) Heats will be held on Thursday, September ___, 2008 immediately following Class #81. There will be 3 (three) heats with a total of 6 (six) participants per heat. The first and second place winner of each heat will continue on to race in the final heat on Saturday, leaving a total of 6 (six)competitors on Saturday. Heats will be adjusted as necessary.

(5) It is the responsibility of all riders to be at the warm-up arena at the conclusion of Class 81 to receive heat designations, and specific rule announcements. Failure to appear on time may result in disqualification from the heats.

(6) The race shall be conducted at a "largo" four beat gait, without any break of gait. Horses breaking gait will be held for five seconds either at the inside of the ring or outside of the ring, whichever they are closer to.

(7) At a minimum, one judge shall monitor all horses in their section of the arena, if four judges, each judge will monitor one side of the arena. Each rider will wear a number, an arm band, or some other easily identifiable item. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(8) When a judge determines a horse has broken gait, the exhibitor will be identified either through an announcement system, whistle or other appropriate means. Specific method will be briefed to all heats immediately after Class#81.

(9) No horse shall cut in front of another so as to cause the other to break gait or create a hazardous situation. If one horse breaks this rule more than twice, this horse will be eliminated from the race.

(10) No horse shall cut across the arena or the inside track formed or marked for the race. If any horse does cut across the arena or the inside track, they will be held for five seconds at the spot they cut across.

(11) The distance to be run shall be the equivalent of 1 mile (8 laps of the Perry, GA arena).

(12) A rotating trophy donated by the Sunshine Paso Fino Horse Association will have the winners name engraved on said trophy which is displayed at the PFHA National office. The winner will receive a National Champion Show trophy and National Champion ribbon.

(13) The total amount due from each entry is $200 with the breakdown as follows:

a. $100 for prize money (100% pay back)
b. $100 to cover the stall and bedding for the horse.

(15) Horses already entered in the National show and with all entry fees paid, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay the $100 entry fee.

(16) The 100% payback system is as follows:

• First place: 50%
• Second Place : 30%
• Third Place: 15%
• Fourth Place: 5%

[ErinC]

A single complaint by an unidentified unhappy exhibito
I told you who she was, she just can not get on a computer.

[lisa l aka marci]

(15) Horses already entered in the National show with all entry fees paid and have paid all entry fees, including the $200 stall fee, will only be required to pay the $100 entry fee.

Another minor typo to make it read better....missed it before! Replace the grayed out text with the red text....

[GregM]

[QUOTE=ErinC;175200]posting for a friend!
QUOTE]

Not to be a PITA about it, but I didn't see anything in your post that identifies the person. I don't remember a horse rearing in my heat or the final. It always seems to me that a statement carries more weight when it is signed by the author. Not trying to start a flame war, just my take. Sorry your friend had a bad experience, hope she has a better one in '08. The more the merrier.

[paintedhorizon]

Thanks Lisa! I edited it!

[lisa l aka marci]

Thanks Lisa! I edited it!

No prob! The other way, it sounded liek the horses paid for the stall! :v:

[paintedhorizon]

Okay, Gwyn received an email from "name left blank" about being upset. Sounds like your friend Erin. Anyway, I have a video of the largo race. I want EVERYONE to watch it and please tell me where you see people running over cones and cones scattering, or where, at the beginning, supposedly the horse next to Sandy's is "flipping out" over the mask. Clearly Sandy's horse is the one that actually moves. There is another horse that is acting up, but they are nowhere near Sandy's horse.

Also, it was noted that supposedly the rules changed 10 minutes before the class. As far as I can tell, that is not true.

Another thing was noted that supposedly one of the judges told this person, and I quote this from the email, The judges told me after that they decieded not to stop the horses who were not in gait but just the ones who popped up and cantered a bit in place. Would someone email Cindy and ask her to step in here? She was a judge. And Candice, she was a judge too.

Another note, if you watch closely, there were NO horses rearing that were stopped, in fact, the majority of the horses stopped were for cantering. I can't tell from the video about pacing though.

The winner, Bronce, was clearly in largo the whole time.

Another note, if we start emailing PFHA with complaints about this largo race, instead of dealing with it like adults here on the forum, they can easily say, you know what? Nevermind, too much hassle. Be careful everyone.

Start of largo race.

http://s3.photobucket.com/albums/y65/jklawitter/Paso%20Fino/Nationals%202007/?action=view&current=LargoRaceStart.flv

My memory card was full so I had to start over. Hehe As you can clearly see, the horse with blinders is on the far left.

http://s3.photobucket.com/albums/y65/jklawitter/Paso%20Fino/Nationals%202007/?action=view&current=LargoRace.flv

As you can see, they were stopped numerous times.

[SandyMM]

OK - this has gone far enough... I did a little research - not hard to put one and one together....

The complaint is that
1. Bronce's 'flymask' and 'helmet' caused another horse to 'freak out' because the horse had never seen one before and as a result the rider/horse did not make it to the finals;
2. a lot of time and money was spent preparing for this race;
3. the person was told by a judge that no one would be stopped for not gaiting
3. no horses in the finals were gaiting except Bronce

1. If I am correct in my research, the horse in question was in the warm-up ring with Bronce and his professional racing hood not only in 2007, but also in 2006 - and was in the finals of 2006 with Bronce and his hood. In fact, the horse in question, placed in the top 3 - under a _different_ rider...
2. Lots of people spend lots of money to enter classes at Nationals and go home with nothing....
3. I have never heard anyone at any of the pre-race briefings say that no one would be stopped for not gaiting.
4. Some horses in the finals gaited better than others - some broke gait and were penalized.

Bronce is an exceptional ambassador for the breed who has overcome unfortunate conditions not of his doing and the largo race is his chance to prove that among his peers. His win last year was an incredible example of the breed's heart and courage...

Maybe the 'unhappy competitor' should realize it isn't just time, money, and a fast horse that win the largo race... sometimes it's a 'j'ne sais quoi' bond between horse and rider who rise above disabilities...

[paintedhorizon]

I just found out myself that the person didn't race in 2007, but in 2006. So this persons complaints really aren't justified since they didn't actually race! I think the majority were happy with last years race. I know I received a lot of thank yous and good job, not only from the exhibitors, but from the judges, stewards and audience. I think 2008 will be even better!

[lisa l aka marci]

Well said Sandy!

[GregM]

When you think about it, it's somewhat like saying "you can't wear a helmet, or glasses, or whatever because my horse is afraid". I have known people to say their horses were afraid of men, should we have only women race?
Thanks for all your efforts, PH, I hope this year's race is better than ever. We had a great time the last two years. Sadly, Pete always seems to do better in the heats...

[Serendipity]

I am hoping to try to enter the race the $100 will be steep considering all the other fees so we will see.

Why is it limited to only 3 heats? what if more horses want to enter? wouldn't that make it more competive if the purse was higher?

or what about doing match races? to find the 4 fastest horses and the finally race at the end the 4 best and fastest horses, that would be exciting.

How about some other fun class like a soccer team on fri just some other things to do to make it more fun.

just a thought

[paintedhorizon]

Seren, this is at Nationals, so I highly doubt they'll do soccer or anything like that because it doesn't show off the gaits.

About the heats, you have to have time to actually run the heats, if you keep doing more and more heats, not only does it take away from the class time, but also means people may have to be there sooner in the week. For those showing, not a big deal, but for those only doing the largo race, they may not be able to be there all week.

Also, note this part

Heats will be held on Thursday, September ___, 2008 immediately following Class #81. There will be 3 (three) heats with a total of 6 (six) participants per heat. The first and second place winner of each heat will continue on to race in the final heat on Saturday, leaving a total of 6 (six)competitors on Saturday. Heats will be adjusted as necessary.

If there are more than 18 participants, the heats will be adjusted. If there are less, the heats will be adusted. The final competition will only have, at the most, 6 horses. The arena just cannot handle more than that, nor can the judges and still be fair.

[SandyMM]

Here are both heat races from '06... if anyone has videos of the '07 heat races, please contact me... thanks...

http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=139f7ebbc3964c36e6c724&skin_id=0&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url

[motorgypsy]

That was the year both our girls decided to take a walk in the park. They just plain refused to largo. Very annoying but a really fun race! They told us they didn't know it was a race. Yeah sure.

I'd love to have copies of these if possible????

For those of you who don't know who we are - look for the tiny cream buckskin in the first heat and the red chestnut in the second. Both riders are wearing helmets.