Rule Changes for the 2023 Competition Season

  1. The rule regarding judge selection will now read; Judges, No judge shall judge more than 1″
    NIHJA recognized show during the Winter Season shows and no rnore than 2 NIHJA recognized
    shows during the Summer Seoson. Also adding/changing the sentence regarding length of time
    between horse show judging to read; No judge shall judge any show within 50 days of the last
    show he/she have judged during the Summer Shaw Season.
  2. The Ground Poles Hunter and Equitation divisions have been added to the list of NIHJA
    optional divisions which will allow the division to qualify for a Year End Award.
  3. The Crossrails Hunter and Equitation divisions have been added to the list of NIHJA optional
    divisions which will allow the divisions to qualify for a Year End Award.
  4. The Beginner Hunter and Beginner Equitation divisions, both the Child and Adult sections
    have been changed to remove the restriction regarding the 3 blue ribbons won over fences that
    had previously affected a rider’s eligibility to compete. The fence height restriction remains the
    same.
  5. The Limit Hunter and Limit Equitation divisions, Child section have been changed to remove
    the restriction regarding the 3 blue ribbons won over fences that had previously affected a
    rider’s eligibility to compete. The fence height restriction remains the same.

6. A Code of Conduct has been established for all members/professionals to follow. Below outlines the
expectations that members are will be asked to follow.

NIHJA Member Code of Conduct

Members/Professionals are expected to behave in a Sportsmanlike way when attending NIHJA events. By attending a NIHJA event, I agree to:

1. Respect the sport, play fairly with integrity, and follow the rules set forth by NIHJA.
2. Respect the decisions of officials and show management. If the need arises, appropriately address situations with the appointed NIHJA steward.
3. Demonstrate good Sportsmanship before, during, and after the competition. 
4. Refrain from the use of abusive language.
5. Not engaging in any behavior that would jeopardize the health, safety and well being of any participant, trainer, coach, official, spectator, or animal.

If you think a member (trainer or competitor) has violated the Code of Conduct in any way, please consult a NIHJA steward so your concern can be addressed with the NIHJA Board. The NIHJA  Board will review all concerns and determine if a violation of the code of conduct has occurred.

If a violation has occurred, the NIHJA board will contact the member via email and US mail. A fine could be assessed, in an amount to be determined. The member will not be considered a member in good standing until the fine is paid. This means the member may not attend any NIHJA events and may not accumulate any additional points towards year end awards. If a professional is not a member in good standing, their clients points would also not be counted.