Games Play

***Please note, this page best viewed in Internet Explorer***

• Need to know which Standard of Proficiency a game may help you achieve?

• Need the rules for a USPC game?

• Need help understanding how to play a game?

• Need help understanding how to correct a game?

• Need help in improving your games play?

• Need some help in improving your vaulting, handoff, or other games skills?

You have come to the right place. Here you can find games, rules, equipment descriptions, tips and techniques for all the USPC Mounted Games and games skills that might help you. For more information about specific games, just click on the game name listed in the column on the left.

USPC Games Rules:

For more information about USPC games in general, the first thing you need is the current USPC Games Rulebook. If you want to download a copy of the Games Rulebook visit the Rulebooks page of the USPC site.

If, after reading the current USPC Handbook and Rules For Games Competition, you have any questions about the games rules or play, making games equipment, or organizing a games program, please contact the Games Committee for help.

USPC Games Tips:

Listed with each game are the Standards of Proficiency that each game can help you enhance; also,there are some tips and techniques that might help you when playing the game. These are suggestions only. If they work for you and your team, great! However, you might need to come up with your own techniques for your special team or pony.

Listed below are some tips for specific games skills that also might help you with your overall games play. Once again these are only suggestions and hopefully they will give you some ideas on how to improve your games skills.

Dunking Tips

Any games player can improve their dunking skills by practicing some of the drills and tips given below. Riders do not need any other games player to practice dunking. Just find a bucket and a variety of items to practice dunking. Try different angles of release in the bucket until you are confident of your dunking skills.
 

Handoff Tips

Practice, practice, practice. That is the way to improve your handoff skills. Your teammates and you should start each drill slowly until you can handoff several types of items perfectly. Then increase the speed until you are practicing running handoffs with a variety of items. When practicing running handoffs, make sure you have an observer who is making sure you are not crossing the line ahead of the handoff.
Here are some tips to help you improve your handoffs:

• Practice handoffs with different items such as tennis balls, socks, bottles, flags, batons, mugs, rings, etc. Each handoff item has a different weight, size, and feel. You should become accustomed to giving and taking during the handoffs for all the items used in games.
• The incoming rider should hold the item out in front and aim for the outgoing rider's hand.
• The outgoing rider should not take his eyes off of the item and should TAKE the item from the incoming rider's hand.
• Both riders should "give" with their hands and arms to take some of the shock off the handoff. This cushions the handoff and makes it less likely that the handoff item will pop out. This is only a problem for speed handoffs.
• The incoming rider should hold bottles, batons, flags, etc. in a vertical position (upright) for all handoffs. Hold the item so there is plenty of area for the outgoing rider to grab on to.
• Tennis balls, socks, etc. should be held with the thumb and the first two fingers for a three-point handoff.
• Running handoffs is another skill that can improve a team's speed. If the outgoing rider can be moving forward at a walk, trot, or canter to take the handoff from the incoming rider that will give the team a head start over a team that has not perfected this skill. The timing must be perfect because the outgoing rider can not cross the changeover line before the incoming rider is all the way across the line. Remember there is nothing in the rules that says the outgoing rider can not be behind the 6-yard line. The only rule is that if there are riders in the 6-yard line area, they can only be the incoming rider and the outgoing rder. If starting behind the 6-yard line gives the outgoing rider more time to make a running start, then use it.
• The incoming rider should make sure of the handoff to the outgoing rider before letting go. Attempting the handoff again while mounted is easier than dismounting and searching for the item on the ground.
•  Arrange the order of go according to how well each rider can give and take handoffs from the other riders. Some riders just can not handle a handoff from one rider or another. Don't pair them up. Have riders go first who can not take a handoff well. Have riders go last who can not give a handoff well.
• Don't ever throw the handoff item at the outgoing rider.

Pickup & Putdown Tips

• Practice picking up and putting down different items such as socks, flags, bottles, mugs, tennis balls, etc.
• When picking up flags from containers or balls from cones, use a windmill motion with your arm. This will allow you to pick up the flag or ball at speed without knocking over the container.
• When picking up items from an oil drum, make sure your pony is not afraid of the drum before starting. Get him used to riding up to the drum. If he is afraid of the drum, try placing his feed on the oil drum at feeding times.
• When picking up and placing the mugs down in 3-mug, make sure that you have your eyes on the pole and the mug until you are sure you have done it correctly. Do not let go of the mug until you are sure it is firmly in place.
• When playing ball & cone, do NOT let go of the ball until you are sure the ball is not going to roll off. It takes less time to try again, than have the ball roll off and have to dismount and start over.
• When playing castle, make sure that the turret or orb is firmly in place before letting go of the object. It takes less time to try again, then have the item fall off and have to dismount and start over.
• When placing a flag in a container, hold the flag near the flag, place your index finger along the flagstaff, and almost point the flag into the container. Make the flag an extension of your arm.
   

Vaulting Tips

Vaulting is a very important skill for all riders on a team to develop. Having a team where all the riders can vault quickly can make the difference between a good team and a great team!!!

• The belly vault should not be used in a competition because it is hard for the rider to steer and control the pony. The belly vault should be used as a practice vault until the rider can develop the arm strength for a actual vault.

• If you can not vault yet, practice remounting using your stirrup as quickly as possible. Lengthen your stirrup leathers to make it even easier.

• Consider building a vaulting barrel (see the USPC Games Handbook for details) to learn and practice vaulting.

• When playing a game, do not waste time attempting to vault. Often you could have remounted using your stirrups and continued the race quicker.. Give vaulting a couple of tries, then move on to remounting with your stirrup. Time is important NOT whether you are vaulting or not.

• Practice vaulting on the smallest pony you can find at first. Perfect your technique on that pony and then move on to larger ponies.

• Each rider has a different way of vaulting. Some use mostly shoulder and arm muscles and some use lots of leg muscle. Try different muscle groups when you are practicing your vaults. Some riders can only vault while the pony is moving and some can only vault when the pony stands still. Perfect your own method.

• The different types of vaults are described below, from easiest to most difficult: THE BELLY VAULT: Facing the pony's side, and holding the reins with your left hand, jump and land on the saddle on your belly. You then rotate yourself to face forward and get your feet astride the saddle. Because your feet are not astride the saddle the moment you land on the saddle, you do not have full control of the horse, and this vault cannot be safely used during a competition. This vault should be used for practice purposes only. THE STANDING VAULT: Hold on to your reins and the horse's mane with your left hand firmly. You should be facing almost backwards as the horse faces forwards. Bend your knees, and with a combination of your legs extending and your left arm pulling, throw yourself in the air. You should be mostly aware of your right leg clearing the saddle and then landing square in the saddle. This is all done with the horse mostly immobile. THE CORNER VAULT: The corner vault is a vault that is made as the pony is turning in a half-circle around you during games such as old-sock, potato, ball and bucket, etc. It is a variation of the standing vault except that the horse is turning around you as you retrieve your item off of the ground. THE RUNNING VAULT: The classic use of the running vault is in Stepping Stone Dash. As you have just finished treading the last stone, you land on both feet, and simultaneously extend both legs. Your horse has been on your right side; you grab the reins and the mane as you thrust your legs, and use the momentum of the pony to propel you onto its back (this is the essence of the running vault) as the pony resumes its gallop. This vault gives the rider the greatest competitive advantage once it is mastered. THE OFF-SIDE VAULT: The most difficult of all vaults, the off-side may be used when a correction is being made, and the rider finds that the horse is on their left side (instead of the right). The same techniques noted above are used; they are simply done from the opposite side. Mastering the off side technique will again give a games player a distinct competitive advantage.

• Practice, practice, practice! It takes some riders several years to perfect vaulting. You must build up your muscles in your arms, shoulders, and legs before you can vault with speed. Use weights and other exercises to strengthen your shoulder, arm, and leg muscles.

• When dismounting, first kick your feet out of both stirrups and then dismount facing forward. As you perfect dismounting, you should be able to run forward after dismounting.

Ball & Bucket Race

Equipment Required:
- One 5-gallon water bucket
- Five tennis balls
- Marked circle 3' in diameter

Game Setup:

Place four tennis balls inside the marked circle located three yards behind Line C. A hula-hoop could be used to form the circle. Place a bucket on Line B. At the start of the race, riders 2, 3, and 4 are behind the 6 yd. line at A. Rider 1 will start the race behind Line A. Give the fifth tennis ball to Rider 1.

Game Play:

On the signal to start Rider number one, carrying the ball, will ride to the bucket and drop the ball into it. The rider then continues to the far end to pick up a ball. The rider must dismount to pick up a ball and may dismount any time after he has successfully dropped the ball into the bucket, but the rider and all four feet of the pony must cross Line C (either mounted or dismounted) before returning for the handoff regardless of where the ball was picked up. Riders two, three and four complete the event in the same manner with rider number four dropping the last ball into the bucket on his way back (double dunking). If the balls are knocked out of the hula-hoop, they need not be placed back in.

Correction Rules:

- If a rider misses the bucket, the rider may pick up the ball while mounted or unmounted and place it in the bucket.
- If a rider knocks over the bucket, the rider may reset the equipment mounted or unmounted.
- If the balls are knocked out of the hula-hoop or painted circle, the rider does not have to replace the balls before continuing. If one of the balls crosses over Line C, the rider does not have to replace it in the circle. He may pick it up where it has landed as long as he and his mount completely cross Line C.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The riders must remember when dunking the tennis ball that it is especially bouncy and needs to be dunked against the front or back of the bucket. See dunking tips.
- The rider should handoff the ball using the three-finger handoff method. See handoff tips.
- The corner vault should be used after picking up the ball. See vaulting tips.

Return to top of race descriptions

Ball & Cone Race

Equipment Required:

- Two 18" traffic road cones.
- Two tennis balls

Game Setup:

Place one road cone 15 yards from Line A and one road cone 15 yards from Line C. Place a tennis ball on the road cone closest to Line C. Riders 1 & 3 start the race behind Line A and riders 2 & 4 start the race behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 must be behind the 6-yard changeover line at the start of the game. Give the second tennis ball to rider 1.

Game Play:

Rider one carries a tennis ball and, on the signal to start, rides to the first cone and places their ball on the cone; they then ride to the second cone, collect the ball and hand it off to rider two. Riders two, three, and four complete the course in the same manner. The winning team is the one whose rider number four is the first one over the finish line carrying the ball.

Note: Both cones must be standing and a tennis ball must be on the cone closest to Line C.

Correction Rules:

- If the rider misses the cone, the rider may pick up the ball while mounted or unmounted and place it on the cone.
- If the rider knocks over the cone, the rider may correct the equipment mounted or unmounted.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- When placing the tennis ball on the cone, the rider should not let go of the tennis ball until he is positive that it will stay on the cone. See pickup tips.
- The rider should handoff the tennis ball to the next rider using the three-finger method. See handoff tips.
- Riders should park their pony at right angles to the cone when placing the ball on the cone. This is an effective method of keeping ponies from running past the cone to the opposite end of the arena. It also gets the rider's right hand close to the cone.
- Advanced riders should use a windmill action when picking up the ball at speed. See pickup tips.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Three Bending Poles 24' to 30' apart
- One Plastic Paint Bucket
- Four Tennis Balls
- One Tennis Racquet

Game Setup:

Three bending poles will be placed 24' to 30' apart centered between lines A and C. On the center post will be fixed a container in which will be placed three spare tennis balls. At the start of the race, riders 2, 3, and 4 are behind the 6 yd. line at A.

Game Play:

Rider number one will carry the tennis racquet on which is placed a tennis ball. On the signal to start, rider number one will ride up and down the line through the bending poles carrying the tennis ball on the racquet. The tennis ball must not be touched by hand, except when being picked up. On arrival at the finish line, rider number one will hand the racquet and ball to rider number two, the tennis ball still being untouched by a hand. Riders number two, three and four will complete the course in the same manner up and down the arena successively. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four crosses the finish line first with the tennis ball on the racquet.

Correction Rules:

- Should the tennis ball be dropped, the rider must either pick it up, or collect another from the container on their teams center post, and resume the course again from the point where the ball was dropped. The ball need not be placed on the racquet until the point of error is reached.
- Should the ball and/or racquet be dropped over the handoff line either rider may retrieve the ball, mounted or dismounted and place the ball on the racquet of the next rider to go.
- Each racquet will have a colored band around the handle 3" below the head and competitors hands must be behind this band.

Special Tips:

- As with other similar games (Egg & Racquet and Golf Ball & Spoon), the rider must ride with control--and not speed--to succeed in this race.
- A controlled pace with the rider in two point position is preferable. A seated trot is too "bouncy" and the rider cannot control the ball. Although a canter is often tried by Advanced riders, they often lose the ball during the deceleration phase near the changeover. More often than not, this race is won by the team who can always maintain control of the ball and the racquet without mistakes.
- The rider should handoff the tennis racquet to the next rider while carefully turning the racquet so as to "present" the handle to his teammate. Care should be taken at all times to keep your hand below the colored band. See handoff tips.

Return to top of race descriptions
 

Equipment Required:

- One board, 1" x 8" x 10' with alternating grooves on each side.
- Six large round balloons
- One lance (3/4" wide, 3' long with a 1" brad driven into one end so that no more than 3/8" of the brad remains sticking out.)

Game Setup:

Center the 10-foot board on Line B. Insert six round balloons (three on each side) into the slots on the board. Riders 1 & 3 start the race behind Line A and riders 2 & 4 start the race behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 need to be behind the 6-yard holding area line at the start of the game. Give the lance to rider number 1.

Game Play:

Rider number one, carrying the lance rides to the balloons, bursts one, rides on to the changeover line and hands the lance to rider number two. Riders two, three, and four complete the course in a similar manner, up and down the arena, bursting a balloon in succession. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four is first over the finish line, mounted and carrying the lance.

Each rider (not the pony) must break a balloon. In the event all of the balloons are burst before the last rider goes, the team will be disqualified from the game.

Correction Rules:

- If the lance is dropped, the rider may pick it up mounted or unmounted.
- The balloon MUST be burst with the rider mounted.
- If all the balloons are burst before rider 4 can go, then the team is disqualified.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there are more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- Riders should not whack at the balloon. This is a good way to damage the leg of the pony and the point on the lance. A lance with a bent or missing nail tip makes it difficult for the other riders to burst a balloon. Also, swinging wildly at the balloons can upset the pony.
- When bursting the balloon, it is better for the rider to bend down and come with the lance at a more horizontal position to the board. This method gives the rider more control and makes the lance closer to the balloons so it's easier to burst the balloon.
- Riders should hold the lance about 1/3 up the lance. Holding the lance further down gives the rider more control when bending over to pop the balloon.
- The team captain should have everyone pick his or her balloon before starting the race. This way each rider can concentrate on the balloon they are going to pop. However, if the rider misses, he should just take the next most available balloon.
- The rider should bend down and prepare early for bursting the balloon. The rider should not wait until he is right over balloons to prepare for the pop.
- Many ponies are afraid of balloons and the rider should spend a lot of time training the pony to not be afraid. Be very patient with these ponies. If the pony remains afraid of the balloons, then you might need to leave that pony out of the balloon race.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:
- Five bending poles 24' to 30' apart. The distance apart depends on the size of the arena.
- One baton

Game Setup:
Bending pole 3 must be placed on Line B. Spread two bending poles on either side of pole 3. All must be between 24' and 30' apart and in a straight line. At the start of the race, riders 2, 3, and 4 are behind the 6 yd. line at A. All riders start the race behind Line A. Give the baton to rider 1.
 

Game Play:

Rider number one, carrying the baton, rides across Line A, down the line of bending poles, passing them on alternate sides, turns around the last pole and returns in the same manner, crossing Line A. Once behind line A, he/she hands the baton to rider number two. Riders two, three, and four complete the course in the same manner. The winning team will be the team whose fourth rider crosses the final line first, mounted and carrying the baton.

Correction Rules:

- Riders are allowed to touch the poles if they have been knocked in an effort to steady them or keep them from falling.
- Riders must replace poles if they are knocked over and must rebend the pole that was knocked over in the proper bending direction. It is useful for the other team members to tell the rider which way to bend when he is attempting to make a correction.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.

- Each rider should start bending the poles on the side of the pole that is best for him and his pony. However, since most riders are right-handed, it is suggested that each rider on the team begin with the pole at their RIGHT shoulder (or on the LEFT side of the pole). This makes it easier for team mates to help each other with corrections. Each rider is riding the course exactly the same so there is no need to remember if the rider started on the left or the right.

- Remember that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. Riders should ride the poles as straight as possible using the legs to control the turns around the poles. Don't over steer with your hands.
- Both riders should keep their eyes on the baton at all times until the handoff is complete.  See handoff tips.
- Riders should hold the baton near the bottom. This leaves plenty of the baton available for the outgoing rider to grab. See handoff tips.

- At the end pole, the rider can make a wider turn to the left around the pole. This allows the rider to be almost in a straight line when bending the poles on the way back.

- At the end pole, the rider can make a wider turn to the left around the pole. This allows the rider to be almost in a straight line when bending the poles on the way back.
- The rider may also use half-halts to control the pony during the last turn. Using half-halts usually allows the rider to make closer turns around the last pole. Be careful not to knock over the pole while making the turn.
 

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Two Large trash containers with wood tops
- Two 1-liter bottles, filled 1/2 with sand

Game Setup:

Place a container on line B and the other container 3 yards outside of Line C. Place one plastic bottle on the container beyond Line C. All riders start the race behind Line A. Rider number 1 starts with the 2nd bottle. At the start of the race, riders 2, 3, & 4 are behind the 6 yd. line at A. Give the second bottle to rider 1.

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one, carrying a bottle, will ride to the first container and place the bottle upright on the container. He/she will then continue to the far end to pick up the bottle from the container there and return, crossing line A to handoff to rider number two. Riders two, three, and four complete the course in a similar manner. Each rider in turn places the bottle on the empty container and collects a bottle from the other container. Bottles must remain upright on the containers throughout the race. The winning team will be that whose rider number four crosses the finish line mounted, carrying a bottle.

Correction Rules:

- Riders must correct any bottle that has fallen off during placement on the container. He may pick up the bottle mounted or unmounted.
- If the bottle falls during pickup, the rider does not have to place the bottle on the container before picking it up. He may pick up the bottle mounted or unmounted.
- Each rider must correct their own mistake.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The rider should practice slamming the bottle on the container firmly to put it down and also practice slamming the bottle firmly in their hand to pick it up. This method should be used by more advanced riders with larger hands.
- Riders should use his/her outside leg to keep the pony close to the container. Be careful not to knock the container over.
- The rider should make a half circle around the container at Line C. This way the rider is sure that their pony has completely crossed over the changeover line.
- Both the incoming and outgoing riders need to place the handoff into the other's hand and "give" when doing the handoff. The bottle is large and heavy and can easily pop out of the outgoing rider's hands if not cushioned by a release move. See handoff tips.

- Advanced riders can practice riding diagonally in front of the container when placing the bottle on the container. The rider starts on the right side of the container when beginning the race. When the near the container, the rider should cross diagonally in front so he can set the bottle down with his right hand on the left side of the container.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Two Road Cones 18" high
- Four Bending Poles 24' to 30' apart
- Four tennis balls
- One Hockey Stick, length approx. 52" (street hockey stick is best)

Game Setup:

Four bending poles will be placed 24' to 30' apart centered between lines A and C. Two cones will be placed 6' apart on line C creating the goal. Four tennis balls spaced 1 foot apart will be placed 3 feet from line C lined up between the goal opening.

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one weaves through the bending poles carrying the hockey stick and hits one ball through the goals; the rider must continue to hit the same ball until it goes through the goal posts (cones). Rider one will then return weaving through the bending poles and hand off the hockey stick to rider two. Riders number two, three and four will complete the course in the same manner in succession. The winning team will be the one whose rider four is first over the finish line, mounted and carrying the hockey stick having put all four tennis balls through the goals. All four bending poles and the cones must be erect. In the event that a pony kicks a ball through the goal, that ball must be brought back over the goal line by the rider whose pony kicked it over the goal line. The ball does not have to go back to its original position. Riders must bend the poles when returning to the start/finish line but the bending pattern need not be a continuation of the weave on the way down.

Correction Rules:

- All four bending poles and the cones must be erect at the finish of the race.
- In the event that a pony kicks a ball through the goal, that ball must be brought back over the goal line by the rider whose pony kicked it over the goal line, then the rider must put the ball through the goals. The ball does not have to go back to its original position.
- Riders must bend the poles when returning to the start/finish line but the bending pattern need not be a continuation of the weave on the way down.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The handoff should be done with the hockey stick held vertically, blade in the air.
- The rider should be careful when reaching forward with the stick to strike the ball through the goal to keep from waving the stick near the pony's eye, as the pony might shy away from the stick (as is also the case with the Litter Race, Balloon Race and with Fishing).
 

Return to top of race descriptions

Achieved Standards of Proficiency skills: Turns and changes of direction, Control, Balance, Transitions, Halts, Suppling exercises, increase/decrease of speed.   Required Games Skills: Pick-up and dunking skills.

Equipment Required:

- Four Bending Poles 24' to 30' apart.
- Four Plastic Cartons
- One 5-Gallon Water Bucket

Game Setup:

Four bending poles will be placed 24' to 30' apart centered between lines A and C. One carton is placed on top of each pole. The bucket is placed 3 yards beyond the changeover line. Riders number one, two, three and four will be behind line A.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one collects a carton from any pole, rides to the bucket, drops the carton in the bucket and returns to the start/finish line. Riders number two, three and four will complete the course in the same manner up and down the arena successively. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four crosses the finish line first with all four cartons in the bucket.

Poles which are knocked over must be reset before proceeding.

Hint: Cartons can be made from plastic sport drink bottles by cutting the top off so the remaining bottle is 7 " tall, or using plastic tennis ball "canisters".

Correction Rules:

- All four feet of both ponies must be behind Line A at the changeover between riders.
- If the rider knocks over a pole or knocks a carton off a pole, it must be reset before proceeding.

Special Tips:

- Plastic "sports bottles" have some spring to their base, and dropping a carton into the bucket with too much vigor can result in its bouncing out of the bucket. See dunking tips.
 

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Three bending poles
- One plastic paint bucket
- One tennis racquet with a colored band 3" marked below the racquet head
- Five eggs (hard-boiled or wooden)

Game Setup:

Place one bending pole on Line B. Place one bending pole on either side of Line B. All bending poles should be 24' to 30' apart. Hang the plastic bucket to the top of the center pole. Place four eggs in the bucket. All riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, & 4 must start the game behind the 6-yard line. Give the racquet and the last egg to rider 1.

Game Play:

Rider number one will carry the tennis racquet on which is placed an egg. On the signal to start, rider number one will ride up and down the line through the bending poles, carrying his egg on his racquet. The egg must not be touched by hand, except when picked up. On arrival at the finish line, rider number one will hand his racquet and egg to rider number two, the egg still being untouched by hand. Riders two, three, and four will complete the course in the same manner up and down the arena successively. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four is first over the finish line carrying his egg on his racquet.

Should the egg be dropped, the rider must either pick it up, or collect another from the container on his team's center post, and resume the course again from the point where the egg was dropped. The egg need not be placed on the racquet until this point is reached. Should the egg and/or racquet be dropped over the handoff line either rider may retrieve the egg, mounted or dismounted and place the egg on the racquet of the next rider to go.

Correction Rules:

- If the rider drops the egg, the rider must either pick it up, or collect another egg from the plastic container on the center post. The rider must resume the race from the point where he/she dropped the egg and continue the original bending pattern. The rider does not have to put the egg on the racquet until he is ready to resume the race.
- The rider may only pick up from the ground the egg that he dropped. He may not pick up an egg dropped by another rider.
- If the rider drops the egg after crossing the changeover line, either the incoming rider or the outgoing rider may pick up the egg and place it on the racquet.
- The rider may pick up his dropped egg either mounted or unmounted.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The rider should hold the racquet over the pony. If the egg drops off, it will hopefully drop on the pony first. This gives the rider a better chance of catching it before it falls to the ground.
- The rider should hold the racquet at a slight angle so the egg leans against the racquet head. It is much steadier this way and easier to balance the egg, otherwise the egg is rolling all over the racquet.
- Instead of sitting or posting to the trot, the rider should absorb the trot with his knees by standing in the stirrups or maintaining a jumping position throughout the race.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- One 5-gallon water bucket
- Four wooden fish, 1/2" thick, cut to the shape described in the USPC games Rule Book, with a small screw eye attached to the mouth end
- One 3' dowel with a cup hook attached to one end
- One 4' high post with cross piece. Screw 4 cup hooks into the bottom side of the cross piece. Space the cup hooks evenly across the cross piece.

Game Setup:

Place the bucket containing the four wooden fish on Line B. Make sure to lean the fish against the sides so the fish are not leaning on each other. Rider five or a designated holder will stand 3 yards behind Line C holding the 4' post. All riders start the race behind Line A. Give rider 1 the fishing pole.

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one, carrying the dowel, will ride to the bucket, hook a fish on the end of the dowel and continue to rider five/volunteer. Rider number five/volunteer unhooks the fish and secures it on one of the hooks on the post. All 4 feet of the pony must cross and remain behind the Line C until rider number five/volunteer has correctly placed the fish on a hook, then he/she rides to the start line to handoff the dowel to rider number two. Riders two, three, and four complete the race in the same manner. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four crosses the finish line, carrying the dowel and with all four fish on hooks.
If a fish is dropped while handing over to the person holding the post, that person may pick it up and put it on the post; it need not be replaced on the rider's dowel. The Holder should signal, by raising a hand, that the fish is securely hung, so that the judges can determine when the rider may properly return. Failure to signal, however, does not carry a penalty.

Correction Rules:

- If the rider knocks the bucket over BEFORE hooking his fish, he must, either mounted or unmounted, set up the bucket and place all the fish into the bucket. Then the rider remount and can hook his fish while MOUNTED.
- If a rider drops a fish after hooking it securely and BEFORE he completely crosses Line C, he may either mounted or unmounted, by hand or with fishing hook, pick up the fish. He may not receive any help from the holder.
- If the fish is dropped AFTER crossing Line C and while handing it over to the person holding the post, either the rider or the person holding the post may pick up the fish. The rider's pony MUST have all four feet over Line C at this time. The fish does not need to be replaced on the fishing dowel but can be placed directly on the post.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The holder should signal by raising a hand that the fish is securely fastened, so the judges can determine when the rider may properly return. However, this is not required.
- When giving the fish to the holder, the rider should hold the fishing pole so the hook is facing home (line A) so it is easier for the holder to get the fish off.
- When picking up a fish from the bucket, pick the fish easiest for you. Don't worry about making it easy for someone else.
- Many ponies freak out when they first see the fish hanging from the fishing pole. Riders should show the fish hanging from the fishing pole to the pony first when unmounted. When the pony is comfortable with that situation, then have the coach hold the pony while the rider works with the pony while mounted.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Two short cones (18" cone cut to allow a 4" diameter opening at the top of the cone)
- Five flags (3' wooden dowel, 1/4" diameter, a piece of cloth 6"x8" attached to one end of each of the dowels.)

Game Setup:

Place one short cone 3 yards behind Line C. Place the other short cone at Line B. Put four flags in the cone at Line B. The flags should be placed at front, back, left, and right positions in the cone. All riders start the race behind Line A. Give the fifth flag to rider 1.

Game Play:

On the signal to start rider number one will ride to the other end of the arena and place the flag they are carrying in the cone. They then will ride back, picking a flag out of his team's cone on Line B and hand this flag to rider number two behind the start line. Riders two, three, and four will complete the course in the same manner, up and down the arena in succession. At the end of the race the team will have placed four flags in the cone at the far end of the arena and rider number four finishes over the start line mounted and carrying the fifth flag. Should any rider take more than one flag from the holder, he/she must replace the surplus, also a flag not in possession of the rider, i.e., those that have fallen out of the container, must be picked up and returned to the container. Cones knocked over must be reset, either mounted or dismounted, by hand or by flag. If a flag should come off the cane, the stick may be used to complete the race. On windy days rubber bands can be used to keep the flags furled and prevent them from blowing over.

Correction Rules:

- If the rider takes more than one flag, he must replace all but one flag.
- If a rider knocks over the cone holding the flags, he must mounted or unmounted, by hand or with the flag, replace the equipment. (Flags picked up and cones righted.)
- If a flag comes off the dowel, the rider may complete the race with the dowel only.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- Riders should hold the flag vertical (upright) when handing off. No stabbing of other riders please. See handoff tips.
- Advanced riders should pick up the flag in a windmill action. This allows the rider to pick up the flag at speed without knocking over the cone. See pickup tips.
- Riders should hold the flag near the flag end and "point it" into the cone when making the drop. See putdown skills.
- If necessary, when the fourth rider is riding past the flag cone at Line B on his way to Line C, he should gently tap the remaining flag to the right side of the cone. This action will make it easier for the rider to pick up the flag on the way back. The rider is less likely to run into the cone or knock the cone over if the flag is on the correct side. Other riders might find this technique useful also when their flag is not in a good position.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Large trash container with wooden top
- Five bending poles
- Five 8 to 10 ounce plastic mugs

Game Setup:

The bending poles will be placed 24 to 30 feet apart centered on Line B. For the purposes of this race, Pole #1 will be the pole closest to Line A. The container will be placed 3 yards behind the changeover line, in line with the bending poles. Four mugs, placed upside down, on the container; rider number one at the start will carry the fifth mug.

Game Play:

On the signal to start rider number one will go to one of his team's posts and place his mug, inverted, on the top of any pole other than Pole #1 (pole closest to A). He will then go on to the container, pick up another mug and return to hand-off to rider number two, waiting behind line A. Riders two, three and four will each complete the course in the same manner in succession, with Rider #4 placing his last mug, inverted, on Pole #1 on his way back to the finish line. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four is first over the finish line, mounted with a mug placed on each of the team's five posts. Riders ride straight and do not need to bend through the posts. Any mugs knocked off the container must be replaced upside down.

Correction Rules:

- If the rider knocks the mugs off the container or knocks the container over, he must right the container and replace the mugs upside down.
- If the rider drops his mug, he may pick it up mounted or unmounted.
- If the rider knocks over a pole, he must right the pole and replace the mug. This can be done mounted or unmounted.
- It does not matter in which order the poles are used, except that the final rider must always place the last mug on the pole closest to Line A.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The rider should practice stopping at the poles. From habit, the pony might want to bend them and continue on without stopping.
- The rider should practice using his outside leg to get the pony up close to the pole or the container.
- The rider should practice snatching up the mug without stopping and slamming the mug on the pole without stopping.
- Advanced riders should try and cut in front of the pole when setting down the mug.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Three bending poles
- One plastic paint bucket
- Five golf balls
- One long handled spoon (with 1" brightly colored tape on handle where it meets the bowl)
 

Game Setup:

Place one bending pole on Line B. The other two poles are be placed 24' to 30' on either side of the center pole. A plastic bucket containing four golf balls is hung on the center pole. Riders 2, 3, and 4 start the race behind the 6 yard line at A. Rider 1 should start with the golf ball placed on the spoon and his hand behind the colored tape.
 

Game Play:

The first rider of each team will carry the spoon on which the golf ball is placed. On the signal to start, rider number one will cross line A, ride down the line of bending poles passing them on alternate sides, turn around the last pole and return in the same manner, crossing line A, rider number one will hand his spoon and golf ball to rider number two, the golf ball still being untouched by hand. The second, third, and fourth riders will complete the course in the same manner successively. The winning team will be the one whose fourth rider crosses the finish line first carrying the golf ball on the spoon. The golf ball must not be touched by hand except when being picked up or while mounting.

Should the golf ball be dropped the rider must either pick it up or collect another one from the bucket attached to the center pole, and resume the course again from the point where the golf ball was dropped. The golf ball need not be placed on the spoon until this point is reached. The original weaving pattern must be continued from the point the error was made.

The spoon may not be held or touched in the area marked by the brightly colored tape except while mounting. If dropped at a handover, the golf ball and/or spoon may be retrieved by either rider, mounted or dismounted and placed on the spoon of the next rider to go.
 

Correction Rules:

- If the rider drops the golf ball, the rider must either pick it up or collect another golf ball from the bucket attached to the center pole. The rider must resume the course again from the point where the golf ball was dropped and continue in the original weaving pattern.
- The rider may pick up the golf ball mounted or unmounted, by hand or with the spoon.
- The rider may NOT touch the area in front of the brightly colored tape on the spoon or the golf ball except during a correction. Infraction will cause the team to be eliminated.
- If the rider drops the golf ball during a handover, the golf ball and/or spoon may be retrieved by either rider, mounted or dismounted and placed on the spoon of the outgoing rider.
- The rider may only pick up from the ground the golf ball that he dropped. He may not pick up another rider's dropped golf ball.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The rider should not watch the spoon but should concentrate on riding the poles as smoothly as possible.
- Instead of sitting or posting to the trot, the rider should absorb the trot in his knees, standing in the stirrups throughout the game.
- The rider should hold the spoon as close to the colored tape as possible.
- The rider should hold the spoon perpendicular (across) and in front of the body. Then when it is time for the rider to hand over the spoon and golf ball to the next rider, the rider only needs to turn the handle out for the outgoing rider to grasp.
- Each pony and rider will have an optimum speed for this race. The rider should not go faster than his optimum pace.
- The rider should hold the spoon over the pony. Then if the golf ball falls, hopefully it will fall on the pony first. This might give the rider enough time to catch the golf ball before it falls to the ground.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Four 18" road cones. Do not remove the tops.
- Five tennis balls
- One 7' pole with 8" steel ring with a net or bag attached
 

Game Setup:

Place the four road cones 24' to 30' apart between lines A & C, centered evenly on either side of Line B. Place a tennis ball on all four road cones. All riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, & 4 must start the race behind the 6 yd. line at A. Give the fifth tennis ball to rider 1. Rider 5 will be holding the pole with the net, 3 yards behind Line C.

Game Play:

Rider number one will carry a tennis ball and place it in the net or bag and upon returning down the arena, collect a ball from the top of one of the cones and pass it to the next rider. Riders two, three and four will complete the course in the same manner. The winning team will be the one whose fourth rider crosses the finish line mounted, carrying a tennis ball.
 

Correction Rules:

- If the rider drops the tennis ball, he may pick it up mounted or unmounted and resume the race.
- If the rider knocks over the equipment, he must correct all the equipment before resuming the race.
- The rider must put the ball in the net while MOUNTED.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- Riders should use the three-finger handoff for passing the ball between riders. See handoff tips.
- Advanced riders should use the windmill pickup method for picking the ball off the cone. See pickup tips.
- Riders should attempt to park the pony at a right angle in front of (across) the pole with the net when dropping the tennis ball.

- Advanced riders should cut in front of the cone to get the ball. Riders should start to the right of the cone and then before the cone cut diagonally in front to pick it up with their right hand. This will get the pony as close as possible and does not allow difficult ponies to shy at the cone

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- One large trash can with wooden top
- One plastic paint bucket
- One 5-gallon water bucket
- One potato, one apple, one orange, one carrot, one onion (plastic or real vegetables and fruits may be used)
 

Game Setup:

Place the trash container 3 yards beyond changeover line C. Place the plastic paint bucket containing one apple, one orange, one carrot, and one onion in the center of the trash container. The 5-gallon bucket is placed on Line B. All riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Give the potato to rider 1.

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one crosses the start line carrying a potato, rides to his/her team's bucket (on line B) and drops the potato in. This rider continues over the changeover line, takes the apple from their team's container, rides over line A for the handoff to rider number two. The second, third and fourth riders of each team, in succession, complete the course in the same manner-rider number two collecting the orange, the third the carrot and the fourth the onion, the 4th rider will drop the onion into the teams bucket on his way back (double dunk) to the finish line. The winning team will be the one whose fourth rider is across the start/finish line, with nothing left in his hand. Should a rider collect and drop the wrong article into the bucket and not correct the error, his/her team will be eliminated.
 

Order of collection:

Potato => Apple => Orange => Carrot => Onion
 

Correction Rules:

- If the bucket containing the fruit and vegetables is knocked over but remains on top of the container, it must be placed upright even if it is empty. This may be done mounted or unmounted.
- If the rider picks up the wrong fruit or vegetable, the whole course must be corrected before he can collect the correct item and continue the race. If this is not done, the team is eliminated.
- If the container or either bucket is knocked over, all the fruits and vegetables must be replaced before the rider can continue. The rider does not have to replace his item in the small bucket before continuing. This correction may be done mounted or unmounted.
- If the rider drops his fruit or vegetable, he may pick it up mounted or unmounted.
- If the rider misses the dunk and drops his item, he may place the item in the bucket either mounted or unmounted.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The team captain should make sure each rider knows which fruit or vegetable they are responsible for collecting. Write it on the rider's hand if necessary.
- Riders should practice dunking with the rider's hand in the bucket during the dunk. See dunking tips.
- Riders should get ready to dunk EARLY. Don't wait for the last minute.
- Riders should practice keeping the pony moving in a straight line while leaning off one side.
- Riders should use their outside leg to keep the pony moving in close to the container for the pickup.
- Riders should use the 3-finger handoff if possible. See handoff tips.
- The team should have the best dunker go last since he has to do two dunks (double dunk).
- If a rider's pony is afraid of the container, try placing the pony's feed on the container at feeding times.
- The rider should ride a half circle around the oil drum at Line C. This gives the rider more time to pick his item from the small bucket and also ensures that all four feet of the pony have crossed Line C.
 

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- One hula hoop, at least 28" diameter
 

Game Setup:

This is a pairs race. Rider 3 starts the race behind Line C. Riders 1, 2, & 4 start the race behind Line A. Place the hula-hoop on Line B.
 

Game Play:

This race is ridden in pairs with the third rider of each team behind the changeover line. A hula hoop at least 28" in diameter for each team will be placed on the centerline.

Riders one and two at the start line will ride to the hoop, rider number one dismounts and goes through the hoop while rider number two holds his pony. Rider number one remounts and the pair rides on to the changeover line where rider number one drops out, rider number two picks up rider number three.

Rider number two goes through the hoop while rider number three holds the pony. The pair rides over line A where rider number two drops out.

Rider number three picks up rider number four. Rider number three goes through the hoop while rider number four holds the pony. They ride over the changeover line where rider number three drops out, rider number four picks up rider number one, they ride to the hoop, rider number four goes through the hoop while rider number one holds the pony, the pair ride to the finish line.

The winning team will be the team whose first and fourth riders first cross the finish line mounted. At each changeover, the next pony to go must remain behind the line until both previous ponies have crossed it. The rider who is to hold the pony at the hoop may grasp the rein before, or as they ride down the arena. His partner may not touch the hoop until he has handed over his pony.
 

Special Rules:

- At each changeover, the next pony to go must remain behind the changeover line until both previous ponies have crossed over it.
- The rider who is to hold the pony at the hoop may grasp the reins at the hoop or he may grasp the reins as both riders are riding to the hoop.
- The rider to go through the hoop must NOT let go of the reins until the other rider has taken hold of the reins. No pony may be left free without one of the riders holding his reins. The team will be eliminated if this happens.
 

Correction Rules:

- If a rider starts out across the line before all the incoming riders have crossed the line, he must come back across the line and start out again.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- Team members should pair up the ponies according to how well they get along with each other. Try many combinations of riders and ponies until the right one is found. If a team has one pony that doesn't get along with any of the other ponies, they should leave him out of the race.
- If a rider has trouble vaulting or remounting a pony, make sure the holder holds the pony until the rider is ready.
- Team members should make sure that the vaulting side of the pony is free. Don't hold the pony on the same side as the team member needs to vault.
- If a team must use two ponies that do not get along, have both riders ride close to the hula-hoop. Then have both riders halt. The mounted rider should hold the pony and wait until the unmounted rider has gone through the hula-hoop. This way the ponies do not have to spend much time together. Also the unmounted rider is there to help if there are problems.
- See tips from Rope Race about picking up the next outgoing rider.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Two Hurdles, 30 inches wide, 1 ft. high

- Two Hurdles, 30 inches wide, 2 ft. high

- Two Mugs, half full of water
 

Game Setup:

Four hurdles will be placed 6' apart centered between lines A and C. They will be alternately 1 ft. and 2 ft. high, beginning with 1ft. closest to line A. A mug will be placed on the center of the 2 ft. high hurdles, half filled with water. This race is ridden in pairs with the number three rider of each team beginning behind Line C (changeover line). Riders one and two will stand side by side at the start line, with rider number four behind them.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, riders number one and two will ride forward to the hurdles, where rider one will dismount and hand his pony to rider two. Rider one will then step over the first hurdle, crawl under the second hurdle, go over the third hurdle and under the fourth. Rider one will then remount and both riders will ride to the changeover line, where rider one will wait.
Rider two will turn around after crossing the line, then riders two and three will ride to the hurdles, where rider two will dismount and go under and over the hurdles. Rider two then remounts and both riders ride to the start/finish line where rider two will drop out of the race.
Rider three will turn around after crossing the line, then riders three and four will similarly complete the course, with rider three negotiating the hurdles. Number three drops out when riders three and four reach the changeover line and riders four and one will complete the course with rider four negotiating the hurdles.
The winning team will be the one whose final pair are first across the finish line, mounted on their ponies.
At the changeover, the next pony must remain behind the line until both the previous ponies have crossed the line.
The rider to hold the pony at the hurdles may grasp its rein before, or as they ride down the arena.
 

Correction Rules:

- Should any hurdle be knocked over, or a mug fall off, the rider concerned must replaced them and re-negotiate all the hurdles again.
- If a mug is knocked over, the water will fall out. The water does not need to be replaced to continue the race; however, the mug must be reset.
 

Special Tips:

- Standing up or scrambling to ones knees too early will cause the hurdle to tip and the mug to fall off. Riders should practice crawling completely through the hurdle before coming up to a knee.
- Use an Army "combat" or "belly" crawl.
- Rein contact with each pony must be maintained throughout the race.
- After the hurdles have been successfully negotiated, the unmounted rider may do a standing vault, or may do a running vault with the help of his partner.. See vaulting tips.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- One 3' dowel, 1/2" in diameter
- One round plastic laundry basket
- Four 1-quart cardboard milk cartons (litter) with the top end (pouring end) cut off for a total length of 7.75"
 

Game Setup:

Place four cartons on the ground 3 yards behind Line C with the open ends facing the outside of the arena. Place the laundry basket on Line B. All riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Give the wooden dowel to rider 1.
 

Game Play:

Rider number one will ride to the far end, pick up a carton on his/her dowel and return to dump it into the basket. He/she will then continue back to the start and hand the dowel to rider number two. Riders two, three and four will similarly cross the changeover line, pick up a piece of litter and put it into the basket in succession. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four crosses the finish line, mounted and carrying his dowel.

REMEMBER - All four feet of all four ponies must cross the changeover line regardless of where the litter is located. The riders must remain mounted and must not hold the litter by the hand when picking it up, carrying it on the dowel, or when dumping it. If the carton is smashed and cannot be picked up, a rider may dismount to repair it, but must remount to pick it up on his or her dowel. Cartons may be weighted with sand if it is windy. Should the basket be knocked over, the rider concerned must set it up again, and replace all the litters in the basket, including his own and proceed.
 

Correction Rules:

- If the rider drops the wooden dowel, he may pick it up mounted or unmounted.
- If the carton is stepped on and gets squished before it can be picked up, the rider may dismount and fix the container before remounting and continuing.
- If the litter is on the inside of Line C, the rider must first cross Line C and then come back into the field of play to pick up the litter.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- Riders should practice handing off the wooden dowel in an upright (vertical) position. Don't poke at the outgoing rider. See handoff tips.
- Riders should hold the dowel about 1/3 of the way down the dowel (2/3 of the dowel above the hand and 1/3 below the hand). This will give the rider better leverage for picking up the litter. DO NOT HOLD THE DOWEL AT THE VERY END.
- Some ponies freak out the first time they hear or see the litter hanging from the dowel. Riders should first hold and rattle the litter on the dowel near the pony while unmounted. Next, the rider should have the coach hold the pony while the rider gets the pony used to the litter while mounted.
- Riders should have the coach hold the pony when first practicing picking up the litter. Then the rider does not have to worry about holding the pony and picking up the litter.
- Riders should practice a scooping motion when picking up the litter.
- Advanced riders should practice picking up the litter in one continuous motion; cross Line C, turn towards the litter, scoop of the litter, and move off towards the laundry basket.
 

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-Four Bending Poles 24' to 30' apart
-Two 12 oz. Mugs enamel recommended
 

Game Setup:

Four bending poles will be placed 24' to 30' apart centered between lines A and C. One mug is placed on top of pole one, closest to Line A; the second mug is placed on top of pole three. Riders number one and three will be behind line A. Riders two and four will be behind line C.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one rides to pole 1 and moves the mug to pole 2, then moves the mug from pole 3 to pole four. Riders number two, three and four will complete the course in the same manner up and down the arena successively. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four crosses the finish line first.

An attempt must be made to put the mug on the pole while mounted. Corrections can be made mounted or unmounted.
 

Correction Rules:

-Dropped mugs must be placed on the correct pole before proceeding either mounted or unmounted..
-Poles which are knocked over must be reset before proceeding either mounted or unmounted.
 

Special Tips:

Enamel mugs are recommended because when riders learn to play at speed the bottoms of plastic mugs are sometimes broken. Handles may be removed from the enamel mugs if desired. If the handles are removed, tape over the holes with duck or electrical tape. (Enamel mugs may be found at camping supply stores.)
Right-handed riders should ride to the left of the poles, and left-handed to the right.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-Needle (Wooden dowel, 10" long, 1" diameter with four 1/2 " holes drilled, starting 1" from the end allowing 1/2" between each hole). The needle should be taped (with 2" masking tape) to a bending pole in place on Line B. See Appendix D in the USPC Games Rule Book for a diagram on attaching the needle to the bending pole. All needle holders in all lanes should be pointed in the same direction at the start of the game. It does not matter if they are pointing in the same direction at the end of the game.
-One bending pole
-Four pieces of thread ( 18" cotton shoelaces, knotted on one end. The laces should be thick enough to tie a half inch knot in them and still leave enough thread to be threaded easily through the needle. The "thread" should be taped on the end so it will not fray.)
 

Game Setup:

Place a bending pole on Line B. Attach the needle to the bending pole as shown in the diagram in the Appendix D in the USPC Games Rule Book . Each rider should start with one thread in hand. Riders 1 & 3 begin behind Line A. Riders 2 & 4 begin behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 must begin the race behind the 6-yard line.
 

Game Play:

The first and third riders of each team begin the game mounted and carrying a thread behind Line A. The second and fourth riders of each team begin the game mounted and carrying a thread behind Line C. On the signal to start, the first rider on each team rides to the bending pole on Line B; threads the needle and continues on, crossing Line C. The second, third and fourth riders of each team will similarly each complete the course, up and down the arena in succession. The winning team will be the one whose fourth rider is first to cross the finish line mounted and whose team has successfully threaded the needle four times. A successfully threaded needle means that the thread ends must be on each side of the needle - folding or bunching the thread is not allowed.
 

Correction Rules:

-If the rider drops the thread, he may pick it up mounted or unmounted.
-Each rider must thread his thread while MOUNTED.
-If the bending pole is knocked over, the rider must reset the pole, the needle, and the threads already threaded by previous riders. This may be done mounted or unmounted.
 

Special Tips:

-Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there are more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
-Riders should thread the needle starting at the bottom and working their way to the top. This way the threads already threaded in the needle will not get in the way of the next riders.
-Suggestion: A 1/4 " piece of dowel can be put through the "needle" so it can sit in the "v" cut of a pole for the rings in the sword race, thereby eliminating the need to tape the needle to the pole. Also a cotter pin can be put through the pole (and taped over to avoid sharp edges) to hold the needle inside the pole.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- One 5-gallon water bucket
- Five old socks, rolled up
- One marked circle or hula hoop (optional)
 

Game Setup:

Place four old socks inside the circle located three yards behind Line C. A hula-hoop may be used to create the circle. Place a bucket on Line B. All riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, and 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Give the fifth sock to rider 1.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one, carrying a sock, rides to the bucket on line B and drops the sock in it. The rider then continues to the far end to pick up a sock. The rider must dismount to pick up a sock and may dismount at any time after he has successfully dropped the sock into the bucket, but the rider and all four feet of the pony must cross Line C (either mounted or dismounted) before returning for the handover regardless of where the sock was picked up. Riders number two, three and four will complete the course in the same manner in succession with rider number four dropping the last sock into the bucket (double dunking) on his way back. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four is first over the finish line mounted. If the socks are knocked out of the circle they need not be placed back in.
 

Correction Rules:

- If the rider misses the bucket, the rider may pick up the sock while mounted or unmounted and place it in the bucket.
- If the rider knocks over the bucket, the rider may correct the equipment mounted or unmounted.
- If the socks are knocked out of the circle, the rider does not have to replace the socks. The rider may pick up the socks wherever they land.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated from that game
- Riders should remember when dunking the sock that it is not as bouncy as a ball. The rider does not have to be quite as careful when dunking. However, don't get sloppy when dunking. See dunking tips.
- The advanced rider should use the corner vault after making the sock pickup. See vaulting tips.
- Some riders find it better to dismount right after dunking the sock and running with the pony across Line C to pick up the sock. Advanced riders however make the pickup short and efficient by dismounting at the socks, picking up the sock while the pony is circling around them, vaulting on the pony and taking off. One smooth continuous move.
- The incoming rider should use the 3-finger handoff. See handoffs tips.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Large Trash Container with wooden top
- Eight letters spelling PONY CLUB. Letters should be written on each side of the wooden cards. Cards should be 8" square, 1/4 " thick, and have a hole in the top center for hanging. The letters on the cards should be 5" high.
- One post with cross pieces, approximately 7' tall with two cross bars. Four hooks should be equally spaced across each cross piece.
 

Game Setup:

Place the container on Line B, then place the eight letters on top of the container, stacked randomly in sets of two. All riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Rider 5 or a designated holder stands behind Line C on the 6-yard line holding the post.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one rides to the container and picks up any two letters, rides to his rider number five and hangs the letters on the hooks in the correct spelling order before returning to the start/finish line. NOTE: The letters are written on both sides so that the final spelling is correct when observed from either side. Riders two, three and four do likewise, the winning team being the first team with al the letters on the hooks in the correct spelling and with rider number four crossing line A mounted.. Rider number five may not help at any time and merely holds the post. Letters dropped in an attempt to hang them on the hooks may be picked up by the rider by dismounting. The rider must remount and then place the letters when mounted. Provided they have been correctly hung, letters blown off in the course of the race do not need to be replaced.
 

Correction Rules:

- If the rider drops his letters, he may pick them up mounted or unmounted.
- The rider must place the letters on the cross bars while MOUNTED.
- If letters are blown off during the course of the race after being placed correctly, they do not have to be replaced.
- If a rider places the letters in the wrong place, then that rider must correct the letters. If other riders have ridden, they must reverse their steps until the rider who made the mistake has corrected their mistake.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game
- If a rider has trouble remembering how to spell PONY CLUB in the heat of the competition, write PONY CLUB on the rider's wrist or have that rider ride last so there are fewer spots left to hang letters.
- All team members must watch all riders and make sure that PONY CLUB is being spelled correctly. The other team members should advise the rider immediately if there is an error made.
- Riders should practice using their outside leg on the pony when approaching the drum and the post so the rider can get as close as possible.
- If there is one pony that is afraid of the waving letters, have that pony go first so there are no letters waving when approaching the post.
- Riders should park the pony sideways in front or behind the post when hanging the letters and should not try to reach over the pony's head.
- Advanced riders should try to cut in front of the drum to get more time to pick up the letters from the container.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-Four bending poles
-Four weighted envelopes (place a piece of thin cardboard to make the envelopes stiff)
-One feed sack
 

Game Setup:

The bending poles should be set in a straight line, two on each side of line B, 24 to 30 feet from line B. The remaining poles should be set 24 to 30 feet one on either side of the first two poles. Riders 1 & 3 start the race be behind Line A and riders 2 & 4 start the race behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard lines at A and C. Give the feed sack to Rider 1.

 

Game Play:

At the signal to start, Rider one will ride down, weaving through the bending poles, to line B, where he/she will dismount, pick up an envelope, put it in the sack before remounting, mount, and weave the remaining poles keeping the same pattern. The rider must be mounted while passing the second bending pole, and must have remounted before passing the third bending pole. Upon crossing the changeover line, rider number one will hand-off the sack to rider number two. Riders two, three and four will complete the course in the same manner, passing up and down the arena successively. The winning team will be the one whose fourth rider crosses the finish line first carrying the sack containing four envelopes.
 

Correction Rules:

-If the rider drops an envelope, he may pick it up mounted or unmounted and replace it in the feed sack.
-If an envelope falls out of the sack, the rider who dropped it must be the one to correct the problem. If other riders have run the race before the error is noticed, all riders before that rider must ride the race in reverse, returning all equipment to its original place, so the rider making the error may correct the error.
-If any poles are knocked over, they may be righted either mounted or unmounted.
-After the corrections are made, the rider must be mounted to continue the race. The rider must restart the race from where the error was made. If necessary, the rider must also rebend missed poles.
 

Special Tips:

-Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
-A rider should get his pony used to the flapping feed sack and should practice carrying it, mounting with it, and handing it off next to the pony. Have the coach hold the pony when first attempting this.
-Riders should follow the same bending rules as used in the bending race. When starting the race, the rider should start with the pole on his right shoulder (left side of the pole). After picking up the envelope, the rider should start with the pole on his right shoulder.
-All riders should stuff the envelope down to the bottom of the sack and make sure not to knock out other envelopes.
-The game is easier if the first rider rolls the top of the bag down about one third of the way. This makes it easier for the riders to carry, stuff the envelopes in the sack, and handoff.
-Riders should make sure when vaulting that the feed sack is out of the way so they don't sit on it or get it tangled in the reins.
 

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Five bending poles
- Four weighted envelopes (place a piece of thin cardboard to make the envelopes stiff)
- One feed sack
 

Game Setup:

Place five bending poles 24' to 30' apart midway between Lines A & C. (Use the same rules as for the bending race). All the riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Rider 5 or a designated holder should stand, holding four envelopes, 3 yards beyond Line C. Give the feed sack to rider 1.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one carrying a sack will weave through the bending poles, and across the changeover line, where rider number five will hand him/her a letter. The first rider will place the letter in his/her sack before re-crossing the changeover line, returning by weaving through the bending poles past line A, where he/she will hand the sack to rider number two. The second, third and fourth riders will similarly collect a letter from rider number five. The winning team will be the one who is first over the finish line, mounted and with four letters in the sack. Rider number five must remain beyond the changeover line during the entire game. Rider number five may assist by holding the inside rein of the rider only while rider places letter in sack.
 

Special Rules:

- The envelope holder cannot cross over Line C during the race.
- The holder may hold the inside rein of the incoming rider during the envelope handover and placement in the feed sack.
- The holder may not put the envelope in the feed sack for the rider.
 

Corrections Rules:

- If the rider mis-bends a pole, he must return and rebend the pole correctly.
- If the rider knocks over a pole, he must reset the pole and rebend the pole from the point of the error.
- If the rider drops the envelope before crossing back over Line C, either the rider or the holder may pick it up.
- If the rider does not have the envelope in the sack before crossing back over Line C, he must go back across Line C and put the envelope in the sack there.
- If the envelope falls out of the sack after crossing Line C, the rider does not have to return to Line C to correct the problem. The rider can retrieve the envelope and stuff it in the bag from the spot the envelope fell out.
- If the riders drop the sack during the changeover handoff, then either rider may pick up the sack.
- Riders may pick up a dropped sack or envelope, mounted or umounted.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- A rider should get the pony used to the flapping feed sack, practice carrying it, mounting with it, and handing it off next to the pony. Practice this skill first unmounted, then the coach should hold the pony when first attempting this skill mounted.
- All riders should follow the same bending rules as used in the bending race. When starting the race, start with the pole on the rider's RIGHT shoulder or the LEFT side of the pole. After picking up the envelope, once again, the rider should start with the pole on his right shoulder.
- Riders should stuff the envelope down to the bottom of the sack and should make sure not to knock out other envelopes.
- The first rider should roll the top of the bag down about one third of the way. This makes it easier to carry the sack, to stuff the envelopes in the sack, and to make handoffs.
- All riders should practice making a smooth semi-circle around the holder during the envelope pickup. Steps: The holder hands envelope to the rider, and grabs inside rein of the rider's pony. While the rider is making a half circle around the holder, the rider is stuffing the envelope into the feed sack. As the rider approaches Line C again, he should have the envelope stuffed in the sack and should be on his way back to the next rider.

Return to top of race descriptions

Achieved Standards of Proficiency skills:  Balance, Flexibility, Control, Suppling exercises, Emergency dismount, Halt, Transitions.   Required Games Skills: Vaulting, dunking, & handoffs

Equipment Required:

- One 5-gallon water bucket
- Five potatoes
- One marked circle
 

Game Setup:

Place four potatoes inside a circle located three yards behind Line C. A hula-hoop can be used to create the circle. Place a bucket on Line B. All riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Give the fifth potato to Rider 1.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one, carrying a potato, will ride to his team's bucket and drop the potato into it. The rider then continues to the far end to pick up a potato. The rider must dismount to pick up a potato and may dismount at any time after he has successfully dropped the potato into the bucket, but the rider and all four feet of the pony must cross Line C (either mounted or dismounted) before returning for the handover regardless of where the potato was picked up. Riders two, three and four will complete the course in the same manner in succession, with rider number four dropping the fifth potato in the bucket on his way back (double dunking). If the potatoes are knocked out of the hula hoop, they need not be placed back in.
 

Correction Rules:

- If the rider misses the bucket, the rider may pick up the potato while mounted or unmounted and place it in the bucket.
- If the rider knocks over the bucket, the rider may correct the equipment mounted or unmounted.
- If the potatoes are knocked out of the hula-hoop or painted circle, the rider does not have to replace the potatoes before continuing. If one of the potatoes crosses over Line C, the rider does not have to replace it in the circle. He may pick it up where it has landed as long as he has completely crossed Line C.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there are more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- Riders should remember when dunking the potato that it is not as bouncy as a ball but more bouncy than a sock. So the rider still has to be careful when dunking the potato. See dunking tips.
- Riders should use the 3-finger handoff. See handoff tips.
- Advanced riders should use the corner vault after picking up the potato. See vaulting tips.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-Two large trash containers with wooden tops
-Four Plastic Containers approximately 7" square and 3 ¾ " deep, partially filled with sand or sawdust to weigh 1 lb or more.
 

Game Setup:

There will be a container on the center line and the second trash container three yards beyond the changeover line. There will be four plastic containers stacked on the drum beyond the changeover line.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one will ride to the changeover line and collect a container which will then be placed on the trash container on the center line. Rider one then proceeds to the start/finish line. Rider number two rides to the changeover line, collects a container and stacks this on top of the previous container placed on the center line trash container by rider one. Rider numbers three and four repeat the process until all containers have been stacked on the center line trash container. The winning team will be the one whose rider four is first over the finish line, with all four cartons stacked on the center line trash container.
 

Correction Rules:

-If a trash container is knocked over, it may be reset either unmounted or mounted.
-If the stacked plastic containers fall, they must be reset.
 

Special Tips:

-The containers should be made of something that can easily be stacked. If plastic freezer storage boxes are to be used (see picture above), they should have something added inside to give enough weight to be stable. The plastic container may then be taped to ensure that the contents stay inside.

 

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-Two bending poles with ring holders attached (First ring holder: 2"x2"x20" piece of wood in which four sections of ½ " wooden dowel, 3" long, have been set and glued at 5" intervals. Second Ring holder: 2"x2"x10", ½ " dowel, 6" long set and glued at the center, all the dowels should be fastened so they slope upward slightly) Secure the ring holders to the top section of the bending pole with duck tape.
-Five round rubber rings (vacuum cleaner 4" belts) The rings can be colored or taped for extra visibility.

Game Setup:

Place the bending pole with the ring holder two at Line C with the dowel facing the outside of the arena. Place the bending pole with the ring holder one 15 yards inside the arena from Line A. The four dowels should be facing Line A. One ring is hung from each of the four dowels. All riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Give the fifth ring to rider 1.

Game Play:

Rider number one carrying a ring, will ride to the far end of the arena and hang his/her ring on the dowel, then riders back, collecting a ring from the pole near line A and hands the ring to rider number two. Riders two, three and four will complete the course in the same manner, with the rider number four carrying the last ring over the finish line. Should the ring be dropped or knocked off the ring holder dowel (line A), the rider must dismount, replace the ring, remount and take the ring from the dowel while mounted. If a ring placed by a previous rider is knocked down in an attempt to place the ring on the dowel (line C), the rider must dismount and may replace that ring while dismounted. However, each rider must place his/her own ring while mounted. If either holder is knocked over, the rider must dismount and reset it. If the rider has not yet taken or placed a ring, he/she must remount to do so.

Correction Rules:

-If the rider drops his ring, he may pick it up mounted or unmounted.
-If the rider drops the ring while placing his ring on the holder at Line C, then he must pick up the ring and place it on the ring holder while MOUNTED. The rider can pick up the ring unmounted (or mounted).. But he must be mounted when placing the ring on the holder.
-If the rider knocks off his ring while attempting to pick it up off the ring holder at Line A, then he must pick up the ring and place it back on the ring holder before attempting to pick it up again. He can replace the dropped ring on the holder while mounted or unmounted. He must pick up the ring from the holder while MOUNTED.
-If the rider knocks off other riders' rings while attempting to place the ring or pick up the ring, he may put those rings back while unmounted. But the rider must place his own ring on the holder or pick up his ring while MOUNTED.

Special Tips:

-Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
-The coach should make doubly sure that all the riders know the correction rules for this game. This race causes many teams to be eliminated because the team members make incorrect corrections.
-Riders should pick up the ring with ONE finger and should slow down to almost a stop in plenty of time before attempting to pick up the ring. It is better to retry while mounted than stop to make corrections.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-Four bending poles
-3' rope (polypropylene or cotton)
 

Game Setup:

Place four bending poles 24' to 30' apart midway between Lines A and C. Riders 1 & 3 start the race behind Line A and riders 2 & 4 start the race behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Give the rope to rider 1.
 

Game Play:

Rider number one, carrying the rope rides down the line of bending poles passing them on alternate sides, crosses the changeover line where the second rider will grasp the other end of the rope. Both riders will then ride back weaving the bending poles, each rider holding one end of the rope, and crossing line A. Rider number one releases his/her end of the rope and rider number three grasps it. Riders two and three weave the bending poles, holding each end of the rope, and cross the changeover line, where rider number two releases his/her end of the rope and rider number four grasps it. Riders three and four ride back, weaving the bending poles, each holding one end of the rope until they cross line A. The winning team will be the one whose riders three and four each holding one end of the rope - have both crossed the finish line first. The rope must be grasped behind lines A or C. No knots are permitted on either end of the rope.
 

Special Rules:

-Neither rider can drop the rope until crossing the changeover line.
-The rider's must hold the rope and not hands.
-Both riders must grasp the rope before crossing back over Lines A or C and during the entire time the riders are between lines A and C.
 

Correction Rules:

-If either rider drops the rope before crossing the line, both riders must go back to where the rope was dropped and continue the race from there.
-If a pole is knocked over, one rider must reset the pole before continuing the race. The pole must be re-bent correctly.
 

Special Tips:

-Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
-Riders should practice this race slowly at first and figure out which ponies get along best. Watch out for kickers.
-The rider that is incoming and continuing the race should circle around the next outgoing rider, passing him the rope as he rides by. Then both riders may start off together.
-The coach should have the rider's hands as close as possible on the rope. This way if the ponies separate slightly, the riders have some rope to give.
-There are two methods for the incoming rider to pick up the outgoing rider.
-Method 1: Both incoming riders come in on one side of the waiting rider. The rider that is staying should peel off. The rider that is continuing the race circles behind the outgoing rider and hands the rope to the rider. Either side will work.
-Method 2: Both incoming riders come in on one side of the waiting rider. The rider that is staying peels off. The rider that is continuing the race circles next to the outgoing rider and hands him the rope. Either side will work but method two is better because the rider does not have to worry about going behind a pony that might kick.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-One feed sack
 

Game Setup:

Riders 1 & 3 start the race behind Line A. Riders 2 & 4 start the race behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Give the feed sack to rider 1.
 

Game Play:

Rider number one, carrying the sack, will ride forward, dismount and get into the sack before crossing the center line (line B) then run or hop across the changeover line in the sack, leading his or her pony. Rider number one gets out of the sack and hands it to rider number two. Riders number two, three, and four will complete the course in the same manner up and down the arena successively. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four in the sack, leading his/her pony, crosses the finish line first. All six legs must cross the finish line to complete the race.
Getting out of the sack and handing it over must be done behind lines A or C; both the rider and all four legs of the pony must be over the line before the rider gets out of the sack and hands it over. Only the rider, while getting into the sack, must remain behind line B; if the pony wanders across the line it does not matter. No competitor is allowed to get help from the pony either by holding onto the mane, the neck, the saddle, or any part of the bridle held close to the bit (leaning on the bridle for support).
 

Correction Rules:

-If the rider gets out of the sack or hands over the sack before crossing all six legs cross the changeover line, he must get back in the sack and cross the changeover line with his pony.
-If the rider drops the sack before getting to Line B, he may pick up the sack mounted or unmounted.
 

Special Tips:

-Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
-Riders should try all hopping techniques and pick the fastest one: hopping forwards, backwards, sideways, diagonally or even running in the bag (good for small feet).
-Riders should practice trotting ponies in hand before practicing the race.
-Riders should make sure the ponies are accustomed to flapping sacks before starting this race.
-Riders should make sure they are on the correct side of Line B when dismounting and getting into the sack. The rider and the pony must stop before Line B. The rider cannot cross Line B before he has both feet in the feed sack. If the pony wanders over the line however, that is not a problem.
-Riders should make sure ALL of the pony's legs are across the finish line before he quits hopping.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-One Bending Pole
-Eight Lettered Cylinders made of 2" PVC pipe (or a diameter that will fit over a bending pole), 6" long. Each cylinder will have one of the letters from the word SPILLERS repeated 3 times on the surface.
 

Game Setup:

Three yards beyond the changeover line there will be seven lettered cylinders, with letters P,I,L,L,E,R and S, lined up in any order perpendicular to the changeover line. A bending pole (the Spillers Pole) will be on the Center line of the arena. Rider number one will begin with a cylinder lettered "S".
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one will ride forward to the Spiller's pole (bending pole) and slot the cylinder over the pole. Rider one continues to the far end, dismounts and collects the letter "R". He/she remounts and returns to the center where he/she slots the "R" onto the pole. He/she then returns to the far end, dismounts and collects carton "E", remounts and rides to the start/finish line to hand cylinder "E" to rider two. Rider numbers three and four repeat the process until the word SPILLERS can be read from the top to the bottom of the pole. Rider four slots the final "S" over the pole on his/her way back and crosses the finish line. The winning team will be the one whose rider four is first over the finish line, with the word SPILLERS spelled correctly from the top to the bottom of the pole.
 

Correction Rules:

-Cylinders placed in the wrong order, or with the letter upside down, must be corrected by the rider who placed the cylinder incorrectly. If other riders have placed letters before the error is noticed, those riders must remove their letters in the same manner as they were placed so the rider making the error can correct the error.
 

Special Tips:

-Unlike a mug in Three-Mug or Mug Shuffle Race, the cylinders used in the Spillers Race are longer and have a narrower central hole. This makes them more difficult to place on the end of the pole; this should be practiced with more precision and less speed than the aforementioned races.

Return to top of race descriptions

Achieved Standards of Proficiency skills: Mounting and dismounting, Emergency dismount, Balance, Walk trot transitions in hand, Jogging, Leading   Required Games Skills: Vaulting

Equipment Required:

- Six stones (paint cans filled with cement)
- One 1'x8"x10' board

Game Setup:

Place six stepping-stones upside down 18" apart on the stepping stone board centered on Line B. Riders 1 & 3 start the race behind Line A and riders 2 & 4 start the race behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one will ride to the stepping stones, dismount, and dash across (on top of) the stones while leading the pony, beginning with the stone closest to the rider's starting line and ending with the stone farthest from the rider's starting line, treading on each stepping stone and on the ground after the last. He or she will then remount before riding across the changeover line. Riders two, three, and four will similarly complete the course up and down the arena in succession. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four is first over the finish line, mounted.

If a stone is missed, knocked over by a rider or a pony's foot, or the rider's foot hits the ground before the last stone is treaded, rider must reset the stone and redo all six stones. No competitor is allowed to get help from the pony or its tack by holding onto the mane, the neck, the saddle, or any part of the bridle held close to the bit (leaning on the bridle for support).
 

Correction Rules:

- If the rider falls off the stepping-stones, knocks over a stone, or has his pony knock over a stone, he must correct the stones and he must re-step ALL six stepping-stones beginning at the first stone.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The rider and his pony should run on the same side of the stones (either left or right). Don't attempt this with the pony approaching on one side of the stones and the rider on the other.
- Riders should practice dismounting well before getting to the stones so there is enough time to get the pony moving straight and forward before the rider needs to step the stones.
- The rider should practice running beside the trotting pony, making sure the pony will trot in a straight line. Make sure that the pony will trot well away from the rider while he is running.
- The rider should push him away with his fist or elbow to give the rider enough room to step the stones.
- The rider should practice stepping across the stones with his toes as fast as possible.
- Advanced riders should take only one step on the ground before vaulting immediately into the saddle.
- The riders may NOT use any of the stepping stones as a "leg up" during vaulting.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Four bending poles
- One Sword
- Four rubber rings, 4" vacuum cleaner belts. The rings can be colored or taped for visibility.
 

Game Setup:

Place four bending poles 24' to 30' apart evenly spaced between Line A and Line C. Place a rubber ring in the slot at the top of each bending pole. Riders 1 & 3 start the race behind Line A and riders 2 & 4 start the race behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Give the sword to rider 1.
 

Game Play:

Rider 1 carrying the sword, rides to one of the poles, and picks the ring off the pole with the sword. He then rides to the changeover line and after crossing the line, hands the sword to rider 2. Both riders may only touch the handle of the sword. The rings may not be held on the sword at any time except when remounting after a correction. Riders 2, 3, & 4 complete the race in the same manner alternating changeover lines. The winning team is the team whose fourth rider crosses the finish line mounted with all four rings on the sword. Riders should NOT bend the poles.
 

Correction Rules:

- If the rider drops a ring, the rider may retrieve it mounted or unmounted., by hand or with the sword. He must resume the race from the point where he dropped the ring. The rider is allowed to hold the ring on the sword until he is ready to resume the race.
- If the pole is knocked over while picking the ring, it does NOT need to be reset.
- If the rider misses one ring, he may pick a ring from another pole. However, if the ring falls to the ground, the rider must pick up that ring and only that ring.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- Riders should hold the sword with his index finger laying down the handle. Do not cross over the cross piece however. This will make it easier to steady the sword and point at the ring. This method makes the sword an extension of the rider's arm.
- The team should work out their strategy for picking up the rings ahead of time. Then the rider can concentrate on picking up his ring. However, if the rider misses, just pick up the next available ring.

Return to top of race descriptions

Achieved Standards of Proficiency skills: Knowledge of grooming tools, Balance, Control, Use of aids, Lateral movements, Transitions, Halt and back step   Required Games Skills: Put-down, pick-up and handoff skills.

Equipment Required:

- Two large trash containers with wooden tops
- One Bending Pole topped with a "Money Box", 6" diameter container with sides no taller than 1 ½ " which are vertical or angled out slightly with a dowel rod attached top fit down into the bending pole.
- One Plastic Grooming Tray
- One Coin 4" in diameter, plywood or stiff material
- Four pieces of "tack": sponge, dandy brush, comb, rubber curry comb, or other such suitable items
 

Game Setup:

One bending pole topped with the "Money Box" will be placed fifteen yards from the start line. Fifteen yards from the changeover line will be one trash container with a plastic grooming tray on top. Rider number five begins standing behind a trash container placed three yards beyond line C with 4 tack items lying on the container. Rider number one will start carrying the coin.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one will ride forward to the money box on the bending pole and deposit the coin. Rider one continues to collect the grooming tray and then rides to rider number five who puts any one of the items in the grooming tray. Rider one then returns the grooming tray to the first drum. He then rides to the money box, collects the coin and hands it to rider two. Rider numbers two, three and four repeat the process. The winning team will be the one whose rider four is first over the finish line carrying the coin.
If an item is dropped behind the changeover line, either the rider or Number 5 may pick it up. The item must be in the tray before the rider re-crosses the changeover line. Number 5 may hold the rein of the pony behind the changeover line.
 

Correction Rules:

- If an item is dropped behind the changeover line, either the rider or Number 5 may pick it up. The item must be in the tray before the rider re-crosses the changeover line. Number 5 may hold the rein of the pony behind the changeover line.
 

Special Tips:

- Weights may be placed in the tack box in windy conditions. In such cases, the weights are considered to be part of the equipment and must be replaced if the tack box is knocked over.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-One Feed Sack
 

Game Setup:

Riders number one and three will be mounted behind line A; riders two and four will be unmounted, holding their ponies, standing behind the changeover line.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one carrying the sack rides to the changeover line where he passes the sack to rider two and dismounts. Riders one and two place one foot each in the sack before crossing line C, then proceed to line A leading their ponies. After crossing line A the sack is handed to rider number three who rides to the changeover line, passes the sack to rider four and dismounts. Riders three and four place one foot each in the sack and proceed to line A leading their ponies. The winning team will be the one whose riders number three and four each with one foot in the sack, leading their ponies, cross the finish line first. All twelve legs must cross the finish line to complete the race.
Riders one and three may dismount any time after crossing line A but rider and pony must cross the changeover line before getting into the sack.
Riders one and three may pass the sack to riders two and four before crossing the changeover line if they wish.
The sack must remain above the knees when running.
Riders and ponies must be behind the line before moving off in the sack and at the changeovers.
 

Correction Rules:

-If the sack falls below the knees, the pair must reestablish themselves at a place on the field at or before the spot where the sack fell below the knees.
-If a three-legged pair is not fully established in the sack at Line C, before crossing Line C, they must retreat behind Line C and start there again.
-If a three-legged pair is not yet fully in the sack, and one of their ponies steps over Line C, the pony must be brought behind Line C (along with the other pony and the three-legged pair) before starting.
 

Special Tips:

-When learning this game in practice, each pair of riders who will be sharing the sack should establish which foot they will lead with when beginning to work in a three-legged fashion.
-Passing the sack to the rider who is your three-legged partner as you approach the changeover line will allow that partner to get his leg in the sack and be ready when you have dismounted and are prepared to join him.
-Each three-legged pair of players should establish a word which will announce their readiness to proceed at Line C (such as "Ready!"), and one of the pair should then give the command to "Go!".

Return to top of race descriptions

Achieved Standards of Proficiency skills:  Balance, Flexibility, Control, Suppling exercises, Emergency dismount, Halt, Transitions.   Required Games Skills: Put-down, pick-up and vaulting skills.

Equipment Required:

-Large Trash Container with wooden top
-One Plastic Grooming Tray
-Four Plastic Hammers or small tools
-One marked circle
 

Game Setup:

One container will be placed fifteen yards from the start line. Three yards beyond Line C with be 4 plastic hammers within a marked circle for visibility. Rider number one will start carrying the tool box (grooming tray).
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one carrying the tool box will ride forward to the drum and place the tool box on the drum. Rider one then continues to the far end of the arena, dismounts, collects a tool, remounts and returns to place the tool in the tool box before crossing the start/finish line. Rider numbers two, three and four repeat the process with rider four collecting the tool box by the handle and carrying it across the start/finish line.
Rider four must place the hammer in the tool box before picking the tool box up to cross the finish line.
The tool box must be carried by the handle when crossing the start/finish line.
Weights may be placed in the tool box in windy conditions. In such cases, the weights are considered to be part of the equipment and must be replaced if the tool box is knocked over.
 

Correction Rules:

-If the rider knocks over the tool box or barrel, it may be reset either unmounted or mounted.
 

Special Tips:

-Weights may be placed in the tool box in windy conditions. In such cases, the weights are considered to be part of the equipment and must be replaced if the tool box is knocked over.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

-Two 18" traffic cones with the tops cut off so the inside diameter at the top is 4"
-Two flags
 

Game Setup:

Place the two traffic cones 15 yards inside of Line A and Line C. In the cone near Line C place one flag. Riders 1 & 3 start the race behind Line A and riders 2 & 4 start the race behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 must start the game behind the 6-yard line. Give the second flag to Rider 1.

Game Play:

At the start rider number one, carrying a flag, will ride to the first cone and put his/her flag in it, then will ride to the second cone, remove the flag, and hand it over to rider number two. Riders two, three, and four will similarly complete the course up and down the arena in succession. The winning team will be the one whose rider number four is the first over the finish line, mounted and carrying a flag.
 

Correction Rules:

-If the rider drops the flag or knocks the flag out of the cone, he may pick up the flag mounted or unmounted.
-If the rider knocks over the cone, the rider may correct the equipment mounted or unmounted.
-If the flag is knocked out of cone, the rider may place the flag in the cone unmounted or mounted.
-If a flag comes off the dowel, the rider may complete the race with the dowel only.
 

Special Tips:

-Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
-The rider should hold the flag vertical (upright) when handing off. No stabbing of other riders please. See handoff tips.
-As riders improve their skills, they should pick up the flag in a windmill action. See the pickup tips.
-Riders should hold the flag near the flag end and "point it" into the container when making the drop. See putdown tips.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- Four bending poles
- Three 12-14 ounce plastic mugs

Game Setup:

Place the four bending poles 24' to 30' apart spaced evenly between Line A and Line C. All riders start the race behind Line A. Riders 2, 3, & 4 must start the game behind the 6-yard line. Place the cups inverted on the first three poles.

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one goes forward to move the mugs from post to post in the following order: Mug from post three to post four; mug from post two to post three; mug from post one to post two, after which he or she returns and crosses line A. Rider number two then moves the mugs back from post two to post one; from post three to post two; and post four to post three, after which he or she crosses line A. Rider three and four complete the course in the same manner. The winning team will be that whose rider number four is the first over the finish line, mounted. If knocked over, poles must be reset.

Correction Rules:

- If the rider drops the mug, he may pick it up mounted or unmounted.
- If the rider knocks over a pole, he may make the correction mounted or unmounted.

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- The coach should have riders 2 and 4 cut in front of the first pole when picking up the mug. Same diagonal move as for the cone or the barrel. See pickup tips.
- All riders should watch their hands and not let go of the mug until they are sure the mug is firmly in place.
- All riders should stay as close to the pole as possible so he does not interfere with another team's lane.
- Riders can circle the poles or can cut in front of them when picking up and when placing the mugs. Use the method that is easiest for the rider and pony.

Return to top of race descriptions

Equipment Required:

- One 5-gallon water bucket filled 1/2 with water (the moat)
- One 26" to 28" traffic cone (the castle)
- One turret holder (see the USPC 2001 Games Rule Book, Appendix C for instructions on how to make it)
- One turret (see the USPC 2001 Games Rule Book, Appendix C for instructions on how to make it)
- One croquet or bocce ball spray painted gold (golden orb)
 

Game Setup:

Place the traffic cone at Line B. Place the turret holder in the hole of the traffic cone. Place the bucket of water halfway between Line B and Line C. Riders 1 & 3 start behind Line A and riders 2 & 4 start behind Line C. Riders 3 & 4 must start the race behind the 6-yard line. Give the turret to rider 1 and the orb to rider 2.
 

Game Play:

On the signal to start, rider number one takes the Turret and rides to the Castle, placing the Turret on the turret holder. He or she then rides to cross Line C. Rider number two rides to the Castle and places the Orb on top of the Turret, then crosses the start/finish line. Rider number three is the robber, who rides to the castle, steals the Orb, and drops it into the Moat (bucket) before going on to cross Line C. Rider number four rescues the Orb from the Moat, replaces it on the Turret and continues on to cross the finish line. The orb may be retrieved from the moat either mounted or dismounted. The winning team is the one whose rider number four is first over the finish line, mounted, and having completed correctly all the phases of the race.
If the Turret or the Orb is dropped (or if the rider misses the Moat when dropping the Orb), they may be retrieved mounted or dismounted. If the Turret or the Castle is knocked over, it must be reset either mounted or dismounted.
 

Correction rules:

- If the rider drops any of the equipment, he may pick it up mounted or unmounted.
- If the rider knocks over the castle, he must reset it and any other equipment on it,
- If the rider knocks over the bucket, he must reset the bucket. He does not have to refill the bucket with water.
 

Special Tips:

- Remember the holding area line (6-yard line) is six yards from Line A and Line C. During the playing of the games only the next rider out may be in front of this line. All others must be behind it in the holding area. If there is more than one outgoing rider in front of the 6-yard line, the team will be eliminated for that game.
- All riders should practice picking up the orb from the bucket of water while mounted. Usually the rider on the smallest and/or steadiest pony does this step during the competition.
- All riders should make sure the pony is steady before placing the turret or the orb.
- The riders should not let go of the equipment until he is sure it will stay and not fall off. It is quicker to retry than have to dismount and correct a mistake.
- See the pickup and putdown tips for more ideas.
 

Return to top of race descriptions