Rules & Regulations

The Equine Clicker Show (TECS) is an organization that promotes community & support for equine trainers who utilize R+/clicker training by offering a network of likeminded trainers, structured goals, valuable judge's feedback, and a competitive outlet. Learn more about TECS & our mission.

Participating in TECS is easy! Before Competing: Review the rubrics and select the class(es) you want to enter. Practice with your equine as much as needed until you feel you are ready to perform the behaviors as described in the rubric. Record Your Entry: Record your entry on video, following the video regulations. The great thing about virtual competition is that you can perform your entry from the comfort of your own home/stable, eliminating the stress of hauling to the showgrounds! You can also record & re-record as many times as you want until you're happy with the performance. Submit Your Entry: Submit your entry via the online entry form. Members get discounted entry fees, and all competitors can choose to "opt-out" of getting a physical ribbon for an additional discount on their entry fee. Get Your Results: You will receive a digital copy of your scored rubric within 5 business days, with valuable feedback from our expert judges. Once scoring is complete, any awards & prizes will be mailed within 10 business days. Members are automatically entered into the running for Year-End Awards, which are awarded in November.

TECS virtual competition accepts rolling entries, meaning you can submit your entries anytime within the open window. Important dates for the 2024 Show Year (Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2024) include: Mar 1 - Nov 1, 2024: Entries Accepted Thurs, Nov 14, 2024: Year-End Awards

TECS strives to make competing accessible & affordable, which includes transparency around fees & cost information. Membership Fees Memberships are valid for the entire current show season Single Membership - $45 Group Membership - $45 Read more & sign up for membership Additional Registration Fees Registration is valid for the entire current show season Single Member, First Equine Registration - FREE Single Member, First Competitor Registration - FREE Group Member, First 5 Equine Registrations - FREE Group Member, First 5 Competitor Registrations - FREE Additional Equine Registration - $10 each Additional Competitor Registration - $10 each Entry Fees Single Members Get 2x Level 1 Entries FREE with Sign-Up Group Members Get 2x Level 1 Entries FREE for each Competitor with Sign-Up Additional entry fees are as follows: Member, with Ribbon - $15 each Member, without Ribbon - $10 each Non-Member, with Ribbon - $20 each Non-Member, without Ribbon - $15 each New This Year ~ Optional Ribbon Opt-Out: Choose to opt-out of receiving a physical ribbon and get a discounted entry fee (you will NOT receive a physical ribbon nor a physical copy of your rubric; you will still receive a virtual copy of your scored rubric and a virtual badge) Additional Postage Fees TECS aims to provide all ribbons and prizes WITHOUT charging for additional postage. That said, we cannot control nor guarantee postage rates everywhere in the world. In the event that we require extra fees to cover postage, we will contact the competitor directly and offer two options: The competitor can elect to cover the additional fees in order to receive their awards/prizes, or The competitor can elect to receive virtual alternatives (ie, virtual web badges, gift certificates, free entries, etc.) Year-End Award Fees Members get automatic entry into Year End Awards. Depending on participation numbers, we may offer non-member tickets to the Year-End Awards Ceremony and/or Live Stream. Keep an eye on our social media pages & subscribe to our mailing list for more info!

TECS competition is intended for competitors who utilize “clicker training.” TECS defines "Clicker Training" as: A blanket term for training that utilizes principles from the Humane Hierarchy and LIMA. Training should be centered on positive reinforcement and the use of appetitive stimulus. Training should avoid or eliminate the use of aversive stimulus, fear, punishment, and force. Entries submitted should represent examples of behaviors achieved through clicker training, as defined by TECS.

Species Regulations TECS recognizes an “equine” as any horse, donkey, zebra, or hybrid thereof. There are no species restrictions or regulations for domesticated equines (including feral breeds such as the American Mustang, Brumby, etc.). Wild equines (including zebras & zebra hybrids) are only eligible for competing after submitting a signed Ethical Wildlife Trade Statement Form. Contact TECS to get a copy of this form. Age Regulations Age restrictions have been put into place to protect equines from training that can be harmful to young & developing equines. TECS encourages competitors to be mindful when training young horses and ensure participation is for the equine’s benefit. Equines under 1 year of age are not permitted to compete in TECS without receiving a Special Needs Exemption that outlines a safety & care plan that ensures the training and performance do not interfere with the equine’s development and weaning. Equines 1-3 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances nor performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. Equines 4-6 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. View Specific Class Restrictions Health/Welfare Regulations TECS holds the wellbeing of the equine as our highest priority. TECS is built upon a foundation of care & respect for equines and participation in TECS should be for the benefit of the equine. Entries submitted should represent examples of willing, happy, healthy equines.

A “competitor” is any human competing. Competitors may be referred to as “handlers” when performing behaviors on the ground/at liberty and as “riders” when performing ridden behaviors. TECS welcomes competitors of any nationality, race, age, gender, sexual orientation, ability or disability, experience level, and background. TECS offers scholarship programs to improve access to competition for equestrians in minority communities. Contact us to find out more about these opportunities. TECS also offers Special Needs Exemptions to help increase accessibility to equestrians & equines with a variety of abilities and/or disabilities. See the Special Needs Requests page for more information Age Regulations: An “Adult” is any competitor over the age of 18 as of Jan 1, 2024. There are no regulations on adults competing in TECS. A “Junior” is any competitor under the age of 18 as of Jan 1, 2024. Juniors may only compete with approval of their parent or legal guardian and should be under the supervision of a qualified adult at all times. Competitors under the age of 5 as of Jan 1, 2024 are not permitted to compete in TECS without receiving a Special Needs Exemption that outlines a safety & accommodation plan that ensures the safety & wellbeing of the competitor. Amateur/Professional Regulations: An “Amateur” is any competitor who has not received compensation for training equines, competing equines, or coaching other equestrians. A “Professional” is any competitor who has received compensation for training equines, competing equines, or coaching other equestrians. Competitors must declare Amateur/Professional status and inform TECS of changes in Amateur/Professional status.

Entries should be recorded in a single, continuous recording that shows the entire performance. Competitors must state their name, their equine’s name, and the year at the beginning or end of the recording. The equine & competitor must be in full view at all times. Professional-quality videography is not required, but video must be high enough quality for the judges to see the equine’s facial expression during each behavior. The original audio must be included, and must be clear enough for the judge to hear any vocal cues and/or bridge signals.

Entries must be submitted via the entry form on the TECS website, unless other approval is granted by TECS. Submission is not completed and entries will not be judged until payment is received. Competitors may submit as many entries as desired, including duplicate entries.

An "arena" is any area where competitors and equines perform. Arenas must have safe fencing that can contain equines. Arenas should only have the equine and competitor (no other equines/competitors should be in the arena during performance). Note: A cameraperson may be present in the arena as needed to facilitate video recording, and should follow necessary safety precautions and comply with “outside assistance” guidelines. Arenas should be clear of unnecessary obstacles (with the exception of Trail Arenas, see below). Arenas should have safe footing. “Protective Contact” is defined as the equine and competitor being separated by a safe barrier that the equine cannot cross. “Full Contact” is defined as any contact where the equine and competitor are not separated by a safe barrier or are separated by a barrier that the equine can cross. Competitors may utilize protective contact and/or full contact at any time(s) during liberty performances. Specialization-Specific Facility Regulations Dressage: The “Dressage Arena Diagram” Supplemental shows the exact layout and dimensions of the Dressage arena. Dressage arenas should be flat, clear of other obstacles, and have safe footing. Corners and letters should be clearly marked/labeled. If this arena is marked within a larger area, the larger space must meet all general arena regulations above. Jumping: Jumping arenas should be flat, clear of other obstacles, and have safe footing that is appropriate for the level of jumping being performed. Jumps should have safe distances that are appropriate for the equine. Jumps must be safely marked with standards at least 3' tall, fall when struck by the equine, and not pose a danger to equine nor competitor. Trail: Trail arenas must be safe and have safe footing, but is not required to be flat or clear of unnecessary obstacles. Competitors should have the option to access to necessary obstacles without needing to complete unnecessary ones, and the arena should not prevent equines from avoiding/refusing obstacles (ie, there are clear alternative paths around obstacles and the equine is never “stuck” having to complete an obstacle). Gymkhana: Gymkhana arenas should be flat, clear of other obstacles, and have safe footing that is appropriate for the level of performance. TECS aims to make competition accessible and fair regardless of facility limitations. Competitors may request a Special Needs Exemption for an alternative arena setup if needed.

Competitors are permitted to utilize the following training aids/equipment at any point during competition. TECS encourages competitors to complete equipment-specific Level 1 classes in order to gain fluency with training equipment. Dynamic targets: any target that moves during interactions Hand targets: the equine targets to the competitor's hand. The handler may also hold an object in their hand to be targeted. Target sticks: the equine targets an object attached to the end of a stick. The stick must be semirigid or rigid and should be between one-half to three times the length of the competitor's arm (shoulder to wrist). Telescoping sticks are permitted, their length must adhere to the length rule at all times and may be adjusted throughout competition. Stationary targets: any target that remains stationary during interactions Reinforcement stations: any object that holds reinforcement for delivery and does not move during interactions. Stations may be self-reinforcing (allow free-access to reinforcement, ie, a full bucket or hay net) or contingent (empty until delivery of reinforcement, ie, an empty bucket or feed pan) Mat targets: a flat surface that the equine targets with their hooves. Mats should be safe for equine interactions and no more than 6 inches off the ground. Classes specific to hoof targeting (Level 1, Division 3 and Level 2, Division 3) have specific size requirements for mats. Mats of any size & shape may be used in other classes. See mat size regulations. Reverse roundpens: a circular barrier or visual guide between equine and competitor. Reverse round pens should be between 10 and 30 meters in diameter. During reverse roundpen specific classes (Level 1, Division 5 and Level 2, Division 4) should be 10+ meters for walking, 20+ meters for trotting, and 30+ meters for cantering. Though there are no size restrictions outside these classes, competitors should take care to ensure their equines are not asked to do repetitive circle exercises, especially at higher paces, to minimize wear on joints & tendons. During use in reverse roundpen specific classes (Level 1, Division 5 and Level 2, Division 4), the equine must stay on the outside of the roundpen and the competitor must remain on the inside of the roundpen. Runways: barriers or visual guides (similar to the reverse roundpen materials) that are placed in any location and/or formation. These may be used to direct equine movement, however they should not restrict the equine’s movement or prevent them from refusing to perform a behavior (ie, the equine should be able to “decline” to follow the runway path).

Liberty performance is required in Level 1 and Level 3. “Liberty” is defined as nonridden performance, with the following regulations: The competitor must remain on the ground (not mounted/riding). No physical contact is permitted between equine and competitor, except for delivery of reinforcement (tactile cues are not permitted). Worn equipment is not permitted (the equine must be "tackless"), with the following exceptions: In Classes 335 and 336, equines are permitted to wear back protection that meet the guidelines described in the ridden-specific performance regulations. Leg protective equipment is permitted but not required. This includes any boots, wraps, or other supports placed on the legs. Leg supports must not impede/alter movement, must be properly fitted to the equine, and must be smooth with adequate pressure distribution.

Ridden performance is required in Level 2 and Level 4. “Ridden” is defined as a performance where the competitor is mounted/riding, with the following regulations: Equines must have back protection while being ridden. See the TECS Back Protections Regulations Supplemental Equines must wear back protection that meets the following requirements: Back protection should provide a protective barrier between the equine’s back and the rider’s seat. Back protection must allow freedom of movement. This includes adequate spinal clearance (air above the entire spinal column), adequate shoulder clearance (no pressure or restriction of the shoulder blade during movement), and no pressure distributed past the thoracic vertebrae (no pressure on the lumbar region). Back protection should be smooth, fit flush with the equine’s anatomy, and distribute pressure evenly throughout the equine’s weight-bearing area. Well-fitted trees are permitted, but not required. Treeless options must still distribute pressure adequately and provide adequate clearance/freedom of movement. The surface against the equine's skin should be softer than the muscles of the equine's back. Equines may wear additional equipment to aid in the fit and stability of the back protection (ie, girths/cinches, breastplates, croupers, padding, etc.). These must not impede/alter movement, must be properly fitted to the equine, and must be smooth with adequate pressure distribution. Stirrups are permitted but not required. Stirrup attachments must have adequate distribution over the equine’s back protection (ie, through use of a tree or treeless distribution alternative). Stirrups must have a safety release feature. Note: Competitors can apply for a Special Needs Exemption in order to compete with non-regulation back protection equipment. For example, a well-padded, shock absorbent bareback pad without adequate spinal clearance does not meet regulations, but could be approved for low-impact ridden performances. Head/neck equipment is permitted but not required. See the TECS Head/Neck Equipment Supplemental Equines may wear a bitless bridle that meets the following requirements: Bridle must include two reins (one on either side of the neck) attached a noseband. Bridles may be secured in place by any combination of crownpiece(s), cheekpieces, and/or stabilizing straps. Bridles may not include a bit. Nosebands should be a minimum of 1” thick and smooth without pressure points. Nosebands should be loose enough to allow a minimum of 1” clearance between the noseband and the equine’s face at all points and to not impede chewing. Rein attachments may not create leverage. Reins can be looped/buckled/tied or hang split. No portion of the bridle should be lower than the nasal ridge. No portion of the bridle should cross the cheekbone nor TMJ joint. The bridle should not restrict the equine’s eyes, ears, nose, nor mouth. Equines may wear a neckrope that is a minimum of 1” thick and smooth without pressure points. The neckrope should not squeeze/tighten/constrict around the equine's neck when used (ie, no "slip lead" styles). Leg protective equipment is permitted but not required. This includes any boots, wraps, or other supports placed on the legs. Leg supports must not impede/alter movement, must be properly fitted to the equine, and must be smooth with adequate pressure distribution. Tactile cues are permitted but not required. Tactile cues must be featherlite, non-escalating, and non-aversive. Riders will not be penalized for use of tactile cues, but TECS encourages competitors to use non-tactile cues as much as possible.

Arena: The “Dressage Arena Diagram” Supplemental shows the exact layout and dimensions of the Dressage arena. Dressage arenas should be flat, clear of other obstacles, and have safe footing. Corners and letters should be clearly marked/labeled. If this arena is marked within a larger area, the larger space must meet all general arena regulations above (ie, safe fencing, etc.). Age Restrictions Age restrictions have been put into place to protect equines from training that can be harmful to young & developing equines. TECS encourages competitors to be mindful when training young horses and ensure participation is for the equine’s benefit. Equines under 1 year of age are not permitted to compete in TECS without receiving a Special Needs Exemption that outlines a safety & care plan that ensures the training and performance do not interfere with the equine’s development and weaning. Equines 1-3 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances nor performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. Level 3, Division 1 (Specialized Liberty, Dressage) is permitted in walk only for equines 1-3 years of age Level 4, Division 1 (Specialized Riding, Dressage) is not permitted for equines 1-3 years of age Equines 4-6 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. Level 4, Division 1 (Specialized Riding, Dressage) is permitted in walk only for equines 4-6 years of age View All Class Restrictions by Age Dressage Movements: View detailed descriptions of the Dressage movements in the Dressage Movements Supplemental

Jumping Arena: Jumping arenas should be flat, clear of other obstacles, and have safe footing that is appropriate for the level of jumping being performed. Arenas must also meet all general TECS arena/facilities regulations. Gaits: Jumping classes may be entered in walk, trot, or canter. Gaited equines may use their "other gait" in place of a trot. Jump Construction: Jumps should have safe distances that are appropriate for the equine. Jumps must be safely marked with standards at least 3'/90cm tall, fall when struck by the equine, and not pose a danger to equine nor competitor. Height: Jumping classes may be entered at a variety of heights from 4"/10cm (ground poles) to 3'/90cm. Certain gaits have height restrictions for both safety and equine comfort. View more information on jump construction & height Age Restrictions: Age restrictions have been put into place to protect equines from training that can be harmful to young & developing equines. TECS encourages competitors to be mindful when training young horses and ensure participation is for the equine’s benefit. Equines under 1 year of age are not permitted to compete in TECS without receiving a Special Needs Exemption that outlines a safety & care plan that ensures the training and performance do not interfere with the equine’s development and weaning. Safety plans for equines under 1 year of age participating in jumping must include the absence of poles (ie, the equine can demonstrate navigating between standards, but there should be no poles nor jump obstacles between the standards). Equines 1-3 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances nor performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. For equines 1-3 years of age, the following restrictions apply: Class 321: Jumping Foundations - permitted with a maximum height of 4" / 10cm (ground poles) Class 322: Hunter Course - permitted with a maximum height of 4" / 10cm (ground poles) Class 323: Jumper Freestyle - permitted with a maximum height of 4" / 10cm (ground poles), in Walk Only Class 320: Freestyle - permitted with a maximum height of 4" / 10cm (ground poles), in Walk Only Level 4, Division 2 (Specialized Riding, Jumping) is not permitted for equines 1-3 years of age. Equines 4-6 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. For equines 4-6 years of age, the following restrictions apply: Class 421: Jumping Foundations - permitted with a maximum height of 4" / 10cm (ground poles) Class 422: Hunter Course - permitted with a maximum height of 4" / 10cm (ground poles) Class 423: Jumper Freestyle - permitted with a maximum height of 4" / 10cm (ground poles), in Walk Only Class 420: Freestyle - permitted with a maximum height of 4" / 10cm (ground poles), in Walk Only View All Class Restrictions by Age

Arena: Trail arenas must be safe and have safe footing, but are not required to be flat or clear of unnecessary obstacles. Competitors should have the option to access necessary obstacles without needing to complete unnecessary ones, and the arena should not prevent equines from avoiding/refusing obstacles (ie, there are clear alternative paths around obstacles and the equine is never “stuck” having to complete an obstacle). Trail arenas should meet all the general TECS arena/facility guidelines. Age Restrictions Age restrictions have been put into place to protect equines from training that can be harmful to young & developing equines. TECS encourages competitors to be mindful when training young horses and ensure participation is for the equine’s benefit. Equines under 1 year of age are not permitted to compete in TECS without receiving a Special Needs Exemption that outlines a safety & care plan that ensures the training and performance do not interfere with the equine’s development and weaning. Equines 1-3 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances nor performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. The following classes are permitted in walk only for equines 1-3 years of age: Class 331: Bridge Obstacles Class 333: Gate Obstacles Class 334: Mailbox Obstacles Class 337: Narrow Spaces Class 338: Water Obstacles Class 330: Freestyle, with no jump, carrying, nor dragging obstacles The following classes are not permitted for equines 1-3 years of age: Class 332: Jump Obstacles Class 335: Carrying Obstacles Class 336: Dragging Obstacles All classes from Level 4, Division 3 (Specialized Riding, Trail) are not permitted for equines 1-3 years of age. Equines 4-6 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. The following classes are permitted in walk only for equines 4-6 years of age: Class 431: Bridge Obstacles Class 433: Gate Obstacles Class 434: Mailbox Obstacles Class 437: Narrow Spaces Class 438: Water Obstacles Class 430: Freestyle, with no jump, carrying, nor dragging obstacles The following classes are not permitted for equines 4-6 years of age: Class 432: Jump Obstacles Class 435: Carrying Obstacles Class 436: Dragging Obstacles View All Class Restrictions by Age Trail Obstacles: View detailed descriptions of the Trail Obstacles in the Trail Obstacles Supplemental

Arena: Gymkhana arenas should be flat and clear of unnecessary obstacles, with safe footing and safe fencing. They should be large enough to allow the entire pattern to be performed comfortably and allow ample room for the equine to refuse the pattern (ie, the equine is not restricted from disengaging or leaving the pattern). Gymkhana arenas should meet all general TECS arena/facility guidelines. Age Restrictions Age restrictions have been put into place to protect equines from training that can be harmful to young & developing equines. TECS encourages competitors to be mindful when training young horses and ensure participation is for the equine’s benefit. Equines under 1 year of age are not permitted to compete in TECS without receiving a Special Needs Exemption that outlines a safety & care plan that ensures the training and performance do not interfere with the equine’s development and weaning. Equines 1-3 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances nor performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. Level 3, Division 4 (Specialized Liberty, Gymkhana) is permitted in walk only for equines 1-3 years of age Level 4, Division 4 (Specialized Riding, Gymkhana) is not permitted for equines 1-3 years of age Equines 4-6 years of age are not permitted to compete in ridden performances that may cause strain due to the physicality of the behaviors. Level 4, Division 4 (Specialized Riding, Gymkhana) is permitted in walk only for equines 4-6 years of age View All Class Restrictions by Age Gymkhana Patterns: View detailed descriptions of the Gymkhana Patterns in the Gymkhana Patterns Supplemental

The competitor is responsible for their safety & the safety of their equine. Attention to safety implies complete and thorough evaluation of any and all potential hazard(s) to equine(s) or human(s). Any hesitation about safety should be fully investigated and competitors are encouraged to reach out to TECS to discuss safety or get referral to safety experts in the equine industry. TECS is not responsible for competitor & equine safety. TECS assumes no liability and is not intended to provide training instruction nor replace the guidance/supervision of a qualified, relevant professional. Safety Equipment Regulations: ASTM/SEI certified helmets are required to be worn at all times. ASTM/SEI certified impact vests are required during riding. Closed-toed shoes must be worn at all times. Competitors are encouraged to utilize additional protective equipment, including impact vests. All handling & training equipment should feature safety/breakaway/release when appropriate. Protective Contact is encouraged when appropriate.

Competitors should not receive coaching or instruction during their performance. Competitors should not wear headphones or other communication devices during performance. Competitors can have a rubric “called” to them, where someone reads the rubric instructions to the competitor throughout their performance. The rubric should be read as written, with no additional assistance, instruction, or guidance from the “caller.”

Turnout should be clean & tidy. Competitors are welcome to express themselves and their equines as long as that expression does not violate any rules, obscure injury or welfare issues, and does not impede the judge’s ability to evaluate the performance. Equine turnout should include grooming to ensure equine is clean and tidy. Braiding is permitted but not required. Whiskers may not be trimmed. Clipping is discouraged, except in cases of veterinary necessity. Ears, fetlocks, and any areas that touch worn equipment may not be clipped without receiving a Special Needs Exemption indicating veterinary necessity. Competitor attire must be clean, tidy, and safe. ASTM/SEI certified helmets are required to be worn at all times. ASTM/SEI certified impact vests are required during riding. Competitors are encouraged to utilize additional protective equipment, including impact vests. Closed-toed shoes must be worn at all times. Professional turnout is encouraged when possible, as is appropriate for the class and the equine/competitor pair.

TECS Judges are some of the top professionals in the Equine Clicker Training community and must complete a thorough and prestigious certification process. Read more about TECS Judges.

Each entry is scored based on the quality of the performance. Judges utilize a specific rubric format to minimize bias and standardize scoring practices. Scores are given as a percentage, indicating the number of points earned divided by the total points possible. Each behavior can earn up to ten (10) points: The first five (5) points are earned based on completion of the behavior: 0 - Rule break, resulting in elimination 1 - Behavior not attempted (no distinct cue given) 2 - Behavior cued but not completed 3 - Behavior cued and attempted, but not completed 4 - Behavior nearly completed or completed poorly 5 - Behavior completed The remaining five (5) points are earned through evaluation of Overall Qualities during the specific behavior. Each Overall Quality present earns half (0.5) of a point. Equine Overall Qualities (reflect the quality of the equine’s performance) 1. Relaxation: The equine is relaxed through face & body. There's no tension, anxiety, or fear in their body language. 2. Willingness: The equine is attentive, responds quickly, and attempts to fulfill all of the competitor's cues. 3. Precision: The equine's responses are prompt, accurate, & complete, without unnecessary movement 4. Movement: The equine is balanced at all times. All movement has rhythm. 5. Turnout: The equine is clean and tidy. Any worn equipment used is clean and tidy. Competitor Overall Qualities (reflect the quality of the competitor’s performance) 6. Relaxation: The competitor is relaxed and calm. 7. Preparedness: Competitor is confident prepared. 8. Communication: Competitor gives clear, distinct cues. 9. Attunement: The competitor is attentive to the equine, aware of their emotional state, & responds suitably. 10. Turnout: The competitor is clean & tidy. All equipment & facilities are clean & tidy. (Ridden & Liberty) The competitor has balanced, soft posture. (Ridden Only)

Equine body language is evaluated using evidence-based principles, including reference to the work of Rachaël Draaisma, EquiFACS, and studies on the "Equine Pain Face"

Equine movement quality is evaluated with the goal of self-organized, biomechanically efficient movement, as defined below: All equine movement should have rhythm, relaxation, and balance in all gaits. The equine should be relaxed, supple, and engaged with their environment at all times. Increased movement & energy should not prevent should not produce tension nor anxiety. Decreased movement & energy should not prompt disengagement nor shutting down. Equine movement while ridden should include: Engagement of the haunches, including even flexion of the hind joints. Engagement of the core muscles and lifting of the thoracic sling, to create a neutral or upwardly rounded back/topline. Neutral, relaxed head & neck position that is neither inverted nor hyperflexed, with a loose underneck. The poll should be the highest point, except in stretch, and the nose in front of the vertical.

Halt: minimum of 3 seconds standing square, balanced, and stationary. Walk: an even, four-beat gait. Activity should begin with a hind foot. All four legs move independently. Trot: an even, two-beat gait. Diagonal pairs lift and touch down together, with the hind cannon bone remaining parallel to the opposite front forearm. Canter: a three-beat gait with a moment of suspension. Activity initiates in the hind end, the outside hind touches down, then the inside hind and outside front touch down together, then the inside front touches down, finally followed by the moment of suspension. A good canter is rhythmic & even. Additional Gait: any "gaited" gait, such as the foxtrot, pace, and tolt. Gaited equines are permitted to perform their additional gate in place of a trot. These gaits will differ in specific movement, but should have distinct rhythm, balance, and impulsion.

Each entry can receive deductions due to penalties. Penalties are deducted from the score of the behavior performed at the time the penalty was given. Penalties include: Reinforcing Mid-Behavior: -2 points Competitors should reinforce at the end of each behavior or anytime less frequently, unless otherwise specified in the class rubric. TECS performances are designed to demonstrate complete behaviors, thus reinforcing mid-behavior indicates that the behavior has not been trained to completion. Note: TECS encourages competitors to utilize an “errorless” & high rate of reinforcement approach during training and does NOT discourage ample reinforcement during the learning process. Competitors are permitted to pause after reinforcement, if needed, to allow chewing, etc. The equine should remain calm and focused during this pause. Aversive Responses: -2 points Any signs of aversive response to a cue, behavior, or other aspect of the performance results in this penalty. Rule Break, Warning: -2 points If a rule is broken that does not result in elimination, a penalty and warning are given. Elimination results in a “DNF” score and occurs in the following circumstances: Three or more of the same penalty given in a single performance Five or more penalties given in a single performance Rule break, following warning(s) already given Rule break, violating equine comfort, equine welfare, and/or safety

Competitors can earn awards & prizes in a variety of ways. Class Awards: For each class entered, competitors can earn a flat ribbon of the appropriate color & award title, depending on the percentage earned. Division Awards: Each competitor who earns a ribbon for every class in a division will receive a rosette of the appropriate color & award title for the average percentage earned. Year-End Awards: Members are automatically entered into Year-End Awards. Year-End Awards include large rosettes, trophies, and prize items. Award Colors 90-100% / First - Blue 80-89% / Second - Red 70-79% / Third - Yellow 60-69% / Fourth - White 50-59% / Fifth - Pink 40-49% / Sixth - Green

Feedback should be submitted via the official Feedback Form. Feedback may also be submitted informally via TECS contact information, however only suggestions submitted via the official form are guaranteed formal consideration.

Competitors & equines with special needs are welcome to compete and TECS is happy to provide accommodation in order to make competing accessible. Rule exemptions must be submitted prior to competition and will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. All reasonable and necessary exemptions will be approved. Request a Special Needs Exemption via the online form.

Rules & Regulations may be changed as necessary. TECS will ideally make amendments effective at the beginning of a show season with ample notice, however it is possible for necessary changes to be made mid-season. If this is the case, notification will be posted on the TECS website and notice sent to all members.