Scoring
Scoring is on the basis of zero (0) to infinity, and 70 is an average score for a horse that made no errors but also did not perform maneuvers with a higher level of difficulty. Points for each maneuver are added or subtracted by 1/2, 1, and 1-1/2 point increments for each of the 7 to 8 maneuvers in the designated pattern as follows:
- -1 ½ for an extremely poor execution.
- -1 for very poor.
- - ½ for poor.
- 0 for correct with no degree of difficulty.
- +1/2 for good execution.
- +1 for very good.
- + 1 ½ for excellent.
Each part of the pattern is judged on precision, smoothness, and finesse. The “degree of difficulty” for each maneuver, typically related to speed and agility, is also assessed. Increased speed increases the difficulty of most movements and the potential for a high score. For example, a perfectly executed fast spin will score higher than an equally perfectly executed slow one. A score below 70 reflects deductions for poorly performed movements or penalties, a score above 70 reflects that some or all movements were above average.
In addition to the scores for each maneuver, a large variety of penalties may be assessed for specific infractions. Penalties may range from a half-point (1/2) to five (5) points for each infraction, and in some cases a significant error may result in a zero score (0) for the run. Certain misbehaviors may incur penalty points beyond a poor score for a given maneuver. Significant errors, such as going off pattern, will result in a "zero score". Under NHRA rules, horses with a zero score cannot earn a placing or advance in a multi-go event, though they may be eligible for a payout if there is a small number of horses in the entire competition. Some sanctioning organizations other than NHRA may allow a horse in a small class to earn an award for last place. Major mistakes, such as failure to present the horse for an equipment check, a rider with illegal equipment or one who abuses the animal in specified ways, result in a "no score," which prevents the horse from earning any award or payout, even if it is the only horse in the class.
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