Scoring a Reining Pattern

NRHA patterns are scored on a numeric scale with 70 denoting an average performance. Each pattern is comprised of several distinct maneuvers which judges evaluate on an individual basis depending on execution as dictated by the pattern descripition and the rules for judging.

The individual maneuvers are scored in 1/2 point increments from a low of -1 1/2 (extremely poor quality) to a high of +1 1/2 (excellent quality) with a score of 0 denoting a maneuver that is correct but with little degree of difficulty. The total of the scores applied to the maneuvers is combined with the starting score of 70 and penalties, if any, are deducted to calculate the exhibitor's final score.

• Patterns are worked as stated, not as drawn. The drawing is provided to give the general idea of what the pattern will look like in the arena.
• Markers are placed on the wall or fence of the arena as follows:
  • at the center of the arena
  • at least 50' from each end wall
• Where designated in the pattern for stops to be beyond a marker, the horse should begin the stop after passing the specified marker.
• Each pattern is drawn so that the bottom of the page represents the end of the arena entered by contestants and must be run as such. If the arena has only one gate and it is in the exact middle of a side, that side represents the right side of the page the pattern is drawn on.
• All exhibitors are judged immediatly upon entering the arena and judging ceases after the last maneuver. Any fault incurred prior to the commencement of a pattern is scored accordingly.
• All judges' decisions are final.