Competition Rules & Safety
The standards that define our community and ensure a fair, supportive arena for every horse and rider partnership.
Welfare
- Equine well-being is vital; any evidence of stress or rough riding leads to disqualification.
- Neck ropes must stay below the midpoint of the horse's neck to protect the airway; exceeding this limit will result in the immediate elimination of the test.
Arena & Filming Standards
- Standard 20m x 40m or 20m x 60m area. Markers should be visible.
- Videos must be shot from 'C' in landscape mode with high resolution.
- Total ride must be one continuous take with no editing or audio muting.
- Zooming is permitted only to keep the horse and rider clearly in frame.
Tack & Equipment
- Partnership Class: Neck rope with a safety bridle fitted (reins must be visibly loose or knotted).
- Freedom Class: Neck rope only; no headstall or bit allowed.
- Mastery Class: Completely tack-free or neck rope at rider discretion.
- English & Western saddles are permitted, tackless in freedom and mastery classes is optional but saddles are recommended for safety; no harsh training aids or gadgets.
Judging & Conduct
- Scoring follows regular dressage criteria plus collective marks for harmony and lightness.
- Good sportsmanship is expected in all community interactions and submissions.
- Rule updates are communicated via the monthly newsletter and our blog.
- Judges' decisions are final but constructive feedback is provided on score sheets.
Health & Safety Disclaimer
By entering a test, competitors acknowledge that riding horses carries an inherent risk of injury, serious harm, or death to both horse and rider.
Participation in any class, whether ridden with a bridle, neck rope, or completely bridleless, is undertaken entirely at the competitor's own risk.
Online Bridleless Competitions accepts no responsibility or liability for any accident, injury, loss, damage, illness, or death suffered by any horse, rider, handler, spectator, or third party arising from participation in our competitions or the training, filming, or submission of competition entries.
Competitors are solely responsible for assessing their own abilities, the suitability and training of their horse, and the safety of any equipment used. Riders should only compete at a level appropriate to their experience and should prioritise the welfare of their horse at all times.
By purchasing an entry, competitors confirm that:
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They understand and accept the risks associated with riding and handling horses.
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They are competent to participate in the class entered.
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Their horse is fit, healthy, and suitable for the activity undertaken.
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They hold appropriate insurance where applicable.
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They accept full responsibility for their own safety and the safety of their horse.
Online Bridleless Competitions reserves the right to refuse, withdraw, or disqualify entries where safety or horse welfare concerns are identified.
Safety Standards & Equipment
- Approved safety helmets must be worn at all times when mounted.
- Appropriate riding footwear with a heel is mandatory for safety.
- Ensure a clear emergency plan is in place before starting your session.
- We strongly recommend having a ground person present during filming.
- Check all tack (neck ropes, safety bridles) for wear and tear regularly.
Online Bridleless Competitions and its organisers accept no liability for any accident, loss, damage, injury, or illness to horses, riders, owners, spectators, or any other person or property whatsoever, however caused.
Support & Enquiries
We are here to help with rules or accessibility questions. Our team is committed to ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all bridleless participants.