01.

What are the age divisions for the Ranch CLASSES?

Age divisions for Ranch Show classes are split as follows:

• 18 and Under
• 19 and Over

Some classes are further divided by gait type:

• 3-Gait
• Walk/Trot

Cowboy Trail is open to all ages.

02.

What are the age divisions for the CONTESTING CLASSES?

The age divisions are as follows:

• 8 & Under
• 9–13
• 14–18
• 19–59
• 60+
• Walk/Trot (separate division)

03.

How is a rider’s age determined for a division?

A rider’s age for all divisions is determined as of January 1st of the current year. This age will be used for the entire show season, regardless of the rider’s birthday during the year.

Can i rider choose to "ride up" in their age division

Riders may not choose to “ride up” in an older age division. Exhibitors must compete in the division corresponding to their age as of January 1st.

04.

DO I HAVE TO WEAR A HELMET?

All riders 18 years of age and under are strongly recommended to wear a properly fitted, ASTM/SEI-approved equestrian helmet at all times while mounted, including during competition, warm-up, and schooling areas. Knox County Horse Park assumes no responsibility for injury resulting from failure to wear protective headgear. The decision to wear a helmet remains the responsibility of the rider, parent, or legal guardian.

05.

Dog Policy

Dogs are not permitted on the Knox County Horse Park grounds during show events. The only exception is for properly documented service animals as defined by applicable law. Any individual who brings a dog without valid service animal documentation will be asked to immediately remove the animal and may be required to leave the premises. This policy is strictly enforced for the safety of riders, horses, exhibitors, and spectators.



Dogs are only permitted in the designated camping area located at 7360 Thayer Road and only when no events are taking place. Dogs are not allowed outside of the camping area at any time and are strictly prohibited on the show grounds during active events, regardless of size or breed.

06.

WHAT IS THE ATTIRE?

Ranch Classes:

Exhibitors in Ranch classes are required to wear neat, clean, and appropriate ranch-style attire. T-shirts are permitted, though long-sleeve shirts are suggested for a more traditional, polished appearance. Long pants and proper riding boots are required at all times when mounted. Clothing deemed unsafe, inappropriate, or distracting is prohibited. Show management and judges reserve the right to excuse any exhibitor whose attire does not meet Ranch class standards.

Contesting Classes:

Exhibitors in Contesting classes must wear long pants and proper riding boots at all times when mounted. T-shirts are permitted; however, tank tops, sleeveless shirts, and crop tops are not allowed. Clothing must be safe, appropriate, and not distracting.

Final determination of acceptable attire for all divisions remains at the discretion of show management and judges.

07.

HOW ARE POINTS ACCRUED FOR HIGH POINT AWARDS?

High Point Scoring:

Points for High Point awards are earned based on class placement.

Points awarded to 1st–5th place

1st = 5 points

2nd = 4 points

3rd = 3 points

4th = 2 points

5th = 1 point

Exhibitors accumulate points across all eligible classes in their division. The exhibitor with the highest total points in a division at the conclusion of the show will be awarded High Point honors.

The number of placings and points awarded at the end of the season will be based on class size and overall participation throughout the season.

In the event of a tie, show management reserves the right to determine the High Point winner based on overall class performance or judge’s discretion.

08.

do i have to be a member to show?

You do not need to be a member of Knox County Horse Park to participate in shows.

However, membership provides exclusive benefits, including:

• Full access to all park amenities
• Arena access for practice or schooling
• Use of primitive camping areas
• Access to all park trails



While membership is optional for show participation, it is highly encouraged for those who wish to fully enjoy the facilities and year-round opportunities at Knox County Horse Park.

09.

Can I ride multiple horses in the same division?

Yes, exhibitors may ride more than one horse in the same division. However, high point, points can only be accrued with one horse per exhibitor. Riders must declare which horse will count toward High Point prior to the start of the show.

In the exception of the death or permanent disablement of a horse, exhibitors are permitted one substitution per season. This substitution policy is based on an honor system, and riders are expected to act in good faith. If the policy is abused or misused, show management reserves the right to require official documentation verifying the circumstances before any substitution is accepted.

This combined policy ensures fairness in high point competition while allowing flexibility for unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances. All decisions regarding multiple horses or substitutions are at the discretion of show management, and their determination is final.