SSA AREA 8 SHOW RULES AND REGULATIONS
IT IS A CONDITION OF ENTRY THAT ALL COMPETITORS MUST HAVE THEIR OWN THIRD-PARTY EQUINE INSURANCE.
Making an entry is considered your acceptance of these rules.
1. The event will be run in accordance with the Current SSA Members Handbook 2026 with specific class rules as applicable.
2. A copy of the relevant rulebooks will be available to view at the secretary's office during the show.
3. All competitors, attendants and spectators must abide by the conditions of entry for the public associated with the Showground. Organisers and Stewards instructions must be followed at all times.
4. Neither the organisers, SSA or the Venue accept liability for any claims in respect of injury or damage to any person, animal or property, however caused.
5. All competitors must wear the correct riding attire whilst mounted. Adult riders not wearing safety hats in side saddle classes do so at their own risk. For all classes with Jumping and wherever else it is required , Adult and juniors must wear a correctly secured Skull Caps/Riding Hat that meets one of the following current Safety Standards All PAS 015; VG1; (BS)EN1384 2017; ASTM F1163 04a onwards; SNELL E2001; SNELL E2-17, AS/NZS 3838 2003 onwards. Failure to do so will incur elimination. All juniors –must wear a hard hat to above standards whether riding or warm-up in-hand or ridden. Failure to do so will incur elimination.
6. Lead rein competitors (SSA Members or Non SSA Members): may only compete Hors Concours in any SSA affiliated class and in a Junior or Open Equitation Qualifying Class. In an Equitation Class, they are not eligible for SSA place rosettes but should be considered for the Turnout Rosette. Leaders must be correctly dressed. (Junior Competitors must have attained their 5th birthday and is under 18 on 1st January of the current Year)
7. The organisers reserve the right to eliminate any competitor who, in their opinion, places him/herself or others in any danger or who fails to observe the rules.
8. The organisers reserve the right to change Judges or appoint substitutes and to amend the schedule as necessary at any time.
9. The Judge's decision shall be final.
10. CLASSICAL & CONTEMPORARY CLASSES: Riders may only enter either the Classical OR the Contemporary class, not both, unless they have two horses/ponies of a different type.
11. All objections shall be lodged in writing to the secretary within 15 minutes of the alleged incident with a deposit of £30, which will be refunded if the objection is sustained.
12. No entries will be refunded without a Vet or Doctor's Certificate. If the event is cancelled refunds will be sent less £5 per competitor to cover administration costs
14. All horses and ponies competing must be at least four years old.
15. Horses must be kept to a walk unless in the warm-up or competition arenas
16. Misuse of whips or spurs will incur elimination.
17. Entries; Pre-Entry Fees £15. Non-members will be required to join SSA as a day participant for £5 and complete a Non-Members Form at the Secretary’s Office BEFORE Competing on the day.
18. Entries on the day accepted if space permitting at £17.50 per class. Classes are strictly limited, and preference will be given to SSA Area 8 members.
19. Habits are not required in every class – see class rules. Smart riding show-wear to be worn if not wearing a Side Saddle habit.
20. SSA members, please ensure you carry your competed championship card in the ring, ready for the judge to sign.
21. Only horses/ponies taking part in the showing classes are allowed on site.
23. ALL Classes to be Ridden Side Saddle. Except where specifically allowed astride Competitors may compete Hors Concours but only with prior permission from the Show Secretary and wear a white Arm Band.
24. FALLS: A fall of horse/pony or rider in any class run under Side Saddle Association rules will result in disqualification, and the rider must leave the ring dismounted. It is strongly recommended that medical advice is then sought before competing in any other class.
25. HORS CONCOURS: Members competing Hors Concours will only be awarded 2 Qualifying Points; they may not receive SSA Rosettes, Show Rosettes or any Prize with the exception of Open and Junior Equitation Classes where Lead Rein competitors should be considered for the Junior Turnout rosette. Leaders must be correctly dressed.
26. A Spur or Spur band is not permitted in any class where jumping is involved.
27. Qualifier Classes, at this show will count towards the 2027 National Side Saddle Show.
28. All trophies are only awarded to full Area 8 Members.