Statistically there are fewer mares winning reining classes than studs and geldings. This is even more pronounced at the elite Open classes. Quality mares are an essential part of a success fulbreeding programme, competitively proven mares even more so. Generally it is considered more difficult for a mare to out perform studs in elite reining competition, particularly in their 3 and 4 year old years. Those that do are exceptional and deserve Special recognition.

Mare of the Year  Eligibility and Criteria
 

• Eligible categories are Open Mare of the Year and Non Pro Mare of the Year 

• Classes where points are awarded for Open Mares are Open and Open Derby Level 4 

• Classes where points are awarded for Non Pro Mares are Non Pro and Non Pro Derby  Level 4

• Points will be awarded for five class places on a sliding scale with 5 points awarded to the highest placed mare 

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• For example:   highest scoring mare places 3rd  – 5 points

  •   next Mare place 7th  – 4 points

  •   next Mare place 8th  – 3 points

  •   next Mare place 12th – 2 points 

  •   next Mare place 15th 1 point

• Points will be awarded for both classes when classes are run concurrently and the mare is entered in both classes 

• Points can be accrued at two approved RA Major Shows and the Nationals   

•  Mares must get a score in the Open/Non Pro at all three shows. 

• All RA Affiliates are to nominate two of their shows that are Mare of the Year qualifiers, Competitors are not restricted to qualify at one affiliate. 

•  Mares that compete in more than two qualifiers will have their highest place (s) count. 

• In the situation were no mares have fulfilled the criteria for Mare of the Year, the Board may consider awarding a High Point award to the highest scoring mare at the Nationals outside the placings as long as they have the required placings at a qualifiers  

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• All mares are automatically nominated