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horse unrestricted head movement when the reins are released.
3.9.2 It is permitted to knot the reins and connect the reins to the saddle via a cord,
rein keep, clip, other quick release or loop them over (not tightly fix them to) the
pommel/horn as a safety measure and to allow quick retrieval. However the reins may
not be knotted and fixed in either manner to the saddle so tightly that they restrict the
horse’s head and act to slow the horse.
3.9.2.1 Rein extenders are permitted as long as they can be safely used by the
individual
3.9.3 As previously stated (#3.9) seeing that there is no tension (ie. that there is a little
slack) in the reins is the standard method to check free head carriage. In the case of
uncertainty, more guidance is given in the IHAA Code of Equine Welfare.
3.10 Where a noseband is used, there must be a gap of at least 1.5cm between the horse’s
nasal plate and the noseband.
OTHER TACK AND EQUIPMENT RULES
3.11 If competitors wish to use equipment not included in rule #3 above, or ride bareback /
without stirrups (#3.7.1) or just with a neck-strap/cordeo (#3.8.1) they should seek the
permission of the Head Judge, prior to the start of their competition (ideally at the end of
the competitors' meeting). The Head Judge must provide a valid reason to refuse a request,
such as safety, fair play or local regulations.
3.12 If the Head Judge has concerns that a particular item of equipment (archery or tack),
or technique, is dangerous or impeding the horse, then the referee may request that a
competitor adjusts or changes the item. If this is not done to the judges' satisfaction he
may forbid the person from continuing to use that piece of equipment.
3.13 A competitor must present any or all of their equipment for examination if the Head
Judge requests this. This should be done immediately if the item is on their person.
Otherwise, a reasonable time scale should be allowed, considering the timing of the
competitor's next event and where their equipment is kept/stored. Failure to comply will
result in the immediate elimination of the competitor from the whole competition.
3.13.1 The Head Judge may request competitors to present their equipment for checks
at the pre-competition briefing, as long as competitors are given su ficient notice.

4. Horses
GENERAL
4.1 All horses must be adequately trained and experienced in horseback archery and must
be fit enough to complete all their required runs at canter or gallop.
4.1.1 "Horses", in the scope of the IHAA rules, includes all equid species and hybrids.
4.2 Competition organisers and national governing bodies may make additional rules
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