Rules, Guidelines & Policies

ABHA & SABHA Rulebooks

As an affiliate of the Australian Barrel Horse Association, SABHA follows their rules and guidelines.

It is the responsibility of ALL competitors and persons to familiarise themselves with the

 rules before entering an ABHA affiliated competition. 

SABHA Policies

Event Guidelines


  • The Arena will be closed 10 minutes prior to event start time to prepare arena and set the course.


  • No practicing/ turning on drums whilst they are in the arena! (refer ABHA Rules)


  • ALL entry fees are "Per horse and rider combination"


  • ALL persons mounting horses at an event in or out of the arena must be an ABHA member. Non-competitors can purchase a $33.00/year non-rider membership from the ABHA.  Persons not holding membership are not covered by insurance and breaking SABHA rules. 


  • ALL entries are to go through Australian Barrel Horse Association website. A link to entries is available when posted via this website.


  • ALL entries are to be accompanied by FULL payment. Nominations will not appear on draws until proof of payment is received.


  • No changes to the draw on the day of the event. Please contact the committee in advance to ensure any changes can be made.


  • Scratching from an event - refer to rules & guidelines


  • A Horse cannot be ridden by two different riders in the same competitive event. (Excluding Tiny Tots events).


  • SABHA membership entitles competitors to end of season awards. Refer widget below for further information.


Ground Rules


  • NO alcohol is to be consumed by competitors or officials during an event. No alcohol is allowed in warm up, marshalling or the arena at all times.


  • NO spectators in the horse warm up area, alley way, arena entry point or marshalling area.

  • Dogs must be on a leash and kept under control at ALL times. They are not allowed near warm up area, on arena or in marshalling area. 


  • ALL areas to be left clean and clear of rubbish.


  • All animal waste and feed must be cleaned up. Dumping/Hiding or failure to do so will incur fines. This fine will need to be paid prior to the next event or entry may be denied.


  • ALL yards must be cleaned prior to leaving. Any competitors found leaving yards dirty after departing grounds will receive a yard cleaning fee. This fee will need to be paid prior to the next event or entry may be denied.


  • No cruelty to animals will not be tolerated and consequences of poor conduct will be enforced. Please follow ABHA animal husbandry guidelines when handling horses.


  • No bad language or behaviour towards officials will be tolerated. Persons not being respectful can be asked to leave the grounds. SABHA and ABHA codes of conduct must be adhered too.


  • Photography & videography policies must be followed. No photography of children without given permissions.



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