Riders entering the 2023 Tevis cup should be aware of the following rule changes, approved by the Tevis Board of Governors. Failure to comply with the rules governing the ride may result in disqualification from the ride or disqualification from future rides. Let’s all play fair for the safety and comfort of our equine partners and fellow riders!
Section 4. Inhumane Treatment, Part B. The care, comfort and health of the equines are of concern to the Ride Veterinarians from the time of arrival until horses are in their trailers heading home. Riders are expected to comply with veterinary instructions with regard to the care of their horses before, during and after the Ride until released by a Ride Veterinarian. A rider must not leave the Ride without approval of a Ride veterinarian and turning in the vet card. Failing to provide adequate care including needed veterinary care or otherwise neglecting to care for an equine from the start of the Ride until the horse leaves the Fairground premises may be considered abuse of the equine and grounds for disqualification from the Ride, exclusion from future Rides, or both.
Section 7. Sportsmanship and Common Courtesy, Part G. Use of Lights. The rules now read as follows:
- Headlamps & Flashlights: Headlamps shall not exceed 250 lumens. Flashing lights are not permitted at any time.
- Ride management STRONGLY RECOMMENDS that only red headlamps be used while progressing down the trail. Other colors of lights including white, blue, and green have been proven to negatively impact equine night vision. It is recommended that you have a white light available to be used while not progressing down the trail (e.g. while fixing tack) or for emergencies.
- Glow sticks: Attaching glow sticks to the front of a horse is allowed. It is not permissible to attach glow sticks or lights anywhere from the back of the rider to the tail of the horse.
- Riders MUST comply with requests from other riders to turn light(s) off when so requested.