We now resume our regularly scheduled posts about obstacles. Taken in alphabetical order, we have reached the 'Move Sack' obstacle.
The 'Move Sack' obstacle comes with a disclaimer, and that disclaimer is:
The following obstacles are alternative representations of traditional cattle handling methods used throughout the world. They are not used in WAWE competitions.
WAWE, by the way, stands for World Association for Working Equitation. Most of USAWE's rules are based on this group's rules. We do, however have some of our own obstacles, and this is one of them.
The rule book says this:
Description. This obstacle consists of a table or platform, at least 1.2-m (4-ft) high. Two tables or platforms may be used, set some distance apart. A sack containing items not to exceed 4.5 kg (10 lbs) is set on one of the tables. The sack should be made of natural material such as burlap, canvas, or cotton (not a plastic bag).
Execution. The rider picks up the sack from table A, continues forward at the prescribed gait and sets the sack down on table B. Introductory (L1) riders walk to perform this obstacle and may halt to pick up/drop off the sack. Novice (L2/L3) riders may walk or trot to perform the pickup/drop-off. Intermediate and Advanced (L4-L6) riders perform the pickup/drop-off at the walk or canter. Masters (L7) riders perform this obstacle at walk or canter. If only one table is used, the rider follows a track prescribed on the course map. If the sack is dropped, it will be handed back to Introductory (L1) riders. Novice (L2/L3) riders must dismount, retrieve the sack, remount with the sack in hand, and place it on table B or request permission to pass and receive a 0 for the obstacle. Intermediate (L4) through Masters (L7) riders must dismount, retrieve the sack, remount, and replace it on table B. Failure to do so will result in a disqualification.
Judging criteria is as follows:
Assessment Criteria (EOH). The Judge will evaluate the manner in which the horse approaches the obstacle, confidence between tables/platforms, the reaction to the movement of the sack, and its response to the aids to enable the route to be performed with maximum smoothness. A higher score will be given for performing this obstacle without changing gait.
This is another obstacle in which you must be very careful to use the SAME HAND you used to handle all the other objects that you will touch during the EOH course. Not doing so will result in a DQ. It is also an obstacle you'll want to practice well before you enter a competition. A horse not used to an object hanging off or dangling off its side could present a danger to you. I find this one easy to practice, since I am always shedding layers of coats in the winter after I've warmed up a bit. I take the time to flop it over the saddle and wave it around. It would also be helpful to practice with an object that makes noise when you pick it up. One never knows what creative course designers will think of next.
I don't have any pictures of this obstacle to share, even though I know I've ridden it before in a test. If you have a picture of this obstacle being performed; I'd love to see it.
Till our next obstacle: Happy Riding!
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