Scoring of Demonstrations | Midwest Horse Fair

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This scoring system has been put in place to ensure that the groups performing are the best representation of their breed group or association and will perform at the highest level during the Midwest Horse Fair.

If selected to participate, the previous year's demonstration scores along with the stall scores will be used to determine priority for stall assignments, demonstration times, and practice times for current year. Top scores receive first consideration when placing time and location requests. Please note that scoring is based on both of the demonstrations at the Midwest Horse Fair and is determined by a committee. Feedback received at the fair and compliance to deadlines and guidelines is also taken into consideration.

Scoring for the Midwest Horse Fair Breed & Discipline Demonstrations is based on the following criteria:

Script (0-5 points):

Educational information about breed/discipline should be the primary focus
Provide a history, description, characteristics and standards for the breed/discipline
Script is original and not copied word for word from an encyclopedia-type source.
Focus on the breed/discipline versus individuals. All points will be deducted if demo promotes individual farms, trainers, or horses/services for sale, which is a violation of the MHF Code of Conduct.
Submit script on time and follow script requirements for content & formatting

Time (0-5 points):

Stays within the 10 minute time frame including set up and removal of props
Time begins when music or script begins or when the first horse, person or prop enters the arena, whichever occurs first.
Time stops when all horses, people and props have exited the arena
1-30 seconds over = 1 point deduction, 31-45 seconds over = 2 point deduction, 46 – 60 seconds over = 3 point deduction, 61- 75 seconds over = 4 point deduction and 75+ seconds over = 5 point deduction
Points will be deducted for each demonstration time overage

Show Attire, Costumes & Tack (0-5 points):

Attire is clean and cohesive throughout the entire group
Traditional outfits that fit the breed/discipline, show attire, or costumes are acceptable (Costumes to fit the theme are optional)
Tack is clean and in good condition. Points will be deducted for signs promoting farms, stallions, sales, products, services, etc.

Music & Props (0-5 points):

Music is fitting to the performance and appropriate for all ages
Music is submitted digitally, on time, and follows music guidelines
If used, props should be set up & removed in an efficient & organized fashion
If used, props should be safe, professional in appearance and have a clear purpose during the demonstration
Permission is granted for use of certain props (i.e. American Flag) as required in prop guidelines

Professionalism & Safety (0-5 points):

Participants follow instructions of gate coordinators
Participants represent their group and the Midwest Horse Fair in a professional manner
Horse & handlers are controlled and experienced enough to perform in a public, crowded setting without the risk of endangering themselves, other participants, or attendees
Points will be deducted for recklessness such as uncontrolled riding/handling, excessive speed, collisions, etc.
Points will be deducted for participants video taping or taking pictures within the arena confines

Entertainment Value (0-5 points):

Creative performance that involves more elements than riding the rails
Shows a variety of gaits, skills and abilities of horses and riders
Demonstration should be organized and have a clear plan of progression
If used, advanced patterns and choreographed maneuvers are executed with precision and uniformity
Engaging for the audience
Cohesive, interesting, and enjoyable

Total (30 points possible)

Tips that may help to enhance your score:

Describe the history of the breed, color registry, or discipline. Education is a very vital part of the Midwest Horse Fair.
The script should focus on the breed or discipline rather than on the individuals participating in the demo.
Describe or illustrate the ways in which the breed is typically shown. Show off your group's versatility & range.
Have a plan for your performance which is more intricate than riding the rails. Consider incorporating a pattern, props, or bringing horses into the arena as the demonstration progresses.
Stay within your 10 minute time frame - this includes setting up and taking down props. Include the set up and take down of props as part of your performance or while the performance is going on and plan on ending your demo at 9 1/2 minutes in case something happens.
Don’t forget to be creative! This is one of the best opportunities to show the talents of your breed or discipline to a large audience.