I was told that're they are required > at most competitions? >
There isn't anything in the rules that requires them as I remember but there is a lot of gray area because "traditional" equipment is mentioned often and that's how I got knocked down a lot - between my Zilco harness, no blinkers and a helmet instead of a dress hat, I was a real rebel and fighting against the current. The judges would give me great comments on my horse and then give me low scores. I've never been a competitive person, though, so a blue ribbon has never meant a lot to me. I just liked the feeling of doing a good job and knowing that my horse and I had acheived what we worked towards. I always have a good time. -- Laree
