12. Figure 8 Barrels
Two barrels are placed 3 meters apart, as measured from the center of one barrel to the center of the other barrel. The horse is ridden mid-way between the barrels and performs a circle around the right hand barrel first. Upon completing the turn and passing half way point between the barrels again, the rider will change direction and begin a circle to the left around the left hand barrel. Upon completing the circle on the left hand side, the horse will pass half way between the barrels a third time to exit the obstacle.
Young Horse in Hand: Walk, suggested circle size is 10 meters.
Young Horse Test B: Trot, suggested circle size is 10 meters.
Novice: Trot, suggested circle size is 10 meters.
Preliminary: Canter, changes lead through walk or trot, suggested circle size is 8 meters.
Intermediate: Canter, simple changes.
Advanced: Canter, flying changes.
International: Canter, flying changes.
The attributes of a correct working horse and rider. The Judge will also evaluate the route between the 2 barrels, and the size, shape and symmetry of the circles. At the lower levels, the barrel does not have to be the center of the circle (see illustration). However, at the upper levels the barrel should be the center of the circle. The judge will give a marginal score if the simple or flying change fails to coincide with the mid-point between the 2 barrels with some latitude given depending on the level. The Judge will give an insufficient mark if the rider fails to perform the simple or flying change.