Ratings

RSRC Ratings Policies
The Rusty Stirrups Riding Club values the safety and education of our membership. A ‘rating’ is to determine an acceptable minimal level of riding proficiency and knowledge of horse management and an introduction to the club. Being rated is not a requirement for membership, only for riding in club sponsored mounted events. All required club releases must be executed prior to taking the mounted portion of the test. The rating test evaluation sheet was created within our membership, not sanctioned by any other organization and may from time to time be revised as needed.

A D1 Rating Test must be passed in order to attend RSRC mounted events. Higher rating levels are encouraged for those who wish to gauge their knowledge and experience.  USPC or similarly inspired tests are available on the Internet. The club has no policy regarding this and does not manage further testing but for those wishing to explore them the board can provide contact information to local higher level instructors.

All new members wishing to prepare for the evaluation may review the rating test which is posted on the website. A portion is completed mounted and the rest is verbal. The verbal portion (Section 1) may be completed in writing in advance of or after the mounted portion. The mounted portion can be waived with an acceptable dressage test score sheet or a similarly graded show document such as a reining test pattern or Combined Test Score. It can also be preformed on a trail ride with the rater. Paper copies of the rating evaluation can be provided at meetings by request to the ratings chair or other board members. If a member has a particular problem or confusion with any portion of the test, the board can provide recommendations for help for that member. Through education, the board is committed to assisting all new members successfully pass this test.

Our Ratings Chairman will help the new member arrange to be evaluated, secure an approved rater & suitable location. He/she will keep the notebook of copies of the test, returning a copy to the candidate if requested. He/she will be able to provide or secure a medical armband.  The club is committed to making this, as all our activities, a safe, enjoyable and fun learning experience. There should be no pressure and help is readily available.

A Rater is a qualified equestrian approved by the board. A list of approved raters is available from the ratings chairman. The board can approve other qualified individuals such as private instructors for a one time rating. The member must provide contact information in advance of rating for approval of non approved rater. The ratings chair, President or Vice President will interview each to determine if they have an acceptable understanding of our purpose. The cost of rating is negotiable with the rater, but generally the cost is $20.00 each with $5.00 additional for each candidate rating at the same place and time.
 
From time to time the club will host FREE ratings days or have ratings on the site of a club mounted event as the need arises. We encourage new members who wish to participate in mounted activities to contact the ratings chair well in advance of a specific event to arrange for their rating.
 
The candidate may rate on their own horse or on a borrowed horse, (with prior arrangements), with a proper release. The candidate must provide tack and implements (brushes & hoofpick, etc.) for their test.

Proper Attire for Mounted evaluation includes helmet, and proper riding footwear.

Formerly rated USPC or OPRC members may qualify for exception from ratings.

Contact our Ratings Chair for further details, or to schedule a rating.

D1 Test