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Rules & Guidelines

Riding Rules

Members may be expelled for noncompliance with rules and regulations upon majority vote of the BOD. These rules apply to all members and their guests. Members must ensure their guests read and understand the rules prior to participating in a Fillies ride/event.

Tack

  1. Check all tack carefully before starting on a ride. All equipment must be in good and safe condition. Breast collars are suggested on hilly or mountainous terrain.
  2. Boots and saddles are required on trail rides. Helmets are optional.
  3. A halter and lead rope must be carried if you intend to tie your horse.
  4. No hobbles permitted

Safety and Courtesy

  1. The types of rides/events are up to the discretion of the ride hostesses. It is their responsibility to determine the content and restrcitions while being mindful of safety and the wishes of the ranch owner. Complaints about rides/events may be addressed to the president and/or BOD, but never to the ride hostesses or ranch owners. (See also: Bylaws V1.3.1.d. and Pledge)
  2. If you arrive late for a ride and the group has already started, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CATCH UP. Go home or wait for their return.
  3. Follow all instructions given by the Trail Boss.
  4. The Trail Boss will pace the ride to minimize gaps.
  5. Never pass the designated lead rider unless otherwise instructed by the Trail Boss.
  6. Never fall behind the designated Drag Rider.
  7. Maintain the designated walking speed.
  8. Maintain at least one (1) horse length between horses. Never ride nose to tail. A horse with a known kicking problem must wear a red ribbon on its tail and ride at the back of the group. If a horse is new to you or to group riding, as a precaution, put a red ribbon on its tail.
  9. Progress at walk downhill into gullies or ravines.
  10. Advance carefully through water crossings. Never jump or lunge accross.
  11. Proceed at a slow, controlled walk when travelling uphill. If possible, use a zigzag course to save the terrain and your horse. Never trot or lope uphill.
  12. Announce any trail hazards you see, such as a hole, wire, low branch, or car ahead.
  13. Do not "cut corners." Stay on the trail.
  14. Respect the rights of the property owners and the land which we are privileged to ride. Do not tresspass on private property.
  15. Ride on shoulder of road facing traffic where possible and/or follow the instructions of the Trail Boss.
  16. Walk accross roadways. On busy roads, two (2) riders shall be designated flagmen.
  17. Never litter on rides. Always leave a clean camp.
  18. All gates are to be left as found. If a gate is found closed, the Drag Rider will close the gate after everyone has passed through. Unless otherwise instructed, do not continue the ride until the gate has been closed.
  19. Do not disturb livestock.
  20. At designated watering spots, wait untill all riders have completed watering before continuing the ride.
  21. No dogs may attend rides/events unless approved by the ride hostess and ranch owner.
  22. No stallions on rides/events.
  23. No ponying on rides/events.
  24. No smoking except in designated areas.

Guidelines for hosting a ride

  1. Contact Ellen Johnson of activites to lock in a ride date and receive a ride packet.
  2. Complete ride packet and contact our vice president Vicki Switzer three weeks prior to get insurance for the ride.
  3. Once you hear back from the Vice President that the insurance is confirmed, contact our publicist Marsha Griggs to put the flier together and send it out. You may create your own ride flyer, or, using the flyer form as a guideline. Email the detailed ride information and any photo(s) to the publisher. If you do not have access to a computer, the form can be completed by hand but must be received by the publicist in a timely manner to ensure the information goes out by the date requested. ***It's not mandatory to complete this form; emailing the ride details is easier and less time consuming for the publisher.*
  4. When the ride is complete, send the ride packet with signatures and any guest fees to:
    The Fillies
    PO Box 1195
    Santa Ynez, CA 93460
  5. Take photos of your ride!! Email the Historian, Denise Kittle your pictures to be included on the Fillies' website (free to join) and Facebook page.