| 1. THE COWBOY MOUNTED SHOOTING® ASSOCIATION (CMSA) A. CMSA is the recognized association for the equestrian sport of Cowboy Mounted Shooting that provides the official rules and guidelines of the sport. B. The CMSA recognizes only those events that are conducted under the rules and guidelines set forth in this rulebook. Exceptions or suspension of any rule or guideline contained herein will require the approval of the CMSA. C. Cowboy Mounted Shooting® is a multi-faceted timed equestrian sporting event in which mounted contestants compete using two single action revolvers, loaded with blank ammunition specifically manufactured to CMSA standards to shoot 10 reactionary targets while negotiating a specified course of fire on horseback. D This rulebook contains the specific rules and guidelines adopted by the COWBOY MOUNTED SHOOTING® ASSOCIATION, INC. 2. COWBOY MOUNTED SHOOTING ASSOCIATION DEFINITIONS A. Rules: Will be determined by the use of the word “shall” and are in Bold. B. Guidelines: Will be determined by the use of the word “should” and are highlighted in gray. C. Class: CMSA has seven (7) Classes: • Men's • Ladies • Senior Men's • Senior Ladies • Junior • Wrangler Open • Wrangler Limited • Day Members are not a class, and do not receive points, but do count toward points, move-up wins and will receive prizes/payback. • Non-Competition Card Holders (NCC) are not a class, and do not receive points, count toward points, move-up wins and shall receive no prizes/payback. D. Levels: CMSA has levels within each class to assure fairness of competition. 1. Six Levels (1-6) within the Men’s, Ladies, Senior Men’s, Senior Ladies classes. a) MENS: M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6 b) LADIES: L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6 c) SENIOR MENS: SM1, SM2, SM3, SM4, SM5, SM6 d) SENIOR LADIES: SL1, SL2, SL3, SL4, SL5, SL6 2.One level within the Junior class 3. One level (7-9 yrs old) within our Wrangler Limited class a) WRL 4. One level (10-11 yrs old) within our Wrangler Open class a) WRO E. A contestant’s official age for all age relevant Classes will be the age he/she is on the last day of the CMSA World Championship. F. A year, season or competition year shall be defined as running from the last day of the CMSA World Championship through the last day of the next CMSA World Championship. G. Wranglers are competitors age 11 or under. H. Juniors are competitors over the age of 11 and under 16 I. Men's and Ladies are competitors over the age of 11. J. Match Director is the single representative of a hosting club or association, responsible for all facets of a CMSA match. K. Range Master is responsible for maintaining a safe environment for both shooters and spectators, assessing any penalties incurred when a contestant engages the course of fire and keeping the match moving in a timely fashion. 3.OBLIGATIONS OF THE CMSA CARDHOLDER A. Whereas being a Cardholder in the Cowboy Mounted Shooting® Association is a privilege and not a right, CMSA has the authority to direct disciplinary action or sanctions against cardholders or affiliated clubs, who by virtue of being affiliated with CMSA, come under the jurisdiction of CMSA's Rules and Regulations. B. A cardholder or affiliated club may be disciplined, suspended or expelled from the CMSA for actions that are determined to be detrimental to the overall welfare and/or financial well being of the association. C. All contestants are responsible for their own personal safety and that of their horse. They should also remain alert for other unsafe conditions and/or unsafe conduct by others. D. Cowboy mounted shooting requires equestrian and shooting skills of an intermediate to advanced level. Persons unsure as to their own skill level should contact the CMSA about qualifications, practice and pre-match training clinics held in their area. E. The CMSA Board of Directors is the forum that initially and ultimately hears and reviews evidence of alleged violations. Subsequently, the CMSA Board of Directors will determine what actions are appropriate based on the severity of the violation. F. Examples of actions that could be considered detrimental to the CMSA include, but are not limited to the following: 1. Threatening and/or aggressive behavior toward others during or after a match. 2. Inhumane treatment of animals. 3. Non-payment of debts to CMSA or affiliated/charter clubs shall result in the cancellation of points and suspension of CMSA card until appropriate settlement has been reached. 4. Competing under the influence of non-prescription drugs or alcohol. 5. Unauthorized use of CMSA Trademarked or Copyrighted materials. 6. Failure to conduct CMSA sanctioned events in strict compliance with CMSA Rules. 4. SAFETY RULES AND GUIDELINES A. All firearms shall be treated as if they are loaded. B. All firearms shall remain unloaded until the rider arrives in the loading area. C. No firearm should be cocked until immediately prior to engaging a target. D. Riders have final responsibility to make sure their firearms are loaded and functioning properly prior to stage engagement. E. Competitors are expected to compete safely within their individual capabilities and controlling their firearm's muzzle direction at all times. F. All contestants shall be knowledgeable and proficient in the safe use of firearms G. Mandatory New Shooter orientation and qualification rides shall be conducted PRIOR to competition. H. CMSA recommends the use of eye protection and ear protection at all CMSA sanctioned matches. I. As the national sanctioning body CMSA recommends that Cardholders support the NRA. J. CMSA requires the use of a Range Master, over the age of 18, either on foot, seated or mounted, at all CMSA sanctioned events. K. Parents or guardians of minors or their designate may be in the arena when they compete. L. The rider assumes all responsibility for participation in these events. 5. CMSA DRESS REQUIREMENTS FOR COMPETITORS A. Male Competitors. 1. Male competitors shall be required to wear "Traditional, Classic, Recognizable Western Cowboy" style clothing as described below, in order to compete in CMSA matches. a) "The Minimum CMSA Dress Requirements for Male Competitors" consists of: (1) A traditional western cowboy style long sleeved shirt. Sleeve must be wrist length, and buttoned at the cuff while competing. (2) A traditional western cowboy style hat. (3) Traditional western cowboy style boots. (4) Modern Western Cowboy Style five pocket jeans may only be worn with chaps or chinks. b) Male competitors are encouraged, but not required, to exceed "The Minimum CMSA Dress Requirements for Male Competitors" by electing to dress in Traditional Western Cowboy Style Apparel which portrays the overall look of the west in the late 19th and early 20th century through the Silver Screen era. 2. "The Minimum CMSA Dress Requirements For Male Competitors" does not allow for modern clothing such as T-shirts, knit tank tops, ball caps, Men's short-sleeved shirts, or sleeveless shirts to be worn at any CMSA event. B. Female Competitors. 1. Female competitors shall be required to dress in "Traditional, Classic, Recognizable Western Cowgirl" style clothing as described below, in order to compete in CMSA matches. a) "The Minimum CMSA Dress Requirements for Female Competitors" consists of: (1) A traditional western cowgirl style long sleeved shirt or blouse. Sleeve must be wrist length, and buttoned at the cuff while competing. (2) A traditional western cowgirl style hat. (3) Traditional western cowgirl style boots or High-topped Victorian-style lace-up shoes. (4) Modern Western Cowgirl Style five pocket jeans may only be worn with chaps or chinks. b) Female Competitors are allowed and encouraged, but not required, to exceed "The Minimum CMSA Dress Requirements for female Competitors" by electing to dress in Traditional Western Cowgirl Style Apparel that portrays the overall look of the west in the late 19th and early 20th century through the Silver Screen era. (1) In order to celebrate and enjoy the flavor of the Wild West, female competitors may wear 19th century-styled short-sleeved tops only when worn with a full-length, full skirt of the 19th century style, or any full-length dress, such as a Victorian-styled long formal dress. (a) Since split riding skirts were originally designed to allow ladies to ride astride in a more socially restrictive era, they are considered as trousers and as such are outdoor riding apparel; therefore a hat and long sleeves must be worn with a split riding skirt. (b)Short-sleeved blouses are acceptable wear with any of the above-stated garments. (c) Sleeveless tops are permitted only if it is part of the design of a full- length Victorian style formal dress. (d)Sleeveless camisole tops may only be worn with Victorian-styled undergarments, such as when portraying the "soiled dove" or "saloon girl" look of the Old West era. Otherwise, such attire would not have been worn in public during the 19th century. 2. "Minimum CMSA Dress Requirements for Female Competitors" does not allow for modern clothing Of Any Kind! Spandex or other modern body- hugging, fitted tops are not permissible under any circumstances. C. Competitors should remain in CMSA Required Dress at all match events: dinners, award ceremonies, dances, etc. It is also recommended that invited guests and family wear western clothing. D. Promotional logos on tack or clothing shall not be allowed in CMSA sanctioned matches. E. The only exclusion for Promotional Logos are: 1. "Makers Marks" are allowed on clothing, but shall not exceed one inch square in size. 2. Pro Cardholders may wear sponsored logos on their long-sleeved shirts only in the Pro event and during the showcase/finals performances of Rifle, Pro and Eliminator. Each contestant wearing logo'd shirts shall include an approved CMSA logo on either breast, left or right. Other logos may be applied: (a) Breast – two (2) logos of nine (9) square-inch maximum. (b) Participants may wear one (1) cantle/yoke Patch (top back of shirt) Thirty (30) square-inch maximum. (c) Participants may wear two (2) sleeve Patches (one per sleeve-the patches are not required to represent same sponsor. Sixteen (16) square- inch maximum. (d) Participants may wear two (2) shirt collar Patches, five (5) square-inch maximum. F. To qualify to run a stage you shall engage the course wearing a cowboy hat, protective headwear, or appropriate headwear. Only CMSA Pro Cardholder members in good standing are eligible to participate in this logo sponsorship program. Non-Pro cardholding members are ineligible to participate in the logo sponsorship program, and may not wear logos or signage in the competition arena at any time. No logo may be worn in the competition arena which opposes the use of any product or service which is manufactured or distributed by anational sponsor, nor may a logo be worn in the competition arena, which otherwise demeans a national sponsor, or the use of a product or service of a national sponsor. Sponsor logos SHALL NOT be worn in the main match or any part thereof. If a contestant wears sponsor logos without being a current CMSAPro Cardholder, that contestant will receive a non-qualifying run. Furthermore, it is the ultimate responsibility of the contestant to insure that his/her logos are of the correct size and configuration to avoid a non-qualified run. 6. FIREARMS a. Only fixed sight single action revolvers of .45 Colt caliber, designed prior to 1898, or reproductions thereof, shall be allowed in CMSA competitions. b. Examples are: Colt Single Action Army or Bisley Model, Smith & Wesson Schofield, Russian, or Remington Models 1875 & 1890, their reproductions and Ruger Vaqueros, Bisleys or Montados. c. All holsters shall be of leather construction and shall retain the contestants' firearms throughout the strenuous range of motion required in mounted competition. d. Holsters shall conform to the historic Old West design. A holster is defined as a leather pouch formed in the shape of a gun. A feedbag or saddlebag does not qualify and is considered by CMSA to be unsafe. Pistols shall be returned to holsters, which would be limited to belted holsters, pommel, cantle, and/or shoulder holsters. e. All firearms shall be maintained in the same external condition as originally manufactured from the factory. Allowed modifications shall be limited to engraving, hammer knurling or turned down hammers as long as there is no lateral movement or welded add-ons. Custom grips are allowed including Birds head grips (like the Cimarron Thunderer). No rubber grips allowed. The original external profile shall be maintained. All external parts shall be of the type manufactured for that particular model of firearm. Stock parts may be swapped from gun to gun. Ejector rods shall be maintained. Site modifications shall be limited to the filing of the front site. Triggers shall be operational; “slip hammer” revolvers are unsafe. f. "Bird's Head" type grip frames on single action revolvers are legal for CMSA World Point Competition. Included are standard factory production Bird's Head Grip Frame guns and guns equipped with aftermarket Bird's Head Grip Frames. Aftermarket grip frames shall be a production type product. No one of a kind custom made grip frames shall be allowed. The side profile for grip frames cannot be altered on any revolver. This includes Standard, Factory Bird’s Head and guns equipped with aftermarket Bird’s Head Grip Frames. g. The use of tape or vet wrap on guns, grips, or hammers is not allowed. Violation will result in a non-qualified run. h. "Bisley Style Hammers" are legal on single action revolvers for CMSA World Point Competition. A Bisley Style Hammer may replace a standard hammer so long as it is of the same manufacturer. Example: It is legal to replace a standard Ruger Vaquero hammer with a Ruger Bisley Hammer. 7. AMMUNITION a. All mounted shooting blanks used in CMSA WPQ matches, demonstrations, official practices sanctioned, approved or covered by the CMSA's spectator liability policy shall be CMSA certified and approved. All certified mounted shooting blank providers shall submit 100 rounds of their mounted shooting blanks to CMSA for testing & certification approval. Each mounted shooting blank provider upon approval shall be issued a numbered CMSA approved mounted shooting blank provider certificate. This approved mounted shooting blank provider certificate number shall be included with all WPQ match results. All CMSA approved mounted shooting blanks shall consistently burst properly inflated helium grade balloons from a distance of not less than 10 feet and not more than 20 feet. b. No blank shall have an effective range longer than 20 feet for rider and spectator safety. c. If the quality of the match-supplied ammunition is in question, any CMSA Competition Card holder may purchase 50 rounds of said ammunition & submit it to CMSA for analysis. 8. HORSES a. CMSA competitions are open to all breeds of horses and mules, registered and unregistered. Riders are expected to compete with mounts that are healthy and in good physical condition. A mounted shooting competition is not the appropriate forum to introduce your horse to the sound of gunfire for the first time. New riders and/or mounts shall demonstrate that they can safely control or be controlled during the completion of a course of fire prior to entering a competition. b. No more than two riders per CLASS may compete on the same horse with the exception of the Wrangler Class. However, there is no limit on the number of horses that a contestant may use in a CMSA match, unless they are being tracked for specific prizes that are based upon the horses performance. In other words, a rider can change horses for each stage. c. No abuse of animals shall be allowed. This is a Match Director call, done with a warning first. If disregarded, expulsion from the match shall follow. 9. SADDLES a. Competitors shall use a saddle of western design that is constructed of leather and in safe condition. Traditional leather tack and equipment is more representative of the Old West, and is an enhancement to the sport. 10. STAGE DESIGN a. The “courses of fire” or patterns as proscribed in the official course book of the CMSA are designed for maximum enjoyment of competitors and spectators, while testing horsemanship and shooting skills. The safety of riders, spectators and horses is a principle concern. Only courses drawn from the current course book shall be used in WPQ events unless specific exception is granted by the CMSA board of directors. b. The primary purpose of a stage is to provide a scoring grid that is fair for all contestants. A standard CMSA stage is to have ten targets. A contestant is to shoot the course of fire with two single action revolvers which shall be loaded with not more than 5 approved cartridges. Revolvers are used one at a time. With the first revolver, a contestant shoots a random course of fire (the first half of the stage). This random course shall be set in a safe manner. Upon completing the random course, the contestant shall holster the now empty revolver and draw the second revolver and ride to shoot the second half of the stage commonly called the "rundown". Pistols shall be returned to holsters, which shall be limited to belted holsters, pommel, cantle, and/or shoulder holsters. The rundown is standardized in most CMSA World Qualifying Matches. The rundown is to have five targets to be completed in a fast, forward motion c. The Range Master shall have the responsibility of making final inspection of the course before the first rider gets their go. d. No running starts into the arena e. All riders shall start with the gate closed or use of a baffled alley/gate. f. Barrel shall not be closer than 25 feet to the side rails of the arena and 25 feet to the end rail and targets shall be a minimum of 30 feet from side rails. 11. TIMING a. Electronic beam "barrel racing" timers, such as FarmTek timers, shall be used for all WPQ and championship events. The rider and horse shall start the course of fire from behind the timing beam. 12. SCORING a. CMSA matches are scored according to elapsed time plus the total of any applicable penalties. The total sum of all of the stages determines the overall match winners. b. The decision of the Range Master is final, based on the rulebook. If a contestant wishes to protest the Range Master's decision he/she shall do so by filing a $50 cash protest fee with the Match Director. The member protesting the call must be entered in the event to be protested or be the legal guardian of a Wrangler or Junior competitor. The Appeals Board for any CMSA sanctioned match shall be made up of 3 experienced CMSA Cardholders and one alternate who shall hear the appeal. This Appeals Board shall be set up confidentially by the Match Director prior to the shooters meeting. No appeal shall be heard, discussed or pre-vote opinion taken of the Appeals Board until the $50 is paid in CASH to the Match Director. The Appeals Board shall immediately convene and listen to the riders' case. They shall then discuss and vote in private on whether to accept or deny the protest. If the appeal is granted the $50 is returned; if the appeal is rejected the $50 goes to the club sponsoring the event. A brief report shall be sent to the CMSA with the match results on detailing any and all appeals filed at a WPQ event. c. The board of a sponsoring club has sovereignty if no rule or penalty exists in the CMSA rulebook. d. Points shall not be retroactive. Match Directors are to enforce that riders either have their current competition card or have joined CMSA at the World Point Qualifying match in which they wish to compete. 13. PENALTIES a. Penalties shall be restricted to the following: i. Missed target: 5 seconds ii. Knocked over barrel: 5 seconds iii. Failure to follow course of fire: 10 seconds iv. Dropped gun: 5 seconds v. Failure to holster first gun: 5 seconds vi. Non Qualified run: 60 seconds vii. Gun twirling: 5 seconds b. A firearm that is dropped once the course has been engaged is a dead firearm and the rider incurs a 5-second penalty plus any missed targets. A rider who drops a firearm before crossing the timing beam is removed from his place in line until the firearm has been cleaned. No consequences shall be received for a firearm dropped after crossing the finish line. c. A rider who becomes dismounted during the course of fire receives a 60 second penalty and the ride is over. d. In the event that a firearm comes into contact with the arena floor, that firearm becomes a dead gun. Only a match official should pick it up. e. Total final time for any ride shall equal no more than 60 seconds. Total time for a rider that does not complete any stage shall be 60 seconds for that stage. f. No penalty will be given to any contestant for knocking over a target pole. However, the targets shall be broken by direct gunfire. All targets (whether standing or lying down) shall be broken by gunfire to be considered a hit. All targets broken accidentally or by nature shall be shot. If a missed target is broken accidentally by an act of nature after the miss occurred it shall still be a miss. g. If a contestant hits two targets with one shot they may use the remaining round to pick up a target they may have missed. h. A rider shall have been determined to have engaged the course once he has crossed the start/finish line and is on the clock. At that point, he/she accepts the stage as it is. Thereafter, any mechanical malfunctions of your firearm or gear, including your horse, shall not constitute a re-ride. i. If a rider is notified during or after the completion of a stage that a timekeeper error or a timing malfunction occurred the rider shall be granted a re-ride. The Timekeeper and the Range Master shall determine if a re-ride is granted. j. If a rider crosses the timing line prior to completing the course of fire, he or she shall be given a total time of sixty seconds. k. The Range Master shall grant re-rides as soon as possible after the completion of that run. l. Re-rides are given as a new stage. This means the competitor does not carry forward any misses or a clean stage. m. If a run is interrupted, the call for a re-ride is made by the Range Master. n. The “no alibi” rule shall be put in place for all CMSA sanctioned matches. There are no squibs, high primers, or misfires accepted. There shall be no re-rides or scoring adjustments for problems with mounted shooting blanks. o. The two “Target Cones” that make up a designated gate on a course of fire shall be called “Gate Cones”. If a rider knocks over a “Gate Cone” at any time during the completion of a stage it shall be considered a 5 second penalty. p. Deliberate gun twirling in an arena shall be a 5 second penalty. 14. TARGETS a. The standard targets used in CMSA competitions are helium quality balloons. When inflated, a balloon shall measure 6 to 9 inches in diameter. Care should be taken to insure balloon targets are of a uniform size for all competitors. Targets shall be of two distinctly different colors, unless otherwise specified in the current official course book. b. For safety reasons target stands shall be made of a flexible material like PVC or polyethylene pipe no larger than 1” inch in diameter. c. 48 inches shall be the standard height of a target pole, but may be varied from ground level to 60 inches to increase the variety possible within each CMSA stage. 15. RULES THAT RESULT IN A PROCEDURAL, NON-QUALIFIED RUN, OR DISQUALIFICATION Violation of these rules shall result in a Procedural and shall result in a 10 second penalty. A. Failure to follow the proscribed course as set forth in the current official CMSA course book. Violation of these rules shall result in a Non Qualified Run and time of 60 seconds for the stage: A. Accidental discharge of a round outside the arena shall be a 60 second for the stage you were loaded for; if the competitor reloads and shoots the pattern he or she shall be disqualified from the match. B. Engaging the course without the consent of the Range Master shall be a penalty of 60 seconds. Although accidentally breaking the start timer during warm-up shall incur no penalty and the timer shall be reset. The rider shall be given a warning for that stage. A second breakage of the timer shall result in a 60 second penalty. C. If a rider loads or shoots 6 rounds from the same gun in a stage. Match officials have the right to inspect all firearms before or following a contestants run. D. Failure to wear the minimum CMSA dress requirements. Violation of these rules shall result in disqualification from the match: A. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the range, staging and shooting areas. This includes all persons, competitors, range officials, guests or anyone else in these areas. B. Competitors shall not consume any alcoholic beverage until they have completed all of their shooting for the day and have unloaded, inspected, and stored all of their firearms. “Violation shall result in DQ from the match” C. Competitors shall not ingest any substance, which may affect their ability to participate in a completely safe manner. Both prescription and nonprescription pharmaceuticals that may cause drowsiness or other physical or mental impairment are to be avoided. D. Abusive language or conduct shall not be tolerated and at discretion of Match Director shall be given a warning or disqualification. E. Contestants shall have no live ammunition on their person or in their cartridge belts or saddlebags. Only dummy ammunition with inert or fired primers should be used in cartridge belts. Possession of live ammunition on your person will result in DQ from the match. F. All contestants shall use “match supplied” .45 Colt blank ammunition. No personal ammunition of any type is to be allowed at CMSA competitions under penalty of disqualification. G. No abuse of animals shall be allowed. This is a Match Director call, which shall result in expulsion from the match. 16. CONTESTANT CLASSIFICATION A. The CMSA has established a classification system that is based on the competitor’s riding and shooting abilities. The CMSA has adopted a number classification system. Contestants are categorized into six levels from 1 to 6, for Men, Ladies, Seniors and Juniors. All Class wins at World Point Qualifying (WPQ) matches shall be counted toward changing classifications if all prerequisites have been met. B. CLASS ONE: A #1 Class contestant is an entry-level rider. To move up to a Class #2, a competitor shall earn two #1 wins in a CMSA Point Qualifying Match. For a win to qualify toward a move-up there shall be at least three #1 riders within the appropriate Division in the match. C. CLASS TWO: A #2 Class contestant has developed riding and shooting skills beyond that of a beginner. A #2 shall be able to challenge a course of fire aggressively within the realm of his or her abilities. To move up to a Class #3, a competitor shall earn three #2 wins in a CMSA Point Qualifying Match. For a win to qualify toward a move-up there shall be at least three #2 riders within the appropriate Division in the match. D. CLASS THREE: A #3 Class contestant has a solid foundation in horsemanship and proficiency with firearms. A #3 shooter is an experienced average shooter. To move up to a Class 4, a competitor shall earn four #3 wins in a CMSA Point Qualifying Match. For a win to qualify toward a move- up there shall be at least four #3 riders within the appropriate Division in the match. E. CLASS FOUR: A #4 shooter is an experienced winning competitor possessing excellent riding and shooting skills. A #4 contestant is an expert within the field. To move up to a Class 5, a competitor shall earn five #4 wins in a CMSA Point Qualifying Match. For a win to qualify toward a move-up there shall be at least five #4 riders within the appropriate Division in the match. F. CLASS FIVE: A Superior Mounted Shooter. To move up to a Class 6, a competitor shall earn six #5 wins in a CMSA Point Qualifying Match. For a win to qualify toward a move-up there shall be at least six #5 riders within the appropriate Division in the match. G. CLASS SIX: A Master Mounted Shooter. H. WRANGLER CLASS: Wranglers are competitors under the age of 12. i. Wranglers shall not be given a time for their shooting; instead they would receive only penalties for missed targets. It is suggested that riders 10 or 11 years of age ride, then shoot five rounds while standing on the ground. Riders younger than 10 years old should ride only. The final decision about how the Wrangler section of a match is to be run is left to the Match Director. ii. In the Wrangler Class the Parent/Legal Guardian and/or a qualified Range Master shall be present at the firing line. One of these adults is to be responsible for handing the live firearm to the Wrangler competitor. iii. There will be two classes of Wrangler, Open & Limited as follows: Open 10-11 and Limited 7-9. iv. All Open wranglers shall wear holsters and use either non-firing replica or unloaded competition firearms. All Open wranglers shall ride to and aim at all targets and change guns. v. All wranglers and their horses shall be pre-qualified by the Range Master for safe riding skills and demonstrate the ability to control their horse and guns. vi.A mandatory safety meeting with ALL Wrangler competitors, parents, Wrangler Director and Range Master shall be held immediately following the safety meeting prior to start of the main match. vii. All wranglers shall ground shoot with eye protection and ear protection. A missed target is a 5 second penalty. I. JUNIOR CLASS: Rider 12 through 15 years of age. The Junior Class is a developmental class that contains contestants of both genders. No move- ups will be tracked In the Junior Class. It Is not mandatory that riders 12 through 15 years of age enter into the Junior Class. Juniors who have risen above Level 1 prior to December 1, 2008 shall have the option of remaining in the Junior Class, moving down one level or moving laterally into the appropriate Class. J. SENIOR CLASS: Any CMSA cardholder, male, having attained the age of 55 shall be eligible to ride in the senior division. Any CMSA cardholder, female having attained the age of 48 years shall be eligible to ride in the senior division. Senior Division move ups shall be the same as Class 1 through 6 move ups. 17. CONTESTANT CLASSIFICATION CLARIFICATIONS A. When contestant reaches the designated number of qualifying wins in their current Class, they shall move to the next level in their Class. B. The word CHAMPION shall be used for Overall's and Reserve's only, including Men's Ladies', Junior's and Senior's. All others shall be Class WINNER'S. C. Moving up in Class shall not be granted by verbal or written request. Movement in Class shall only be granted by number of wins in contestants’ existing Class. #1’s shall win two #1 qualifying wins, #2’s shall win three #2 qualifying wins, #3’s shall win four #3 qualifying wins, #4’s shall win five #4 qualifying wins, #5’s shall have six qualifying wins. For a win to qualify there shall be at least three (3) competitors within the appropriate Division in that Class, except Class #3 which shall have four (4), Class #4, which shall have five (5), and Class #5, which shall have six (6) competitors within the appropriate Division in that Class, and it shall be a CMSA Point Qualifying Match. D. A contestant receives a win toward a move up if he or she wins the Overall position (of the entire match) in a WPQ match, while placing above contestants in his or her Class or a higher Class, or if he or she beats the required number of contestants in his or her Class regardless of gender. E. If a competitor wins his Class, and the Overall or Reserve, he shall receive both the Class buckle and the Overall or Reserve buckle, which counts as one win toward a move up. F. A competitor may, within 30 days of the anniversary of his/her most recent official win, petition to move down one level in Class if he or she has competed for one year (365 days) and not earned an official class win in their current Class. Change in class requests received within 10 days of any CMSA Championship Series event will take effect after the conclusion of that event. G. All age relevant classes shall be allowed the option of making a class change in the competition year in which they turn the appropriate age. Any voluntary age relevant class change must be petitioned through the CMSA office prior to competing in their first WPQ event. Once the Cardholder chooses to move they cannot move back to their previous Class during that competition year. 18. MATCH INSTRUCTIONS A. In order for your event to be sanctioned and count as a WPQ event you need to follow the following procedures for the 2009 competition year. 19. REGISTRATION A. Anyone can enter a sanctioned event, however, only CMSA Competition Cardholders shall receive World Qualifying Points (WPQ). In order for CMSA to track move ups, all competitors shall be assigned a number or letter designation. To be included on the CMSA Score sheet, a contestant shall be one of the following: 1. A current CMSA Cardholder (Adult or Wrangler) 2. A Temporary Cardholder (Adult or Wrangler), who is issued a letter designation such as T1, T2, T3 3. An NCC (Non competition Cardholder) who is designated CMSA number "NCC". 4. An individual will only be considered a contestant in a match if he or she pays an entry fee and engages at least one stage of the match. B. You must use the CMSA Official Score sheet included on your Club CD for any CMSA sanctioned event. No other score sheet will be accepted. No handwritten sheets will be accepted. C. All cells in the CMSA Number column & the Class column MUST be filled in with the correct information. D. Time Only’s are not allowed on CMSA Score sheets. E. CMSA cards shall be checked at registration to insure correct CMSA numbers, Class specification and that their Card is current for this year. Each competitor shall compete at the class & level listed on his or her Competition Card. F. To verify interim move-ups, print out the Certified Points page from the web site the day of the event. This page will also tell you how many qualifying wins each rider currently has towards his or her next move-up. In the event of a back-to-back WPQ, after the first day, you can move a competitor up for the next day of competition. G. Move-ups are not official until certified by the CMSA office. H. Results will be double checked (certified) by the CMSA office. I. If a rider claims that his or her Class or Wins are incorrect have them contact the CMSA office or fill out the form on this page: http://www. cowboymountedshooting.com/change_of_class.htm J. Time Only, demo and training runs shall be completed after all contestants entered in the event have completed their scored runs in each stage. 21. NON-COMPETITION CARDHOLDERS (ADULT AND WRANGLER) A. An NCC (Non Competition Cardholders) would include someone who has not joined yet or a CMSA cardholder whose card is not current, i.e. his/her membership is expired. B. Give all Adult NCC’s a CMSA number of NCC and a Class specification of NCC. C. Give all Wrangler NCC's a CMSA number of NCC and a Class specification of WR. D. Do NOT list NCC's on any Awards Form, as they are not eligible for awards or move-ups. 22. NEW CONTESTANTS JOINING AT A CMSA MATCH (ADULT AND WRANGLER) A. Issue a Temporary number (T1, T2, T3) to each new competitor, B. Have them fill out a CMSA Cardholder application. C. Send his or her Cardholder fees with your results. D. Adult Temporary Cardholders shall ride in Level 1 of their respective Class, except Wranglers who are designated WR in the Class field. 23. POINTS A. A CMSA Competition Cardholder shall receive one point for entering the match and one point for each contestant he or she places above in the overall standing, including NCC’s. Although non-competition cardholders count for a point, they are not counted for move-ups. If a Class 3 rider beats 3 other Class 3 riders, but one of their cards has expired, there is NO move- up. B. Wranglers are tracked in a separate World Points Series. C. If a person joins at a particular match, their points will count at that match and thereafter. Points shall not be awarded retroactively. D. Points will not be awarded until all event fees are paid to the CMSA office. 24. HOW TO HANDLE FEES & RESULTS OF A CMSA MATCH A. A club shall remit the appropriate fees to CMSA for each contestant on the score sheet. Remit $5.00 for single point and $10.00 for DWPQ events for each of the following: 1. Cardholders (Adult and Wrangler) 2. T1's - Temporary Cardholders (Adult and Wrangler) 3. NCC's - Non Competition Cardholders (Adult and Wrangler) B. Remit $5.00 per competitor for WPQ's, Grand Americans (double points), State Championships (triple points), & Regional Championships (quadruple points). Remit $10.00 per competitor for Double Points Matches. C. The $5.00 CMSA fee shall be included in match entry fee and not added on as an additional fee. D. E-mail the entire score sheet to results@ cowboymountedshooting.com. Include your Club name and event date. E. Match results shall be submitted to the CMSA office within 48 hours of completion of the event. A late fee of $50.00 per day shall be charged to the club hosting the match for each day late. F. Courses of fire may be drawn each event day or at the start of a multi- event/multi-day championship event. Time and place of drawing is to be announced prior to courses being drawn. Courses shall not be pre-drawn, posted or published more than 12 hours before the event begins. G. Limiting the number of riders at a match shall be advertised 90 days in advance on the CMSA web site. 25. 2009 WORLD POINT QUALIFIER, GRAND AMERICAN, STATE CHAMPIONSHIP, AND REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP RULES A. An Affiliated Club may host the following events each season. 1. An unlimited number of World Point Qualifying matches (WPQ) 2. One Grand American Championship (GAC) 3. All events, dates & locations are subject to CMSA's approval B. World Point Qualifiers, Double World Point Qualifiers & Grand American Championships may be held on any date approved by the CMSA. C. State Championships & Regional matches shall be stand alone events and a minimum of six stages shall be required, unless special dispensation has been granted by the CMSA. D. No other mounted shooting association’s event, of any type, may be held in conjunction with or contiguous to, any CMSA Points event. E. To prevent match conflicts: If events are submitted to and approved by the CMSA office by November 9, 2009 for 2010 season schedule deadline, the following rules apply: 1. The CMSA World and National Championships shall be stand-alone events and no other matches shall be scheduled on these dates. 2. No other CMSA matches shall be scheduled within a 750 mile radius (established by an address to address search per mapquest.com) of the location, on the same day as any CMSA Championship Series Event. 3. No other CMSA Point matches shall be held on the same days, in the same state, as a State Championship. 4. No other CMSA Point matches shall be held on the same days, in the same Region, as a Regional Championship. 5. State & Regional Championships submitted after November 9, 2009 for 2010 season may or may not have this exclusivity. 26. WORLD POINT QUALIFIERS: (SINGLE OR DOUBLE POINTS) A. No more than 2 WPQ may be held in one location, in a single day. B. No more than 4 WPQ's may be held in one location on a single weekend. C. Double point WPQ’s (double points, double fees) are allowed. D. To qualify for CMSA World Points, an event shall have at least four stages and a minimum of 10 contestants, not counting Wranglers, unless special dispensation has been granted by the CMSA. 27. GRAND AMERICANS: (DOUBLE POINTS, SPECIAL BUCKLES) A. No more than 2 Grand American may be held in one location in a single day. B. To qualify for CMSA World Points, an event shall have at least four stages and a minimum of 10 contestants, not counting Wranglers, unless special dispensation has been granted by the CMSA. C. Montana Silversmiths has custom designed trophy buckles for the Grand American Championships. At least two of these buckles shall be ordered for each GAC. D. Grand American buckles can be customized for each match and shall be purchased through CMSA. 28. CMSA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS: (TRIPLE POINTS) A. Each state may have 1 State Championship B. State Championship dates, locations and host club shall be approved by CMSA. The affiliated club that produced the highest count of riders in the previous calendar year shall be granted first right of refusal to host the State Championship. If the club with the highest count of riders sent to CMSA does NOT wish to host the State Championship it will be offered to the affiliated club with the next highest count of riders generated and so on. Clubs are encouraged to work together to produce the best possible event. C. State Championships shall be a triple Points Match. D. To qualify for a CMSA State Championship Event, the event shall have at least six stages and a minimum of 10 contestants, not counting Wranglers, unless special dispensation has been granted by the CMSA. E. The Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association will recognize the Top CMSA World Point earning Cowboy and Cowgirl in each state. Only points earned at CMSA World Point Events hosted by Affiliated Clubs based in the Competition Card Holder's home state will accrue for the state high point honors. F. All Range Masters at CMSA State matches should be certified. 29. CMSA REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS: (QUADRUPLE POINTS, SPECIAL BUCKLES) A. Each Region may have 1 Regional Championship B. Regional Championship dates, locations and host club shall be approved by CMSA. The affiliated club that produced the highest count of riders in the previous calendar year shall be granted first right of refusal to host the Regional championship. If the club with the highest count of riders sent to CMSA does NOT wish to host the Regional Championship it will be offered to the affiliated club with the next highest count of riders generated and so on. Clubs are encouraged to work together to produce the best possible event. C. Regional Championships shall be a quadruple Points Match. D. To qualify for a CMSA Regional event, the event shall have at least six stages and a minimum of 10 contestants, not counting Wranglers, unless special dispensation has been granted by the CMSA. E. The Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association will recognize the Top CMSA World Point earning Cowboy and Cowgirl in each CMSA Region. Only Points earned at CMSA World Point Events hosted by Affiliated Clubs based in the Competition Card Holder's home Region will accrue for the Regional high point honors. F. Montana Silversmiths has custom designed trophy buckles for the Regional Championships. At least two of these buckles shall be ordered for each Regional. G. Regional Championship buckles can be customized for each match and shall be purchased through CMSA. H. All Range Masters at CMSA State matches should be certified. --------------------- 30. CAVALRY CLASS A. The Cavalry Class shall be divided into two cavalry classes, Limited (Classes 1, 2 & 3) and Open (Classes 4, 5 & 6) regardless of gender. B. Definitions: 1. The Cavalry Class is a mounted revolver competition that combines historical re-enactments and horsemanship, while paying tribute to the mounted soldiers of the Cavalry. Inspired by the great diversity of colorful military uniforms from, the Civil War (1861-1865) Union and Confederate, Plains Indian Campaigns (1870-1879), Southwest Campaigns (1880-1889), and Spanish American Wars (1898). This Class shall be conducted as a side match, and presented in exhibition form. Emphasis should be strongly placed on authenticity in uniforming, firearms, saddlery, and other equipments of the mounted branches of the cavalry, bringing more pageantry and Americana to the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association’s matches in a lively and historically accurate manner. Like any other CMSA competition, the Cavalry Class is open to all current CMSA Competition Cardholders, except Wranglers. C. Clothing/uniforming: 1. All contestants shall wear a uniform, consisting of some form of appropriate headwear, a uniform jacket, appropriate belt gear, footwear and trousers of the period. While certain items of uniforming may vary, depending on the unit depicted, jackets (uniform coats) for the period the competitor has chosen will be required. For example, while it is well known that many Confederate units had difficulty in obtaining uniforms, and often campaigned in homemade uniforms, shirtsleeves, or civilian clothing, for the sake of sameness for both sides, contestants depicting rebel soldiers will be required to wear a uniform jacket. Nevertheless, Confederates may wear trousers other than strictly the regulation light blue (Confederate regulations stated that uniform trousers were made of light blue wool, virtually identical to those of the Union army). Since southern soldiers wore blue (often captured from northern soldiers), gray, butternut (brownish gray) and even civilian attire—such garments will be permitted, so long as they are of the 1860's styling. This has been decided for the sake of the colorful variety of uniforms that will be worn in the arena, yet will not place an unfair competitive advantage on one side or another. Both Union and Confederate contestants may wear any period shirt underneath the jacket, and vests are optional. 2. Scouts or officer fringe leather jackets may be worn as long as military pants, proper hat, boots, etc. are worn. 3. **Women a) Although there weren't any official female fighting units during the Cavalry period, there were a number of women who disguised themselves as soldiers and otherwise followed the army throughout the war. Some women who served as camp followers, officer's wives, etc... adopted colorful uniforms of their own that included skirts and trousers–called vivandieres. Outfits such as these will be allowed in the Class, so long as all of the other rules of the division are followed (firearms, jacket, hat, saddlery, tack, holsters, and so on). D. Firearms: 1. Any revolver that is legal in standard CMSA competition may be used in the Cavalry Class. E. Gun leather/holsters: 1. All competitors shall be required to use Cavalry-era, flap holsters as were most commonly used during the period they have chosen to portray. Military- type, flap-covered pommel holsters and civilian full flap holsters of the period, may also be used as a secondary holster, but one revolver must be worn on the competitor's person and be used in competition.. The empty revolver must be returned to one of the holsters. Any revolvers worn on the body must be carried butt forward. F. Mounted Shooting Blanks: 1. The only mounted shooting blanks allowed for use in the CMSA’s Cavalry Class are CMSA certified .45 Colt mounted shooting blanks. G. Horses: 1. Any CMSA qualified equine may be used in CMSA Cavalry Class. H. Saddles: 1. Horses used in this competition shall be tacked with proper period saddlery and bridle equipment. For example, saddles can be any of the following types: Model 1859 and up McClellan saddles, no 1904's, single rigged Texas Hope-type saddle, U.S. Grimsley, or the Jennifer pattern, along with English and Plantation saddles of the period are among those saddles of the Cavalry time period that can be used. Ladies, if they choose, may ride sidesaddle. All parts of the saddle shall be period correct including stirrups, hardware, skirting, etc. Externally blankets shall be of the type from the period. Pads underneath shall be out of sight. Saddlebags, canteens and other equipment of the period are encouraged. So, pick the saddle and tack for the time period you have chosen to portray. I. Headstall: 1. All headstall equipment should be of the patterns used in the era the competitor has chosen to portray. This includes halter, bridle, bit and reins and all hardware should be period correct. Bits should have at least exterior appearance of the period. J. Stage design: 1. The courses of competition for Cavalry shall be drawn from the current CMSA Course Book and shall be those courses allowing enough time to return guns in flap-covered holsters and draw the second revolver from another closed flap holster. K. Timing: 1. All CMSA timing rules apply L. Scoring: 1. Riders shall meet the uniform, saddle, holster, equipment, etc. requirements in order to complete a qualified run. However, the CMSA or event producer may choose to have a separate contest independent of the match for best dressed contestant. M. Penalties: 1. All CMSA rules apply. N. Targets: 1. Blue and gray balloons are recommended. --------------------------- 31. CMSA MOUNTED RIFLE SHOOTING RULES A. Mounted Rifle Shooting is a class within the sport of Cowboy Mounted Shooting. Competitors should be experienced shooters prior to attempting the rifle competition and shall follow CMSA rules plus the following additions or changes. B. Mounted Rifle competition shall be accomplished with the first five targets being engaged with pistol (CMSA pistol rules apply) and the second five targets being engaged with a rifle. The competitor shall not have a round in the chamber of the pump or lever action rifle prior to crossing the starting line and shall lever or pump the action prior to engaging the first rundown target. C. Firearms: 1. The rifle used shall be one manufactured prior to 1900 or a reproduction thereof. It shall be a production weapon, not a one of a kind or a home- made weapon. It shall be a pump action, lever action, or revolving rifle. The pump action and lever action shall be 45 LC, 44/40 or 44 magnum calibers. The revolving rifle shall be 45 LC. Rifle barrel minimum length shall be 16 inches and overall rifle minimum length shall be 30 inches. D. Mounted Shooting Rifle Blanks: 1. The Mounted Shooting Rifle Blanks for the pump and lever action rifles should be the 5 in 1 or 3 in 1 blank cartridge. The revolving rifle shall use pistol Mounted Shooting Blanks with a sealant (bore butter, Crisco or like substance) applied to the crimped end. This sealant should be available at the armorer’s table. Do not use any type of adhesive as it could provide a projectile or clog the gun. All Mounted Shooting Blanks shall be supplied by the match producer. E. Divisions: 1. Rifle competitors shall be divided by gender. F. Clothing and Tack: 1. CMSA rules apply, plus the rifle scabbard shall be of leather construction and shall be attached to the saddle. 2. Each stage shall be started with the rifle in the scabbard. G. Stages: 1. The following patterns from the CMSA course book shall be the rifle courses: 1, 10, 16, 18, 26, 27, 36, 43, 47, 48, 49 and 50. 2. A Rifle match shall consist of two or more stages. H. Penalties are the same as CMSA pistol rules, plus the following: 1. Failure to lever or pump the lever or pump action rifles prior to engaging the first rundown target shall result in a 10 second procedural penalty. 2. Failure to do the following shall result in a 10 second procedural. - The competitor should have both hands on the rifle when engaging the targets. - Rifle stock shall be held against the shoulder or under the arm. - Revolving rifles may be fired with either one or two hands. If only one hand is used, the rifle's butt stock shall be held snugly against the shooter's shoulder in the manner of a lever-action rifle (not simply under the arm). If two hands are used, one hand is used to fire the revolving rifle, while the other is held to steady the rifle by holding it cupped over the shooting hand, so long as the shooter's hands are NEVER positioned forward of the cylinder (as per the manufacturer's instructions). - No waving or extending the arm with the rifle in one hand shooting like a pistol shall be allowed. 3. CMSA rules shall apply concerning the number of procedurals per stage. If there are no CMSA rules concerning number of procedurals, the total shall be one procedural per stage. |
The rules of competition for 2009
Oregon Mounted Shooting Association
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Rules page.