RULES OF THE CANADIAN SCENT HURDLE RACING ASSOCIATION
As Revised February 1, 2010
In order to hold Scent Hurdle Races in conjunction with Shows and/or Trials in Canada, the Board of Directors of the Canadian Kennel Club stated that "Scent Hurdle Racing be permitted, provided that:
· C.K.C. Permission is obtained to conduct this as an attraction, not as an official class;
· it is not held while judging of any official classes are in progress;
· it does not delay any judging of the Trial and/or Show;
· dogs competing in this event must be eligible for entry at a obedience trial held under C.K.C. rules."
· Any Club offering Scent Hurdle Racing at their Shows and/or Trials must make every effort to ensure that these regulations and all other CKC Regulations are strictly adhered to.
CHAPTER I SECTION I INTERPRETATIONS
SUBSECTION I - The word "dog" whenever used in these regulations includes both sexes, neutered or not.
SUBSECTION II - "Board of Directors" means the Board of Directors of the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association.
SUBSECTION III - The Board of Directors shall consist of the Provincial Executives, Newsletter Editor, and the Provincial Representatives.
SUBSECTION IV - Each participating Province has its own Provincial Executive. This consists of a Provincial Representative, President, Vice-President, Provincial Secretary and Treasurer
SUBSECTION V - "Club" except as otherwise indicated means a club, organization, or association formed for the purpose of sponsoring a team for Scent Hurdle Racing.
SUBSECTION VI - "Exhibitor" means owner or owners or handler of dog.
SUBSECTION VII - A team shall consist of four to twelve dogs, handlers, and one or two Platform Stewards, registered with the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association's Provincial Representative.
SUBSECTION VIII - "Association" means the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association.
SUBSECTION IX - There will be one Newsletter for CSHRA
SUBSECTION X - A "Provincial Representative" is a person responsible for Scent Hurdle Racing within his/her Province.
SUBSECTION XI - All handlers of dogs competing in a point race must be full members of the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association.
SUBSECTION XII - The Board of Directors shall consist of the Provincial Executives, Newsletter Editor, and the Provincial Representatives.
SUBSECTION XIII - Participating Provinces each have their own Executive and the Executives meet once a year at the National Finals) with the President of whichever province it is held in chairing the meeting and that each Executive consist of a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Provincial Representative but only one Newsletter Editor.
SECTION II - RACING DATES
These are set by the Provincial Representative with permission of the Show and/or Trial giving Club.
SECTION III - PARTICIPATION
SUBSECTION I - Participation is considered a privilege accorded a person by the Board and may be withdrawn.
SUBSECTION 11 - Any person participating agrees to the authority of the Association and its Board of Directors.
SUBSECTION III - No person expelled from the C.K.C. or the Association may compete, judge, or handle any dog at a race.
SUBSECTION IV - DEFINITION - A "person" shall include member, person, partnership, club, association, company, or corporation. The definition of "expelled" shall include expulsion, suspension, deprivation of privileges, and debarment as set forth in Section X, Article XV of the bylaws of the Canadian Kennel Club.
SECTION IV - JUDGES
SUBSECTION I - It is the duty of the Provincial Representative to ensure that a minimum of four judges are present at each race and that the judges are familiar with the regulations for Scent Hurdle Racing.
SUBSECTION II - The Association may set standards for judges and means of testing.
SUBSECTION III - Handlers of dogs or any member of a racing team shall act as judges only if no one else is available to perform these duties.
SUBSECTION IV - Complaints against judges will be raised with the Provincial Representative; however, all judges' decisions are final. Arguing with a judge during or at the completion of a race is strictly forbidden and may be subject to disciplinary action.
SECTION V - ENTRIES
SUBSECTION I - Only dogs eligible for entry at a licensed obedience trial held under C.K.C. rules may be entered in and compete at races held under these regulations.
SUBSECTION II - Entry forms for point races must describe breed, registered name, name of owner/handler, registration number, call name, and team number of each dog. Entry fee is to be $5.00 per team per day.
SUBSECTION III - Entries must be received by the Show and/or Trial giving club's secretary not later than the closing date for entries for the Show or Trial. The Provincial Representative must receive a duplicate copy of the entry form before the closing date. Entry forms are to be supplied on request by the Provincial Representative.
SUBSECTION IV - Authorities or any Show and/or Trial may decline to accept entries for just cause and no one shall have any claim or recourse against organizations or officials that do so. Authorities must file reason for doing so to the Provincial Representative not less than ten (10) days after the Show and/or Trial.
SUBSECTION V - A dog need not be entered in other than the race in order to compete.
SUBSECTION VI - Bitches in season are not permitted to compete. It is the responsibility of the handler not to race a bitch in season.
SECTION VI - BENCHING
Where a race is held in conjunction with a benched Show, a dog entered for the race must conform to the requirements of the Show Committee.
RINGS - The Team Captains and the Starting Judge must ensure that the area for racing is large enough for minimum safe racing requirements.
SECTION VII – PREMIUM LIST
The Premium List must contain information as to what dates the Scent Hurdle Racing is being offered for points as well as any prizes being offered. It is the responsibility of the Trial or Show giving club to include this information.
SECTION VIII – PROGRAM OF JUDGING
SUBSECTION I - The Team Captains and the Provincial Representative must be sent a program of judging, stating the approximate time the races are to be held and how many teams are entered.
SUBSECTION II - Races must not interfere with or be run while judging of any official classes is in progress.
SECTION IX - POINT SCORING
SUBSECTION I - Points are accumulated from January 1 to December 31 on a yearly basis.
SUBSECTION II - Only races held at Licensed CKC Shows and/or Trials will qualify as point races. However, in the case of a tie at the end of the year, the Provincial will hold a tie breaking race. The Provincial Representative (or a person designated by the Provincial Representative) will decide when and where the race is to take place and will preside over same. The provincial Representative, if unable to attend a competition, may designate another member of the CSHRA to act on his/her behalf at said competition
The point system is as follows:
Number of Teams
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine
1st 2 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17
2nd 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15
3rd 1 3 5 7 9 11 13
4th 1 3 5 7 9 11
5th 1 3 5 7 9
6th 1 3 5 7
7th 1 3 5
8th 1 3
9th 1
SUBSECTION III - The Provincial Representative is responsible for submitting the points won to the Secretary of the Association.
SECTION X - EQUIPMENT
SUBSECTION I - All equipment other than rubber matting (if race is run indoors) is to be supplied by each team. Jumps and equipment for races is to be supplied by the appointed team, unless otherwise agreed in advance. The Provincial Representative will be responsible for arranging any alternative arrangements.
SUBSECTION II - Each Team must have its own set of jumps, dumbbells, dumbbell platform, and dog jackets. The Provincial Representative will ensure that jumps are brought to each race.
SUBSECTION III - Diagrams of Equipment
diagram missing
SECTION XI - PROTESTS
SUBSECTION I - A protest against a dog, his owner or handler may be made by any Team Captain of a Team entered and competing at the race or by a member of the Club holding the Show and/or Trial but must be made within ten days of the race. It must be in writing and lodged with the Provincial Representative with a deposit of $5.00 which will be refunded if the protest is sustained. The Provincial Representative must hold a hearing with both parties involved and submit his/her recommendations in writing to the Board. The Board will then make a ruling on the protest and advise the charged party of their decisions by registered mail within ten days.
SUBSECTION II - An appeal may be made in writing by any charged person to the Board of Directors within ten days of receipt of notice of the Board's decision. This appeal must be accompanied by a fee of $10.00, which will be refunded if the decision is reversed.
SECTION XII - DISCIPLINE
SUBSECTION I - The Board of directors may take disciplinary action against any club, person, company, or partnership for any act of omission or commission, which violates any section or sections of these regulations.
SUBSECTION II - The administering of any drug except as prescribed by a veterinarian, which alters the nervous system by stimulation, sedation or tranquillization to a dog competing at a race shall be considered a misconduct and person or persons so charged will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with this section. As well, any points accumulated by that team may, at the Board's discretion, be cancelled.
SUBSECTION III - The Starting Judge may take summary action against any person inside or outside the ring interfering with the running of the race.
SUBSECTION IV - The Board, at its discretion, has the power to reverse the Starting Judges decision and/or remove any points awarded.
SUBSECTION V - Arguing with the Judges or in any way subjecting them to any indignity shall be considered a serious offence and will be subject to disciplinary action by the Board.
SECTION XIII - NO LIABILITY
The Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association shall not be responsible to any person, partnership, club or corporation, for any loss or damage arising at or by reason of any race held under any rules adopted by the Association.
SECTION XIV - VOTING PRIVILEGES
SUBSECTION I - Board of Directors - All members of the Board shall be entitled to one vote per member on any matters before them, except for the President who will vote only in the case of a tie.
SUBSECTION II - General Membership - All full members will be entitled to a single vote per membership. Associate members are not entitled to voting privileges.
SECTION XV - AMENDMENTS
SUBSECTION I - These regulations for Scent Hurdle Racing are subject to amendments as herein provided by the Association.
SUBSECTION II -
a. Amendments may be proposed by an association, council or committee, executive or representative, group, or by four ordinary members of the Scent Hurdle Association.
b. Amendments must be approved by a majority of the members voting by returned ballots.
c. Effective date of amendments is to be set by the Association.
d. The Association has the power to prescribe regulations of submission and procession of amendments.
e. The Association will provide written notification of proposed changes three months before voting on them.
f. Approved amendments will be provided to the current members after acceptance.
SECTION XVI - MEMBERSHIP IN THE ASSOCIATION
Membership may be obtained by sending a completed membership application form (obtainable from the Provincial Representative or the Secretary) to the Treasurer along with a membership fee to be set at the Annual Meeting. Associate memberships will be available for applications received from outside Canada or for persons under the age of 18 years.
SECTION XVII - REGISTRATION OF A TEAM SUBSECTION I - A team shall consist of a minimum of four dogs, their handlers and/or Platform Steward, one of whom shall be designated as Team Captain. Eight more dogs and handlers and/or one more Platform Steward may be listed as alternates.
SUBSECTION II - The team may be registered at any time during the racing year (January 1- December 31) and will be eligible to accumulate points from that time on. To register, the Team Captain must supply the Provincial Representative with a list of all the handlers, dogs, and Platform Stewards, which make up his team.
SUBSECTION III - Once registered, new dogs may be added to the team up to a maximum of twelve; however, once the maximum is reached, no substitutes are allowed unless approved by the Provincial Representative. Once registered, a dog may not be registered with another team in the same Province until after the end of the racing year.
Once registered, new dogs may be added to the team up to a maximum of twelve; however, once the maximum is reached, no substitutes are allowed unless approved by the Provincial Representative. Once registered, a dog may not be dropped from the team roster until the end of the racing year.
SUBSECTION IV - No team may borrow dogs from another team for league competition.
SUBSECTION V - Any member in good standing of the C.S.H.R.A. may Platform Steward at a race. This shall include registered team members. The same person shall serve as Platform Steward for all heats in a race. Platform Stewards may be changed between races but not between heats.
SECTION XVIII - RESPONSIBILITIES OF PROVINCIAL REPRESENTATIVE ·
The Provincial Representative will:
Arrange with clubs to have Scent Hurdle Racing included at their Shows and/or Trials and to have it advertised in their Premium Lists. Ideally, this should be done before the start of the New Year so that all teams may be informed as to how many competitions will be available.
Arrange Judges for each race and ensure that they are familiar with regulations on judging Scent Hurdle Racing.
Obtain the co-operation and permission of C.K.C. representative in the arranging of the races.
Arbitrate any disputes that may arise between teams or others involved directly or indirectly in Scent Hurdle Racing and, if necessary, contact the Association or C.K.C. Representative for assistance or guidance.
In the case of a formal protest, conduct a hearing to hear both sides of the case and submit his/her recommendations to the Board for its decision.
Keep a record of registered teams and points earned within his/her Province.
Promote the sport of Scent Hurdle Racing by arranging demonstrations and displays at public gatherings, children's hospitals, senior citizens' homes, football games, etc. whenever possible.
SECTION XIX - NEWSLETTER
There will be a newsletter entitled "Platform" published three times a year by the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association and there will be a director called the Newsletter Editor appointed by the membership at large to be in charge of this newsletter.
CSHRA will give each province the following prizes:
1st $200.00
2nd $100.00
3rd $50.00
4th $25.00
SECTION XX - SCENT HURDLE RACING TITLES
Only dogs actually running in heats can win points. All times are for a team of four dogs and handlers. Times would be obtained by the Provincial Representative for each province, and recorded by the Starting Judges at each race. Results would be collected and kept on forms provided by the C.S.H.R.A. at each point race.
Points
A clean heat of over 35 seconds earns 5 points.
A clean heat of under 35 seconds earns 10 points.
A clean heat of under 30 seconds earns 20 points.
A heat taking over 80 seconds shall not earn any points. The Starting Judge will stop the heat after 80 seconds.
Titles
50 points = Scent Hurdle Dog (SHD)
100 points = Scent Hurdle Dog Excellent (SHDX)
250 points = Scent Hurdle Dog Champion (SHDCh.)
500 points = Scent Hurdle Dog Masters (SHD.M)
1000 points = Scent Hurdle Dog Masters Excellent (SHDMX)
2500 Scent Hurdle Dog Masters Champion (SHDMCh)
CHAPTER II SECTION I - DESCRIPTION OF COMPETITION
SUBSECTION I - The Race Area will be determined by the Starting Judge with the participation of the Team Captains. It will be large enough to provide a safe racing environment. Two courses will be set up in the Race Area.
SUBSECTION II - The Scent Hurdle Races consist of two teams of four handlers, their dogs, and a Platform Steward, with each team racing their dogs simultaneously over a series of four hurdles spaced ten feet apart and the two rows of hurdles spaced twelve feet away from each other. Each dog must retrieve a scented and numbered dumbbell from a square platform set twelve feet beyond the fourth hurdle on each course. As each dog retrieves his handler's dumbbell, he immediately returns over the four hurdles to his handler and the next dog is sent to repeat the same performance until the fourth dog on the team has completed his run. The first team to successfully complete the course will be declared the winner of that heat. The first team to win two out of three heats will be considered the winner of the race. Once one team has won two heats, the race is over. However, if a team does not compete in a scheduled race the remaining team is credited with the race win, but may not run their dogs without competition for points.
SUBSECTION III - The dogs on the winning team must retrieve the correct dumbbell by going over each jump and returning over each jump in faster times than their opponents, without performing any actions which would result in disqualification.
SUBSECTION IV - Both platforms shall be started in the same initial position and this position will be such that the lowest number being used is in the home position (6:00 p.m. position as viewed from the starting line) before the first heat. After each heat, the dumbbell platform shall be rotated by the Platform Stewards in accordance with the Starting Judges decision.
SUBSECTION V - Upon entering the competition area, the handlers shall put their dogs on a Stay, one behind the other, in the order that they will race, behind the starting line. Once the racing order has been determined, then the Starting Judge will determine the position of the Platform.
SUBSECTION VI - At a command from the Starting Judge, "Place your Dumbbells," the handlers will leave their dogs and place the dumbbells on the dumbbell platform at the end of the course. The spare dumbbells will also be carried down at the same time and be handed to the Platform Steward. The dumbbells will be placed on their corresponding numbered positions on the dumbbell platform in a symmetrical pattern. The handlers will then return in an orderly fashion to their dogs. No changing of running order will be allowed after the dumbbells have been placed for that heat. If any team members with numbers 5, 6, 7,8,9,10,11 or 12 are being used, inserts must be inserted on the platform in such a manner as to have the numbers in increasing numerical clockwise order.
At the Judges command "Get Set", the handler of the lead dog should position himself and his dog behind the starting line ready for the starting whistle. At the sound of the whistle, the dog will be sent over the course and the handler may use both voice and hand signals but shall not propel the dog over the starting line.
Each dog must retrieve his handler’s naturally-scented dumbbell and return over the hurdle course immediately and before the next dog starts his run the Platform Steward shall place on the empty space on the dumbbell platform one of the dummy dumbbells. As each dog retrieves the proper dumbbell, a dummy dumbbell is put down to take its place so that all four spaces are always occupied by a dumbbell, except if it is the last dog. The next dog shall not be sent until the previous dog’s nose has crossed the starting line (finish line) on his return run. A dog that does not bring back the correct dumbbell across the finish line must be sent again after the fourth dog has completed the course. In the case of a close finish, the dog whose nose cross the finish line first is the winner.
SUBSECTION VII - If a dog begins to retrieve an incorrect dumbbell, or starts to go around one of the hurdles, the handler may correct his dog by voice or signal or both but may not leave the starting area. If a dog cannot be corrected in this manner, the handler should recall his dog to the starting area and prepare to re-run his dog after the fourth dog has completed its run. In the event of such a recall, the next dog may be sent to retrieve as soon as the defaulting dog crosses the finish line.
SUBSECTION VIII - In the event an incorrect dumbbell is retrieved, the Platform Steward will place a previously scented spare dumbbell on the platform.
SUBSECTION IX - In the event that a dog retrieves more than one dumbbell in a single run, provided that one of the dumbbells retrieved is that dog’s dumbbell to retrieve, then the dog is considered to have successfully completed the heat.
SUBSECTION X - In the event that a dog knocks over a hurdle during the course of the race, there is no penalty provided that the offending dog completes the course in accordance with the rules. It is the responsibility of the Platform Steward to reset the hurdle into its proper position before the next dog is sent or at the end of the heat.
SECTION II – DESCRIPTION OF HURDLES
Hurdles shall be of a light-weight construction. The height of the uprights shall be between 24 and 32 inches and the space between the uprights, two feet. Sufficient boards should be made to allow the adjustment of the height between seven inches and sixteen inches at one, two, three and four inch variations.
SECTION III - DESCRIPTION OF DUMBBELLS
Dumbbells shall be of all-wood construction, two required for each dog. The two ends shall be two-and-one-half inches square connected by round dowelling no longer than three-and-three-quarter inches in length. The diameter of the doweling and the linear length of the ends may be varied between one-half inch and one-and-one-half inches for the differences in the sizes of dogs; however, the identification area must be a flat surface two-and-one-half inches square minimum. Larger block ends may be used but must not exceed four inches square.
Dumbbell Identification - Each team dumbbell must be uniform in end area and color. The block ends of the dumbbells must be painted in the team colors. The outside surface of the block ends must display a number two inches high, corresponding to the number on the jacket of the dog. Numbers shall be selected from the numbers one through twelve. No numbers shall be duplicated on any one team and numbers must be on both ends of the dumbbells and clearly visible to the judges.
Dummy Dumbbells - Each team must have a minimum of five. These dumbbells must conform in end area and color to the numbered dumbbells. They shall be identified with a letter "X" two inches high instead of a number.
SECTION IV - DESCRIPTION OF DUMBBELL PLATFORM
A wooden platform twenty-four inches by twenty-four inches by three inches high with a divider running from corner to corner creating four equal sections shall constitute the dumbbell platform. The sections of the platform shall be numbered 1, 2, 3, and 4 in a clockwise direction in six-inch-high numbers. A molding shall be put around the perimeter of the platform to prevent the dumbbells from sliding or being pushed off. The platform shall be painted in team colors with the numbers painted in a contrasting color.
SECTION V - PLACEMENT OF HURDLES
Four hurdles shall constitute a hurdle course. They shall be placed as follows: the first hurdle must be four feet from the starting line. The hurdles shall be ten feet apart and the dumbbell platform shall be twelve feet beyond the fourth hurdle. All four hurdles and the dumbbell platform shall be placed in a straight line and the distance between the two hurdle courses shall be maintained at twelve feet.
SECTION VI - HEIGHT OF HURDLES
The height of the hurdles shall be no less than seven (7) inches and no more than sixteen (16) inches. The heights of all four hurdles shall be the same and may not be set lower than four inches below shoulder height of the smallest dog competing in each heat, or the seven-inch minimum. The height of the hurdles shall be set as near as possible to four inches below shoulder height of the smallest dog or the nearest one-inch increment. It shall be the responsibility of the team to set the jumps at the proper height. The height may be set higher than the allowed minimum but may not exceed the sixteen-inch maximum. Should there be a question regarding the height of the jumps, the Starting Judges decision shall be final.
SECTION VII - STARTING LINES
Starting lines shall be located four feet from the first hurdle and shall extend the full width of both hurdle courses. Handlers must remain behind the starting line from the time the first dog is sent to retrieve until the heat is completed
SECTION VIII - CENTRE LINE
There will be a center line drawn, or if this is not possible then an imaginary center line will be used to divide the distance between the two courses in half, thereby allowing six feet on either side. The center line will run from one end of the Racing Area to the other end.
SECTION IX - TEAM CAPTAIN
Each team will appoint one of its members to act as Team Captain for the year. The Captain shall keep his team ready and alert for competition. The Captain should be familiar with the Scent Hurdle Racing regulations and is the only one on the team who is allowed to discuss the rules with the judges. He/she will indicate to the judge when his team is ready for the next heat and will handle all draws for team order of racing at a competition. The Captain is also the only one on the team that has the authority to file a formal protest. If the team captain is unable to make it to a competition, he/she may designate an alternative to represent him/her at said competition.
SECTION X – PLATFORM STEWARD
The team Platform Steward (or Platform Stewards) must be a registered member of the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association in good standing. The Platform Steward shall stand at a minimum of eight feet from the platform and will approach the platform during a race only to substitute or replace the dumbbells in a symmetrical pattern. After doing so, he will return to his position eight feet away from the platform. The Platform Steward must not aid or encourage the dogs in any way. The Platform Steward must stay eight feet away from the dog at all times or be behind the Platform Steward’s Line
SECTION XI - DRESS OF A TEAM
In order to maintain uniformity of a team’s appearance, matching colors for handlers, Platform Stewards, dog jackets, dumbbells and jumps are required. For example, shirt, jacket, sweaters, uniforms, etc. should be in matching colors. Numbers are to be on both sides of the dog jackets and crests are allowed but must not obscure the numbers. All team members taking part in a competition must be in team colors.
SECTION XII - STARTING THE RACE
The Starting Judge shall always use a starting whistle to begin the races.
SECTION XIII - TEAM RUN-OFF
Provincial point races will be run either as double elimination or as round robin. The format to be used for the upcoming year will be decided at the provincial AGM.
The Provincial Representative with teams drawing for running order prior to the racing.
The Canadian National Finals will be run according to the same system given for used in the Provincial races in Section A of the Province hosting the Nationals.
SECTION XIV - RACING TIMES
Scent Hurdle racing for points may be held after Best in Show judging, or during the lunch break, as long as it does not conflict with or hold up any regular official judging. The racing day and time shall be at the discretion of the club hosting the shows and trials.
CHAPTER III
SECTION I - JUDGING OF SCENT HURDLE RACES
SUBSECTION I - There shall be a minimum of four judges present at each Scent Hurdle Race. They will be the Starting Judge, and one or preferably two Start Line Judges, and two Platform Judges.
SUBSECTION II - Starting Judge - He is the ruling judge and his decisions are final. Other judges must report all fouls to him. He is responsible for timing and observing Team 1 in the absence of a second Starting Line judge; and he may expel any dog on either team that he considers unfit to compete or any handler on either team who interferes with another dog or handler.
SUBSECTION III – Start Line Judge(s) He/they will time and observe a Team(s) and will report any fouls noted to the Starting Judge upon completion of each heat.
SUBSECTION IV - Platform Judges - They will observe the action at their respective platforms and also watch for fouls on the course itself and report any fouls noted to the Starting Judge upon completion of the heat. They will ensure that the platform is rotated by the Platform Stewards in accordance with the Starting Judge’s decision before each heat, and will ensure that the dumbbells have been placed in a symmetrical pattern at the start of the race and between dogs.
SUBSECTION V - Upon completion of each heat the Judges will confer before the heat is awarded to the winning team in order to insure that all fouls have been taken into consideration prior to the Starting Judge's final decision.
SUBSECTION VI -. Handlers of alternate dogs or any member of a racing team shall act as judges only if no one else is available to perform these duties.
SUBSECTION VII - When one team has successfully completed a run, the judge may at his discretion call a halt to the re-running of any dogs on the opposing team and thereby end the heat. It will be deemed to be a dead heat.
SUBSECTION VIII - When no team successfully completes a run in the first two heats of a race, the judge shall declare the race ended and no win will be awarded.
SECTION II – INTERFERENCE
Should a dog or handler interfere with the opposing team by passing over the centre line dividing the course at any time during the running of the race, the Starting Judge will signal the offence by blowing their whistle to stop the race. The team with the offending dog or handler shall automatically lose the heat and the opposing team will automatically win that heat without being required to complete the course and the opposing team will be awarded five (5) points per dog that actually ran in that heat. Should two dogs from opposing teams both cross the centre line, the heat shall be considered a dead heat and must be re-run. In order to constitute interference, the dog's front and hind legs or both handlers’ feet must have crossed the centre line. If a dog begins to cross the centre line but can be successfully corrected either by voice and/or signal, before his hind legs cross the line, then the race will continue as a live race
SECTION III – RETRIEVAL OF AN INCORRECT DUMBBELL
In the event that a team retrieves two incorrect dumbbells of the same number, the team will automatically lose the heat provided the opposing team can successfully complete the course.
SECTION IV - STARTING LINE PENALTIES
Each handler or dog that steps over the starting line before the preceding dog on his return run has crossed the finish line will be penalized two seconds by the judge at the finish of the heat. There will also be a two-second penalty for a dog that is propelled over the starting line. If a dog is released before the starting whistle sounds, the heat will be ruled a dead heat and the dogs will be recalled for a new start. Should a handler step over the starting line while his own dog is racing this will cause the loss of the heat to that team, providing the opposing team successfully completes the course.
SECTION V - PLATFORM
The Platform Steward must not at any time aid or encourage any dog or signal the retrieval of an incorrect dumbbell. In the event he does so, his team shall lose the heat providing the opposing team successfully completes the course.
SECTION VI - DEAD HEAT
A heat shall be considered a dead heat when:
1. Both teams have committed fouls so as to disqualify them from the heat.
2. One team is disqualified and the opposing team cannot successfully complete the course.
3. A false start is made by either team.
APPENDIX 1 – JUDGING SUMMARY STARTING JUDGE
. Is the ruling judge and his decisions are final.
· Other judges report all fouls to him.
· He may be in charge of the timing of team one and the starting of race positioning of platforms.
PLATFORM JUDGE
The platform judge will observe the action at their respective platforms and also watch for fouls on the course itself and report any fouls noted to the starting judge upon completion of the heat.
STARTING LINE JUDGE
· Is the ruling judge and his decisions are final.
· Will time one team
· Will report start/finish line violations, such as handler crossing the start line; premature release of a dog (causing a crossover); propelling of the dog over the start line, incorrect dumbbell being retrieved.
GENERAL
· All dumbbells to be naturally scented
· Starting whistle starts race
· No changes of running order after placement of dumbbells
· Platforms must start in the same positions before heat
· Rotation of platforms will be done by the Platform Stewards in accordance with the Starting Judges instructions.
. Platform Stewards may be changed between races but not between heats.
. Both platforms are started in the same position and will be decided by the Starting Judge before each heat.
. Dumbbell platform is to be rotated by the Platform Judges as decided by the Starting Judge. This position can be changed from heat to heat but must be the same for both teams.
. A dog which has brought back the incorrect dumbbell or goes around a hurdle on the way down or back may only be re‑sent once after the fourth dog has completed the course
. Once the dog has retrieved its dumbbell, it must be replaced with a dummy (X).
. Should a dog or handler from one team cross the centre line dividing the course at any time during the running of the race, the Starting Judge will signal the offence by blowing their whistle to stop the race. The team with the offending dog or handler shall automatically lose the heat and the opposing team will automatically win that heat without being required to complete the course and the opposing team will be awarded five (5) points per dog that actually ran in that heat. Should two dogs or handlers from opposing teams both cross the centre line, the heat shall be considered a dead heat and must be re-run.
VIOLATIONS
Platform Steward must not encourage dogs
Loss of heat
Platform Steward must not come within 8' of dogs unless they are behind Platform Steward’s line.
Loss of heat
Proper dumbbell must be retrieved, two tries
Loss of heat
There must be four dumbbells on the board at all times. Make sure they are replaced with "X" or numbered dumbbells on right number
Loss of heat
Handler goes over starting line when own dog is running
Loss of heat
Handler goes over starting line when other dog is running
Two second penalty
Handler crosses over centre line (both feet)
Loss of heat
Centerline interference when all four paws go over centerline
Loss of heat
A dog that goes over starting line before hind legs of previous dog crosses starting line
Two second penalty
Propelling dog over starting line
Two second penalty
Release dog before whistle
Dead heat
Incorrect jump height (too low for height of shortest dog)
Loss of heat
APPENDIX 2 PENALTY SUMMARY
Handler or dog steps over starting line before preceding dog (hind legs) crosses the finish line
Two seconds
Propelling dog over starting line
Two seconds
Handler crosses starting line while own dog is racing
Loss of Heat (N/T) (if other team successfully completes the course) otherwise Dead Heat
Dog incorrectly retrieves its dumbbell twice. See below.
Loss of Heat (N/T) (if other team successfully completes the course) otherwise Dead Heat
Dog crosses all four legs over centre line while race us running.
Loss of Heat (N/T/) See 46 below.
2 dogs from opposing teams cross centre line
Dead Heat (race must be re- run)
Platform Steward aids or encourages dog or handler (e.g. signals correct or incorrect dumbbell has been retrieved.)
Loss of Heat (N/T) if other team successfully completes the course otherwise Dead Heat
Dog is released before whistle blows
Dead Heat (race must be re- run)
Hurdle broken, extra dumbbell on floor, etc.
No penalty provided it does not interfere with the running of the race.
Hurdle knocked over
No penalty provided the dog completes the course according to the rules. Hurdle must be reset by the Platform Steward before the next dog is sent.
Not enough dumbbells or dumbbells incorrectly placed on the platform
Loss of Heat (N/T) (if other team successfully completes the course) otherwise Dead Heat
Platform Steward within 8 feet of dog while NOT behind the Platform Steward’s line.
Loss of Heat (N/T) (if other team successfully completes the course) otherwise Dead Heat
As Revised February 1, 2010
In order to hold Scent Hurdle Races in conjunction with Shows and/or Trials in Canada, the Board of Directors of the Canadian Kennel Club stated that "Scent Hurdle Racing be permitted, provided that:
· C.K.C. Permission is obtained to conduct this as an attraction, not as an official class;
· it is not held while judging of any official classes are in progress;
· it does not delay any judging of the Trial and/or Show;
· dogs competing in this event must be eligible for entry at a obedience trial held under C.K.C. rules."
· Any Club offering Scent Hurdle Racing at their Shows and/or Trials must make every effort to ensure that these regulations and all other CKC Regulations are strictly adhered to.
CHAPTER I SECTION I INTERPRETATIONS
SUBSECTION I - The word "dog" whenever used in these regulations includes both sexes, neutered or not.
SUBSECTION II - "Board of Directors" means the Board of Directors of the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association.
SUBSECTION III - The Board of Directors shall consist of the Provincial Executives, Newsletter Editor, and the Provincial Representatives.
SUBSECTION IV - Each participating Province has its own Provincial Executive. This consists of a Provincial Representative, President, Vice-President, Provincial Secretary and Treasurer
SUBSECTION V - "Club" except as otherwise indicated means a club, organization, or association formed for the purpose of sponsoring a team for Scent Hurdle Racing.
SUBSECTION VI - "Exhibitor" means owner or owners or handler of dog.
SUBSECTION VII - A team shall consist of four to twelve dogs, handlers, and one or two Platform Stewards, registered with the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association's Provincial Representative.
SUBSECTION VIII - "Association" means the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association.
SUBSECTION IX - There will be one Newsletter for CSHRA
SUBSECTION X - A "Provincial Representative" is a person responsible for Scent Hurdle Racing within his/her Province.
SUBSECTION XI - All handlers of dogs competing in a point race must be full members of the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association.
SUBSECTION XII - The Board of Directors shall consist of the Provincial Executives, Newsletter Editor, and the Provincial Representatives.
SUBSECTION XIII - Participating Provinces each have their own Executive and the Executives meet once a year at the National Finals) with the President of whichever province it is held in chairing the meeting and that each Executive consist of a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Provincial Representative but only one Newsletter Editor.
SECTION II - RACING DATES
These are set by the Provincial Representative with permission of the Show and/or Trial giving Club.
SECTION III - PARTICIPATION
SUBSECTION I - Participation is considered a privilege accorded a person by the Board and may be withdrawn.
SUBSECTION 11 - Any person participating agrees to the authority of the Association and its Board of Directors.
SUBSECTION III - No person expelled from the C.K.C. or the Association may compete, judge, or handle any dog at a race.
SUBSECTION IV - DEFINITION - A "person" shall include member, person, partnership, club, association, company, or corporation. The definition of "expelled" shall include expulsion, suspension, deprivation of privileges, and debarment as set forth in Section X, Article XV of the bylaws of the Canadian Kennel Club.
SECTION IV - JUDGES
SUBSECTION I - It is the duty of the Provincial Representative to ensure that a minimum of four judges are present at each race and that the judges are familiar with the regulations for Scent Hurdle Racing.
SUBSECTION II - The Association may set standards for judges and means of testing.
SUBSECTION III - Handlers of dogs or any member of a racing team shall act as judges only if no one else is available to perform these duties.
SUBSECTION IV - Complaints against judges will be raised with the Provincial Representative; however, all judges' decisions are final. Arguing with a judge during or at the completion of a race is strictly forbidden and may be subject to disciplinary action.
SECTION V - ENTRIES
SUBSECTION I - Only dogs eligible for entry at a licensed obedience trial held under C.K.C. rules may be entered in and compete at races held under these regulations.
SUBSECTION II - Entry forms for point races must describe breed, registered name, name of owner/handler, registration number, call name, and team number of each dog. Entry fee is to be $5.00 per team per day.
SUBSECTION III - Entries must be received by the Show and/or Trial giving club's secretary not later than the closing date for entries for the Show or Trial. The Provincial Representative must receive a duplicate copy of the entry form before the closing date. Entry forms are to be supplied on request by the Provincial Representative.
SUBSECTION IV - Authorities or any Show and/or Trial may decline to accept entries for just cause and no one shall have any claim or recourse against organizations or officials that do so. Authorities must file reason for doing so to the Provincial Representative not less than ten (10) days after the Show and/or Trial.
SUBSECTION V - A dog need not be entered in other than the race in order to compete.
SUBSECTION VI - Bitches in season are not permitted to compete. It is the responsibility of the handler not to race a bitch in season.
SECTION VI - BENCHING
Where a race is held in conjunction with a benched Show, a dog entered for the race must conform to the requirements of the Show Committee.
RINGS - The Team Captains and the Starting Judge must ensure that the area for racing is large enough for minimum safe racing requirements.
SECTION VII – PREMIUM LIST
The Premium List must contain information as to what dates the Scent Hurdle Racing is being offered for points as well as any prizes being offered. It is the responsibility of the Trial or Show giving club to include this information.
SECTION VIII – PROGRAM OF JUDGING
SUBSECTION I - The Team Captains and the Provincial Representative must be sent a program of judging, stating the approximate time the races are to be held and how many teams are entered.
SUBSECTION II - Races must not interfere with or be run while judging of any official classes is in progress.
SECTION IX - POINT SCORING
SUBSECTION I - Points are accumulated from January 1 to December 31 on a yearly basis.
SUBSECTION II - Only races held at Licensed CKC Shows and/or Trials will qualify as point races. However, in the case of a tie at the end of the year, the Provincial will hold a tie breaking race. The Provincial Representative (or a person designated by the Provincial Representative) will decide when and where the race is to take place and will preside over same. The provincial Representative, if unable to attend a competition, may designate another member of the CSHRA to act on his/her behalf at said competition
The point system is as follows:
Number of Teams
One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine
1st 2 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17
2nd 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15
3rd 1 3 5 7 9 11 13
4th 1 3 5 7 9 11
5th 1 3 5 7 9
6th 1 3 5 7
7th 1 3 5
8th 1 3
9th 1
SUBSECTION III - The Provincial Representative is responsible for submitting the points won to the Secretary of the Association.
SECTION X - EQUIPMENT
SUBSECTION I - All equipment other than rubber matting (if race is run indoors) is to be supplied by each team. Jumps and equipment for races is to be supplied by the appointed team, unless otherwise agreed in advance. The Provincial Representative will be responsible for arranging any alternative arrangements.
SUBSECTION II - Each Team must have its own set of jumps, dumbbells, dumbbell platform, and dog jackets. The Provincial Representative will ensure that jumps are brought to each race.
SUBSECTION III - Diagrams of Equipment
diagram missing
SECTION XI - PROTESTS
SUBSECTION I - A protest against a dog, his owner or handler may be made by any Team Captain of a Team entered and competing at the race or by a member of the Club holding the Show and/or Trial but must be made within ten days of the race. It must be in writing and lodged with the Provincial Representative with a deposit of $5.00 which will be refunded if the protest is sustained. The Provincial Representative must hold a hearing with both parties involved and submit his/her recommendations in writing to the Board. The Board will then make a ruling on the protest and advise the charged party of their decisions by registered mail within ten days.
SUBSECTION II - An appeal may be made in writing by any charged person to the Board of Directors within ten days of receipt of notice of the Board's decision. This appeal must be accompanied by a fee of $10.00, which will be refunded if the decision is reversed.
SECTION XII - DISCIPLINE
SUBSECTION I - The Board of directors may take disciplinary action against any club, person, company, or partnership for any act of omission or commission, which violates any section or sections of these regulations.
SUBSECTION II - The administering of any drug except as prescribed by a veterinarian, which alters the nervous system by stimulation, sedation or tranquillization to a dog competing at a race shall be considered a misconduct and person or persons so charged will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with this section. As well, any points accumulated by that team may, at the Board's discretion, be cancelled.
SUBSECTION III - The Starting Judge may take summary action against any person inside or outside the ring interfering with the running of the race.
SUBSECTION IV - The Board, at its discretion, has the power to reverse the Starting Judges decision and/or remove any points awarded.
SUBSECTION V - Arguing with the Judges or in any way subjecting them to any indignity shall be considered a serious offence and will be subject to disciplinary action by the Board.
SECTION XIII - NO LIABILITY
The Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association shall not be responsible to any person, partnership, club or corporation, for any loss or damage arising at or by reason of any race held under any rules adopted by the Association.
SECTION XIV - VOTING PRIVILEGES
SUBSECTION I - Board of Directors - All members of the Board shall be entitled to one vote per member on any matters before them, except for the President who will vote only in the case of a tie.
SUBSECTION II - General Membership - All full members will be entitled to a single vote per membership. Associate members are not entitled to voting privileges.
SECTION XV - AMENDMENTS
SUBSECTION I - These regulations for Scent Hurdle Racing are subject to amendments as herein provided by the Association.
SUBSECTION II -
a. Amendments may be proposed by an association, council or committee, executive or representative, group, or by four ordinary members of the Scent Hurdle Association.
b. Amendments must be approved by a majority of the members voting by returned ballots.
c. Effective date of amendments is to be set by the Association.
d. The Association has the power to prescribe regulations of submission and procession of amendments.
e. The Association will provide written notification of proposed changes three months before voting on them.
f. Approved amendments will be provided to the current members after acceptance.
SECTION XVI - MEMBERSHIP IN THE ASSOCIATION
Membership may be obtained by sending a completed membership application form (obtainable from the Provincial Representative or the Secretary) to the Treasurer along with a membership fee to be set at the Annual Meeting. Associate memberships will be available for applications received from outside Canada or for persons under the age of 18 years.
SECTION XVII - REGISTRATION OF A TEAM SUBSECTION I - A team shall consist of a minimum of four dogs, their handlers and/or Platform Steward, one of whom shall be designated as Team Captain. Eight more dogs and handlers and/or one more Platform Steward may be listed as alternates.
SUBSECTION II - The team may be registered at any time during the racing year (January 1- December 31) and will be eligible to accumulate points from that time on. To register, the Team Captain must supply the Provincial Representative with a list of all the handlers, dogs, and Platform Stewards, which make up his team.
SUBSECTION III - Once registered, new dogs may be added to the team up to a maximum of twelve; however, once the maximum is reached, no substitutes are allowed unless approved by the Provincial Representative. Once registered, a dog may not be registered with another team in the same Province until after the end of the racing year.
Once registered, new dogs may be added to the team up to a maximum of twelve; however, once the maximum is reached, no substitutes are allowed unless approved by the Provincial Representative. Once registered, a dog may not be dropped from the team roster until the end of the racing year.
SUBSECTION IV - No team may borrow dogs from another team for league competition.
SUBSECTION V - Any member in good standing of the C.S.H.R.A. may Platform Steward at a race. This shall include registered team members. The same person shall serve as Platform Steward for all heats in a race. Platform Stewards may be changed between races but not between heats.
SECTION XVIII - RESPONSIBILITIES OF PROVINCIAL REPRESENTATIVE ·
The Provincial Representative will:
Arrange with clubs to have Scent Hurdle Racing included at their Shows and/or Trials and to have it advertised in their Premium Lists. Ideally, this should be done before the start of the New Year so that all teams may be informed as to how many competitions will be available.
Arrange Judges for each race and ensure that they are familiar with regulations on judging Scent Hurdle Racing.
Obtain the co-operation and permission of C.K.C. representative in the arranging of the races.
Arbitrate any disputes that may arise between teams or others involved directly or indirectly in Scent Hurdle Racing and, if necessary, contact the Association or C.K.C. Representative for assistance or guidance.
In the case of a formal protest, conduct a hearing to hear both sides of the case and submit his/her recommendations to the Board for its decision.
Keep a record of registered teams and points earned within his/her Province.
Promote the sport of Scent Hurdle Racing by arranging demonstrations and displays at public gatherings, children's hospitals, senior citizens' homes, football games, etc. whenever possible.
SECTION XIX - NEWSLETTER
There will be a newsletter entitled "Platform" published three times a year by the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association and there will be a director called the Newsletter Editor appointed by the membership at large to be in charge of this newsletter.
CSHRA will give each province the following prizes:
1st $200.00
2nd $100.00
3rd $50.00
4th $25.00
SECTION XX - SCENT HURDLE RACING TITLES
Only dogs actually running in heats can win points. All times are for a team of four dogs and handlers. Times would be obtained by the Provincial Representative for each province, and recorded by the Starting Judges at each race. Results would be collected and kept on forms provided by the C.S.H.R.A. at each point race.
Points
A clean heat of over 35 seconds earns 5 points.
A clean heat of under 35 seconds earns 10 points.
A clean heat of under 30 seconds earns 20 points.
A heat taking over 80 seconds shall not earn any points. The Starting Judge will stop the heat after 80 seconds.
Titles
50 points = Scent Hurdle Dog (SHD)
100 points = Scent Hurdle Dog Excellent (SHDX)
250 points = Scent Hurdle Dog Champion (SHDCh.)
500 points = Scent Hurdle Dog Masters (SHD.M)
1000 points = Scent Hurdle Dog Masters Excellent (SHDMX)
2500 Scent Hurdle Dog Masters Champion (SHDMCh)
CHAPTER II SECTION I - DESCRIPTION OF COMPETITION
SUBSECTION I - The Race Area will be determined by the Starting Judge with the participation of the Team Captains. It will be large enough to provide a safe racing environment. Two courses will be set up in the Race Area.
SUBSECTION II - The Scent Hurdle Races consist of two teams of four handlers, their dogs, and a Platform Steward, with each team racing their dogs simultaneously over a series of four hurdles spaced ten feet apart and the two rows of hurdles spaced twelve feet away from each other. Each dog must retrieve a scented and numbered dumbbell from a square platform set twelve feet beyond the fourth hurdle on each course. As each dog retrieves his handler's dumbbell, he immediately returns over the four hurdles to his handler and the next dog is sent to repeat the same performance until the fourth dog on the team has completed his run. The first team to successfully complete the course will be declared the winner of that heat. The first team to win two out of three heats will be considered the winner of the race. Once one team has won two heats, the race is over. However, if a team does not compete in a scheduled race the remaining team is credited with the race win, but may not run their dogs without competition for points.
SUBSECTION III - The dogs on the winning team must retrieve the correct dumbbell by going over each jump and returning over each jump in faster times than their opponents, without performing any actions which would result in disqualification.
SUBSECTION IV - Both platforms shall be started in the same initial position and this position will be such that the lowest number being used is in the home position (6:00 p.m. position as viewed from the starting line) before the first heat. After each heat, the dumbbell platform shall be rotated by the Platform Stewards in accordance with the Starting Judges decision.
SUBSECTION V - Upon entering the competition area, the handlers shall put their dogs on a Stay, one behind the other, in the order that they will race, behind the starting line. Once the racing order has been determined, then the Starting Judge will determine the position of the Platform.
SUBSECTION VI - At a command from the Starting Judge, "Place your Dumbbells," the handlers will leave their dogs and place the dumbbells on the dumbbell platform at the end of the course. The spare dumbbells will also be carried down at the same time and be handed to the Platform Steward. The dumbbells will be placed on their corresponding numbered positions on the dumbbell platform in a symmetrical pattern. The handlers will then return in an orderly fashion to their dogs. No changing of running order will be allowed after the dumbbells have been placed for that heat. If any team members with numbers 5, 6, 7,8,9,10,11 or 12 are being used, inserts must be inserted on the platform in such a manner as to have the numbers in increasing numerical clockwise order.
At the Judges command "Get Set", the handler of the lead dog should position himself and his dog behind the starting line ready for the starting whistle. At the sound of the whistle, the dog will be sent over the course and the handler may use both voice and hand signals but shall not propel the dog over the starting line.
Each dog must retrieve his handler’s naturally-scented dumbbell and return over the hurdle course immediately and before the next dog starts his run the Platform Steward shall place on the empty space on the dumbbell platform one of the dummy dumbbells. As each dog retrieves the proper dumbbell, a dummy dumbbell is put down to take its place so that all four spaces are always occupied by a dumbbell, except if it is the last dog. The next dog shall not be sent until the previous dog’s nose has crossed the starting line (finish line) on his return run. A dog that does not bring back the correct dumbbell across the finish line must be sent again after the fourth dog has completed the course. In the case of a close finish, the dog whose nose cross the finish line first is the winner.
SUBSECTION VII - If a dog begins to retrieve an incorrect dumbbell, or starts to go around one of the hurdles, the handler may correct his dog by voice or signal or both but may not leave the starting area. If a dog cannot be corrected in this manner, the handler should recall his dog to the starting area and prepare to re-run his dog after the fourth dog has completed its run. In the event of such a recall, the next dog may be sent to retrieve as soon as the defaulting dog crosses the finish line.
SUBSECTION VIII - In the event an incorrect dumbbell is retrieved, the Platform Steward will place a previously scented spare dumbbell on the platform.
SUBSECTION IX - In the event that a dog retrieves more than one dumbbell in a single run, provided that one of the dumbbells retrieved is that dog’s dumbbell to retrieve, then the dog is considered to have successfully completed the heat.
SUBSECTION X - In the event that a dog knocks over a hurdle during the course of the race, there is no penalty provided that the offending dog completes the course in accordance with the rules. It is the responsibility of the Platform Steward to reset the hurdle into its proper position before the next dog is sent or at the end of the heat.
SECTION II – DESCRIPTION OF HURDLES
Hurdles shall be of a light-weight construction. The height of the uprights shall be between 24 and 32 inches and the space between the uprights, two feet. Sufficient boards should be made to allow the adjustment of the height between seven inches and sixteen inches at one, two, three and four inch variations.
SECTION III - DESCRIPTION OF DUMBBELLS
Dumbbells shall be of all-wood construction, two required for each dog. The two ends shall be two-and-one-half inches square connected by round dowelling no longer than three-and-three-quarter inches in length. The diameter of the doweling and the linear length of the ends may be varied between one-half inch and one-and-one-half inches for the differences in the sizes of dogs; however, the identification area must be a flat surface two-and-one-half inches square minimum. Larger block ends may be used but must not exceed four inches square.
Dumbbell Identification - Each team dumbbell must be uniform in end area and color. The block ends of the dumbbells must be painted in the team colors. The outside surface of the block ends must display a number two inches high, corresponding to the number on the jacket of the dog. Numbers shall be selected from the numbers one through twelve. No numbers shall be duplicated on any one team and numbers must be on both ends of the dumbbells and clearly visible to the judges.
Dummy Dumbbells - Each team must have a minimum of five. These dumbbells must conform in end area and color to the numbered dumbbells. They shall be identified with a letter "X" two inches high instead of a number.
SECTION IV - DESCRIPTION OF DUMBBELL PLATFORM
A wooden platform twenty-four inches by twenty-four inches by three inches high with a divider running from corner to corner creating four equal sections shall constitute the dumbbell platform. The sections of the platform shall be numbered 1, 2, 3, and 4 in a clockwise direction in six-inch-high numbers. A molding shall be put around the perimeter of the platform to prevent the dumbbells from sliding or being pushed off. The platform shall be painted in team colors with the numbers painted in a contrasting color.
SECTION V - PLACEMENT OF HURDLES
Four hurdles shall constitute a hurdle course. They shall be placed as follows: the first hurdle must be four feet from the starting line. The hurdles shall be ten feet apart and the dumbbell platform shall be twelve feet beyond the fourth hurdle. All four hurdles and the dumbbell platform shall be placed in a straight line and the distance between the two hurdle courses shall be maintained at twelve feet.
SECTION VI - HEIGHT OF HURDLES
The height of the hurdles shall be no less than seven (7) inches and no more than sixteen (16) inches. The heights of all four hurdles shall be the same and may not be set lower than four inches below shoulder height of the smallest dog competing in each heat, or the seven-inch minimum. The height of the hurdles shall be set as near as possible to four inches below shoulder height of the smallest dog or the nearest one-inch increment. It shall be the responsibility of the team to set the jumps at the proper height. The height may be set higher than the allowed minimum but may not exceed the sixteen-inch maximum. Should there be a question regarding the height of the jumps, the Starting Judges decision shall be final.
SECTION VII - STARTING LINES
Starting lines shall be located four feet from the first hurdle and shall extend the full width of both hurdle courses. Handlers must remain behind the starting line from the time the first dog is sent to retrieve until the heat is completed
SECTION VIII - CENTRE LINE
There will be a center line drawn, or if this is not possible then an imaginary center line will be used to divide the distance between the two courses in half, thereby allowing six feet on either side. The center line will run from one end of the Racing Area to the other end.
SECTION IX - TEAM CAPTAIN
Each team will appoint one of its members to act as Team Captain for the year. The Captain shall keep his team ready and alert for competition. The Captain should be familiar with the Scent Hurdle Racing regulations and is the only one on the team who is allowed to discuss the rules with the judges. He/she will indicate to the judge when his team is ready for the next heat and will handle all draws for team order of racing at a competition. The Captain is also the only one on the team that has the authority to file a formal protest. If the team captain is unable to make it to a competition, he/she may designate an alternative to represent him/her at said competition.
SECTION X – PLATFORM STEWARD
The team Platform Steward (or Platform Stewards) must be a registered member of the Canadian Scent Hurdle Racing Association in good standing. The Platform Steward shall stand at a minimum of eight feet from the platform and will approach the platform during a race only to substitute or replace the dumbbells in a symmetrical pattern. After doing so, he will return to his position eight feet away from the platform. The Platform Steward must not aid or encourage the dogs in any way. The Platform Steward must stay eight feet away from the dog at all times or be behind the Platform Steward’s Line
SECTION XI - DRESS OF A TEAM
In order to maintain uniformity of a team’s appearance, matching colors for handlers, Platform Stewards, dog jackets, dumbbells and jumps are required. For example, shirt, jacket, sweaters, uniforms, etc. should be in matching colors. Numbers are to be on both sides of the dog jackets and crests are allowed but must not obscure the numbers. All team members taking part in a competition must be in team colors.
SECTION XII - STARTING THE RACE
The Starting Judge shall always use a starting whistle to begin the races.
SECTION XIII - TEAM RUN-OFF
Provincial point races will be run either as double elimination or as round robin. The format to be used for the upcoming year will be decided at the provincial AGM.
The Provincial Representative with teams drawing for running order prior to the racing.
The Canadian National Finals will be run according to the same system given for used in the Provincial races in Section A of the Province hosting the Nationals.
SECTION XIV - RACING TIMES
Scent Hurdle racing for points may be held after Best in Show judging, or during the lunch break, as long as it does not conflict with or hold up any regular official judging. The racing day and time shall be at the discretion of the club hosting the shows and trials.
CHAPTER III
SECTION I - JUDGING OF SCENT HURDLE RACES
SUBSECTION I - There shall be a minimum of four judges present at each Scent Hurdle Race. They will be the Starting Judge, and one or preferably two Start Line Judges, and two Platform Judges.
SUBSECTION II - Starting Judge - He is the ruling judge and his decisions are final. Other judges must report all fouls to him. He is responsible for timing and observing Team 1 in the absence of a second Starting Line judge; and he may expel any dog on either team that he considers unfit to compete or any handler on either team who interferes with another dog or handler.
SUBSECTION III – Start Line Judge(s) He/they will time and observe a Team(s) and will report any fouls noted to the Starting Judge upon completion of each heat.
SUBSECTION IV - Platform Judges - They will observe the action at their respective platforms and also watch for fouls on the course itself and report any fouls noted to the Starting Judge upon completion of the heat. They will ensure that the platform is rotated by the Platform Stewards in accordance with the Starting Judge’s decision before each heat, and will ensure that the dumbbells have been placed in a symmetrical pattern at the start of the race and between dogs.
SUBSECTION V - Upon completion of each heat the Judges will confer before the heat is awarded to the winning team in order to insure that all fouls have been taken into consideration prior to the Starting Judge's final decision.
SUBSECTION VI -. Handlers of alternate dogs or any member of a racing team shall act as judges only if no one else is available to perform these duties.
SUBSECTION VII - When one team has successfully completed a run, the judge may at his discretion call a halt to the re-running of any dogs on the opposing team and thereby end the heat. It will be deemed to be a dead heat.
SUBSECTION VIII - When no team successfully completes a run in the first two heats of a race, the judge shall declare the race ended and no win will be awarded.
SECTION II – INTERFERENCE
Should a dog or handler interfere with the opposing team by passing over the centre line dividing the course at any time during the running of the race, the Starting Judge will signal the offence by blowing their whistle to stop the race. The team with the offending dog or handler shall automatically lose the heat and the opposing team will automatically win that heat without being required to complete the course and the opposing team will be awarded five (5) points per dog that actually ran in that heat. Should two dogs from opposing teams both cross the centre line, the heat shall be considered a dead heat and must be re-run. In order to constitute interference, the dog's front and hind legs or both handlers’ feet must have crossed the centre line. If a dog begins to cross the centre line but can be successfully corrected either by voice and/or signal, before his hind legs cross the line, then the race will continue as a live race
SECTION III – RETRIEVAL OF AN INCORRECT DUMBBELL
In the event that a team retrieves two incorrect dumbbells of the same number, the team will automatically lose the heat provided the opposing team can successfully complete the course.
SECTION IV - STARTING LINE PENALTIES
Each handler or dog that steps over the starting line before the preceding dog on his return run has crossed the finish line will be penalized two seconds by the judge at the finish of the heat. There will also be a two-second penalty for a dog that is propelled over the starting line. If a dog is released before the starting whistle sounds, the heat will be ruled a dead heat and the dogs will be recalled for a new start. Should a handler step over the starting line while his own dog is racing this will cause the loss of the heat to that team, providing the opposing team successfully completes the course.
SECTION V - PLATFORM
The Platform Steward must not at any time aid or encourage any dog or signal the retrieval of an incorrect dumbbell. In the event he does so, his team shall lose the heat providing the opposing team successfully completes the course.
SECTION VI - DEAD HEAT
A heat shall be considered a dead heat when:
1. Both teams have committed fouls so as to disqualify them from the heat.
2. One team is disqualified and the opposing team cannot successfully complete the course.
3. A false start is made by either team.
APPENDIX 1 – JUDGING SUMMARY STARTING JUDGE
. Is the ruling judge and his decisions are final.
· Other judges report all fouls to him.
· He may be in charge of the timing of team one and the starting of race positioning of platforms.
PLATFORM JUDGE
The platform judge will observe the action at their respective platforms and also watch for fouls on the course itself and report any fouls noted to the starting judge upon completion of the heat.
STARTING LINE JUDGE
· Is the ruling judge and his decisions are final.
· Will time one team
· Will report start/finish line violations, such as handler crossing the start line; premature release of a dog (causing a crossover); propelling of the dog over the start line, incorrect dumbbell being retrieved.
GENERAL
· All dumbbells to be naturally scented
· Starting whistle starts race
· No changes of running order after placement of dumbbells
· Platforms must start in the same positions before heat
· Rotation of platforms will be done by the Platform Stewards in accordance with the Starting Judges instructions.
. Platform Stewards may be changed between races but not between heats.
. Both platforms are started in the same position and will be decided by the Starting Judge before each heat.
. Dumbbell platform is to be rotated by the Platform Judges as decided by the Starting Judge. This position can be changed from heat to heat but must be the same for both teams.
. A dog which has brought back the incorrect dumbbell or goes around a hurdle on the way down or back may only be re‑sent once after the fourth dog has completed the course
. Once the dog has retrieved its dumbbell, it must be replaced with a dummy (X).
. Should a dog or handler from one team cross the centre line dividing the course at any time during the running of the race, the Starting Judge will signal the offence by blowing their whistle to stop the race. The team with the offending dog or handler shall automatically lose the heat and the opposing team will automatically win that heat without being required to complete the course and the opposing team will be awarded five (5) points per dog that actually ran in that heat. Should two dogs or handlers from opposing teams both cross the centre line, the heat shall be considered a dead heat and must be re-run.
VIOLATIONS
Platform Steward must not encourage dogs
Loss of heat
Platform Steward must not come within 8' of dogs unless they are behind Platform Steward’s line.
Loss of heat
Proper dumbbell must be retrieved, two tries
Loss of heat
There must be four dumbbells on the board at all times. Make sure they are replaced with "X" or numbered dumbbells on right number
Loss of heat
Handler goes over starting line when own dog is running
Loss of heat
Handler goes over starting line when other dog is running
Two second penalty
Handler crosses over centre line (both feet)
Loss of heat
Centerline interference when all four paws go over centerline
Loss of heat
A dog that goes over starting line before hind legs of previous dog crosses starting line
Two second penalty
Propelling dog over starting line
Two second penalty
Release dog before whistle
Dead heat
Incorrect jump height (too low for height of shortest dog)
Loss of heat
APPENDIX 2 PENALTY SUMMARY
Handler or dog steps over starting line before preceding dog (hind legs) crosses the finish line
Two seconds
Propelling dog over starting line
Two seconds
Handler crosses starting line while own dog is racing
Loss of Heat (N/T) (if other team successfully completes the course) otherwise Dead Heat
Dog incorrectly retrieves its dumbbell twice. See below.
Loss of Heat (N/T) (if other team successfully completes the course) otherwise Dead Heat
Dog crosses all four legs over centre line while race us running.
Loss of Heat (N/T/) See 46 below.
2 dogs from opposing teams cross centre line
Dead Heat (race must be re- run)
Platform Steward aids or encourages dog or handler (e.g. signals correct or incorrect dumbbell has been retrieved.)
Loss of Heat (N/T) if other team successfully completes the course otherwise Dead Heat
Dog is released before whistle blows
Dead Heat (race must be re- run)
Hurdle broken, extra dumbbell on floor, etc.
No penalty provided it does not interfere with the running of the race.
Hurdle knocked over
No penalty provided the dog completes the course according to the rules. Hurdle must be reset by the Platform Steward before the next dog is sent.
Not enough dumbbells or dumbbells incorrectly placed on the platform
Loss of Heat (N/T) (if other team successfully completes the course) otherwise Dead Heat
Platform Steward within 8 feet of dog while NOT behind the Platform Steward’s line.
Loss of Heat (N/T) (if other team successfully completes the course) otherwise Dead Heat