Hi-
I have looked through both USEA and the USEF rule book to see if it is legal in a recognized competition by both USEA/ USEF to wrap the bit with sealtex for the dressage phase of competition. Can anyone help me with this? I have not been able to find the answer.
Thanks in advance!
Not legal to wrap the bit in either straight Dressage or Eventing Dressage.
The wording in the straight dressaqe rules is clear
Bits may be made with a rubber or plastic covering, but the bit may not be modified by adding latex or other material.
The wording is not as clear in the Eventing rules, but I asked the PTB and was told that wrapping the bit was NOT permitted. But to be sure, send an email to the USEF, as only their answer is “offiical”.
[QUOTE=Janet;8787005]
Not legal to wrap the bit in either straight Dressage or Eventing Dressage.
The wording in the straight dressaqe rules is clear
The wording is not as clear in the Eventing rules, but I asked the PTB and was told that wrapping the bit was NOT permitted. But to be sure, send an email to the USEF, as only their answer is “offiical”.[/QUOTE]
Due to having so much difficulty finding an answer in the rule books, I did call USEA. They directed me to call USEF, who checked be rules ( deferring to FEI rules) and said that wrapping the bit is legal, but only with latex ( sealtex). She said if anybody has any questions to call the USEF or look up FAQ in FEI.
But I’m glad you chimed in Janet, because I was finding different answers from different sources, in the end it was better to get the ok from the governing body. Who did you contact at the ptb? Just want to make sure that there is no confusion, especially headed to an event this weekend…
Wow, I’m amazed that they told you it was legal! I’ve always understood the opposite, and have looked and discussed it with various friends over the years. I’d definitely check with the TD first and, if possible, have the favorable verdict in writing. Good luck this weekend!
Ok, according to USEF, the eventing tack guidelines and rules are under the FEI show jumping rules. I’ve added the link below.
EV115(2)© allows “a snaffle bit made of metal, leather, rubber or plastic material,” so doesn’t expressly allow wrapping. Neither does Appendix 4, which shows “permitted bits.” Now, it might be that somewhere the rules incorporate the FEI dressage rules, but I don’t think that they do (and don’t have time to look). If so, you may have an argument. You may still have to make it to the TD though.
[QUOTE=TXnGA;8788480]
Due to having so much difficulty finding an answer in the rule books, I did call USEA. They directed me to call USEF, who checked be rules ( deferring to FEI rules) and said that wrapping the bit is legal, but only with latex ( sealtex). She said if anybody has any questions to call the USEF or look up FAQ in FEI.
But I’m glad you chimed in Janet, because I was finding different answers from different sources, in the end it was better to get the ok from the governing body. Who did you contact at the ptb? Just want to make sure that there is no confusion, especially headed to an event this weekend…[/QUOTE]
Very Interesting. I am trying to remember who I asked (because I was getting conflicting advice from TDs I apprenticed with). I THINK I asked at the TD Continuing Education clinic, but I am not sure.
Definitely have a printout of your correspondence with USEF to show the TD or judge.
I am going to contact the USEF and get it in writing for my own records.
Wrapping bits
Yes, you may wrap bits in latex. FEI ART. 428.2, first sentence permits it. USEF rules do not address the issue, so we defer to FEI.
Malcolm
[QUOTE=msghook;8789243]
Yes, you may wrap bits in latex. FEI ART. 428.2, first sentence permits it. USEF rules do not address the issue, so we defer to FEI.
Malcolm[/QUOTE]
Thanks Malcolm.
Is there any possibility that the USEF rule could be reworded to get rid of the widespread confusion?
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