WESTERN RIDERS OF VIRGINIA

                      Bylaws

                                                   Adopted March 4, 2011

Article I                  Name                                                                       3

Article II                Purpose and Aim                                                     3

Article III               Parliamentary Procedure                                       3

Article IV              Membership                                                            4

Section 1 – Membership Qualifications                                                                4

Section 2 – Membership Defined                                                                          4

Section 3 – Membership Dues                                                                               4

Section 4 – Grievance/Disciplinary Action                                                          5

Section 5 – Resignation of a member                                                                  5

Article V                                             Officers

Section 1 – Officers                                                                                                 6

Section 2 – Duties of Officers                                                                                6-7

                 Section 3 – Election and Nomination Rules                                                        8

                 Section 4 – Terms of Office                                                                                   8

                 Section 5 – Officer Resignation                                                                             8

                 Section 6 – Officer Removal                                                                                  8

Article VI                                            Board of Directors

Section 1 – Purpose                                                                                                9

Section 2 – Membership of the Board                                                               9

Section 3 – Duties                                                                                                  9-11

Section 4 – Election                                                                                               11

Section 5 – Term                                                                                                   11

Section 6 – Meetings                                                                                            12

Section 7 – Quorum                                                                                              12

Section 8 – Dismissal                                                                                            12

Article VII                                          Other Elected Positions

Section 1 – Junior Representative                                                                    12

Article VIII                                         Appointed Positions

Section 1 – Trustees                                                                                            13

Section 2 – Trustee Qualifications                                                                    13

Section 3 – Trustee Term                                                                                    13

Section 4 – Trustee Duties                                                                                  13       

Article IX                                            Membership Meeting

Section 1 – Meetings                                                                                           13

Section 2 – Notification                                                                                      14

Section 3 – Business                                                                                            14

Section 4 – Quorum                                                                                             14

Article X                                             Voting

Section 1 – Votes and Qualified Voters                                                           14

                Section 2 – Voting Methods                                                                                14

Article XI                                       Committees

Section 1 – Committee Titles                                                                             15

Section 2 – Formation of Committees                                                             15

Section 3 – Duties of Each Committee                                                              15

Article XII                                      Awards

Section 1 – Age Requirements for Work                                                        18

Section 2 – Work and Verification of Work Completed                              18

Section 3 – Opt-Out Fee                                                                                     19

Section 4 – Champion and Reserve Champion                                              19       

Section 5 – Champion Team Roping Trophy                                                  19

Section 6 - Kenny Perry Perpetual Sportsmanship Award                           19

     Kenny Perry and Arianna Cox Perpetual Sportsmanship Awards          19

Section 7 – Points for the Year                                                                          20

Article XIII                                         Rental of Grounds and Buildings

Section 1 – Clubhouse                                                                                         20

Section 2 – WRV Grounds Rental                                                                     20-21

                 Section 3 – Trailer Rental                                                                                   21

Article XIV                                    General Rules

Section 1 – Contracts                                                                                         21

Section 2 – Ring and Equipment                                                                      21

Section 3 – Selling on Club Grounds                                                               22

Section 4 – Records                                                                                            22

Section 5 – Flowers in Bereavement                                                              22

Section 6 – Building Admittance                                                                      22

Article XV                                      Procedural Changes

Section 1 – Bylaws                                                                                             22

Section 2 – Horse Show Rules                                                                         22 

 Article I                                           Name

A.            This corporation shall be known as WESTERN RIDERS OF VIRGINIA, INC., hereafter called WRV.

Article II                                           Purpose and Aim

A.              The purpose and aim of Western Riders of Virginia is to promote an interest in western horses and western horsemanship among the people in our locality and to promote good citizenship in all members, both young and old. 

B.             To offer help in case of disaster or emergencies to all enforcement agencies in the locality. 

C.             It is to be non-partisan, non-political, and non-sectarian.

Article III                                          Parliamentary Procedure                                  

A.            WRV’s meetings will follow Robert’s “Rules of Order”, in Robert’s “Rules of Order”.

B.             Any subject not covered in WRV bylaws will be governed by the Virginia Code:  13.1-801 through 13.1-945.

Article IV                                          Membership

Section 1 – Membership Qualifications

A.            Any person wanting to participate in western horsemanship and promote western riding in the community.

B.             Membership applications will be taken into the club with the appropriate dues paid and by an official WRV written application form.

 Section 2 – Membership Defined

A.            A single Membership is one person of any age.

B.             A person under the age of 18 years, as of January 1^st of the current year, must be sponsored by an adult WRV member in good standing that assumes responsibility for him/her.

C.             A family membership will consist of the following:

1.             Parent or Parents, spouse, or legal guardian.

2.             Any child under the age of 18 and adult children enrolled as a full-time student and living under the same roof.

3.             Any senior citizen over the age of 65. 

D.            In a family membership, each individual family member is considered a WRV member.

E.             Active duty military members will have their dues waived. 

Section 3 – Membership Dues

A.            Membership will run from February 1^st until January 31^st.

B.             Payment of dues must be received on or before January 31^st of each year.  If not paid by January 31^st, membership will be terminated effective, February 1^st. 

Section 4 – Grievance/Disciplinary Action

A.            If any person wishes to file a complaint against a WRV member, he/she must do so in writing, postmarked or emailed within 72 hours of the incident, to the current WRV president.

B.             The complaint must include: date, person(s) involved and details of the incident.

C.             Upon receipt of the complaint, if the President is able to resolve the matter with the Plaintiff no further action will be taken.  If not, a meeting will be scheduled with the Plaintiff, accused, and board members within 10 days to be held within 20 days of the written complaint.

D.            The board will meet and hear from all parties and make a decision for resolution.  If either party disagrees with the decision of the board, they may appeal the decision within 5 days to the grievance committee (see Article XI, section 3, paragraph H).

E.             A grievance committee will be formed and a meeting held within 14 days of the appeal notice.  The grievance committee decision will be final unless dismissal/removal is recommended.

F.             If removal/dismissal is recommended by the grievance committee, this will require 2/3 vote of the eligible membership present at the next held general membership meeting to become official.

G.            At any time, the Plaintiff may withdraw his/her complaint.  Any action in place will cease at that time.

Section 5 – Resignation of a Member

A.            A member may resign his/her membership with written notice.  No refunds will be given.  A new membership application and fee must be submitted to renew membership with WRV. 

Article V                                           Officers

Section 1 – Officers

A.            The officers of WRV shall consist of the following:

1.             President

2.             Vice President

3.             Secretary

4.             Treasurer

Section 2 – Duties of Officers

   A.          President

1.             Shall preside at all WRV Board and General Membership meetings.

2.             Shall see that all WRV rules are followed or bring them to the attention of the Board.

3.             Shall be available to all WRV members to discuss WRV business.

4.             If an emergency arises he/she will immediately call a Board meeting to address the situation.

5.             Will be an ex-officio member of all committees, except the Nominating Committee. 

6.             The President will only vote in the event of a tie or in elections for next year’s officials. 

7.             The President shall ensure that all officers and Board members comply with their respective positions. 

8.             The President will present a yearly calendar of meeting dates to be included in the second newsletter of the coming year.  

9.             The President shall sign all lease agreements for the club.

B.            Vice President

1.             Will assist the President in the business of WRV.

2.             Will perform duties in the absence of the President.

3.             Will attend all Board and General Membership meetings.

C.            Secretary

1.             Will take and keep a record of WRV business inclusive of, but not limited to, dates of events, Board meeting minutes, and general membership meeting minutes. 

2.             Will produce and read minutes of past meetings.

3.             Will provide the Corresponding Secretary a summary of the meeting for inclusion in the newsletter.

4.             Keep current membership and voter eligibility list. 

5.             Maintain a permanent record of all correspondence and minutes in the permanent records of WRV, located in the clubhouse. 

6.             Will attend all Board and General Membership meetings.

7.             Will keep WRV phone messages updated on show cancellations and meeting dates. 

D.            Treasurer

1.             This position is responsible for all WRV funds.

2.             Must present a current, detailed financial report at all WRV meetings.

3.             Duties of this position are inclusive of, but not limited to, receipt and payment of monthly bills, reimbursement of authorized expenses, and monthly balance of all accounts.

4.             File WRV charter with the State Corporation Commission.  

5.             Copies of bills, receipts, deposits, and payments for review shall be made within 10 days of a member’s request. 

6.             This position shall be bonded if the amount in the treasury exceeds $50,000.00.

7.             This position shall maintain a copy of monthly financial reports and year‑end financial reports, as well as year-end receipts and records, in the official records that are maintained in the WRV clubhouse. 

8.             Will attend all Board and General Membership meetings.

9.             Prepare budget for upcoming year in conjunction with Finance Chairperson.

10.          Accept applications and dues.  Provide membership list and voter eligibility list to Secretary.

Section 3 – Election and Nomination Rules

A.            The Nomination Committee will present their slate of nominees at the October meeting. 

B.             Ballots will be accepted at the November and December membership meetings.  

C.             Additional nominations will only be taken at the annual December meeting for vacant positions. 

D.            The officers and Board of Directors of WRV will be elected by majority vote of the eligible voting General Membership at the December annual meeting. 

E.             To be eligible for nomination, the member must be at least 21 years of age, except youth representative, in good standing with dues paid, and not be a convicted felon.

F.               Qualification for nominee as president requires a minimum of 2 membership terms.  Other nominees require a minimum of 1 membership term.

Section 4 – Terms of Office

A.            No officer shall hold any officer position, for more than four consecutive years, or no more than two in the same position.

B.             The Term of Office for Officers and Board members will run from January 1^st   until December 31^st.

Section 5 – Officer Resignation

A.            Resignations must be submitted in writing to a Board member of WRV. 

B.             The President or acting President shall appoint, within 30 days, a qualified WRV member to assume the vacancy for the remainder of the term.

C.             The Corresponding Secretary shall immediately send notice of this change to the membership. 

Section 6 – Officer Removal

A.            Any grievance against a Board member or Officer will follow the same rules Article IV, Section 4 of WRV bylaws.

Article VI                                          Board of Directors

Section 1 – Purpose

A.            To oversee and handle the general welfare of WRV.

B.             To discuss and make recommendations to the General Membership for any capital improvements to the WRV grounds. 

Section 2 – Membership of the Board

A.            The Board of Directors shall consist of the following: 

1.             President

2.             Vice President

3.             Secretary

4.             Treasurer

5.             Immediate Past President

6.             Five Directors        

7.             Finance Chairperson

8.             Show Chairperson

9.             Corresponding Secretary

10.          Equipment/Building Supervisor

Section 3 – Duties

A.     President              - See Article V, Section 2, paragraph A

B.      Vice President    - See Article V, Section 2, paragraph B

C.     Secretary               - See Article V, Section 2, paragraph C

D.     Treasurer              - See Article V, Section 2, paragraph D

E.      Immediate Past President

1.             Shall attend all Board and General Membership meetings. 

F.      Five Directors

1.             Directors shall bring all member concerns to the Board for resolution. 

2.             They shall assist with research and planning of all projects involving WRV.

3.             Attend all Board and General Membership meetings.

4.             Directors will assist and be available to the members for any concerns and/or projects             concerning WRV.

G.     Finance Chairperson

1.             This position is responsible to see that the books are audited and tax returns are filed yearly.

2.             In the event a major project is needed, this position is responsible for organizing a committee.  The responsibility of the committee will be to obtain quotes to present to the Board, as well as suggest fundraising ideas to fund the projects. 

3.             The Financial Chairperson shall manage all WRV-approved items recommended for sale.

4.             Attend all Board and General Membership meetings.

5.             Will work in conjunction with the Treasurer to campaign for upcoming year fundraising needs.  Write a budget for the upcoming year.

H.     Show Chairperson

1.             Will be the Chairperson of the Show Committee.

2.             This position will propose dates of regular, jackpot, and fundraiser shows for the upcoming year.

3.             Once a show is scheduled and approved, this position will have charge of filling all positions listed on the “show detail work list.”

4.             This position will keep an ongoing record of show results and year-end  points. 

5.             This position will keep an ongoing record of shows worked by members, which is required for year-end awards.

6.             Attend all Board and General Membership meetings.

7.             Will work in conjunction with the Equipment/Building Supervisor to record the work details.

I.              Corresponding Secretary

1.             This position will be responsible for distribution of the newsletter to the club membership. Newsletter will be sent via e-mail unless member does not have e-mail in which case it will be sent by United States Postal Service (USPS). The newsletter should include but not limited to the treasurer’s report, decisions made by the Board, and minutes from the previous membership meetings.

2.             All other items requested by the President or Committee Chairperson to be included in the newsletter.         

3.             This position shall send all Get Well gifts, cards, and handle bereavement issues for WRV.

4.               Attend all Board and General Membership meetings.

J.       Equipment /Building Supervisor

1.             Will be in charge of organizing a committee to maintain all equipment on the grounds.  All equipment will be serviced and repairs reported to the Board of Directors. 

2.             In charge of building inspections, kitchen winterization, well, etc., to prepare for winter months. 

3.             Will be responsible for servicing tractor, equipment and parts, as well as checking and fueling all tanks on a monthly basis. 

4.             Shall be the chairperson for the Work Detail Committee. 

5.             Attend all Board and General Membership meetings.

6.             Will work in conjunction with the Show Chairperson to document all work details worked by members for year-end points.

7.             Responsible for approving any/all work details of a member that goes towards work details for year-end awards.

Section 4 – Election

A.            See Article V, Section 3.

Section 5 – Term

A.            Each member of the Board of Directors shall serve a one-year term.

Section 6 – Meetings

A.            The Board of Directors shall meet when needed, at least four (4) times a year. 

B.             All Board members must be notified, via telephone, e-mail, or USPS of any Board meeting or business. 

C.             If a Board member misses two or more consecutive Board meetings without cause, that member will be subject to dismissal. 

Section 7 – Quorum

A.            In order to have a vote of the Board members, a majority of the Board members must be present. 

Section 8 – Dismissal

A.            See Article V, Section 6.

Article VII                                        Other Elected Positions

Section 1 – Junior Representative

A.            Shall plan social activities for the youth groups.

B.             Will present fundraiser ideas to the membership.

C.             Shall keep an accurate record of the youth account and request funds from the WRV treasurer when needed for functions approved by the board.

Article VIII                                       Appointed Positions

Section 1– Trustees

A.            The trustees shall be three in number, appointed by the President and approved by the Board.

Section 2– Trustee Qualifications

A.            A member in good standing for three years.

B.             Must be able to hold a three-year position.

Section 3– Trustee Term

A.            The terms of the trustees shall be staggered; one position to be appointed each year.

B.             One trustee is appointed each year as their term ends.  (1) for 3 years, (1) for 2 years, and (1) for 1 year

Section 4– Trustee Duties

A.            The trustees will serve as the Arbitration Committee between WRV members and WRV Board when called.

B.             The trustees will also serve on the Grievance Committee.

Article IX                                          Membership Meetings

Section 1 – Meetings

A.            The General Membership will meet no less than 9 times a year.

                The General Membership will meet no less than 4 times a year.

B.             WRV annual meeting will be held in the month of December.

Section 2 – Notification

A.            All members will be made aware of scheduled meetings by way of WRV newsletter, via e-mail, website, and WRV information line.  Anyone without internet will be notified by USPS.

Section 3 – Business

A.            Any known WRV business will be included in the newsletter and sent to the membership via e-mail or USPS.

B.             A current membership list must be present at all meetings.

Section 4 – Quorum

A.            In order for WRV to conduct a General Membership meeting, 5% of the voting membership must be present. 

Article X                                           Voting

Section 1 – Votes and Qualified Voters

A.            A qualified voter must have membership dues paid, at least, ten days preceding the meeting, when the vote takes place. 

B.             A qualified voter must be 12 years of age or older as of January 1^st, of the current year. 

C.             Only qualified voters will be allowed to vote at meetings. 

D.            A list of qualified voting members shall be provided prior to voting.

Section 2 – Voting Methods

A.            A written ballot will be used for all Board of Director and officer elections. 

B.             A verbal or written vote can be used for any regular WRV business. 

C.             There will be no proxy or mail-in votes. 

D.            The Secretary and the Nominating Chairperson will validate all ballots at the annual December meeting.

Article XI                                          Committees

              Section 1 – Committee Titles

A.   Advertising Committee

B.   Bylaw and Show Rule Committee

C.   Concession Stand Committee

D.   Nomination Committee

E.    Show Committee

F.    Work Detail Committee

G.   Youth Committee

H.    Grievance Committee

Section 2 – Formation of Committees

A.            These bylaws will be valid for all committees with the exception of the Grievance Committee. 

B.             All committees will have a set number of persons needed for each committee, which will be determined by the Chairperson as needed. 

C.             All committees will have a sign-up sheet for consideration of members for committee assignment. 

D.            The persons listed on the committee sheet will be recommended to the President and a Chairperson will be chosen for that committee, except where otherwise predetermined. 

E.               Additional member names interested in being on a particular committee will be kept by the Chairperson and called upon at a later date if needed. 

F.                If there is no interest by any member, the President may, at his/her discretion, appoint members to take charge of a committee.

G.            Terms of all committees are one year.

Section 3 – Duties of Each Committee

A.            Advertising Committee

1.             This committee oversees the organization of the WRV ad book.

2.             This committee presents advertising ideas to promote WRV to the Board and, upon approval of the Board, carry out these ideas; i.e., newspaper, classified, television, etc.

B.            Bylaw – Show Rules Committee

1.             This committee takes recommendations from the membership and Board of Directors for bylaws and show rule changes throughout the year. 

2.             To research requests for changes to determine if the change will remain in the best interest of WRV, not conflicting with any other standing bylaw, show rule, and/or articles of incorporation. 

3.             Present to the Board of Directors any recommended changes to be voted on by the general membership.

C.            Concession Stand Committee

1.             This committee will organize the operation of the concession stand; i.e., purchase food and supplies, work the stand, obtain volunteers for assistance from the Show Committee, and clean up.

2.             Present ideas to the Board for consideration of improvements and/or needed work before beginning the task.

D.            Nomination Committee

1.             The Nomination Committee will be made up of a Chairperson appointed by the President, and additional members chosen by the Chairperson.

2.             This position will make and take nominations, in the month of September of qualified WRV members to hold positions in the upcoming year. 

3.             Will contact ALL candidates to confirm commitment to the nomination and position if elected for the year.

4.             A slate will be sent to the Corresponding Secretary, which will be forwarded to the membership not less than 7 days prior to the November meeting, and voting will be held at the November and December meetings.

E.             Show Committee

1.             The Show Chairperson will be in charge of this committee.

2.             Make sign-in sheets available to verify members working a show and have the signature of one committee member to verify that the work has been completed. 

3.             Assist Show Chairperson in any way needed.

4.             Obtain needed workers for various positions needed, not on the sign-up sheet, to run shows. 

F.             Work Detail Committee

1.             The Equipment /Building Supervisor shall be the chairperson over this committee.

2.             This committee will be responsible for scheduling and notifying the Corresponding Secretary of scheduled work detail dates.

3.             This committee will see that all attending members sign a worksheet, with the attending Board member signing off on each working member. 

4.             Responsible for providing a completed sign-up sheet from each detail to the Show Chairperson and Corresponding Secretary to be included in the newsletter.

G.            Youth Committee

1.             The Junior Representative will be the chairperson of this committee.

2.             This committee will hear ideas or concerns from the youth and present them to the Board of the WRV, as well as advise members of the outcome. 

3.             This committee will be responsible for organizing all youth activities for the membership. 

H.            Grievance Committee

1.             The Grievance Committee will be made up of the three trustees, one person selected by the accuser, and one person selected by the accused.

2.             This committee is to handle any grievances or disputes among the members, board of directors or officers.

Article XII                                        Awards Eligibility

Section 1 – Age Requirements for Work

A.            Any members age 12 and above as of January 1, must work their own detail and shows.

                Any member may complete their own work detail or have a worker work on their behalf at no cost to the club with prior approval from the board of directors.

B.             Any member, age 11 and under, as of January 1, may have a parent or family member work for them. 

C.             No persons under 12 years of age will be allowed to work in the concession stand.

B.             No persons under 12 years of age will be allowed to work in the concession stand.

Section 2 – Work and Verification of Work Completed

A.            All members need to complete or schedule a work detail before June 30^th, unless they join after June 30^th in which case, they will need to schedule their work detail with the Equipment/Building Supervisor.

B.             If a medical condition prevents completion of a work detail, another member may work for them if approved by Equipment/Building Supervisor and /or Board of Directors.

C.             A member must work not less than two shows as posted on the show detail work list and verified by the Show Committee.  A member must provide help at not less than 2 shows.

D.            The Work Detail Committee will verify whether or not members have completed their work details. 

E.             Disagreements regarding work will be brought to the attention of the Board of Directors. 

 F.            Members may not complete a work detail and declare this as their completion of work detail without prior approval of Equipment/Building Supervisor. 

G.            Service in Board positions or Committee positions will count towards show and/or work detail requirements.

H.            All work details needing completion after show season can be scheduled and counted towards next year’s requirements, with the approval of the Work Detail Chairperson. 

I.              If a WRV member has the ability for a contractor (whether it be an electrician, plumber, etc.) to complete a need that the club has at no labor cost to the club, then this work may be considered a work detail for that member provided prior permission has been given by the Equipment/Building Supervisor and prior notification of the Board.

Section 3 – Opt-Out Fee

A.            Individual WRV members wishing not to work the work detail may pay a fee by June 30^th, or at the time of membership, if after June 30^th. 

B.             The opt-out fee is only for one member and does not exclude that member from working the WRV shows. 

Section 4 – Champion and Reserve Champion

A.            There will be a Champion and Reserve Champion Year-End Award/Title in each of the divisions defined in the horse show rules. The member with the highest points in each Division will be the Champion for that Division and the second highest point earner will be the Reserve Champion. If the member has completed the qualifications for awards he/she will receive the award accordingly.

B.             Individuals may not win more than one division award/title. 

C.             Individuals eligible for two awards/titles must accept the award/title in the event with the highest Place.

D.            In the event of a tie for Champion, WRV will award two champion awards/titles and no reserve.  If there is a reserve tie, WRV will award the champion award/title and two reserve champion awards/titles.

E.             The club will pay up to $100.00 towards the Championship award and up to $75.00 towards the Reserve Championship award. 

Section 5 – Champion Team Roping Trophy 

A.            The Raymond Hale Memorial Team Roping trophy will be awarded each year to the team roper with the highest number of points.  The recipient will retain the trophy for one year. This award is only offered if Team Roping is held during the show season.

B.             If the same roper wins the trophy a total of three years (not necessarily consecutive), that roper may opt to retire the trophy, in which case another trophy will be purchased by WRV. 

C.             The high point team roper can be the high point header, the high point heeler, or the high point roper with a combination of heading and heeling points. 

D.            In the event of a tie, there will be a six-head run-off based on the average at the last show. 

E.             Each roper will rope the same six heads with their partner of choice. 

Section 6 - Kenny Perry Perpetual Sportsmanship Award

                     Kenny Perry and Arianna Cox Perpetual Sportsmanship Awards

A.                   This award will be an annual award given to the person who has shown good sportsmanship and volunteered their time and service to the betterment of WRV.  The recipient’s name will be engraved on this award and will be retained by the recipient for one year. 

The Kenny Perry  Perpetual Sportsmanship Award will be an annual award given to an adult member who has shown good sportsmanship and volunteered their time and service to the betterment of WRV.  The recipient’s name will be engraved on this award and may be retained by the recipient for one year.

B.                   The Arianna Cox Perpetual Sportsmanship Award will be an annual award given to a youth member who has shown good sportsmanship and volunteered their time and service to the betterment of WRV.  The recipient’s name will engraved on this award and may be retained by the recipient for one year.

Section 7 – Points for the Year 

A.            Points will go to one rider/one horse or pony for the season, unless unforeseen circumstances arise with the horse or pony; i.e., death or permanent injury. 

B.             If the horse/pony should die or become permanently injured, points may be transferred to a second horse or pony with approval from the Board of Directors.

C.             If the second horse/pony is permanently injured or dies, the Board of Directors will decide if the points will go to a third horse/pony.

  Article XIII                                     Rental of Grounds and Buildings

Section 1 – Clubhouse 

A.            Members may have use of the clubhouse for personal functions upon approval by the President and with proper notification.

B.             If a member rents the clubhouse for a private non-public function an insurance policy must be obtained and a Certificate of Insurance must be provided to the Board prior to the event. 

C.             Non-members wishing to rent the clubhouse must complete an application, sign a rental agreement, and obtain an insurance policy.  A copy of all rental agreements must be filed in the permanent records of WRV. 

D.            All persons using the clubhouse must clean the facility after each use. 

E.             All members shall have access to the clubhouse during all WRV activities.

Section 2 – WRV Grounds Rental

A.            Members or non-members interested in renting the grounds must sign a rental agreement and follow the rules outlined on the rental agreement. 

B.             Rental agreements shall include, but not be limited to, rental fee, due dates, buildings rented, equipment rented, required Certificate of Insurance for coverage, and clean-up agreement. 

C.             The rental agreement must be signed by the President and all parties responsible for renting the grounds. 

D.            Copies of all rental agreements must be kept in the WRV permanent records. 

Section 3 – Trailer Rental

A.            Persons renting the singlewide trailer must follow the rules of the rental agreement provided by WRV, signed by the President, and approved by the Board of Directors.

B.             The singlewide trailer will not be rented without the renter/liability insurance policy.  A Certificate of Insurance must be provided prior to the move-in date and must stay active while residing on the premises. 

C.             A copy of the lease agreement and Certificate of Insurance must be kept in the WRV permanent records. 

D.            Renters will be required to join WRV and pay the membership dues.

Article XIV                                       General Rules

Section 1 – Contracts

A.            The Board of Directors must review all contracts yearly. 

Section 2 – Ring and Equipment

A.            WRV members may use the ring and equipment.  Equipment is not to be removed from the grounds without prior written permission from the Board.  Timers, PA system or water pump are not to be used by the General Membership, at any time, other than show/event days. 

B.             Damage to equipment or ring must be reported immediately to the President or a Board member.

C.             Use of the arena lights will be allowed on Friday nights and family nights.  In cases where there is a scheduled event on Friday or Saturday the lights can be used the prior Thursday night. 

D.            On nights other than Family night, members may use the arena lights, with prior approval by an officer, for a fee of $20.00.  Unauthorized use of the arena lights may result in membership suspension.

E.             Lights MUST be turned off before 11:00 p.m. on non-public dates.

Section 3 – Selling on Club Grounds

A.            All vendors selling on club grounds must first be approved by the president. 

B.             Fees should be collected by the Treasurer or in his/her absence by the Show Chairperson.

Section 4 – Records

A.            All records pertaining to previous business of WRV shall be kept in the permanent WRV records, which will be located in the WRV clubhouse.  These records are not to be removed for any reason.

Section 5 – Flowers in Bereavement

A.            The club shall pay up to $75.00 for flowers/other  sent for Bereavement of club member  or a member of their immediate family; spouse, mother, father, child, brother, sister.  All others receive a card.

Section 6 – Building admittance

A.           A set of all building keys will be given to all officers,   Show Chairperson and Equipment/Building Supervisor.

Article XV                                        Procedural Changes

Section 1 – Bylaws

A.            Any Bylaw changes submitted to the Bylaw Committee and approved by the Board may be amended by majority vote of the eligible voting members present at regular business meetings once quorum has been met,   see Article IX, Section 4, provided the amendment(s) are given a minimum of thirty day (30) waiting period after presentation and members are notified in writing.

 B.            Members requesting a Bylaw change must petition 25% of the voting members and receive signatures of those members prior to written submission to the Bylaw Committee.

Section 2 – Horse Show Rules

A.            These rules govern the operation of WRV sponsored shows and not the bylaws.

B.             Horse Show Rules may be amended by vote, prior to the first show, of the majority of members present and voting at any regular business meetings, once quorum has been met, see Article IX, section 4, provided the amendment is given a thirty day (30) waiting period after presentation and the members are notified in writing. 

C.             Members requesting a Horse Show Rule change must petition 25% of the voting members and receive signatures of those members prior to written submission to the Horse Show Rule Committee.

D.            Individual rules will not be changed after the first show date of the season. 

                                  WESTERN RIDERS OF VIRGINIA, INC.

                                                                     HORSE SHOW RULES

RULE 1 - COGGINS

Proof of Negative Coggins is required. All horses brought onto Western Riders of Virginia (WRV) grounds must have a current Negative Coggins.

RULE 2 – ADMISSION TO SHOW GROUNDS

   All non-members will pay an admission fee.

• Age 6 & under will be admitted free.

RULE 3 – RULES

• All classes will be run by WESTERN RIDERS OF VIRGINIA Rules.
• Any rider who objects shall forfeit entry fee and be dismissed from the ring.

RULE 4 – SHOW/CLASS SCHEDULE

• Show/class schedules will be run as printed with no alternates and no added classes excluding any typographical errors.

RULE 5 – DIVISIONS

• Riders age based on January 1 of current year.

Pleasure                                                                                              Speed

Halter /Showmanship                                                    Pee Wee Pony Speed 10 & under

Halter/Showmanship 14 & under                                14 & under Pony speed  

Halter/Showmanship 15 & over                                  14 & under Horse Speed

Pee-Wee 10 & under Pony Pleasure                           18 & under Horse or Pony Speed                  

14 & under Pony Pleasure                                                Open Horse Speed

14 & under Horse or Pony Pleasuere                         40 & over Horse or Pony Speed

18 & Under Horse or Pony Pleasure                          

 Open Horse or Pony Pleasure                                    

40 & over Horse or Pony Pleasure                             

  Roping

                            “A” Calf Roping

                             “B” Calf Roping

                          “A” Ladies Breakaway Calf Roping

                          “B” Breakaway Calf Roping

RULE 6 – HEIGHT OF HORSE OR PONY

• Height of a pony shall be under 14 hands.
• Animals between 14 hands and 14.1 hands, with or without shoes, will be allowed to show in either horse or pony class.  Once entered as a horse or pony they must continue to show in that category all year.
• Animals above 14.1 hands must be classified as horses.
• A hand is 4 inches.

RULE 7 – TACK AND DRESS

• All animals participating in the show shall use WESTERN TACK and REGALIA.
• All contestants shall be dressed neatly and in APPROPRIATE WESTERN ATTIRE.
• Appropriate dress will include western collared shirts, western pleasure show attire, t-shirts, western boots or western riding sneakers and western hat/helmet or baseball caps. (No t-shirts, no tank tops or spaghetti strap shirts, & no baseball caps).
• Speed and roping classes will wear western hats/helmets or no hats.
• For Western Riders (non-pointed) Jackpot shows, acceptable dress will include short sleeve T-shirts, short sleeve golf/polo style shirts and baseball caps.
• For instances of  hot weather, short sleeve T shirts and short sleeve golf/polo style shirts will be accepted as appropriate dress for regular (pointed) Western Rides shows with permission from the Judge or Show Chairperson.
• Other decisions may be made by the Judge or Show Chairperson at their discretion.

RULE 8 – SPEED PATTERNS

• Pole Bending- The pattern will consist of six poles with each one set 21 feet apart to maneuver through. The first pole is set at 21 feet from the starting line.  A horse and rider can begin to either the left or the right of the poles.

• Texas Barrels- The pattern consists of three barrels set up in a straight line with each barrel set 35 feet apart. The first barrel is set 30 feet from the starting line. You can start at either the right side or the left side of the barrels.

• Barrel Racing- The pattern will consist of three barrels in a triangular "cloverleaf” pattern. The direction can be either one barrel to the right with two to the left, or one barrel to the left with two to the right. The pattern must meet the following conditions:  a) distance from 1^st barrel to timing line and the distance from the 2^nd barrel to timing line are equal; and b) distance from the 1^st barrel to the 3^rd barrel and the distance from the 2^nd barrel to the 3^rd barrel are equal.

RULE 9 – ELECTRONIC TIMERS

• In the event of an electronic timer breakdown, there will be a re-ride offered.
• In the event of an entire electronic timer breakdown, the entire class will be run with stopwatches or cancelled by show committee.

RULE 10 – Abuse and Mistreatment of Animals

• Abusing and mistreating an animal in the ring or on the grounds shall be prohibited.
• The rider will be asked to leave the ring and/or the grounds.
• The decision shall be at the discretion of the Judge and/or Show Chairperson.
• Any complaint of abuse outside the arena shall immediately be taken to the Show Chairperson and/or show committee to be resolved.
• Any complaint and action taken must be documented in writing and signed by all parties.

Rule 11– Unmanageable Horses and Ponies

• Any horse or pony that kicks, bites or is unmanageable in the ring or on the grounds will be dismissed if endangering property, persons, or animals.
• The entry fee will be forfeited.
• Decision to be made by the Judge and/or Show Committee.

Rule 12– Conduct

• No alcohol or illegal substances will be allowed on WRV club grounds.
• No excessive cursing or disorderly conduct will be allowed on the club grounds.
• Any person showing disorderly conduct or excessive cursing on the club grounds at any time will be suspended from the grounds until the next regular scheduled general meeting.  At such time, there will be a formal hearing.
• Suspended person or persons shall be notified of the hearing in writing.
• All accusations and suspensions will be in writing, and include the offense, punishment; all persons involved, including but not limited to the accused, witnesses, accuser, board members notified and voting members of the punishment handed out.
• All parties must sign and put the complaint in the permanent records of WRV.

Rule 13– Accidents and Injury

• The club will not be held responsible for accidents or injuries to persons, animals, or property on the show ground.  All participants shall sign a liability release form.

Rule 14– Show Dates

• The April, May, June, July, August and September shows shall be held on the first Saturday of these months.  Rain date to be scheduled accordingly.

Rule 15– Entry Fees

• All entry fees must be paid for before entering a class in the ring.
• No entries may be made in a class after the class has been called into the ring.
• Riders have the right to cancel from class and receive a refund, unless the payout calculations have been completed and then there will be no refund.

Rule 16– Entries/Payout

             6 entries & up                                       4 paybacks (40%, 30%, 20%, 10%)

                5 entries                                              3 paybacks (50%, 30%, 20%)

                4 entries                                              2 paybacks (60%, 40%)

                3 entries                                              1 payback (100%)

                1 or 2 entries                                      May run the class, no payback

·         Appropriate points and ribbons will be awarded.

·         Riders will have the option to cancel if there are 1 or 2 entries in a class.

·         Jackpot Barrels may be run 3-D with 10 or more riders and paid by NBHA payout.

Rule 17– Roping and Lead line

• No horse or pony shall be entered more than one time in each event except in roping and lead line barrels.

Rule 18– Re-rides

• No rider shall receive a re-ride due to faulty tack.

Rule 19– Pleasure and Speed Points

• Points for the day are given in the following manner: 1^st place - 4, 2^nd place - 3, 3^rd place - 2, and 4th place -1.
• Points will be given to 5^th and 6^th places, for other associations sanctioning our shows.
• Points for the day will not be given to classes restricted to certain exhibitors such as members only, mother’s classes, ladies classes, or any class not open to every participant in the Horse or Pony Division.

Rule 19a- Roping Points

• Roping points go to the rider.
• Points are accumulated from the WESTERN RIDERS OF VIRGINIA jackpot and regular shows for the calendar year.
• Riders shall receive points in accordance with Virginia Cowboys Association rules.

Rule 20– Awards - Champion and reserve championship awards will be given for points of the day in the following:

                        Pleasure                                                                                      Speed

Halter /Showmanship                                                   Pee Wee Pony Speed 10 & under

Halter/Showmanship 14 & under                               14 & under Pony Speed  

Halter/Showmanship 15 & over                                 14 & under Horse Speed

Pee-Wee 10 & under Pony Pleasure                          18 & under Horse or Pony Speed

14 & under Pony Pleasure                                           Open Horse Speed                                                                                                                             

14 & under Horse or Pony Pleasure                           40 & over Horse or Pony Speed

18 & Under Horse or Pony Pleasure                         

Open Horse or Pony Pleasure                                    

40 & over Horse or Pony Pleasure                            

• In the event of a tie in any division other than speed, the judge will flip a coin to determine the winner.
• Speed to be decided by the fastest combined time average of contestants competing in all 3 classes in the division.  If contestants did not compete in 3 classes or had a no time, the points leader competing with the most clean times wins the award.

Rule 21– Judge's Participation

• The judge of any show is not allowed to participate in any events throughout the course of the calendar year whatsoever or have any of his/her horses, ponies, or clients in the ring.
• The judge’s horses or ponies may not compete even if someone else is riding them.

Rule 22– Decisions

• All decisions of the judge are FINAL.
• No persons other than the Judge shall enter the ring during the class unless they are requested by the Judge.
• No leading of horse or pony in any class unless specified by the class (example: lead line barrels, etc.)

Rule 23– Selling on Club Grounds

• WESTERN RIDERS OF VIRGINIA reserves the right to disallow the selling of livestock, shoeing of animals, or selling of equipment on the club grounds.
• Any vendor requesting to do business on WRV grounds must first fill out an application for information purposes of contact and pay appropriate fee when applicable.