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Inspection Procedures
Information for Handlers of Mares at ATA Inspections
- Mares have to be three years old or older and should be well groomed, and wear a bridle with snaps on the reins to facilitate release for the "at liberty" phase. Horses under 2 1/2 years of age may be presented in halters. Braiding acceptable but not necessary.
- Foal by side, running free, is acceptable, actually desirable.
- Inspection process:
Depending on the layout of the facility, each mare will be measured and the inspection completed before the next mare is seen.
Mare's height, girth and cannon bone will be measured. The mare may have shoes. If your mare has never been measured before, you may want to get her used to being measured with a measuring stick, etc.
Mares will be inspected for Conformation, standing on a firm, flat surface, and viewed from front, rear and both sides.
Regularity and Correctness will be judged at the walk and trot, in hand, on a firm, flat surface about 50 yards in length. When turning, handler should move on the outside of the mare, in a clockwise direction.
Impulsion and Elasticity will be judged in hand, at the trot on a triangle, whose dimensions will vary with the space available. The long side will be about 30-50 yards in length. Mare and handler will run in a clockwise direction, and may be asked to go around twice.
Mares will be turned loose in a quiet, relatively samll ring or arena to be seen moving at the canter and trot. Handler plus one assistant may encourage mare to move, and may use lunging whips. (Mares that are heavy in foal or lame may be excused from this phase.)
Immediately following the 'at liberty' phase, the Inspector will announce the marks awarded to the mare and the decision as to whether the mare is approved or accepted for the OSB or PSB as appropriate. A commentary on one or more mares may be given by the Inspector. Please see the following document created March, 2006 for information on passing scores: Inspection Changes
A written report will be sent to the ATA Office, and a copy mailed to the owner. The marks awarded are official, and will be entered on to the mare's registration papers.