IMTCAA - is the official association of IMTCA in this country.
Being a member of IMTCAA and competing at sanctioned IMTCA events affords you many benefits and the correct insight into the sport, as the IMTCA mission statement details.
The sport of mountain trail is only just in it's infancy in Australia and already has a committed following of passionate horse people from all disciplines.
2017-2018 saw the first sanctioned events and first national challenge here in Victoria, Australia.
The following short paragraphs written by some of our current competitors, we hope will help you get started in the sport.
Membership and How to join?
You can find the link to the membership form for Australia IMTCAA in the forms section on this web page. The fee affords you dual membership here in Australia and to the IMTCA USA. The following member benefits apply:
Non members of IMTCAA can attend events and enter challenges, a surcharge will apply, and you are not eligible for annual high points or placing at national challenges from 2018-2019.
What does a challenge look like?
A challenge day or weekend will consist of the following:
In hand classes, followed by ridden classes (levels 1 to 3) - the order of the day schedule may vary at each individual course.
In general a walk through for each class will be done prior to that class. Patterns for the class are posted 3-5 days before the day. If across several classes the pattern is the same or similar, the judge may elect to walk through all of these classes, within a level, at one time.
If a single run through for all events for the day, is to be run at the start of the day, the event organisor should advise this prior to the event.
You should aim to arrive at the course well in time to be present for the walk through, having completed any required paperwork, watered/fed your horse and be ready with your required gear at the marshalling area well before the start of the run through. Run order will likely only be provided once you are in the marshalling area, so you will need to have warmed up your horse, as you could be first to go.
Officials of the event will be available to advise and assist you, as are experienced competitors. Feel comfortable to ask questions. For specific questions regarding the course and judging you can ask questions during the walk through. Please note however the walk through is not a time for training questions and advise. Please make sure you have briefed yourself on the rules prior, and/or attended some training days.
How do a prepare for this sport?
All over the country courses are being set up and quality horsemen providing training for horsemanship and obstacles. To specifically learn the art of mountain trail and IMTCA rules and judging/scoring, we encourage you to attend IMTCAA member days and training events.
Your preparation will include a sound knowledge of the sport alongside regular training of your horse to build skills and confidence, trust is imperative in this sport.
Useful links: