Classification, League, Profiling Survey? COBRA has some new language so check out these terms defined and see if this helps.

Classification – This refers to the way COBRA ranks its competitors. Each horse and each rider are given a number based on the information filled out in the Profiling Surveys. These numbers are combined to give you the League you will compete in. For example Jane is classified as a #2 rider. Her horse Buddy is classified as a #3 horse. As a team they will run in League 5. If Jane has a second horse Scout that is classified as a #5 horse, they will run in League 7. Note that riders are given even numbers and horses are given odd numbers. All Leagues are odd numbered. See Rule Book (104.00)

Profiling Survey – There are two Surveys; one for horses and one for riders. The Surveys will ask questions in three categories; general questions about you or the horse, questions about barrel racing, and questions about other horse related activities. Based on the point value of the answers given, a number will be generated for each horse and each rider. When the numbers are combined, this will give you the League you will compete in. See “Classification” for examples.

League – This is the group of competitors, or horse-and-rider teams, that all have the same sum of their horse number and rider number after classification. There can be up to seven levels of competitors. The most novice horse-and-rider teams will be in League 1. As the level of experience increases, the League number goes up. There are only odd numbered Leagues 1-13.

Circuit – There will be at least 12 races per year devoted to 3-race Circuits. Each race is a Circuit event. Three Circuit events make up one Circuit Series. Each Circuit Series will have buckles awarded to 1st place in each League with an average of eight competitors at each Circuit event. Circuit standings will be based on combined times for those three events. Other prizes awarded for 2nd and 3rd in each League.

Open Training Class – Open to any #1 classified horse ridden by a #4, #6, or #8 rider. This allows the higher experienced riders to season their young horses. This is not a League that earns Circuit awards or Year-end awards but has day money pay-out only. See Rule Book for more details (109.00).

Incentive 4D – This makes it available for anyone that would like to see how they would place in a 4D format enter their time in a “side pot”. This is an option and is not required. The placings will not count toward Circuit or Year-end awards. Competitors that enter their time in the Incentive 4D will be paid out 90% of the fees. The Incentive 4D will cover all Leagues together, not individually. See Rule Book (107.00).