UKC Terrier Racing Rules and regulations

Official UKC Rules and Regulations

Governing UKC-Licensed Terrier Racing

Effective May 1, 2004

Section I. Jurisdiction. All UKC-licensed terrier races shall be governed by the rules herein. The following rules and regulations governing UKC-licensed terrier races and the awarding of UKC Championship points and titles issued by the United Kennel Club, Inc., are uniform and are not given on a local or geographical basis.

Section II. Who may offer terrier races. Any UKC club that is eligible to offer terrier races may be licensed to offer Flat racing, Steeplechase racing or both. UKC reserves the right to grant, withhold or revoke event licenses at its own discretion.

Section III. Definitions.

Agility Trial. An all-breed event hosted by a UKC-licensed club at which the Judge evaluates the ability of teams of handlers and dogs to perform a series of obstacles.

Blind. A dog is blind if it has no useful sight.

Conformation show. A show hosted by a UKC-licensed club at which the conformation and temperament of purebred dogs are evaluated by Judges in accordance with these rules and the UKC standards for each breed.

Corresponding date. UKC schedules events based on a 52-week calendar. If a club offers an event on the 4th Saturday of this year, then that club's corresponding date in all subsequent years is also the 4th Saturday, regardless of the actual date.

Day-of-show entry. Most UKC clubs allow entries to be taken on the day of a show or trial. The start and finish time for taking these entries is published in BLOODLINES magazine and on the UKC web page.

Disqualified. Dog is deemed ineligible for competition. This can be the result of a condition prohibited in the rules, such as an alteration to the dog's natural state, an undesirable trait as listed in a breed standard, or a condition of or action by a dog that is prohibited under the rules of the United Kennel Club. A dog that has been disqualified from a conformation show or performance event pursuant to Section V may not participate in any further events unless reinstated by UKC.

Dog. The word "dog" used in these regulations includes both sexes.

Excused. A dog that has been excused by a Judge in any event may not participate in any other class of the same type, except that in terrier racing, an excused dog may compete in another type of terrier race at the same event. A dog that has been excused from flat racing must no longer compete in flat racing for that event, but may race in steeplechase races on the same day as flat racing. A dog that has been excused from a conformation class in show 1 must no longer compete in that show but may be shown again on the same day in show 2, and it is also eligible for any other performance events on the same day.

Finish Line. The back of the tunnel opening.

Flat Racing. A flat surface race course.

Guideline. An indication or outline of recommended policy or conduct.

Heat. One of several races held to advance the winners to the next round.

Immediate family. The spouse, parent, step-parent, child, step-child, brother or sister of a person are immediate family members.

Licensed classes. Classes that are required to be offered at a UKC conformation show or performance event.

Limited Privilege (LP) program. This program is open to the following, provided they are spayed/neutered: mixed breed dogs, purebred dogs of unknown pedigree, and purebred dogs with disqualifying faults as described in the UKC breed standard. All Limited Privilege-listed dogs are eligible for Agility, Obedience, and other performance events. Eligibility for future events will be determined and published in UKC publications and on the UKC website.

Non-licensed classes. Optional classes that may be offered at a UKC conformation show, obedience trial or terrier race.

Obedience trial. An all-breed event hosted by a UKC-licensed club at which Judges evaluate the ability of teams of handlers and dogs to perform a series of exercises.

Performance event. Events where the dog is judged on the basis of performance rather than conformation. Agility, obedience and Terrier Race are typical performance events.

Pre-entry. Some UKC clubs offer pre-entry in addition to day-of-trial entry. Pre-entries must be submitted by a specific date (published in BLOODLINES and on the UKC web page), and are normally lower in price than day-of-show entries. Trials that do not accept day-of-trial entries are designated as "Pre-Entry Only" in the Upcoming Events listing on the web and in BLOODLINES magazine and on the UKC web page.

Pre-entry Only. Some UKC clubs do not allow day-of-trial entries and require that all entries be submitted by a specific date (published in BLOODLINES and on the U.K.C. web page). These shows are described as "Pre-entry Only."

Race course. Also referred to as the track.

Race type. There are two types of terrier races, Flat racing and Steeplechase racing.

Single-breed show. A conformation show that offers classes for a single breed. Also referred to sometimes as a "specialty" show.

Steeplechase Racing. Racing that requires the dog to go over hurdles on the race course.

Terrier Races. A racing event offered for certain breeds run on flat and/or steeplechase race courses.

Track. A course laid out for racing.

AA.

Temporary Listing (TL) number. A Temporary Listing (TL) number may be issued to:

Any purebred dog that is eligible for registration with UKC.

Any spayed/neutered purebred dog that is ineligible for registration with UKC.

Any spayed/neutered mixed-bred dog eligible to participate in UKC performance events.

This "temporary" number may be used to enter a dog in UKC events before the dog is registered or listed with UKC. A TL number expires after 60 days. Points or legs earned during the 60-day period expire unless the dog is permanently registered with UKC or issued a Limited Privilege (LP) program number on or before the 60th day. Temporary Listing numbers may be purchased and issued on the same day by calling the Dog Events Department at UKC.

BB.

Terrier Races. A racing event offered for certain breeds run on flat, steeplechase or both race courses.

Section IV. General Rules.

Licenses. All licenses for UKC-licensed events shall be granted, withheld or revoked at the sole discretion of the United Kennel Club.

Finality of Judges' decisions. By entering any terrier race, the owner and handler of any dog agree to accept the decision of the Judge as final. The decision of a Judge is the responsibility of the Judge and not that of United Kennel Club.

Governing rules. UKC-licensed events are governed by UKC rules, classifications, and point systems.

Inoculations. All dogs six months of age or older must have inoculations for Rabies, Canine Distemper and Canine Parvovirus to be eligible to compete at UKC events. Dogs under six months of age present on the grounds of any UKC event must have current inoculations for Canine Distemper and Canine Parvovirus. Failure to comply with this paragraph will result in disciplinary action.

Regulation and recording of event results. The UKC Dog Events Department regulates and records the results of agility trials, conformation shows, obedience trials, terrier races and issues awards for levels of achievement at these events. Additional events may be added at the sole discretion of the United Kennel Club.

When points or legs are awarded. Points or legs earned toward UKC titles are awarded after the United Kennel Club receives and processes the official event report from the host club.

UKC right to review and correct event-related documents. UKC has the right to inspect all reports, score sheets, and other documents related to UKC-licensed events and to review those documents for any reason. UKC reserves the right to correct any mistakes found. Pursuant to the Inherent Rights and Powers, UKC employees may make corrections, additions or deletions to any documents related to UKC-licensed events, regardless of whether or not those documents are signed by a Judge or club officer.

UKC right to change rules, policies, and fees. UKC reserves the right to change rules, policies and fees at any time without notice.

****UKC to insert most current language for Section V. ***

Section V. Dog Temperament and Behavior. Owners of UKC-registered dogs are responsible for the behavior of their dogs at UKC events. Dogs participating in UKC events are expected to have stable temperaments appropriate to their breeds and to be sufficiently well trained so that no dog's behavior interferes with the Judge's ability to evaluate the dog or its performance. Owners or designated handlers are expected to ensure at all times that their dogs present no threat to persons or other dogs attending the event.

Excusing a dog for temperament or behavior on the race course. A Judge may excuse a dog when the dog's behavior significantly interferes with the Judge's ability to evaluate the dog or to evaluate the dogs of other exhibitors or a dog that repeatedly bites or attempts to bite a person, or a dog that repeatedly bites or attacks another dog or a dog that continues to interfere with another dogs ability to race. The term "attack" shall be construed to include unprovoked physical contact between the two dogs. In such cases, the Judge must mark the dog "Excused" in the Judge's book and state the reason for the excusal. The Judge's decision in such matters is final.

Disqualifying a dog for temperament or behavior on the race course. A Judge must disqualify a dog that repeatedly bites or attempts to bite a person, or that bites or attacks another dog. The term "attack" shall be construed to include unprovoked physical contact between the two dogs.

When the bite or attack occurs off the race course. Any person who witnesses a dog biting or attempting to bite a person, or biting or attacking another dog anywhere on the event grounds other than on the race course must report it immediately to a member of the Event Committee or the host club. The host club must assist the person reporting the bite, attempted bite or attack in filing a complaint using the procedure outlined in Section VII of this rulebook.

UKC procedures for dogs disqualified under this section. When UKC is notified that a dog has been disqualified under this section, the owner of the dog will be notified by certified mail of the Judge's report (disqualified on the course) or the findings and recommendations of the host club (Complaint and hearing for biting or attacking outside the course). The owner of the dog shall have 14 days from receipt of this notification to show cause why the dog should not be barred from participating in future UKC events and from all registration privileges. After reviewing any mitigating or extenuating evidence submitted by the owner, a Disciplinary Committee composed of UKC staff members shall make a finding of facts and determine the penalty, and this ruling shall be final. The owner of the dog shall be notified of the outcome within 30 days of receipt of the owner's response. Owners of dogs that are barred from registration privileges are required to return the dog's UKC registration certificate within 14 days of notice that the dog is barred. Failure to promptly return the registration certificate can result in loss of UKC privileges. Dogs barred from registration privileges may not be transferred nor may litters produced by these dogs be registered. The name, breed and owner of a dog barred from registration privileges shall be published once in the first issue of BLOODLINES magazine after the owner is notified.

Section VI. Use of Alcohol and Illegal Drugs at Events. The use of alcohol and illegal drugs at UKC events is prohibited. Violators may be excused from the race course by the Judge, and from the show or event grounds by the Event Committee or any officer of the host club, and the decisions of these officials are final. The Event Secretary must notify UKC in writing of any Judge who is excused by the host club for violation of this rule.

Section VII. Misconduct and Discipline

Standard of conduct at a UKC event. United Kennel Club events are intended to be family-oriented recreation for dog lovers and their UKC-registered dogs. Accordingly, UKC expects the highest standard of conduct at events.

Misconduct. Misconduct may be defined as conduct by a person that is prejudicial to the interests of the sport of purebred dogs. There are two general categories of misconduct:

Wrongdoing at a UKC event. This may include, but is not limited to, threatening, assaulting or battering another individual; falsifying any event-related document; cheating or conspiring to cheat in order to improve the standing of any dog competing at an event; or abusing or neglecting a dog; throwing bait in the ring; or littering the ring with bait; using bait or a squeaker in the ring when a Judge has prohibited their use.

Wrongdoing not associated with a UKC event. This may include, but is not limited to, falsification of UKC registration papers; misidentification of a dog or the parentage of a dog; abuse or neglect of dogs; or continued failure to keep proper registration records.

Jurisdiction. All persons present on the grounds of a UKC event during the event hours are subject to the jurisdiction of the UKC. In addition, UKC has jurisdiction over misconduct that may occur off the grounds of the event or outside event hours, provided that the misconduct is reasonably related to the event. This paragraph shall be interpreted as broadly as is necessary to regulate such off-grounds misconduct as abuse of motel rooms by persons attending the events.

Procedures for handling misconduct during or associated with an event.

The complaint.

Who must file a complaint. Any person, who becomes aware of an act of misconduct during the hours of a UKC event, must notify either the Event Chairperson or the Event Secretary at any time during the hours of the event.

When a Judge observes misconduct in the ring. Any Judge who observes misconduct by an exhibitor in the Judge's ring must excuse the exhibitor from the ring and file a complaint with the Event Chairperson or Event Secretary as soon as practicable. The Judge must note the reason for excusal in his/her Judge's book.

When a person is excused for misconduct in the ring. A person excused by the Judge for misconduct in the ring may not show in any other class or event until after his/her hearing. The club shall not refund any entry fees unless the Hearing Committee makes a finding that the alleged misconduct did not occur, that the misconduct was not prejudicial to the interests of the sport of purebred dogs, or that the misconduct did not occur in conjunction with a UKC event. No dog owned or co-owned by the excused person may continue in further competition until the matter has been resolved by a hearing. If the excused person is handling a dog that he/she does not own or co-own, that dog may be returned to competition with another handler.

When a person observes misconduct by a member of the Event Committee or a Judge at an event. Any person who becomes aware of an act of misconduct by a member of the Event Committee or a Judge during the hours of an event must file a complaint in accordance with this Section. Complaints about a Judge's placements must be dealt with in accordance with Section XI, Paragraph A.

Upon receipt of a complaint. Upon receipt of a complaint, the Event Chairperson shall provide the complainant with a UKC Misconduct Report and Hearing Form. The complainant must enter the name of the subject of the complaint (hereinafter referred to as the "respondent") in Section 3, and complete all of Sections 1 and 2, providing the following:

Section 1. The club name, location of the event, the date of the incident, and the name of the Event Chairperson.

Section 2. The complainant's name, address, daytime and evening phone numbers, and the facts and circumstances of the alleged misconduct, including the specific sections of the pertinent UKC rulebook which have allegedly been violated. The Event Chairperson shall then appoint from the officers and directors of the host club, two persons who shall serve, with the Event Chairperson, as the Hearing Committee, except that no officer or director who witnessed the alleged misconduct shall serve on the Hearing Committee. If no officer or director is eligible to serve, then other club members may be appointed. The Event Chairperson shall serve as Chairperson of the Hearing Committee and shall set a time and place for the hearing. If the Event Chairperson witnessed the alleged misconduct, he/she shall appoint, from the officers and directors of the host club, three persons who shall serve as the Hearing Committee and shall also designate one to serve as Chairperson of the Hearing Committee. The place for the hearing shall be on the event grounds and the hearing time shall be set so as to give the respondent adequate time to prepare for the hearing.

Notice. As soon as possible after receiving the complaint, the Hearing Chairperson shall advise the respondent of:

The specific conduct that is the subject of the complaint and the time and place at which the alleged misconduct occurred;

The name of the complainant;

The names of witnesses against him/her; and,

The time and place of the hearing.

The Hearing Chairperson must enter the respondent's address and daytime and evening phone numbers in Section 3 of the complaint. He/she may obtain this information directly from the respondent or from respondent's UKC official entry form, if respondent is an exhibitor. If the respondent cannot be located on the grounds, the Hearing Chairperson shall select a date, time and place for the hearing and notify the respondent in writing by certified mail (return receipt requested) at the mailing address on the UKC official entry form or the respondent's last known address, whichever is applicable. Every reasonable effort shall be made to locate and notify the respondent of the complaint and hearing. Hearings not held on the day of the event must be held no more than 28 calendar days from the date of the event.

If the respondent fails to appear at the hearing. If, after having been advised of the complaint and the date, time and place of the hearing, the respondent fails to appear, the hearing shall proceed without the respondent.

The Hearing.

Advisement of respondent's rights. The Hearing Committee Chairperson shall advise the respondent of the following rights:

The right to be present during the testimony of all witnesses;

The right to cross-examine all witnesses;

The right to present witnesses on his/her own behalf;

The right to testify in his/her own behalf.

Witnesses. All witnesses who come before the Hearing Committee shall testify under oath administered by the Hearing Chairperson. Witnesses who are unable to attend in person may testify by telephone.

Order of testimony. The complainant shall present his/her evidence first, followed by the respondent's evidence.

Cross-examination. Each party shall be allowed to cross-examine the other's witnesses. Members of the Hearing Committee shall also be allowed to question the witnesses.

Spectators. Spectators shall not be allowed at Hearing Committee hearings except for UKC Field Representatives appointed to attend the hearing on behalf of UKC or UKC staff.

Attorneys. No party shall be entitled to have an attorney present at the hearing.

Findings. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Hearing Committee shall deliberate and make their findings based on a preponderance of the evidence. A two-thirds majority is sufficient to make findings. The findings shall be reported as follows:

Whether the alleged misconduct was proven to have occurred;

Whether the alleged misconduct was prejudicial to the interests of the sport of purebred dogs;

Whether the alleged misconduct occurred in connection with a UKC event.

In reaching its decision, the Hearing Committee may not consider the respondent's general reputation or status in the sport of purebred dogs, prior acts of misconduct, nor the extent of the respondent's investment in dogs. The sole consideration must be the specific instance of misconduct with which the respondent is charged.

Completing the UKC Misconduct Report And Hearing Form. The Hearing Committee Chairperson shall complete Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the Misconduct Report and Hearing Form as follows:

Section 4. The name, address and phone number of each witness and a summary of each witness's testimony. This summary shall include all pertinent facts provided by the witness. If the space on the form is insufficient, additional sheets of paper may be used to record the summary.

Section 5. The date and time that respondent was notified of the hearing and the names, addresses and daytime and evening phone numbers of the Hearing Committee members.

Section 6. The Hearing Committee's findings and recommendations shall be entered in this section. In addition, each member of the Hearing Committee shall then sign the form in the space provided and enter his/her address, daytime and evening phone numbers and e-mail.

Within 10 calendar days of the hearing, the Hearing Chairperson shall forward one copy of the UKC Misconduct Report and Hearing Form to United Kennel Club. The club hosting the event shall also keep a copy of the completed UKC Misconduct Report and Hearing Form.

Procedures For Handling Misconduct Not Associated With An Event. A person who becomes aware of an act of misconduct occurring other than during event hours must notify UKC in writing within 7 calendar days of discovering the alleged misconduct. The notification should include:

All known facts and circumstances surrounding the alleged misconduct;

The date of and location where the alleged misconduct occurred; and,

Names and addresses of any other witnesses who may have additional knowledge of or information about the alleged misconduct.

UKC staff shall investigate all such complaints and report findings and recommendations to the appropriate Department Head.

Penalties. The appropriate UKC Department Head shall review all Hearing Committee findings and staff investigation results with the UKC Discipline Committee. If a Hearing Committee's findings of prejudicial misconduct are upheld, the Discipline Committee shall impose one or more of the following penalties:

Probation. Probation for a period up to three years. During the period of probation, the individual shall be closely monitored by UKC. Any other instance of misconduct may result in immediate suspension or barring of the individual at the discretion of the Discipline Committee and without further due process.

Suspension. The Discipline Committee shall impose a minimum three hundred dollar fine and a minimum one-year suspension for probation violations and for most serious acts of misconduct. The suspension will begin immediately upon notification by certified mail (return receipt requested) but the fine must be paid before the time counts toward the sentence. For example, a person may be notified on January 1 that his/her penalty will be a one-year suspension and a fine of three hundred dollars. This individual will be suspended as soon as he is notified of the penalty but the one-year suspension does not start until the date the fine is paid. If the suspended individual waits until March 1 to pay his/her fine, his/her suspension will actually run fourteen months until midnight of February 28 the following year.

Barring. The Discipline Committee shall bar an individual for an indefinite period of time for repeat instances of misconduct or for the most serious forms of misconduct, including cruelty to dogs. The period of barring shall begin upon notification of the respondent by certified mail (return receipt requested).

Privileges lost during suspension or barring. The following rules apply to persons who are barred or suspended:

A suspended/barred person may not register any dogs in his/her name (joint or individual ownership).

No dog registered in the name of a suspended/barred person (joint or individual ownership) may be used for breeding and no offspring of such a dog is eligible for registration with UKC.

A suspended/barred person may transfer any dogs currently registered in his/her name (joint or individual ownership), except that no dog registered in the name of a suspended/barred person, regardless of co-ownership status, may be transferred to any member of that person's family.

A suspended/barred person may not register any litters or sign any litter registrations in any capacity.

A suspended/barred person may not enter or participate in any way in any UKC-licensed event.

No dog registered in the name of a suspended/barred person (joint or individual ownership) may be entered or participate in any way in any UKC-licensed event nor may such a dog receive points or legs toward any UKC title.

Appeals. Any person placed on probation, suspended or barred may appeal directly, in writing, to the UKC President. An appeal must be filed not later than 30 days from the date a person is notified of the probation, suspension or barring. The decision of the President is final.

UKC Inherent Rights and Powers. Notwithstanding anything herein and regardless of whether these procedures are followed, under the Inherent Rights and Powers, UKC reserves the right to itself and its sole judgment and discretion, to investigate any misconduct and to impose such sanctions and penalties as deemed appropriate.

Section VIII. Scheduling UKC Events.

Applying for a licensed event.

Application deadline dates. Completed applications with any changes or additions must be returned to UKC with appropriate fees by the following deadlines:

Month of event

Deadline:

January

August 1

February

September 1

March

October 1

April

November 1

May

December 1

June Janurary 1

July

February 1

August March 1

September April 1

October May 1

November June 1

December

July 1

When a club does not intend to use reserved date. If a club does not intend to hold an event on its reserved corresponding date, a club officer must notify UKC in writing or by e-mail not later than ten days prior to the application deadline date. If a club does not request that the date be held for the following year, that date will become available to other clubs on a first-come, first-served basis.

Late applications or payment of fees. Applications received after the deadline date or without the correct license fees will be assessed a penalty charge of $20 per event for each calendar month the application is late.

License fees. Licensed terrier race fees are $45 per race type.

Publication of upcoming events in BLOODLINES magazine and on the UKC web site. Approved events will be published on the UKC web site and in the first issue of BLOODLINES magazine following the approval of an application. These publications shall constitute the official notice of the upcoming event. Any special requirements for bringing dogs into a state where an event is scheduled, such as health or rabies certificates, will be included with other event information. Late applications or changes made after the application deadline may be approved but not published if they arrive too late for the magazine deadline. In such cases, the events and changes will be posted on the UKC web site. Clubs may purchase display ads featuring their upcoming events in BLOODLINES magazine. Upcoming event ads for events that have not yet been approved by UKC will be designated as "pending UKC approval."

Special requests. UKC strongly recommends that all Terrier Race events be Pre-entry only.

Pre-entry only. The "Application for One Day's Event" may be used to request that pre-entries only be accepted for an event. The following rules apply to pre-entry-only events:

By the closing date of the event, pre-entered dogs must be permanently registered with UKC, have a Limited Privilege listing, or have a valid Temporary Listing number.

The club must send each entrant a confirmation of the entry and a judging schedule. The judging schedule must include the club's refund policy and its policy on substitution of dogs.

No day-of-event entries may be taken.

Special requirements for bringing dogs into state where event is being held. Clubs holding events in states with special requirements for bringing dogs into the state must list those requirements in writing when submitting the Application for One Day's Event.

Applying for a new date. New clubs applying for their first event or clubs applying for a new date must get approval from UKC. A club member may check on the availability of dates by phone, e-mail or written request, but no date will be assigned without an e-mail or written request from a club officer or event committee member. Requests for new dates are processed in the order received. UKC will notify clubs by mail or e-mail when a date is approved or disapproved. Requests for new dates made after the application deadline date will be denied.

Corresponding date. A club that has offered an event in any one year shall have the first right to hold an event on the corresponding date in the following year. A club that fails to confirm an event by returning its application and that fails to request that its date be reserved shall lose the right to claim that corresponding date the following year.

Clubs with reserved corresponding dates. Approximately nine months before a club's reserved corresponding date, UKC will mail an "Application for One Day's Event" to the club's Secretary. The application will be for the same number and type of events as were offered the previous year. Any changes or additions must be approved in writing or by e-mail by UKC before submitting the Application For One Day's Event.

Mileage conflicts. UKC will not license events of the same type on the same day to be held by different clubs within 100 miles of each other, except that conformation shows may be scheduled within that distance if there are no common breeds being offered by the host clubs. Distance shall be calculated using the closest driving route and not air miles.

Number of events in a year. UKC clubs may host as many events per year as the club may properly support. However, UKC has the right to limit the number of events held by any club or Event Manager at their sole discretion.

Number of events per day. A UKC club may apply to hold one of each Terrier Race division per day.

Section IX. Planning UKC Events.

Appointing an Event Committee. At least one year prior to any event, the club shall appoint an Event Committee. When the club Secretary receives the Application for One Day's Event (approximately nine months prior to the corresponding date for a club's event), the package will also include information regarding the upcoming event. The package must be sent to the Event Chairperson. The Club Secretary is responsible for ensuring that these forms are promptly sent to the appropriate Event Committee members.

Event Committee positions. The Event Committee shall consist of a minimum of two persons: the Event Chairperson and the Event Secretary. When a terrier race is held in conjunction with a conformation show, agility trial, obedience trial, or other UKC-licensed event, the host club must appoint one Event Chairperson or Chief Steward for each activity. Event Chairperson/Chief Steward will be responsible for all matters relating to the dogs entered in its activity.

Event Committee information on Application for One Day's Event. The names, addresses, telephones and e-mail addresses (when applicable) of the Event Chairperson and the Event Secretary must be listed on the Application for One Day's Event.

Requirements for Event Chairperson and Event Secretary. Both the Event Chairperson and the Event Secretary must be in good standing with UKC.

Photographer. Clubs are encouraged to provide a photographer to take photos at events. The Event Chairperson is responsible for providing entrants with the UKC requirements for publishing win photographs with the event reports in BLOODLINES magazine.

Prohibition against Event Chairperson and Event Secretary serving as Judge. No person may serve as a Judge for the host club at any UKC-licensed event held on the same weekend when that person is serving as Event Chairperson or Event Secretary.

Presence of Event Chairperson and Event Secretary at events. The Event Chairperson and the Event Secretary must be present during events at which they are serving in these capacities.

Replacing Event Chairperson or Event Secretary. Once an application to hold an event has been approved by UKC, the club may not replace the Event Chairperson or the Event Secretary unless the change has been requested in writing to and approved by UKC. If circumstances prevent the Event Chairperson or the Event Secretary from serving on the day of the event, the club President or other club officer must appoint a replacement. The Event Secretary must include notice of the replacement with a written explanation of the reasons for the change when submitting the event results to UKC.

Event Chairperson Responsibilities. The Event Chairperson is responsible for planning and conducting the event in accordance with UKC rules. The duties of the Event Chairperson include, but are not limited to:

UKC paperwork. The Event Chairperson is responsible for completing and submitting the Application for One Day's Event on time and with the required fees.

Event Committee. The Event Chairperson may appoint additional committee members to assist with such duties as he/she may delegate.

Event site. The Event Chairperson is responsible for procuring a suitable event site. This includes the responsibility for executing all contracts and acquiring all permits that may be required by local jurisdictions. The Event Chairperson is responsible for ensuring that mats or other suitable coverings are available for indoor racing when the surface is not suitable for the planned activity.

Equipment. The Event Chairperson and club officials holding the event are responsible for ensuring that the race equipment meets the requirements outlined elsewhere in this rulebook. The judge must approve the equipment before the start of judging. At the completion of the trial, the judge must report to UKC any substandard conditions or equipment.

Judge. The Event Chairperson is responsible for hiring Judges who are properly licensed by UKC to judge terrier race events. Judges must be hired sufficiently in advance of the event so that his/her names can be included on the Application for One Day's Event. When a club hires both a Lead Judge and a Back-up Judge for a single terrier race, the required information for each Judge must be included on the Application for One Day's Event. Each Judge's contract must be in writing and signed by the Event Chairperson and the Judge. The Event Chairperson must keep the Judges' contracts on file for at least one month after the event. The Lead Judge is responsible for supervising the race stewards.

Motels. The Event Chairperson is responsible for appointing a member of the host club to serve as a representative to the local motel managers and for notifying local motel managers how to contact this representative with complaints about exhibitors.

Stewards. The Event Chairperson is responsible for ensuring that the proper amount of stewards are available to run the event in an organized and proficient manner. Stewards may not change any figures on the Judge's Score sheet, but notify the Judge of any errors he/she discovers.

Chief Steward. The Chief Steward must assign an appropriate number and type of stewards to each race and ensures that each race(s) is properly equipped. Where possible, each race should include the stewards as described below.

Racing Stewards.

Dog Catchers. It is preferred that the clubs assign permanent catchers. Dog catchers must be eighteen years of age or older. When permanent dog catchers are not available it is permissible to have the owner/handler assign a dog catcher in each race.

There must be as many catchers in catch area as the number of dogs in the heat race. Catchers must wear protection gloves. Heavy, gauntlet-style gloves (welders' gloves) are recommended.

Each catcher should be designated to catch a specific finishing place, regardless if the handler has assigned a dog catcher in each race. For example: dog catcher number 1 catches the first dog past the finish line and moves off to the side, dog catcher number two catches the second dog past the finish line and moves off to the side, etc.

Catchers should monitor dogs for inappropriate behavior (including catching the lure pull).

Catchers must wait until dogs are fully in the catch area before making contact with them.

Inside/Outside Steward(s). Duties include but are not limited to:

Facilitates the draw for loading positions and issues the correct color collar according to the color drawn. The color draw coordinates with the dog's collar color and the color on the box lid. Records the armband number and color collar on the heat form and gives it to the recorder. Organizes class heat entries in the holding area.

Checks muzzles for proper type and fit following rules set forth in this document under Section XIX. B. Dog's Equipment. 4.

Verifies that the muzzles are on in the loading area and before loading into the box.

Should tease dogs with the lure.

Monitors race for safety issues.

Lure Operator. Operates the lure machine when signaled by the race starter.

Lure Handler. The lure handler returns the lure to the starting gate after each heat, may also bring the Judge's scorecard to the results recorder and bring a subsequent heat scorecard to the Judge. The use of multiple lure handlers is suggested to avoid excessive tiring.

Race Starter. It is recommended that a separate person act as the race starter. It is permissible for the inside steward to perform these functions, prior to signaling lure operator to start the lure/race, and opening the gate. Checks to ensure that:

Dogs are loaded securely in starting box;

All stewards are off the race course;

Dog catchers are in the catch area;

The Judge is ready.

Recorder/Results Board Recorder.

Works with the Event Secretary to organize the dogs into heats.

Posts the heat armband numbers and collar colors. Records race results from racing judge.

Posts heat board.

Assigns qualifiers to subsequent run-off races.

Veterinarian. A veterinarian must be in attendance or on call for each UKC event. Where local laws require that a veterinarian be in attendance, the Event Chairperson is responsible for ensuring that the club is in compliance.

Event Secretary responsibilities. The Event Secretary is responsible for:

Catalogs. If the club elects to offer a catalog of exhibitors, the Event Secretary is responsible for preparing the catalog.

Entry taking. The Event Secretary is responsible for accepting only completed and signed entry forms. The Event Secretary assigns an armband number to each entry, which must be written on the entry form, score sheets and in the Judge's book.

Event license. Approximately six weeks prior to an event, UKC will mail the Event License to the Event Secretary, who is responsible for bringing the license to the event. Any exhibitor at the event who wishes to see the license must be allowed to do so.

Preparing results score sheets. The Event Secretary is responsible for preparing the proper amount of Official Racing Results score sheets.

Preparing heat races. The Event Secretary is responsible for preparing the heat race participants. The Recorder should assist the Event Secretary when possible.

Preparing and receiving Judges' books. The Event Secretary is responsible for preparing Judges' books, writing all of the required information for each dog in the appropriate class/heat. Immediately following judging, each Judge will return his/her signed Judge's books to the Event Secretary.

Submitting event results. The Event Secretary is responsible for submitting all event results to UKC within 10 business days of the event. Clubs shall be fined $20 per month per licensed event for late event reports.

Recording fees. The Event Secretary is responsible for ensuring that the correct recording fee of $1.50 per entry the terrier race is paid when the event results are submitted to UKC.

Rulebook. The Event Secretary is responsible for bringing a current copy of the Official UKC Terrier Racing rules to the event.

When a terrier race is held in conjunction with another event. When a terrier race is held in conjunction with a conformation show, obedience trial, weight pull, or other UKC-licensed event, the host club must appoint an Event Chairperson for each activity. Each Event Chairperson will be responsible for all matters relating to the dogs entered in its activity.

Section X. Canceling a UKC-Licensed Event. Clubs must notify UKC in writing of their intention to cancel an approved event. The decision to refund license fees in whole or in part shall be based on the following criteria:

A club that cancels its event before the application deadline date and before the application has been processed by UKC will receive a full refund.

A club that cancels its event before the application deadline date but after the application has been processed by UKC will receive a refund equal to the license fees less $20.00 per application.

A club that cancels its event after the event information has been published in BLOODLINES magazine shall receive no refund of license fees.

In addition to the rules regarding licensing fees, and depending on the individual circumstances, UKC may also require the club to take the following action(s):

The club must reimburse scheduled Judges for all expenses incurred on behalf of the club for the canceled event.

An Event Committee member must stay at the event site during the previously-scheduled event hours to inform all exhibitors or spectators that the event was canceled.

The club must return all Pre-Entry ONLY and Pre-Entry fees.

The club must mail an event cancellation letter to each person that received Premium List or other advertisement of the event.

The club will be assessed additional fees for expenses incurred as a result of late changes to BLOODLINES magazine.

A club that shows a pattern of scheduling and canceling events may lose its status as a UKC-licensed club.

Section XI. Judge Changes.

Change of Judge after event has been published in BLOODLINES. All judge changes occurring prior to the last weekday before an event must be approved by UKC. Changes made too late for publication in BLOODLINES will be posted on the UKC web site. The host club must make every reasonable effort to notify exhibitors of the change and offer refunds to all pre-entered exhibitors who submit a written request for refund of their entry fee(s). Judge changes must be posted in plain view at the event site during event hours.

Appointing an emergency replacement Judge. If, on the day of the event, a Judge is unable to start or complete his/her assignment, the Event Chairperson must appoint an emergency replacement Judge. First priority should be given to the back-up Judge, secondly to another Judge licensed as a terrier race Judge. If no licensed Judge is available, the club may appoint the available person best qualified to take the assignment. All official event report forms must show the name, address and phone number of the emergency replacement Judge. The Event Secretary must include a written explanation for all assignment changes when submitting the event report to UKC and include the credentials of any emergency replacement Judge. Points or legs earned by exhibitors under emergency replacement Judges shall be considered as if they were earned under the original Judge for the purpose of calculating required wins under different Judges.

Section XII. Entering a UKC event.

Official UKC entry form. Entries for all licensed terrier races must be submitted using the most current official UKC entry form. Incomplete or unsigned entry forms or entries unaccompanied by entry fees are invalid.

Entry in licensed terrier races. The following dogs are eligible to compete in UKC-licensed terrier races, provided they are one year of age on the day of the race. Entry into licensed races is limited to:

Dogs that are permanently registered with UKC as of the day of the event or,

Dogs that have a valid Temporary Listing (TL) number as of the day of the event.

Dogs that have a Limited Privilege (LP) listing number (performance events only) as of the day of the event.

Dogs that are a Breed listed in Section XIII.

Dogs that may not enter a licensed terrier race. The following dogs may not enter a terrier races:

Breed of dog. Any breed of dog not listed in Section XIII.

Blind dogs. Blind dogs must not participate in terrier races.

Canine amputees. Dogs missing all or part of one limb must be excused. The decision of the judge is final.

Drugged dogs. No dogs under the influence of a performance-altering drug may participate in a terrier race.

Dogs that may not be entered under a Judge.

Except as outlined in subparagraph b. below, exhibitors may not race dogs from the following categories under any racing Judge. These dogs may, however, show in other types of events on the same day. For example, a dog owned by a person judging a conformation event, may participate in a performance event hosted by same club on the same day, provided the dog is not handled by the Judge a member of the judges immediate family or a member of the judges household.

A dog that is owned or co-owned by the Judge;

A dog that is owned or co-owned by a member of the Judge's immediate family;

A dog that is owned or co-owned by a person living in the same household as the Judge;

A dog that has been owned or trained by the Judge or that has lived in the Judge's household, regardless of ownership, within three months of the date of the event;

A dog that has been owned or trained by a member of the Judge's immediate family or that has lived in the household of a member of the Judge's immediate family within three months of the date of the event;

A dog that is exhibited by an immediate family member of the Judge;

A dog that is exhibited by a person living in the Judges' household.

Procedures whereby prohibited dogs may race. Any prohibited dog listed above may race provided that:

The Judge notifies the club in advance that a prohibited dog will be entering the race;

The host club designates a Lead Judge and a Backup Judge on the Application For One Licensed Event. The Lead Judge shall be the overall authority for judging the event; and,

The restrictions in sub-paragraphs 10.D.a.1) through 7). do not apply to the Backup Judge.

Pregnant or lactating females. Pregnant or lactating females must not participate in UKC terrier races. A Judge who reasonably believes that a dog is pregnant or lactating must excuse the dog and mark the reason in the Judge's book. The Judge's decision is final.

Entry numbers and armbands. Each dog shall be assigned an entry number and the host club must provide armbands displaying the entry number to the person exhibiting the dog.

Entry procedures and deadlines. Due to the task of organizing race entries it is recommended that clubs use Pre-Entry only for racing events. UKC clubs must use the following procedures for taking entries for licensed classes:

Day-of-race entries. Clubs accepting day-of-race entries must set a specific time period during which the Event Secretary will take entries to the event. This information will be published with the other event information in BLOODLINES magazine. No entries will be taken at the event except during the specified time period. In the case of extreme weather or other emergency conditions, the Event Chairperson may decide to extend the taking of entries or delay the start of all judging by a reasonable period of time, or both. In such cases, the extension of entry-taking or delay of judging must be explained in writing by the Event Chairperson when submitting the Event report.

Pre-entry. Clubs accepting pre-entries must establish a pre-entry deadline. The pre-entry deadline must be published with the other event information in BLOODLINES magazine and on the UKC web page. Clubs may offer a discounted entry fee for pre-entries. In such cases, exhibitors whose entries fail to arrive by the deadline date may be required to pay the full entry fee.

Pre-entry only. Clubs may elect not to take day-of-race entries. In such a case, the club must include this information on its Application for One Day's Licensed Event. Such events will be designated "PRE-ENTRY ONLY" at the top of their listing in BLOODLINES magazine and on the UKC web page.

Refund policy. Refund policies may be set by the host club with the exception of a Female in Season as described in Section XXI.C.3. No refunds will be offered for missed races.

Corrections and changes to entry form. An exhibitor or owner may make corrections on an entry form anytime prior to the judging of the class in which the dog is entered. An exhibitor or owner may change the dog's name or the dog's registration number on an individual entry, but he/she may not change both on the same entry.

Entering a dog's height on the entry form. Each exhibitor is required to include the height of his/her dog in the space provided on the entry form when entering a dog in a terrier race.

Refusing an entry. Host clubs may refuse the entry of an otherwise eligible dog. While a club's decision is subject to review by UKC, it will not be overturned except where there is strong evidence that the club's decision is based on prohibited categories of discrimination (race, religion, national origin, etc.) or personal disputes.

Section XIII. Eligible Breeds. Purebred dogs and Limited Privilege dogs (breed must be indicated on the dog's Easy Entry Card) eligible to compete in terrier races include:

American Hairless Terrier

Australian Terrier

Bedlington Terrier

Border Terrier

Cairn Terrier

Cesky Terrier

Dachshund

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Glen of Imaal Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier

Jagdterrier

Lakeland Terrier

Manchester Terrier (Toy, Standard)

Miniature Schnauzer

Norfolk Terrier

Norwich Terrier

Patterdale Terrier

Rat Terrier

Russell Terrier

Scottish Terrier

Sealyham Terrier

Silky Terrier

Skye Terrier

Smooth Fox Terrier

Sporting Lucas Terrier

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier

Toy Fox Terrier

Welsh Terrier

West Highland White Terrier

Wire Fox Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier

Section XIV. Official UKC Racing Classes.

Requirement to offer licensed classes. A club must offer all applicable licensed racing classes for the racing type on the Application For One Day's Licensed Event. A club may apply to hold Flat racing, Steeplechase racing or both, provided the club applied for the appropriate type race.

Racing types. There are two types of terrier races, Flat racing and Steeplechase racing.

Licensed racing classes.

Age of Dog. The dog must be one year of age or older on the day of the race.

Determining a dog's height. A dog's height is determined by drawing a straight line from the top of the withers perpendicular to the ground while the dog is standing normally and not leaning. Each exhibitor is required to include the height of his/her dog when entering a dog in an agility event.

Borderline dogs. If a dog is on the borderline, before the race the handler should ask the Judge for a measurement so that the dog may be exhibited in the proper class without penalty.

Correcting a class before the dog runs. When a dog is found to be above or below the limit for the class in which it is entered, the dog must be moved to the proper class.

When a dog runs in the wrong class. When a dog has run a heat in the incorrect class, it must be excused and any wins or placements invalidated and the dog must not be allowed to re-run in the correct class. The Judge must mark the reason for the excusal in the Judge's book.

Judge's option to measure dogs. A Judge may require that any dog be measured. The Judge's determination of the dog's height is final.

Class Divisions.

Males and females racing together. Males and Females may race together.

Licensed Regular classes.

Dachshund class. All Dachshunds.

Jack Russell Terrier classes. Classes for Jack Russell Terriers are:

Under 10" class. For Jack Russell Terriers dogs that are less than 10" at the withers.

10" - 12.5" class. For Jack Russell Terriers dogs that are 10" and under 12.5" at the withers.

12.5" - 15" class. For Jack Russell Terriers dogs that are 12.5" and under 15" at the withers.

Over 15" class. For Jack Russell Terriers dogs that are 15" and above at the withers.

Open Classes. The open classes are for all eligible breeds (except the Dachshund and Jack Russell Terrier) as determined elsewhere in this rulebook. The open class must not be split by breed; rather all remaining eligible breeds compete against one another. The Open classes are:

Under 10" class. For dogs that are less than 10" at the withers.

10" - 12.5" class. For dogs that are 10" and under 12.5" at the withers.

12.5" - 15" class. For dogs that are 12.5" and under 15" at the withers.

Over 15" class. For dogs that are 15" and above at the withers.

Licensed Race Champion Classes.

Race champion Dachshunds class. All Race champion Dachshunds.

Race champion Jack Russell Terrier classes. All Race champion Jack Russell Terriers divided by size as follows:

Race champions under 10" class. Dogs less than 10" at the shoulder.

Race champions 10" 12.5" class. Dogs 10" and under 12.5" at the shoulder.

Race champions 12.5" and under 15" class. Dogs 12.5" and under 15" at the shoulder.

Race champions 15"and over class. Dogs 15" and above at the shoulder.

Race champion Open classes. All Race champion dogs that are not a Dachshund or a Jack Russell Terrier divided by size as follows:

Race champions under 10" class. Dogs less than 10" at the shoulder.

Race champions 10" 12.5" class. Dogs 10" and under 12.5" at the shoulder.

Race champions 12.5" and under 15" class. Dogs 12.5" and under 15" at the shoulder.

Race champions 15"and over class. Dogs 15" and above at the shoulder.

Section XV. Non-Licensed Terrier Race Classes.

Rules applying to non-licensed terrier race classes.

Dogs must be permanently registered with UKC as of the day of the event, or that have a valid Temporary Listing (TL) number as of the day of the event, or that are not yet permanently registered but that are from litters registered with UKC as of the day of the event.

Non-licensed classes may be offered at all terrier races. A host club must request non-licensed classes when submitting its Application For One Day's Licensed Events. Notice of the non-licensed classes will be published in BLOODLINES magazine with the notice of the club's licensed event. Non-licensed classes may only be offered for breeds for which licensed classes are offered.

Non-licensed classes must be scheduled so they do not interfere with any portion of the licensed classes.

No Championship points shall be awarded as a result of winning a non-licensed class.

Non-licensed terrier race classes.

6-8 month puppy class. For dogs 6 months of age to under 8 months of age on the day of the race.

8-10 month puppy class. For dogs 8 months of age to under 10 months of age on the day of the race.

10-12 month puppy class. For dogs 10 months of age to under 12 months of age on the day of the race.

Section XVI. Exhibitor Guidelines. Many exhibitors have made a lifelong commitment to dog training. Judges have spent years training and racing dogs before stepping into judging. They are serious about the sport, and exhibitors should be as well. Exhibitors' behavior and deportment speak to the degree of commitment they have to their dogs and to the sport. The following are suggested guidelines for UKC exhibitors:

Exhibitors should accept the decision of the Judge gracefully. There should be no snatching of ribbons, loud comments or derision of the judge or their decisions, either on the race course or out.

Exhibitors' dogs should be clean and, where necessary, brushed or trimmed to present a neat appearance.

Exhibitors should take care when discussing the judging with the judge to not appear confrontational. The judging was the Judge's evaluation on that day, and poor behavior on the part of the exhibitor will not change the outcome.

Exhibitors should make an effort to help new exhibitors. We were all new to dog events at one time and we appreciated when someone helped us.

Exhibitors should always leave the event grounds in the condition they found it. Help the event committee clean up your area.

Exhibitors should take care not to promote rumors and negative comments about dogs, other exhibitor or judges.

Exhibitors should remember they are at the race at the invitation of the event-giving club. In order to ensure being invited back, exhibitors should do whatever they can to assist the host club and promote the family flavor of UKC events.

Section XVII. Judging Schedule.

Start time. At pre-entry only races, judging must start at the advertised start time. At all other races, judging must start at the advertised start time or as soon as possible thereafter if there are a large number of day-of-race entries. No dogs are to be judged prior to the start time advertised in BLOODLINES magazine. Dogs should be present at the time of Judging. Judges are not required to wait for dogs.

Scheduling performance and conformation events when there is only one ring available. When the event site only accommodates a single area, and a club is offering both conformation and a performance event, conformation shall be judged last so that the performance dogs are not distracted by the scent of female dogs in season.

Section XVIII. Race course requirements. The race course consists of a starting area which includes a starting box, track, a finish line and a catch area.

Approved track surfaces. The following are approved racing surfaces:

Natural surface. May be hard packed dirt free of stones or short cut grass. Surfaces must be free of holes and debris. Slight uphill terrain is preferred; level terrain is permissible.

Artificial surfaces.

Concrete or other such hard surfaces that must be covered with matting or carpeting.

Composite rubber flooring which does not require matting.

Racing track requirements.

Track Size. A straight course which is a minimum of 175' in length to a maximum of 250' in length. Width of the track must accommodate width of the starting box.

Track Barrier. A track barrier at least three feet high and running the entire length of the track and catch area is required for all races. The barrier shall be placed at the outer edges of the starting box running the length of the track past the outer edges of the finish line and enclose the catch area. Track barriers can be made of any material that will discourage the dogs from leaving the track during the race. The bottom outside edge of the barrier should be secured to prevent a dog from leaving the track.

End Barrier and Finish line.

End Barrier. The end barrier is located at the end of the track and must run the width of the track. It is suggested that the barrier be an arc rather than a straight line.

Finish line. The finish line is the back opening of the barrier or also referred to as the back opening of the tunnel.

Tunnel opening. The tunnel should be large enough to allow the size of one terrier at a time to pass through. The size of the opening depends on the size of the dogs racing, refer to Section XIX. 2.b.

Catch area. The catch area should be 20' to 25' long, secured by fencing to allow enough room for the lure pull, lure pull steward, Judge and dog catchers.

Loading area. The loading area should be large enough to house up to six terriers, their owners and the stewards working the area. It is suggested that a sign be posted that coordinates with the color on the box so that the owners may line-up in the order of box loading.

Steeplechase Hurdles.

There must be a minimum of 4 hurdles placed at least 20 feet apart.

The first hurdle must be at least 30 feet beyond the opening of the starting box.

The last hurdle must be no closer than 30 feet from the finish line.

Three hurdles may be used for a shorter track running only smaller dogs.

Section XIX. Equipment Requirements.

Race equipment. The following equipment must be provided by the host club:

Dog catcher gloves. All catchers must wear protection gloves, regardless if the dog's owner is catching. It is recommended that all dog catchers wear heavy gauntlet-style gloves such as welder's gloves.

End Barrier and Finish Line.

End Barrier. The end barrier may be made of straw with foam padding or covered cushioned foam.

Finish Line. It is recommended that the space allow only one dog to pass through at a time. Opening in the end barrier should be adjustable to allow all breeds of terriers to pass through as follows:

15" opening. For dogs under 12.5" at the shoulder.

20" opening. For all dogs over 12.5" at the shoulder.

Lure. The lure is unscented imitation fur cut into a strip and attached to at least 275' of heavy gauge string (such as kite string.)

Lure pull.

The lure pull is attached to an electric motor that is connected to a reliable power source.

Speed of pulley. The electric motor must allow variable pulley speeds to suit the speed of the class being raced.

Pulley system to be designed to allow operator to stand near middle o