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IGRA Standing Rules 34 Revised 01/01/10 2010 IGRA STANDING RULES RULE I BUDGET ITEMS WITH FIXED BUDGET LIMITS NOT DEPENDENT ON PRIOR YEARS ACTUAL RESULTS Committees required to provide seminars. Public Relations committee. Officers’ travel and administrative items. President’s discretionary fund. Top     Home RULE II OFFICERS AND OFFICIALS EXPENSES APPROVED FOR REIMBURSEMENT WITHIN BUDGETED LIMITS Accommodations and travel. Instructor for certification seminars and public relations workshop. Executive Committee Board of Directors meetings as budget permits. Travel only. Rodeo Auditors for travel from auditor’s home city to rodeo city and return. Annual Convention registration (unless individual is a Member Association delegate or alternate delegate), all Executive Officers, Parliamentarian, Corporate Auditor, Administrative Assistant, and all committee chairs. Office expenses (telephone, postage, copying, etc.). All Executive Officers, Executive Office, Board of Trustees chair, and IGRA Royalty. Top     Home RULE III IGRA REQUIRES THAT HOSTING ASSOCIATIONS BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FOLLOWING OFFICERS AND OFFICIALS EXPENSES FOR THE FOLLOWING EVENTS Sanctioned rodeos. Rodeo Auditor – hotel three (3) nights. Rodeo Auditor – ground transportation from local airport to hotel and hotel to rodeo facility and return. Top     Home RULE IV IGRA UNIVERSITY Time and Place. IGRA University shall be held within the first month of the rodeo year and may not be scheduled within seventeen (17) days of Annual Convention, Finals Rodeo, or any other IGRA–sanctioned rodeo. IGRA University shall be hosted by a Member Association. The location of IGRA University shall be voted on two (2) rodeo years prior at the last scheduled Board of Directors meeting of the year. If a location is not selected two (2) rodeo years prior, the Executive Committee may extend the deadline for location selection. A Member Association wishing to host IGRA University shall submit a proposal to the Executive Committee no later than sixty (60) days prior to the deadline. IGRA shall be responsible for revenue and expenses. Other responsibilities will be agreed upon by the Executive Committee and the hosting Member Association. Top     Home RULE V ANNUAL CONVENTION Except as otherwise provided by Law, the Articles of Incorporation, the Bylaws, or these Rules of Order, those rules contained in Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised, shall govern the Annual Convention of this Association in all cases to which they are applicable. The President shall appoint a Parliamentarian to assure compliance with stated rules. The Parliamentarian shall not have a vote. With appropriate provision for recesses and for such special events as may be arranged, the general order of business at the Annual Convention shall be: Call to Order Opening Exercises Roll Call and Seating of Voting Delegates Admission and Seating of New Member Associations Reports of Officers Reports of Standing Committees Unfinished Business New Business Election of Officers Selection of Annual Convention location Announcements Adjournment The agenda for the Annual Convention shall be prepared by the President and Board of Directors and mailed in accordance with Bylaws Article VI Annual Convention, Section 2. Resolutions may be submitted by any delegate and should be submitted to the Secretary prior to midnight the night before the opening of Annual Convention. The previous question shall be ordered on motion adopted by a majority vote of the convention. Convention floor rules shall be: Discussion on any motion or business shall be limited to ten (10) minutes. A majority vote will be required for each ten (10) minute extension of the discussion. The question cannot be called within the first ten (10) minutes of discussion/debate on any subject. Anytime a representative group calls for a caucus, it will take preference over a vote. The maximum time allowed for a caucus will be ten (10) minutes. All motions and/or committee recommendations must be submitted in writing to the Secretary. Only delegates and/or committee chairs may address the convention floor. Voting by voice vote, show of hands, roll call of the voting delegates, or written ballot shall be the option of the chair, or at the request of any delegate. Each speaker may only speak once unless everyone desiring to speak has spoken. Any proposed changes made on the committee recommendations on the convention floor may, at the Presiding Officer’s discretion, be sent back to the committee for rewording and then brought back to the convention floor before it can be voted on. Officers, directors, delegates, and alternate delegates shall be provided identifying badges, which shall be worn at all times. A specific area shall be set aside for voting delegates, alternate voting delegates, officers, and parliamentarian. Top     Home RULE VI ETHICS AND SPORTSMANSHIP Code of Ethics and Sportsmanship. We believe that... The sport of rodeo has earned and deserves the company of true sportsmen. The contestants, sponsors, and friends of rodeo have much to gain by observing the highest ethical standards and by observing the best tenets of good sportsmanship in all things pertaining to the sport of rodeo. In addition to the basic rule of "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you", it is desirable to define ethical practices, to delineate unethical practices, to encourage good sportsmanship and high ethical behavior and to warn, censure, or bring to public attention and discipline those who commit acts detrimental to the best interest of rodeo. It is the right and obligation of the International Gay Rodeo Association to set standards in matters of ethics and sportsmanship concerning our rodeos and related activities. Unethical and/or Unsportsmanlike Behavior. The words "International" and/or "IGRA" shall not be used in connection with events that are not officially sponsored or sanctioned by IGRA and/or its’ Member Associations. It shall be considered unethical practice for anyone to attempt to influence the action of IGRA officials by duress or intimidation of any sort including threat of legal action against such officials. Non–payment of fees and fines due IGRA shall be considered unethical. The arena conduct of any contestant shall not be such as to adversely affect the competition of any other contestant in the arena. Contestants should not accuse the Judge(s) of favoritism or bribery; they should support the Judge(s) and the judging system. If they have a legitimate protest, they should follow the procedures set out herein. Any behavior that is clearly unethical and/or unsportsmanlike is considered a violation of the Code of Ethics and Sportsmanship, whether delineated herein or not. Application of the Code of Ethics and Sportsmanship. This Code of Ethics shall apply to all Member Associations, all individual members of Member Associations acting in an official capacity, all participants in IGRA–sanctioned events, and all persons under contract to IGRA and/or its’ Member Associations. The Rules and Regulations of IGRA and its’ Member Associations shall, in all respects, be supported in our efforts to strengthen ethical and good sportsmanship conduct in all methods of participation in our rodeos. The rules of IGRA and its’ Member Associations are hereby adopted by reference as part of this Code of Ethics and Sportsmanship. Ethical Practices Review Board (EPRB). There shall be an Ethical Practices Review Board (EPRB), which will be the sole reviewer of formal complaints of unethical and/or unsportsmanlike behavior. It shall consist of the Trustees. The chair of the EPRB shall be the chair of the Trustees. The functions of the EPRB shall be to interpret and enforce the ethical and sportsmanship rules promulgated and adopted by IGRA, and within such limitations, develop its own methods for handling matters properly brought before it. The EPRB shall be considered the place of "last resort" for resolution of unethical or unsportsmanlike behavior; after all other avenues have been exhausted. The EPRB shall advise the Board of Directors of all upcoming hearings and/or resolved complaints. Guidelines for the Ethical Practices Review Board. It shall be the general policy of the EPRB to be constructive with those who have committed unethical or unsportsmanlike acts and to use its powers to prevent reoccurrence of similar events. Probationary periods may be applied to effect discipline. In every situation, the best interests of gay rodeo shall be paramount over all considerations. The EPRB shall make every effort to resolve complaints in a timely manner. Procedures of the Ethical Practices Review Board. Complaint Procedure. Alleged infractions by any individual member of IGRA may be brought to the EPRB by any Member Association or any individual member or a Member Association. Such allegations must be in writing, preferably on an EPRB Allegation Form, and must be submitted no later than fifteen (15) days following the alleged incident(s), except that no alleged infraction will be denied review if, in the opinion of the EPRB, it is deemed timely due to extenuating circumstances. The complaint must include all infractions and substantiating evidence. Every effort should be made to first submit the complaint to the Trustee of the complainant’s Member Association and/or the Board of Directors for presentation to the EPRB. The EPRB will review all complaints referred to it and determine by a majority vote whether to dismiss a complaint or proceed with a hearing. Hearing Procedure. All persons involved shall be notified by certified mail, return receipt requested, at least thirty (30) days prior to the hearing, of the date for a hearing to resolve the matter and shall be given the opportunity to present their side(s) of the situation. A member of a Member Association, when offering opinions, shall do so in a manner that reflects strict integrity and courtesy. After hearing all relevant testimony, the EPRB shall determine how it wishes to resolve a complaint. Resolution Procedure. No punitive action, which involves suspension or termination of IGRA privileges, shall be taken unless the individual involved is given reasonable opportunity to testify on his/her own behalf. Disciplinary action may include, but is not limited to, reprimands, citations, or sanctions. A majority shall prevail in all decisions, except that in matters involving suspensions of a person from participation in IGRA–sanctioned events or matters involving unsportsmanlike acts, a two–thirds (2/3) majority vote shall be required. Reporting Procedure. Notice of disciplinary action taken by the EPRB against an individual shall be given in writing to the individual no later than fourteen (14) days after the conclusion of the hearing. All findings shall be reported to the Board of Directors at its next meeting. Top     Home RULE VII SELECTION OF MR/MS/MISS/MSTER IGRA Selection of Judges and Judging. A random draw of all Member Associations will be made by the current Community Outreach/Fundraising/Gender Diversity Committee co–chairs and the Vice President during the second Board of Directors meeting of the rodeo year to achieve a panel of seven (7) judges and two (2) alternate judges for each segment of the competition. The remaining associations will be alternates in the order selected. In the event that there are not enough judges, the Vice President and a random draw of Trustees present, or their appointees, must fill the judging vacancies per segment. Two (2) of the seven (7) judges in the entertainment competition may be community judges. The community judges shall not be members of any Member Association. All Member Associations shall be encouraged to submit names of potential community judges for consideration. Judge’s name(s) shall be submitted for one (1) segment of the competition only. Judges can only represent one Member Association during the entire competition. Current IGRA Royalty and association royalty are not eligible to serve as judge(s). Each Member Association has a deadline of sixty (60) days prior to the competition to submit to the Vice President the names of qualified judges for their chosen segment. "Qualified" is defined as someone with an active working knowledge of competition guidelines as per the IGRA Standing Rules. In the event a Member Association is unable to submit the name of a qualified judge for a segment, then each remaining association would move up in rank in order of the draw. In the event a submitted judge is unable to attend, the Member Association shall notify the Vice President with a replacement name. If that association is unable to submit a replacement, then that association will be fined fifty dollars ($50.00) payable to IGRA. In the event a committed judge does not show for the competition, their association will be fined one hundred dollars ($100.00) payable to IGRA. The alternate judge next in line will be notified to judge the open segment. Judges shall use standardized scoring sheets and guidelines included as Exhibits C3 to C7 to be reviewed at the judges’ meeting prior to each segment of the competition. Submission and Selection of Interview Questions. The current IGRA Royalty team will compile a pool of twenty–five (25) questions per category (possible 100 questions per contest) and submit them to the Vice President no less than forty–five (45) days prior to the start of the competition. The Vice President will then recommend twenty (20) questions per category to the Executive Committee no later than thirty (30) days prior to the start of the competition for review. The interview judges for the Royalty contest will meet immediately prior to the start of the interview and select the fifteen (15) questions per category to be asked from the twenty (20) questions approved by the Executive Board. Questions must be comprised of the following: IGRA history, bylaws and standing rules, rodeo rules, and personal opinion. 3. Registration/Information Packets. Competition information will be distributed in CD format at the second Board of Directors meeting by the Vice President to all Trustees or their alternate who will sign for receipt. It is the contestant's responsibility to obtain their packet from their Trustee. If the contestant is unable to do so, they may contact the Vice President to obtain a CD. Registration information will be posted on the IGRA Web site. Registration information must include Standing Rule VI, related Exhibits, all available information about the contest, location, important dates, contact information, and relevant information for posting on the IGRA Web site. Contestant Requirements. All contestants must be the current and official titleholder or 1st runner–up of a Member Association. Each association can only send one representative in each category. Each contestant competing for the title of Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer IGRA will be required to compete in a minimum of two (2) sanctioned rodeo events, in different categories, at a single rodeo or volunteer under a certified official for two (2) rodeo days. This requirement must be met no later than thirty (30) days prior to the competition. Each contestant competing for the title of Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer IGRA will be required to host a minimum of one (1) fundraising event for IGRA no later than thirty (30) days prior to the competition. A minimum amount of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) must be raised and is non–refundable. The Member Association’s treasurer of each contestant shall forward any monies raised with the IGRA Fundraiser Deposit Form (Exhibit C12) to the IGRA Treasurer. Each contestant competing for the title of Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer IGRA will be required to raise a minimum of five hundred dollars ($500.00) for a non–profit entity under the laws of and in good standing in the state, province, territory, or other comparable territorial units of other nations during their regional reign. This requirement must be met no later than thirty (30) days prior to the competition. Contestants must provide a written plan of action consisting of goals for the IGRA Royalty Team. Plans must be turned in with the horsemanship tapes in sealed envelopes. The Vice President reviews the plans with the competition winners to build the team’s final plan of action for the following year. Failure to provide a plan of action will result in a two (2) point deduction from each judge’s score sheet in the interview segment. All entry forms (Exhibit C2), one hundred dollars ($100.00) non–refundable entry fee, IGRA fundraiser monies, and other required information must be postmarked by a government postal service no less than thirty (30) days prior to the scheduled competition. All forms and documents are to be sent to the Vice President for verification. The Vice President will then forward monies to the Treasurer. Distribution of Monies. The one hundred dollars ($100.00) entry fee from all royalty contestants will be collected in the IGRA Royalty Travel Fund and distributed back to the team members. The total amount collected shall be divided by the number of categories and paid out to the royalty team. The division of funds will be determined by the IGRA Royalty Team and approved by the Vice President. Fifty percent (50%) of the funds will be paid out when his/her individual fundraising obligation has been met and the remaining fifty percent (50%) will be paid out when all requirements have been met by that individual. The two hundred fifty dollar ($250.00) minimum raised by all royalty contestants for IGRA will be split as follows: twenty–five percent (25%) to charity, fifty percent (50%) to IGRA, and twenty–five (25%) to the IGRA Royalty Travel Fund. The charity or charities will be determined by the Board of Directors, upon recommendation from the current IGRA Royalty Team, at the first Board of Directors meeting of the rodeo year. Royalty Competition and Announcements of Winners. Announcement of Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer IGRA shall take place during Annual Convention, exclusive of meeting times, after an audit has been completed. Audit verification shall consist of both the manual and computer tabulation of judging sheets by an audit committee chosen by the current IGRA Royalty Team and the Vice President. Each category (Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer) will name a first, second, and third place winner. The Vice President will ensure that all awards are consistent in design and provided at the competition. Whenever possible, all sashes are to be ordered from the official IGRA vendor. Sash colors will be as follows: Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer – Black First Runners–Up – Red Second Runners–Up – White All results of the Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer competition will become a matter of corporate record. Results shall reflect the order of placement and total scores shall be posted immediately after announcement of winners. Individual results and judges’ sheets shall be mailed to any contestants within thirty (30) days after the competition upon receiving written request to the IGRA Executive Office. If a sash, buckle, or crown is lost, damaged, or stolen, the titleholder must notify the Vice President and must request a replacement at the titleholder’s expense. Top     Home RULE VIII DUTIES OF MR/MS/MISS/MSTER IGRA IGRA Rodeo and Event Attendance. Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer IGRA are required to attend four (4) rodeos and recommended to attend at least one (1) rodeo in each division, Annual Convention, and Finals Rodeo. They must also make every effort to attend the Board of Directors meetings. If they cannot attend, they must notify the Vice President at least thirty (30) days prior to each meeting. Runners–up must attend at least four (4) rodeos and recommended to attend at least one (1) rodeo in each division and Finals Rodeo. They must also make every effort to attend Annual Convention. All titleholders must supply a list of the rodeos they plan to attend during their reign to meet attendance requirements within one (1) month of the start of the rodeo year. Fundraising. Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer IGRA and their runners–up must raise funds for charity and funds to support IGRA. Funds raised will be available for distribution determined by the Board of Directors upon recommendation from the Royalty Team at the second Board of Directors meeting of the year. Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer IGRA must raise a minimum of $1,200 per person. First runners–up must raise a minimum of $1,000 per person. Second runners–up must raise a minimum of $800 per person. All minimum fundraising goals must be met within the first six (6) months of the rodeo year. All titleholders must supply a list of their proposed fundraisers to the Vice President within one (1) month of the start of the rodeo year. Funds raised must be sent to the Vice President within seven (7) days of the fundraiser along with the IGRA Fundraiser Deposit Form (Exhibit C12). Funds will then be forwarded to the Treasurer for deposit. All monies should be made payable to IGRA. No personal checks will be accepted. Additional Responsibilities. Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer IGRA and runners–up must compete or volunteer, in any capacity, at each IGRA–sanctioned rodeo attended to receive complimentary entry and/or hotel accommodations. Work with Member Associations to further the goals of the Community Outreach/Fundraising/Gender Diversity Committee. This shall be inclusive of, but not limited to, Member Association royalty competitions, volunteering at rodeos, fundraising events, other community event support, and charity contributions. Responsible for presentation of the traveling IGRA Spirit Stick award to a Member Association each year at Annual Convention. Responsible for ensuring Community Outreach/Fundraising/Gender Diversity information is included on the IGRA Web site. Any other duties pursuant to Standing Rule VI Selection of Mr/Ms/Miss/MsTer IGRA. Discipline. The Vice President will discuss with each titleholder their progress towards their rodeo attendance and fundraising goals prior to the second Board of Directors meeting. If necessary, the Vice President will work with said titleholder to determine a reasonable plan to complete unfulfilled requirements. If for any reason a current IGRA titleholder or runner–up does not complete the minimum rodeo attendance requirement, the said royalty member will forfeit their step down privileges, except for extenuating circumstances left to the discretion of the Vice President and the current IGRA Royalty Team. If the minimum financial requirements are not met within the first six (6) months of the year, the Vice President may recommend to the Board of Directors that said royalty member(s) be removed from the team. Failure to deliver monies within seven (7) days will result in a certified letter from the Vice President requesting the funds immediately. If the money is not received within thirty (30) days of the receipt of the certified letter, the Vice President will file an EPRB against the Royalty Team member. In the event of a royalty removal vacancy on the current IGRA Royalty Team, runners–up will be moved accordingly. Additional spots will be filled with the next highest–scoring contestant unless no eligible contestants remain. New positions will be recognized at the next IGRA function and therefore be duly included in all official IGRA records. Election Positions. IGRA titleholders may not hold an elected position on the board of directors of any Member Association where their duties are specific to the management of a royalty program. Top     Home RULE IX DIVISIONS, RODEOS, AND RODEO APPROVAL The rodeo year will begin on January 1 and end on December 31. A rodeo shall be a one or two go–round activity conducted over one, two, or three days. No more than two (2) rodeos may be held on the same weekend. The host cities of two rodeos approved for the same weekend must be at least 500 miles (804 km) apart. No IGRA–sanctioned rodeo may be scheduled prior to IGRA University or within seventeen (17) days prior to Finals Rodeo. Preliminary rodeo calendar dates shall be presented at the Annual Convention two (2) and three (3) years prior to the rodeo calendar year. Rodeo calendar dates may be changed or added at the next convention or by a two–thirds (2/3) vote at any Board of Directors meeting. Member Associations requesting sanctioning of a rodeo must submit the following items with the request: Completed Rodeo Application (Exhibit A2) with all required supporting documents and information. Sanction fee. Rodeos shall be sanctioned by the Board of Directors. A majority vote of the board will be required to sanction a rodeo. Sanctioning of a rodeo must occur: At least six (6) months prior to the planned rodeo date, AND Before the beginning of the prior year’s Annual Convention. Rodeo application must be approved at a regularly scheduled Board of Directors meeting. Rodeo application must be available for review no less than 7 days prior to sanctioning. The Trustees present at a rodeo will meet as the Rodeo Review Board (RRB) no sooner than thirty (30) minutes after the conclusion of all rodeo events. The Rodeo Review Board (RRB) shall affirm compliance with IGRA requirements and be responsible for approval of the rodeo. Appointed auditors will be required to send official results to the IGRA Rodeo Auditor within seven (7) working days after each rodeo. Fees Member Associations Pay. Each rodeo, excluding Finals Rodeo, shall submit to the Treasurer a sanction fee of six hundred dollars ($600.00). The fee shall be retained by IGRA upon sanctioning of the rodeo and shall not be refunded thereafter. After the completion of the rodeo, an additional sanction fee shall be calculated and postmarked or hand delivered to the Treasurer within thirty (30) days. Fifty cents ($.50) for every single rodeo performance ticket sold shall be paid to the Treasurer to be held in escrow for the sole purpose of financing an arena for the Finals Rodeo (see Rule X IGRA Finals Rodeo, Section 3, Paragraphs A and B). Fifty cents ($.50) for every single rodeo performance ticket sold (above the first 1,000 tickets sold), to include the Finals Rodeo, shall be paid to the Treasurer to be deposited in the general operating account. The entire two dollar and fifty cents ($2.50) portion of contestant entry fees designated to be held in escrow by IGRA for the Finals Rodeo prize money and arena fund shall be paid to IGRA simultaneously with the payment of the contestant prize money. This rule does not apply to the Finals Rodeo contestant entry fees. Rodeo Divisions. There are four (4) divisions within IGRA. The map included as Exhibit F indicates the division boundaries within the continental United States. Associations formed outside the boundaries of the continental United States shall have their division determined at the Annual Convention. A contestant may accumulate points in any IGRA–sanctioned rodeo during a rodeo year. A contestant’s top six (6) placements will count toward an invitation to the Finals Rodeo. Rodeo Emergency Safety Committee. At times, weather or other safety conditions, may require a decision by IGRA officials to delay, interrupt, suspend, or cancel a rodeo. IGRA values human and animal life and safety above any other consideration when making such a decision. The Rodeo Emergency Safety Committee at each IGRA–sanctioned rodeo will consist of the Rodeo Director, members of the Board of Directors who are present, and all Certified Rodeo Officials. The chair of the pre–rodeo meeting of the IGRA Trustees shall be the chair of this committee. When weather or other safety conditions raise a concern, the chair of the Rodeo Safety Emergency Committee will temporarily suspend the rodeo and call together the committee. The committee will discuss the conditions, evaluate the threat to safety, and make one of the following recommendations to the chair: stop the rodeo, declare a suspension period and re–evaluate, or continue the rodeo while monitoring the conditions. The chair will make the final decision based upon the recommendation of the committee and notify the Rodeo Director who will make an announcement to contestants, officials, and attendees. If the decision is to cancel the rodeo, appropriate fees will be refunded in a manner determined by the Rodeo Director. Points and moneys will be awarded based on completed events only. Buckles will be awarded based on placement in completed events only. Top     Home RULE X INTERNATIONAL FINALS RODEO The IGRA Finals Rodeo (Finals Rodeo) may not be scheduled within seventeen (17) days of Annual Convention, IGRA University, or any other IGRA–sanctioned rodeo. The Finals Rodeo, when and if held, shall be hosted and/or sponsored by a Member Association(s) and only if said Member Association(s) has held an IGRA–sanctioned rodeo within their Member Association's area prior to bidding on the Finals Rodeo. Finals Rodeo Fund. There shall be an escrow fund funded from sanction fee of fifty cents ($.50) per single rodeo performance ticket sold during the rodeo year (see Standing Rule VIII IGRA Divisions, Rodeos, and Rodeo Approval, Section 3, Paragraph B) and one dollar ($1.00) per event/per go–round/per contestant entry fee (see Rodeo Rule III Registration, Number 8). A Member Association hosting a Finals Rodeo may request up to $16,000 (based on availability) for the purpose of financing an arena in which to stage the Finals Rodeo and financing the stock contractor. Arena, stock, and related contracts must be submitted to the Board of Directors before dispersal of payment from IGRA. Excess funds in Finals Rodeo Fund at the end of rodeo year will roll over to the next year's fund. The Executive Committee may at any time solicit proposals from Member Associations to co–host the IGRA Finals Rodeo. Member Associations will have a minimum of two months to submit proposals. The Executive Committee will evaluate the proposals and make a recommendation to the Board of Directors for a final vote. IGRA shall be responsible for revenue and expenses. Other responsibilities will be agreed upon by the Executive Committee and the co–hosting Member Association. The Host Association(s) shall include three (3) representatives from IGRA appointed by the President to serve as rodeo committee advisors. The Finals Rodeo will be conducted in accordance with IGRA–sanctioned rodeo rules in all respects. Establish a Rookie of Year Award for contestants in their first year of IGRA competition. Winners are determined by the male and female contestants earning the most total points in IGRA rodeos for that year. Buckles are to be awarded at the Finals Rodeo. Top     Home RULE XI INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONS The IGRA champions in each event and the IGRA All–Around Cowboy and IGRA All–Around Cowgirl will be selected based on points earned at the Finals Rodeo. Points awarded at the Finals Rodeo will be the same as a regular rodeo. All contestants competing in the Finals Rodeo are eligible to earn points; however, they must have qualified to compete in three (3) of the four (4) event categories in order to be eligible for IGRA All–Around Cowboy/Cowgirl. A contestant selected as a team member in an event in which he/she was not a qualifier will not become eligible for All–Around Cowboy/Cowgirl as a result of that selection. If there are no contestants who have qualified on their own merit in at least three (3) of the four (4) categories of events, or, if such contestants exist, and none of them place in at least two (2) of the categories, then the All–Around Cowboy/Cowgirl titles will be awarded to the contestant who has earned the highest number of points at the Finals Rodeo. Refer to Rodeo Rules VII Point System and VIII Rodeo Prizes and Payoffs regarding ties and buckles. Individual Events. The top twenty (20) qualifiers in each event will be invited to compete in the Finals Rodeo. In the event one (1) or more of the top twenty (20) cannot attend, the 21st through 30th point standing qualifiers will then be considered eligible and will be called, in order, to attempt to have a maximum of 20 competitors. Two Person Team Events. The top twenty (20) qualifiers will be invited to compete in the Finals Rodeo with each person selecting his/her own team member to compete with him/her. All team members must have competed in that event at least once during the rodeo year. If a team is comprised of multiple members in the top twenty (20), qualifiers, or one or more of the top twenty (20) cannot attend, the 21st through 45th point standing qualifiers will then be considered eligible and will be called, in order, to attempt to have a maximum of 20 teams. In Team Roping, a contestant may compete once as a header and once as heeler each day but cannot compete additional times. Three Person Team Events. The top twenty (20) qualifiers will be invited to compete in the Finals Rodeo with each person selecting his/her own team member to compete with him/her. All team members must have competed in that event at least once during the rodeo year. If a team is comprised of multiple members in the top twenty (20) qualifiers, or one or more of the top twenty (20) cannot attend, the 21st through 65th point standing qualifiers will then be considered eligible and will be called, in order, to attempt to have a maximum of 20 teams. Invitational Tie Breakers. If there is a tie in a particular event, the tie will be broken as follows: Each contestant will be given one (1) point for each time he/she placed in that event (1st through 8th). If a tie still exists, one (1) point will be given to each contestant for each time he/she received a score/time in that event. If a tie still exists, each contestant will be given one (1) point for each time he/she entered the event during the IGRA Rodeo Year. If a tie still exists, all of those contestants involved in the tie will be invited. If there is no Finals Rodeo held, the awards for each event in shall be determined by points accumulated at IGRA–sanctioned rodeos held that rodeo year, and shall be known as IGRA Division Champions. The Finals Rodeo day money held in escrow by IGRA ($2.00 portion of rodeo entry fees) for each event shall be disbursed among the top contestant qualifiers and shall be paid out according to Rodeo Rule VIII Rodeo Prizes and Payoffs. The Finals Rodeo day money held in escrow by IGRA (hat fines and the $2.00 portion of rodeo entry fees) plus additional sponsored prize money and all Finals Rodeo entry fees will be totaled, divided by the number of events with entries, and distributed among the events, with the team events receiving additional amounts in increments according to the number of team members: 9 men’s events X 2 go–rounds = 18 9 women’s events X 2 go–rounds = 18 1 2–person team roping X 2 go–rounds = 4 2 2–person camp events X 2 go–rounds = 8 1 3–person camp event X 2 go–rounds = 6 = 54 The contestant payout for Finals Rodeo will be the responsibility of the Finals Rodeo Auditor and will be paid on IGRA checks. Entry fees collected and balanced by the Hosting Association must be turned over to the Treasurer or his/her representative according to a system agreed upon prior to Finals Rodeo. Top     Home RULE XII SPECIAL INTERNATIONAL AWARDS Description. Each award shall be a plaque indicating purpose of award and shall include the insignia of IGRA, with the exception of the Wayne Jakino Western Lifestyle Award and the Spirit Stick Award. Nominations and Voting. Nominations for all awards that will be determined by the Directors and/or Trustees must be received no later than the last regularly scheduled board and/or trustees meeting before Annual Convention. Nominations for the Appreciation Award must also be received no later than the last regularly scheduled Board of Directors meeting. The Executive Committee shall determine the method for receiving nominations and process for voting. President’s Award. This award is for outstanding contributions by an individual or organization to gay rodeo. This is awarded for exceptional service to IGRA benefiting all its' members. The President selects the recipient(s) of this award. IGRA will cover the cost of no more than one (1) award. The Wayne Jakino Western Lifestyle Award. This award is to recognize one individual who is active within the IGRA community, promotes the Western lifestyle, adheres to the IGRA Code of Ethics and Sportsmanship, and shows enthusiasm for the IGRA mission statement. The Executive Committee will select the recipient of this award. This award will be in the form of a buckle. IGRA will cover the cost of one (1) award. International Award. This award is to recognize those members of IGRA who have made contributions to IGRA worthy of special recognition. This contribution can be in any of the activities that IGRA encompasses. The Board of Directors selects the recipients of this award. IGRA will cover the cost of no more than five (5) awards. Trustees’ Award. This award is to recognize those contestants of IGRA who have exhibited excellence in the standards exemplified in the Code of Ethics and Sportsmanship. The Trustees select the recipients of this award. IGRA will cover the cost of no more than five (5) awards. Service Award. This award is to recognize those members of IGRA who have served this association at the IGRA level in an official board capacity. This award shall be given at the completion of their term in office. Appreciation Award. This award is for non–members of IGRA who have made significant contributions to the association and is a means of providing a formal "thank you." This award may be given by the Officers, Directors, Trustees, Committee Chairs, or any other official representatives of IGRA with the approval of the Board of Directors. IGRA will cover the cost of no more than two (2) awards per Member Association. Media Award. This award is for Member Associations who have made significant contributions through the use of their publications by demonstrating excellence in promoting Gay Rodeo, IGRA, and their Member Associations. This award will be determined by the Board of Directors upon the recommendation of the Public Relations Spokesperson. Web Site Award. This award is for Member Associations and their chapters who have made significant contributions in promoting Gay Rodeo through the use of their Web site based on appearance, content, graphics, navigation, and being up–to–date. This award will be determined by the Board of Directors upon the recommendation of the Internet Technology committee. Appreciation Certificates. All standing committee chairs and other individuals selected by the Board of Directors shall receive a certificate of appreciation from the President. Spirit Stick Award. This traveling award is for a Member Association which has made significant contributions to any or all of the following: IGRA Royalty, entertainment and dance programs, rodeo event hospitality, and IGRA Community Outreach/Fundraising/Gender Diversity Committee goals. The IGRA Royalty Team selects the recipient of this award. Presentation. All special awards shall be presented at Annual Convention, with the exception of the Wayne Jakino Western Lifestyle Award, which will be presented at Finals Rodeo. Top     Home RULE XIII IGRA HALL OF FAME Definition. The Hall of Fame honors individuals who have provided for the development and growth of gay rodeo or who have accrued an outstanding record or achieved a prominent position in the sport. Administration. The Hall of Fame shall be administered by the Hall of Fame Committee, which shall consist of five (5) IGRA members appointed by the President. The committee shall be responsible for the administration of the Hall of Fame including implementation of the rules and selection of inductees. Requirements for Nomination. Each nominee must have substantially advanced the development and growth of gay rodeo or have accrued an outstanding record or achieved a prominent position in the support. No person shall be nominated because of a financial contribution. Nominating Procedure. Nomination must be made by a member of an IGRA Member or Recognized Association and submitted on the Hall of Fame nominating form to the Hall of Fame Committee at least one (1) month prior to the second quarterly Board of Directors meeting. Selection Procedure. The Hall of Fame Committee shall vote, at the second quarterly Board of Directors meeting, whether to induct each nominee. A majority of votes is necessary for induction. There shall be no minimum or maximum number of inductees in any given year. Notification. Approved nominee(s) shall be notified, in writing, by the committee chairman within two (2) weeks of the vote. Approved nominee(s) shall reply, in writing, within one (1) month of date of notification, accepting or declining induction. Approved nominee(s) may include additional information (e.g. photograph) as requested or approved by the committee. An approved nominee who does not respond within the time period shall be deemed to have accepted induction. In the case of a posthumous nomination/induction, an effort shall be made to contact the heir(s) of the approved nominee using the same notification and reply procedures. Awards. Each inductee to the Hall of Fame shall receive a buckle, the design of which shall include the IGRA logo, the words "IGRA Hall of Fame", and the inductee’s name. In the case of a posthumous induction, the buckle shall be given to the inductee’s heir(s), if available. Otherwise, no buckle shall be given. Each inductee shall be included in the Hall of Fame section of the IGRA Web site. The Web site shall list the name, IGRA contestant number (if applicable), reason for induction, and image (if available) of each inductee. Induction Ceremony. The Hall of Fame induction ceremony shall take place at Annual Convention. Budget. The committee will present a proposed budget each year for the expenses of the Hall of Fame. Top     Home RULE XIV PARADE AND GRAND ENTRY Requirements. Ceremonies will take place during each day’s rodeo competition. Ceremonies will include, but are not limited to: Parade (optional on both days of the rodeo) as defined in Section 2 below. Grand Entry (required on each day of a rodeo) as defined in Section 3 below. Other ceremonies may include a grand marshal(s), a riderless horse ceremony, an invocation, a moment of silence, or any other appropriate segments as determined by the Hosting Association. Such segments may take place at any appropriate time during the rodeo performance. Parade. The parade could include, but is not limited to groups (as present) in any appropriate order: Government Officials (who should lead the Parade), IGRA Royalty, IGRA Executive Committee and Directors, IGRA Member Association Royalty, Members, and peripheral groups (such as dance teams and community organizations) in alphabetical order by Association acronym. Grand Entry. Grand Entry must consist of, in the following order: Mounted entry of the U.S. and Canadian flags with the host nation’s flag entering first. Mounted entry of the host state/province flags followed by optional flags such as, but not limited to, the flags of other states and provinces, IGRA, and any commercial sponsors in any appropriate order. Introductions of rodeo officials (including clown and stock contractor) unless introduced at a later time during the rodeo performance. Host association’s national anthem followed by other national anthems as appropriate. Departure of all flags except that of the host nation and the host state/province, then the posting of colors, with the host nation’s flag being the last to leave the arena. Fines. In the case that any portion of Standing Rule XIII Parade and Grand Entry is not followed, the host association will be fined only if Trustees conclude that no effort whatsoever has been made to conform to this rule. Top     Home RULE XV INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY/WESTERN DANCE COMPETITION Competition to be held in conjunction with University. Dancers must be current members in good standing of the Member or Recognized Association they represent and be at least the legal age of majority to sign contracts according to guidelines of the nation or the superseding principality where the host association is located. The host association must inform Member and Recognized Associations of legal age restrictions as soon as possible prior to the competition. The dance competition should be structured in such a way as to be self–sufficient. Entry forms (Exhibit D2) and registration fees of thirty five dollars ($35.00) per individual line dancer, seventy–five dollars ($75.00) for couples, or one hundred dollars ($100.00) per open dance team, nonrefundable, and payable to IGRA, per couple, will be mailed to the dance competition coordinator, and must be postmarked no later than thirty (30) days prior to the beginning of the competition. Entry forms and registration fees received up to fifteen (15) days past deadline will result in a twenty–five dollars ($25.00) late fee per entry. Registrations received within fifteen (15) days prior to the competition will be refused. Only the official IGRA Registration Form shall be used. All registration fees collected shall be applied to the production of the dance competition. A computer audit of the judges' manual scores shall be done by the IGRA Corporate Auditor or his/her designee before the announcement of winners. Official judges’ sheet shall be used and results shall be available as Exhibits D3–D4. All results of the dance competition will become a matter of corporate record. Results shall reflect the order of placement and total scores shall be posted immediately after announcement of winners. Individual results and judges’ sheets shall be mailed to any contestant within thirty (30) days after competition upon receiving written request in the IGRA Executive Office. Conduct. The decisions of the judges, the contest coordinator, and director will be final. All contestants are expected to act in a professional manner. Any contestant causing a disturbance, or involved in unethical conduct interpreted as solicitation of privileged contest information from any contest official, may be disqualified from all competition. Contestants are not allowed to question or consult the judges under any circumstances regarding the administration and execution of the contest during the event. Contest questions on all matters should be directed to the contest coordinator only. The judges are allowed to socialize with all who attend the event when not working, provided privileged information about judges scoring or contest results is not divulged. As judges, specific contest observations are to be considered privileged for the duration of the event and shall not be revealed to anyone other than proper event officials. Non–compliance by any contestant, or improper conduct by any contest official, as well as formal contest inquiries or protests, should be brought to the attention of the contest coordinator or the event director. Dance contestants and dance officials may not be under the influence or consume illegal drugs/alcohol during the contest. Contest officials include master of ceremonies, announcer, judges, auditors, scorekeepers, and their staff. Top     Home RULE XVI GENERAL RULES FOR CERTIFIED PERSONNEL Certification Program. Any person interested in becoming a certified rodeo official should contact the chair of the particular area of interest to schedule training. Requirements for certification. Be a member in good standing of all Member Associations where the person is a member. Attend required seminars and/or workshops. Serve in associated area as required per each individual program. Take and pass a written examination with a score of 90% or better. The exam will be open book and with no time limit to complete. Seminar attendance must occur during the year when certification is recommended. Exam must be taken and passed during the year when certification is recommended. Each exam will not exceed 50 questions with a total value of 100 points. All exams will consist only of true/false, multiple choice, and short fill–in–the blank questions. No essay questions shall be used. Upon satisfactory completion of specific program requirements, the applicant and certification committee shall complete an evaluation of the applicant. Previous experience in a specific area may waive some requirements toward certification. Each certification program will have a certification committee consisting of a chairperson appointed by the President, the chairpersons of the other three (3) certification committees, the Trustees chairperson, and the President. Certification Process. The individual requesting certification must complete the "Request for Certification" form (Exhibit X), sign the "IGRA Certified Officials Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct" form (Exhibit X) and submit all forms to the respective committee chairperson when all requirements have been met. The committee chairperson may submit a recommendation for certification at any regularly scheduled Trustees meeting. A positive vote of at least two–thirds (2/3) of the Trustees present is required to approve a certification. The Secretary shall send updated certified lists to all Member and Recognized Associations and all certified personnel within fifteen (15) days following any new certification approvals. See individual programs for any additional requirements. Recertification Process. Seminar attendance is not required for recertification. Passing an exam with a score of 90% or better is required, but recertification is not contingent on passing the exam. The exam will be open book with no time limit to complete. An individual who has met all requirements, other than passing the exam, may be recommended for recertification. The exam must be completed by January 10 of the new rodeo year. If the exam is not passed with a score of 90% or better, the individual will be given a second opportunity to take and pass the exam. The exam must be taken and passed within thirty (30) days after notification that the first exam was failed. If the appropriate exam is not passed with a score of 90% or better after the second attempt, the certification of the affected individual will be automatically rescinded. The individual will then be required to attend a seminar and take and pass the exam with a score of 90% or better. The committee may then recommend recertification. Evaluations. Each certified official will be evaluated at each IGRA–sanctioned rodeo where he/she is officiating. Exhibit E2 (page 1) is the Rodeo Official Evaluation form. Exhibit E2 (page 2) shows which officials (if the role is filled and the individual is available on site) evaluate each of the certified personnel. The Rodeo Secretary will select contestants at each rodeo to participate in the evaluations. Each contestant selected should be entered in a minimum of five (5) events and if at all possible, in at least three (3) event categories. Three (3) men and three (3) women should be selected at random to participate. Preference should be given to those contestants who have not previously participated in this process. These guidelines should be accomplished to the best of the ability of the Rodeo Secretary. The contestants selected should be asked if they agree to participate. Contestants will be selected until the full slate of 3 men and 3 women who agree to participate is reached. The contestants shall evaluate the Arena Director, Chute Coordinator, and the Judges. The evaluations should be distributed by the Auditor and/or the Auditor’s designee at the conclusion of the rodeo, but no later than 15 minutes prior to the Rodeo Review Board meeting. The evaluations should be collected by the Auditor and/or the Auditor’s designee and distributed for review and signature by the certified personnel, then collected again prior to the conclusion of the Rodeo Review Board meeting. The Auditor should distribute the evaluation forms to the appropriate committee chair no later than ten (10) days after the conclusion of the rodeo. The Chairperson will share the evaluations with each certified official within thirty (30) days. The respective certification committee shall complete an annual review for each certified official requesting recertification. Exhibit E3 is the Annual Performance Evaluation form. The individual rodeo evaluations as well as the committee’s input should be used to construct the annual evaluation. The evaluation and recommendation for or not for recertification should be reviewed with the individual prior to presenting a request for recertification to the Trustees. The individual requesting recertification must complete the "Request for Recertification" form (Exhibit X), sign the "IGRA Certified Officials Code of Ethical and Professional Conduct" form (Exhibit XI), and submit all forms to the respective committee chairperson when all requirements have been met. Recertification recommendations will only be presented at the last regularly scheduled Trustees meeting of the rodeo year. The certification committee shall present the annual evaluation to the Trustees and recommend or not recommend recertification. The individual who is being considered for recertification has the right to be present and make a 2–minute statement prior to a vote being taken on his/her recertification. If the individual is present, the Trustees may choose to question the individual. A positive vote of at least two–thirds (2/3) of the Trustees present is required to approve recertification. The IGRA Secretary shall send updated certified lists to all Member and Recognized Associations and all certified personnel within 15 days following any recertification approvals. Responsibilities. If, after acceptance to serve, the certified individual is unable to keep the commitment, he/she shall communicate verbally in a timely manner and follow up in writing with rodeo management to allow time to find a replacement. Officials shall adhere to required dress code: long pants, long–sleeved shirt, Western boots, Western hat (optional in chute area), and area–approved shirt design or proper color coded vest for each area of service. Shall notify local rodeo officials of arrival in area, location residing, and contact phone. Shall obtain a schedule of meetings, events, locations, and be in attendance when required. Shall act in a professional manner at all times and ensure that all rules and regulations are enforced. Shall complete any required paperwork and submit to proper rodeo officials within given time requirements for submission to IGRA. Disciplinary Procedures. Within ten (10) days following each rodeo, the host association Trustee will send a report to the respective certification committee chairperson citing any performance issues at that rodeo. These issues may include, but are not limited to, items listed in Standing Rule XVI General Rules for Certified Personnel, section 6 and number 4. The respective certification committee chairperson shall notify the affected individual, outline the reported performance issues, and request a written response within five (5) days. The certification committee chairperson shall send the performance issues report and the response from the affected individual to all committee members. The committee shall determine if discipline is in order and determine the discipline to be imposed, if any. Discipline may include a verbal warning, a written warning, placing the individual on a probationary period, or suspension. The committee may impose additional requirements (e.g. attending a seminar). At the end of the probationary or suspension period, the committee may return the individual to full certification status or recommend to the Trustees that the individual’s certification be rescinded. All actions taken shall be reported in writing to the Trustees for review at their next regularly scheduled meeting. Suspension from Certification or Recertification. Grounds for suspension from certification or recertification shall include, but not be limited to: Failure to comply with IGRA rules and regulations. Failure to be in proper attire. Failure to act in a professional or ethical manner (refer to Exhibit XI). Failure to complete required duties. Failure to complete and submit required paperwork. Entering the arena or contestant area under the influence of or in possession of alcohol, narcotics, or illegal drugs of any kind. Causing voluntary endangerment of livestock and/or contestants. Fixing or changing scores and/or times. Drugging of any livestock without written veterinary consent, which includes description of medication, how often, and for what reason medication is necessary. Seminars. Seminars will be offered during each year on the Friday of IGRA University. Seminars will also be offered by request provided the request is received sixty (60) days in advance of the seminar date. The seminar date will be published on the IGRA Web site and notice sent to all Member and Recognized Associations. Pre–registration fee of twenty–five dollars ($25.00) per person, payable to IGRA, sent to the respective certification committee chairperson, and postmarked at least forty–five (45) days prior to the date of the seminar. Fees shall be refundable upon attendance. Fees shall be forfeited for non–attendance. Seminars will not be held if no registration fees are received within the forty–five (45) day pre–registration period. Top     Home RULE XVII ARENA DIRECTOR CERTIFICAITON PROGRAM Responsibilities. Manage rodeo staff and run an efficient, smooth, and safe rodeo. Coordinate with Rodeo Director to ensure ample staff is available for all areas of the arena. If the Arena Director becomes incapacitated during the rodeo and no other certified Arena Director is immediately available, the Assistant Arena Director will assume those responsibilities with the Chute Coordinator as an advisor. If the Assistant Arena Director is unable to take over the responsibilities, then the Chute Coordinator will assume the Arena Director responsibilities. Applicants. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 1. A. 10 regarding previous experience. Applicants may provide Arena Director Committee chairperson with a list of previous rodeo experience. The Arena Directors committee shall evaluate past experience and inform the candidate which requirements have been met or reduced upon entrance into the certification program. Certification Requirements. Arena and chute area requirements may be completed at any time during the certification process. Arena Director candidates may only be assigned to one role per rodeo. Requirements. View the IGRA–sanctioned rodeo safety video. Serve as an Arena Crew Coordinator for at least two (2) rodeos. Candidate must learn to properly evaluate the size and condition of the arena and place patterns according to the IGRA rodeo rules. Candidate must be familiar with all required arena equipment and supplies. Candidate must be able to properly harness and handle goats. Serve as an Assistant Arena Director for at least three (3) rodeos. The following duties must be performed successfully and under the supervision of a certified Arena Director before a candidate shall be considered for certification. Properly conduct a new contestant orientation meeting. Properly conduct pre–rodeo meetings with the Chute Coordinator, Rodeo Director, and EMS crew. Be familiar with the completion of the IGRA rodeo checklist, contestant injury, animal injury, and protest forms. Assist with the coordination and running of speed events. Assist with the coordination and running of camp events. Have chute crew experience. Candidates who are certified Chute Coordinators are not required to complete steps outlined in this section. Complete a Chute Coordinator seminar. The following duties must be performed successfully and under the supervision of a certified Chute Coordinator before a candidate shall be considered for certification as an Arena Director. Rigging, spotting, animal loading. Three (3) rodeos, both days. Contestant lineup. Two (2) rodeos, both days. Gate opening, rough stock. Two (2) rodeos, both days. Gate opening, camp and roping. One (1) rodeo, both days. Assistant in roping. Two (2) rodeos, both days. Assistant in bucking. Three (3) rodeos, both days. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Sections 1 and 2, for general certification requirements. Final Evaluation & Certification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Sections 1 and 2, for general certification requirements. Candidates shall notify the Arena Director Committee chair when all of the above listed requirements have been completed. The committee will confirm completion of required certification steps. Candidates shall be notified if all requirements have been accepted within fourteen (14) days of notice to the Arena Director Committee chair. Upon confirmation of candidate’s completion, the committee chair will notify the candidate that he/she is eligible as assignment as a Rookie Arena Director. Upon approval to serve as a Rookie Arena Director, the committee chair shall contact the Rodeo Director and Arena Director of the candidate’s requested rodeo for approval. The committee chair shall notify rookie of approval. A rookie rodeo shall be done with a certified Arena Director supervising. At the discretion of the Arena Director, the certified Arena Director may be activated for any period. The rookie performance review shall be completed by rookie and supervising Arena Director. The Arena Director Committee chair shall notify the rookie candidate within fourteen (14) days after completion of evaluation rodeo if he/she has successfully completed the certification program. Recertification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 3, for recertification process general requirements. Each certified Arena Director shall work at least one (1) rodeo, other than the IGRA Finals Rodeo, as an Arena Director, Assistant Arena Director or Arena Crew Setup Coordinator per year. If a certified Arena Director is unable to work as an Arena Director, Assistant Arena Director or Arena Crew Coordinator in a rodeo year, then that person must serve as an Assistant Arena Director and attend an Arena Directors seminar before being recommended for recertification. Top     Home RULE XVIII CHUTE COORDINATOR CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Responsibilities. The Chute Coordinator is the coordinator and will act in such a manner to oversee the entire area. To coordinate the chute staffs, both in the bucking chutes and roping chutes areas, in regards to duties necessary, rules, dress code, livestock, and equipment for a smooth, safe and efficient running rodeo. To accomplish the above, the Chute Coordinator and assistant will remain on or behind the bucking chutes during chute events except in the case of split chutes. To direct contestants and livestock to proper locations according to lineup of events and ensure all procedures and rules regarding event are enforced. To observe that all rules regarding livestock behaviors are acted upon as necessary. Shall inspect and ensure, with the assistance of necessary staff, that all necessary equipment (riggings, ropes, halters, chutes, etc.) are kept in working order or removed from usage and report any defective equipment to the Rodeo Director for replacement. Certification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 1. A. 10 regarding previous experience. Individual must work on the chute staff for a minimum of three (3) rodeos as a volunteer before entering the Chute Coordinator certification program. Candidate must then work the following activities and receive approval according to the Chute Coordinator Program Checklist (Exhibit E1). Nine (9) rodeos as a recognized volunteer in the following areas: Rigging and spotting (may be combined with animal loading). Animal loading (may be combined with rigging and spotting). Contestant lineup. Gate openings (rough stock, camp, and roping). Two (2) rodeos as an assistant in bucking and two (2) as an assistant in roping. Candidate must complete a Chute Coordinator seminar. Certification committee and candidate shall review performance to evaluate if candidate is ready to be a rookie. Upon approval to serve as a Rookie Chute Coordinator, committee chair shall contact rodeo officials of requested rodeo, including the Rodeo Director, to obtain approval for usage of rookie. Chair shall then notify rookie of approval and disseminate name and phone number of the Chute Coordinator. Rookie shall contact the Chute Coordinator regarding assistants and duties for said rodeo. Rookie service shall be done with a certified Chute Coordinator on staff in the chute area. At the discretion of the Arena Director and certified Chute Coordinator, the certified Chute Coordinator may be activated for any period. Candidate performance review shall be completed by candidate and Chute Coordinator and be forwarded to the committee chair within fourteen (14) days of completion of said rodeo. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Sections 1 and 2, for general certification requirements. Recertification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 3, for recertification process general requirements. Each certified Chute Coordinator shall work within the chute areas as a certified Chute Coordinator, Assistant Chute Coordinator, recognized volunteer, or certified Arena Director at least once each rodeo year, other than the IGRA Finals Rodeo. If a certified Chute Coordinator is unable to work as a Chute Coordinator, Assistant Chute Coordinator, recognized volunteer, or certified Arena Director in a rodeo year, then that person must serve as an Assistant Chute Coordinator and attend a Chute Coordinator seminar before being recommended for recertification. Top     Home RULE XIX JUDGES CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Responsibilities. To officiate rodeo events and ensure that all competition rules are enforced for the fairness of each contestant. Shall ensure that all Judges’ scores or score sheets are turned over to the official Scorekeeper. Certification. Refer to Standing Rule XV, Sections 1 and 2 for general certification requirements. Student Judge. Judging candidates may enroll in the IGRA Student Judging program upon application to and acceptance of the IGRA Board of Trustees. The certification program does not have to be completed in any particular time frame or sequence. However, it may be of benefit to the student to attend a seminar prior to student judging. A student shall attend a minimum of one (1) Judges seminar covering both PRCA Judges Handbook and IGRA Rodeo Rules and pass a written examination. This must occur during the rodeo year when student is recommended for certification in order to be familiar with most recent IGRA Rodeo Rules. A student must attend a minimum of six (6) days of Student Judging School at IGRA rodeos. All rodeo events must be student judged a minimum of six (6) times. The student will be taught judging mechanics, positioning, and communications. They will also practice scoring of rough stock riding events. Scores awarded by students will be compared with official rodeo results for analysis and training purposes. The Judges Committee may require additional Judging Schools if, in the opinion of the committee, the applicant needs additional training. If an applicant presents written documentation of previous rodeo judging experience, the Judges Committee will review and determine certification requirements on an individual basis. Attending a seminar and passing a written examination on the IGRA Rodeo Rules will still be required. Upon satisfactory completion of the certification program, students may apply for Rookie Judge status. Applications must be submitted in writing to the Judges Committee, which will then make the appropriate recommendation to the Board of Trustees. Rookie Judge. A newly certified Judge will be considered a Rookie Judge until they have completed judging four (4) full days of IGRA rodeo competition. Rookie Judges shall not be assigned to finish flag any roping event or Chute Dogging or as the official timer in a rough stock riding event. The time spent as a Rookie Judge will be considered a practical examination. The committee will evaluate all Rookie Judges during their first four (4) complete days of rodeo judging. If their performance is not satisfactory, they will be required to complete additional training prior to advancing to Junior Judge status. If their performance is satisfactory, upon approval of the committee, they will be advanced to Junior Judge status. Junior Judge. A Junior Judge may work all judging positions in all events. After a Junior Judge has worked in all IGRA rodeo judging positions at least once and has completed at least six (6) full days of IGRA rodeo competition, he/she may petition the Judges Committee to be elevated to Senior Judge status. This request must be in writing. The Judges Committee will review the petition, and either approve it or provide feedback on improvements or actions needed to advance to Senior Judge status. Upon approval by the committee, the Junior Judge will be advanced to Senior Judge status. Senior Judge. There must be at least one Senior Judge and no more than one Rookie Judge sharing the officiating in every arena in every rodeo event. Only Senior Judges may be invited to or serve as a Rodeo Judge at the IGRA World Gay Rodeo Finals. Senior Judges will assist with the training of student and development of Junior Judges. Only Senior Judges may supervise and train Student Judges. Senior Judges will provide documentation of judging activities to the Judges Committee chair at the end of each rodeo. This will include reporting on the progress of Student, Rookie, and Junior Judges. Recertification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 3, for recertification process general requirements. Work as a Judge at least once each year at an IGRA–sanctioned rodeo other than the IGRA Finals Rodeo. If a certified Judge is unable to work at a rodeo during the year, then that person must attend a seminar before recommendation for recertification. Top     Home RULE XX AUDITOR CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Responsibilities. Work closely with the Rodeo Secretary to ensure that scores, times, and results are recorded accurately and timely in the rodeo records and IGRA records. Submit a report to the Trustees meeting following the final event, but prior to the awards presentations. Refer to Bylaws Article XI Auditors, Section 2, and Paragraph B Duties. Certification. Requirements for certification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 1. A. 10 regarding previous experience. Successfully complete the Secretary and Scorekeeper certification programs. Serve as the Rodeo Secretary at a minimum of three (3) IGRA–sanctioned rodeos, excluding the IGRA Finals Rodeo. Work under the supervision of an IGRA Rodeo Auditor as an Assistant Auditor at a minimum of three (3) IGRA–sanctioned rodeos, excluding the IGRA Finals Rodeo. Attend or conduct a Rodeo Secretary and Scorekeeper seminar and successfully pass each of the examinations with a score of 90% or better after the conclusion of the seminar. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Sections 1 and 2, for general certification requirements. Recertification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 3, for recertification process general requirements. Serve as the IGRA Rodeo Auditor, appointed certified Auditor, or Assistant Auditor for at least one (1) rodeo during the current year, excluding the IGRA Finals Rodeo. If a certified Auditor is unable to meet one of the above requirements, the individual must attend a Secretary and Scorekeeper seminar before being recommended for recertification. Top     Home RULE XXI SECRETARY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Responsibilities. Supervise the Scorekeeper and other secretarial staff. Ensure that adequate secretarial staff is available. Work closely with the Rodeo Auditor to ensure that all scores, times, and results are recorded accurately and timely in the rodeo records and IGRA records. Work closely with the Rodeo Announcer to ensure that times and scores are announced as quickly as possible. Ensure that adequate secretarial supplies and forms are available at the rodeo. Certification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 1. A. 10 regarding previous experience. Serve as a certified Scorekeeper at a minimum of one (1) IGRA–sanctioned rodeo. Serve as an Assistant Secretary at a minimum of three (3) IGRA–sanctioned rodeos. Member Associations will not refuse any reasonable request from an applicant to serve as an Assistant Rodeo Secretary. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Sections 1 and 2, for general certification requirements. Recertification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 3, for recertification process general requirements. The following shall be acceptable each year for recertification. Serve as one of the following at a minimum of one (1) IGRA–sanctioned rodeo, excluding the IGRA Finals Rodeo. IGRA Rodeo Auditor. Appointed Certified Rodeo Auditor. Assistant Rodeo Auditor. Rodeo Secretary. Assistant Rodeo Secretary. If a certified Secretary is unable to meet one of the above requirements, the individual must attend a seminar before being recommended for recertification. Top     Home RULE XXII SCOREKEEPER CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Responsibilities. Ensure that an adequate number of Timers are available at all times during the rodeo. Supervise activities of all Timers. Accurately and legibly record all scores and times for the rodeo. Relay scores and times to the Rodeo Announcer as quickly as possible. Certification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 1. A. 10 regarding previous experience. Requirements. Serve as a Timer at a minimum of three (3) IGRA–sanctioned rodeos. Host associations will not refuse any reasonable attempt from an applicant to serve as a Timer. Serve as an Assistant Scorekeeper at three (3) IGRA–sanctioned rodeos covering all IGRA–approved rodeo events. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Sections 1 and 2, for general certification requirements. Recertification. Refer to Standing Rule XVI, Section 3, for recertification process general requirements. The following shall be acceptable each rodeo year for recertification. Serve as one of the following at a minimum of one (1) IGRA–sanctioned rodeo, excluding the IGRA Finals Rodeo. IGRA Rodeo Auditor. Appointed certified Rodeo Auditor. Assistant Rodeo Auditor. Rodeo Secretary. Assistant Rodeo Secretary. Rodeo Scorekeeper. Assistant Rodeo Scorekeeper. If a certified Scorekeeper is unable to meet one of the above requirements, the individual must attend a seminar before being recommended for recertification. Top     Home RULE XXIII ARENA CREW COORDINATOR An individual can become a recognized Arena Crew Coordinator by completing the following: Attend an Arena Directors seminar. Work as a second assistant under an Arena Director at one (1) rodeo. Pass a test to be administered by the Arena Directors committee chair. Responsibilities. Coordinate the setup of the arena for speed events, camp events, and Chute Dogging. Assist the Arena Director in any other areas, as requested. Comply with the general responsibilities for certified personnel (refer to Standing Rule XV General Rules for Certified Personnel). Top     Home RULE XXIV RODEO ANNOUNCER An individual can become a recognized Rodeo Announcer by completing the following: Attend an Arena Directors seminar. Attend a Judges seminar. Attend a Scorekeepers seminar. Attend a Rodeo Announcer seminar. Know and understand the rodeo rules. Work as an assistant under an existing announcer at one (1) rodeo. Responsibilities. Perform announcer functions as specified in the rodeo rules. Perform master of ceremonies and additional announcer functions as requested by the Rodeo Director. Comply with the general responsibilities for certified personnel (refer to Standing Rule XV General Rules for Certified Personnel.). Adhere to all rules and regulations. Shall not be under the influence of or in possession of alcohol, narcotics, or illegal drugs of any kind during the rodeo. Top     Home

 

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