Horses running this event must have speed, but also the agility to stop quickly in full stride, turn, and bolt directly back into a run.
The obstacle course is a pattern, usually marked with white powder (commonly flour or powdered chalk) poured into a "keyhole" shape in the dirt.
According to the California Gymkhana Association, the pattern should be set up as follows: The event begins when the horse and rider cross the timing line.
[3] The horse and the rider turns as fast as they can in the bulb.
Penalties may include adding five seconds to the team's time, or may even be enough to disqualify the contestant completely.