What happens to an exhibitor when they go on the wrong side of the cone during a pattern?

When an exhibitor goes on the wrong side of the cone during a pattern, they must restart the pattern. This requirement emphasizes the importance of following the specific course laid out for the competition, as precision and adherence to the pattern are critical in equine events. Restarting the pattern allows the exhibitor to correct their mistake and demonstrate their skills properly.

In this context, the rules are designed to ensure fairness and consistency in judging performances. Bypassing the designated course can lead to confusion or unfair advantages, hence the protocol of requiring a restart instead of simply imposing a point penalty or disqualification. By mandating a restart, the competition maintains a high standard of performance integrity.