the time limit is reached, and for inhumane treatment of the horse. A horse and rider team is penalized if forced off a cow, if the horse charges a cow, excessive herdholder help, and judges either add or take away points based on the horse and rider's performance throughout their run. Variables considered in judging include: confidence when entering the herd with minimal disturbance; making a clean cut by setting up a cow in the middle of the working area; level of skill and the degree of difficulty involved in containing a cow as close to the center of the working area as possible, all on a loose rein without disturbing the herd; the horse's show of courage when handling difficult situations, such as holding a cow that pushes exceptionally hard to return to the herd; overall eye appeal of the work; Penalties that subtract from a score include: causing noticeable disturbance to the herd upon entering or during the work; failure to make a deep cut; using the back fence to turn a cow; rider quitting a cow while it is facing the horse and still in motion (illegal quit or hot quit); horse independently quitting a cow; allowing a cow to get back to the herd; rider reining, cueing or positioning the horse during a work; A rider can be disqualified for using illegal equipment, leaving the working area before the time limit is reached, and for inhumane treatment of the horse. A western saddle is required. A breast collar and back cinch are optional. A bridle or hackamore is required. Riders must were western wear, including a hat, though a safety helmet may be substituted. Martingales and tiedowns are prohibited. Splint boots and back or skid boots are recommended for the horse's leg protection during competition. Chaps are not required but are recommended. Competition divisions common in cutting are: Professional: "any person who has trained horses astride in any equine discipline cattle/cow events for direct or indirect remuneration or is a Hall of Fame equine trainer in any discipline shall be considered a professional by [the National Cutting Horse Association], with the exception of those who have been granted a change of status." Non-pro: "a person who has not received direct or indirect remuneration to work in any manner in the following activities on the premises of a cutting horse training operation: showing, training or assisting in