FAQ

Must I compete at the canter?

No. You may compete at any gait. The game elements are scored without regard to gait, however slower gaits are an inherent disadvantage for some games (e.g. speed quintaine). You are encouraged however to choose a gait that makes a favorable impression on the judges, for the judges will be assigning points based on their impressions.

May I vary gait between games?

Yes, you may choose any gait you desire for any one of the games. Again, the judges will reward those who put on a splendid visual presentation and display showmanship and chivalric behavior, so keep this in mind when you choose your gait.

May I avoid rush-hour traffic by bringing a horse on-site before 6 p.m. on Friday?

Yes, you may bring a horse on-site as early as 2 p.m. (the insurance is in place and the stalls are available). Please find the EqMIC before you unload your horses.

Who is in charge?

The responsibilities are shared...

Who is in charge of the Emprise of the Black Lion Tournament?

The judges will be the arbiter for all questions related to the running and scoring of the tournament. If any disputes arise about the running or scoring of the tournament, or the appropriateness of any behavior during the tournament, please discuss it with the noble judges.

Who is in charge of equestrian logistics and safety?

Take equestrian logistics and safety concerns or suggestions first to the marshal running the particular field (multiple marshals will be sharing these responsibilities) or the nearest Eq. Marshal. Should you need further advice, Mistress Ynesen Ongge Xong Kerij-e is the Equestrian Marshal-in-Charge.

How is the equestrian tournament scored, exactly?

In a true King Rene style system, the scoring would be 100% subjective and at the discretion of the judges. In a nod to our modern sensibilities we make the scoring 60% objective and 40% subjective. There are 100 total points possible. For each of 4 games, 15 points are awarded based on objective criteria and 5 points may be given per-game at the discretion of the judges. An additional 20 points may be given at the judges overall discretion, apart from any particular game. Impressing the judges by dressing as prettily as possible and displaying chivalric behavior is critical to success at this event.