When pattern omissions or modifications occur in Trail judging, what is the typical consequence?

• A. The class is stopped and restarted.
• B. Penalties may apply for omissions or modifications.
• C. Immediate disqualification.
• D. The pattern is considered valid and no penalties.

Answer: (B)

In Trail judging, keeping to the prescribed pattern is essential, and any omission or modification of a required element is treated as a fault that pulls points from the score. The idea is that deviations from the designed sequence and method prevent fair comparison between competitors, so a penalty is assessed rather than restarting the class or automatically disqualifying the run. The amount of the penalty depends on the nature and impact of the omission or modification, but the default outcome is a deduction, not a reset or immediate disqualification. Only more severe or safety-related violations would lead to harsher consequences beyond standard penalties.