competition rules & regulations

    • Age Requirements: Competitors must meet the age restrictions of the event venue. Stockyard Bristol allows competitors of all ages to perform. Competitors under the age of 18 must have a legal parent or guardian present.

    • Registration: You must complete registration and full payment by the designated deadline.

    • Communication: Competitors are responsible for checking on their emails and social accounts for event updates. We strive to keep these to a minimum, but should an update arise, we reserve the right to make changes to the schedule and rules if necessary. Any significant change will be communicated in advance.

    • Safety: Acrobatic/aerial moves are prohibited for the safety of yourself and others. Any further safety instructions will be given in the pre-competition meeting.

    • Code of Conduct: Be Respectful. Any harassment or inappropriate behavior may result in disqualification.

    • Attendance: All competitors must attend all required meetings to cover rules and schedule announcements.

    • General Attire: Competitor attire should allow the dancer and those around them to freely move in a safe manner. Attire should be appropriate and reflect the country dance community styling (fun, fashionable style without excessive embellishments or distractions).

    • No handheld or loose props.

    • Men’s Attire: Button-up shirts, short-sleeve shirts, and t-shirts are permitted, provided they do not feature any logos or branding. Bottoms: Fitted jeans, pants, or shorts are all appropriate choices.

    • Women’s Attire: Blouses, fitted tops, or tank tops in lively prints or colors, ensuring they are free from any logos or branding. Bottoms: Skirts, dresses, shorts, or tailored pants that offer ease of movement.

    • Footwear: Footwear must be closed-toe and provide adequate support for dancing. Open-toe shoes, sandals, or flip-flops are not allowed.

    • Competitors are required to follow the event’s official step sheets that are referenced via the event details.

    • Competitors must complete two walls following the official step sheet to demonstrate proficiency before incorporating freestyle elements. Freestyling is encouraged for creative modifications to showcase individuality. These freestyle movements should enhance the dance while maintaining flow and direction of the original dance that does not inhibit others.

    • Each performance will have a minimum time limit of two minutes. Judges may request additional time if necessary.

    • Dances must remain in the designated performance area at all times.

    • Acrobatic stunts and gymnastic maneuvers are prohibited during the entire performance including introductory and finale poses.

    • Attendance of the competitors meeting is mandatory. Competitors must conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times. Any issues related to misconduct, competition protests or disputes must be reported to event director immediately. The decisions made by the event director and judges are final and binding.

  • Judges will evaluate the follow aspects during the competition:

    • Technical execution of step sheet

    • Presentation

    • Creativity & Styling