Ride-off

“A player may ride off an opponent provided that the ponies are travelling at the same speed, are shoulder to shoulder and come together at a safe angle. When riding off, the elbow must be kept close to the side and a player may not push with the head, hand, arm, or elbow another player. 33. BLOCKING.”

“A player will often check to avoid a ride off, either because he knows he is beaten or to gain a foul on the basis that his opponent has not entered safely in front of him. It is a judgement as to whether the player checked and his opponent entered safely or he checked to avoid a nasty ride off. One of the players will always disagree so consistency is key. Should a player check so that an opponent can enter safely in front, the player cannot then accelerate into his opponent from behind.”

“As Blue moves to the right to execute a ride-off, Red also drifts to the right so contact is not made. The players are now riding parallel. Blue may safely make the near side play. Blue rides with the LOB at a slight angle to his left. Red also rides with the LOB on his left but at a wider angle. Both will reach the ball at the same time. Blue is required to play the ball on the offside.”

“RULE 26- DANGEROUS RIDING On even terms, a player may ride off an opponent or may interpose the player's mount between an opponent and the ball, but he or she may not ride dangerously. Conduct that may qualify as dangerous riding is listed below.”

“As Red rides to strike again, Blue #4 comes for an offside ride off. Red, seeing Blue approach, cocks his arm for a strong fore-shot. Blue rides off Red and hits the back-shot. No foul--regardless of how exaggerated the backswing may be, Blue made contact before the mallet head was put in motion toward the ball. Red and Blue ride parallel, but not in contact toward the ball. Blue prepares for a neck shot and strikes Red's mount on the downswing. Foul Blue--Red was safely positioned before the stroke began.”