The qualification for 4* events should be "20% of the winning time", as proposed--but this should be instead of the 14 kpg CoC, not in addition. Any horse/rider combination that achieves a 14 kph speed will almost certainly be within 20% of the winning time, making the addition of that qualifier redundant, and simply add more documentation. However, using the 20% formula instead of a 'set speed' CoC would be a very positive step forward. In general, 'you get the behaviour that you reward'. The 14 kpg CoC has resulted in the profusion of fast, flat rides and has obligated some athletes to travel great distances to reach these events. If we wish to return to more technical trails--and I believe we do--then a qualifying criteria based on the 20% formula would allow for more courses of this nature to be used as qualifiers, and would no longer discourage competitors from entering these events. Such a qualifier would encourage better horsemanship skills on the part of the rider and would more accurately reflect the ability of a range of horses; not just those who can manage flat terrain fast.