Do you think all of a horse’s wins should be announced in a derby class before they perform?
This is good for the audience and usually only happens at the finals. This does not influence me – but for some it might.
What happens if you miss the horse jumping the first fence; for example, there is no announcement and you look up and they are going to the second jump?
If I miss it, then I have to give it to them as a good jump as long as the rail is up. Then I just have to hope that they did not chip or swap off or spook at it!
As a coach, rider, or spectator at the side of the ring, can you go into the ring to fix a jump or a fallen plant?
The best approach is to call for the jump crew. If they are all busy and not available, then notify the in-gate person. Management typically don’t like it when outside people go into the ring due to insurance requirements (and it reflects poorly on them).
Do you have any tips for how to stay focussed all day?
Essentially I have no choice, as every competitor is owed my total attention. My preparation is similar to showing in a big competition. I go to bed early. I don’t eat a big meal during the day that will make me sleepy. I get up during breaks between classes to walk around and freshen up. I will even stand up and hold my clipboard in front of me to judge while standing.
When you are testing the top four in an equitation class, do you think the last one to ride is at a disadvantage because they have had to stand still in the ring the longest?
Interesting observation! But no, my experience is that most equitation horses are ready to rock from a standstill.
What do you do when a junior, shadow, or learner judge starts making too many inappropriate comments?
Their after-review will not be favourable and I will certainly comment on their conduct. I may even suggest to management that they assign them to another judge the next day. Judges with their small “r” cards need to be silent and comment only when asked.
In watching under-saddle classes, I have noticed that after working the horses both ways, a lot of judges will ask for the trot again after the final canter. Why is that?
Often in a good class a lot of the top horses are tied, and this serves as a final viewing to break the tie. So if you ever find yourself in this position, show off this final trot to the very best of your ability!
When a rider comes into the ring and rides right up to a jump and basically shows it to the horse, how do you deal with that?
It is considered a major fault, showing the horse the jump. You need to be very careful how close you come to the jumps. This is definitely a danger zone. Just go to the jump and jump over it; that will impress me.
