Ask the Judge: checking results, glitzy helmets, dogs on course and more

Before the first fence, a rider makes a big circle at the trot, then another big circle at the canter. Is this allowed?

It is allowed, but not appreciated, especially when the course starts on a single fence towards home. (see page 32 for more about opening circles)

I have heard that some judges go online to look at results and see who won at the previous show, so they know who and what to watch for when they are judging. How would you respond to this?

Yes, I have heard of this happening. If that is what makes a judge feel comfortable, I would strongly suggest that they re-evaluate their position. I really enjoy seeing all the new horses and riders, not knowing who or what to expect, while being confident in my knowledge and expertise to place them according to their performance on the day.

Do you pay attention to the announcement of the results?

Yes I do, to make sure they are in the right order. I need to add to this that at the Trillium shows, and at shows in Bermuda and the Bahamas, I have never seen such enthusiasm, as the applause gets louder as the placings get lower. Plus, all the other competitors clap for each other! I so appreciate this great sportsmanship and we can all learn from it.

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How do you feel about all the sparkles on riding helmets these days?

In an equitation class it is definitely not acceptable to me. Conservative and invisible is what I expect to see.

Can you clarify how you judge refusals from the worst to the best?

There is no “best” refusal, but let me put them in order from worst to least terrible as a major fault:

– stopping right in front of the jump

– running out right or left

– circling away from, or pulling up in front of the jump

Hopefully any of these refusals would put them out of the ribbons, but in a small class you may have to place them.

How do you feel about ponies showing in pelhams, wire bits, kimberwicks, or converters?

I don’t have a great feeling when I see this, especially in the small ponies or short stirrup, as it says to me that the pony is too strong or a possible runaway! However, if they go well and don’t get strong, then I can’t penalize them for that. A rubber or plain snaffle is always nice to see, though.

What happens if the course designer realizes a distance is set wrong after several horses have gone and wants to change it?

The class would have to be re-started and everyone who has already gone would have to go again. It is right that the distance be corrected and the class re-started, as it could be dangerous to continue with a line on the half-stride.

I know you have often had a dog loose in the ring while a horse is on course. How do you deal with that?

If the dog gets in the way of the ride, then a re-ride is allowed. Again, while judging in the Bahamas, a dog, a cat, a goat, chickens, and a rooster all came into the ring at the same time! It took all of the jump crew to herd them out. A re-ride was totally in order and the door of the petting zoo was closed!