In a hunter class, the first jump is on the diagonal and appears to be set for a certain lead departure, but could be approached from the other lead as well. Is it okay to approach the jump from the other lead?
I probably know why you are considering the alternate lead approach, as it is likely that your horse jumps better off a certain lead or is less likely to swap off. I encourage you to utilize whatever approach will maximize your horse’s performance; just make sure there is enough room for a smooth approach.
In an equitation class where further testing is required over fences, do you plan the ride-off test before, during, or after the first round of the class?
I always develop the ride-off test before the class starts so that I am not distracted during the class or holding up the ring while I come up with a test after the completion of the first round. However, I have often altered my planned ride-off test when I see that it might prove too challenging to the calibre of riders competing. On other occasions, I have increased the difficulty of the test after the riders show me they are up to the challenge.
How do you feel about schooling, high-low, and prep classes on the same day as the rated classes?
Do your practice at home, the day before, or in another ring. I really feel that on show days you need to just go for real. At finals and indoors there are no get-ready classes, and as a judge I appreciate you showing your horse when it really counts. As both a judge and an exhibitor, I don’t like waiting to show after hours of schooling hunters!
As the judge, do you inspect the course before the start of the class?
I definitely do, to ensure that all of the jumps are going in the right direction according to the course chart I have been provided with, and to check that fill and ground brush has been placed on both sides of a jump that is to be jumped from both directions. If I can’t see the take-off side of a jump from my booth, I want to ensure that there is proper fill in front of it.
Can you, or have you ever, refused to give a ribbon to a horse that has gone so badly that you feel they don’t deserve it?
Don’t I wish! No, I need to award the ribbons in relation to the competitors. I will just hope that they are at the bottom of the ribbons in a small class.
In an under-saddle class, when would you ask for a hand gallop?
Only in classes where this is allowed, so referencing or knowing your rule book is essential. Other conditions I will consider include having eight or less horses in the class; all horses seem calm with a reasonable expectation of staying that way; and the class is being held outdoors with no distractions. Just be careful when you ask for it, so as not to lose your winners when a hand gallop is really not needed.
