In your opinion, which is worse, running away and leaving out strides, or going too slowly and adding?
My mantra is safety first, so slow and steady wins this race over the running and subtracting round.
Warmbloods today are dominant in the hunter and equitation rings. They have become more refined, breedier and lighter as compared to the heavier, European type. When you have two equal rounds but one horse is lighter and typier and the other is the heavier, course type, which do you choose?
You will most likely go with the more refined, breedier type. The traditional North American hunter and equitation horses were originally Thoroughbreds that typified the lighter, refined build. European breeders are now recognizing this and building this type into their Warmblood lines, moving away from the heavier, course-type build. Simply put, the overall presentation appears more graceful and athletic when the lighter and breedier horse is used.
For flat classes, do you prefer judging from the inside or outside of the ring?
I prefer to judge from outside of the ring for a number of reasons. I have a much better view with some distance between the rider and myself. Many riders feel they have to ride close up to me in order to be seen, but the opposite is actually true. If I am inside the ring while judging I can easily miss something, because I will be constantly spinning around in order to see all of the action. Finally, it’s much more safe being outside of the ring, as I have a lesser chance of being run over!
How do you evaluate a rider who wanders into the ring while the trainer is teaching them the course or giving instructions?
Out you go! Once you enter the ring and are still being given instructions, I consider that outside assistance and therefore elimination. Even if I choose not to eliminate you, it will not be looked upon favourably. You need to be outside the ring for any instruction or direction. Once in the ring, it is all business.
How do you handle the situation of a reluctant horse at the ingate who is led into the ring by the trainer or groom?
How far into the ring is the horse being led? Just to the gate and no further only; once the trainer or groom steps into the ring leading the horse, this is grounds for elimination.
If a horse or pony doesn’t jog back for a ribbon, how should it be handled?
First, they are eliminated from the placings. Second, it would be preferable that they inform the ingate person of the reason for not jogging back so that others are not kept waiting and the judge can correct the order.
How do you feel about the new schooling hunter classes where you award a red ribbon for a score of 76 or above, a blue ribbon for a score of 70-76, and nothing for a score below 70?
This approach is simply pulling the whole judging concept down the ladder! Ribbons are just handed out as the horse leaves the ring, with the ingate personnel in charge of whether it is red or blue, and you potentially have a number of horses walking away as the ‘winner’ of the class. It is insulting to the whole judging process.
