In a jumper equitation class with a time allowed, how hard are you on a rider who exceeds the time?
It depends on how much they are over and how the rider’s performance compares to the other riders in the class. If they outride the others and are only slightly over the time allowed, then I won’t penalize them harshly. If the others ride just as well and within the time allowed, then exceeding the time becomes my tie-breaker.
How long should a halt be held when asked for in an equitation class?
About 3-5 seconds, then continue on.
If you think the jumps are set at the wrong height for a class, do you ask the jump crew or the course designer to check them, or do you not say anything?
The correct person to nicely ask is the course designer, as they may have a reason to have the jumps set lower than the standard height for that division on a particular day. For example, the first jump may be set lower to be welcoming and inviting, the footing may be deep or hard, or the ring may be too small to safely accommodate jumps set at the maximum height. There are a host of other reasons that the jump height might be modified; ultimately, it is the course designer’s call as to how the jumps are set.
In a pony medal equitation class where small, medium, and large ponies are competing, do you think it’s fair for all of the riders to be judged together, or should the class be separated by pony height? Do you feel any height has an advantage over the others?
My only job is to judge the class according to the class specifications. I will judge all entries the same and I have no preference for pony size. The best ride wins, regardless of the size of their mount.
Can you call a class because of lightning, rain, or other bad conditions, or does that fall to management to decide?
These situations really fall to the horse show management’s discretion. However, if the conditions are very threatening or severely hamper my ability to see the entry in the ring, I will contact the in-gate to hold the class and offer the rider on course at the time a re-ride.
In a handy class, what are you looking for at the end of the course?
I am looking for a smooth, prompt exit, but this will depend to some extent on where the last jump is located. If it is a fair distance from the in-gate, then I would like to see a canter across the ring; when close to the exit, a smooth transition down to a walk and then directly out of the ring.
Do you have a favourite show to judge?
Yes! Palm Beach, as it is the best of the best from all over North America and they go for it right from 8:00 a.m. No schooling, warm-up, or preparation classes, just straight into the real deal. I call it ‘edge of the chair’ judging, as there are so many top rounds that are a thrill to judge.
