In an under saddle class I pick up the wrong lead. What is the best way to fix it?
Lets be clear about what not to do first: definitely no pullup, halting or backing. There should be no exhibit of a flying change, either. Please do not discipline your horse, as this is your mistake and not your horse’s fault. You should simply and gently get back to the trot or walk and pick up the correct lead. More often than not, I will not penalize you.
When horses jog back into the ring for soundness and one of them looks lame (not head-bobbing lame, but not totally sound), do you excuse them, jog them again, or let it go?
Generally I am quite lenient when it comes to this, because the horse could simply be stiff after being jogged back from standing by the ingate for a long period of time, or from their stall. Excusing them is the very last option. If I question it enough, I will jog them again and if it improves (and most often it does) I will let it go. If it does not improve or worsens, I will unfortunately have to excuse them.
At the end of a good round, how important is it to get the lead change to finish? Can I just go back to the trot, turn in the direction of the lead I land on, or just pull up?
It is just as important to finish on the correct lead as it is at the start of your round. None of the alternatives you describe are acceptable. If you have had a good round, don’t cheat at the finish line… I’m watching!
Is it proper to smile, salute or acknowledge the judge by saying anything?
No, it is not appropriate in the hunter or equitation ring. Simply start your course – you won’t be missed!
Do you ask for the hand gallop anymore?
If I have a good group and they are all hacking well, time is not an issue and the surroundings are adequate, I may ask for the hand gallop. I risk losing the top horses with the hand gallop, and therefore sometimes the test’s risks outweigh the benefits. If used, only eight horses can perform the hand gallop at once. It is not allowed in pre-green or green classes, and not recommended for very green rider classes, as accidents can happen. Safety first!
What is the lowest height division you have ever judged?
At one time it was the Short Stirrup division, and then there was an Even Shorter Stirrup division. Now, the Rail Class goes to the head of the lowest height division. Yes, rails on the ground (four of them), once around to the right walking over for the first class, and then walking over to the left for the second class. How about a beginner lesson at home and not at a supposed real rated show?
