2019 CANADIAN N AT I O N A L S F E AT U R I N G 2019 Canadian Nationals Preview Judges’ Perspective Rae-Dawn Arabians Reed Training Rick Gault Training Earthquake Arabians Things To Do Places To Eat
N AT I O N A L S w e i ev
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Let The Countdown Begin
by Brittany Dickens
As the only AHA championship show offering a full range of competition, the Canadian National Arabian Horse Show is back in action. From August 11th-17th, one of the most anticipated events of the year will be making its way back to the Keystone Center in Brandon, Manitoba. With around 750 horses entered and 207 different classes, this year’s nationals is bringing all the expected action with a twist. New additions for 2019 will continue to bring in the best of the best. Among these will be leveling added for JTR and AATR classes and Sport Horse In-Hand will not run concurrently. The newest class added is HA/AA Country Pleasure Driving ATD, and soon to be a crowd favorite, is the new stick horse competition for kids that is sure to break up the intense competition in-between. Worried that you might not be able to keep up? Then be sure to download the new Canadian Nationals app!
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Amongst the many new additions and events, Kelsey Berglund, Director of National Events, also highlights the Ranch Riding and AWPA classes as ‘must attend’ events that you won’t want to miss, and reminds all that the Sweepstakes Last Chance Buy-In is still open through October 15th, a one-time nomination opportunity for any horse(s) not already entered into the Sweepstakes Program, to become eligible to compete in Sweepstakes designated classes and jackpots (qualifications required for some classes). While Berglund loves creating and being part of the events for horse riders and owners to compete and show off their hard work, her favorite part of Canadian Nationals is witnessing the camaraderie between exhibitors and trainers from all over North America, and appreciates that the Canadian Nationals is truly a show for the whole family. Canadian Nationals is all about competition, togetherness and commitment, but it is also a show that cares about giving back to their beloved community. Every year, the team coordinating the show ensures that they partner with a local military base in order to dedicate a day to the armed forces, and steps are taken to provide to the public, free T.A.I.L. tours to those interested. If you run into any military servicemen or women, or one of the educational tours while at the show, make sure you share why you are so passionate about the Arabian breed if given the opportunity. Adding just one more person to our community has an exponential impact on the industry as a whole. This one-of-a-kind show is ready to stun spectators, riders, owners and exhibitors yet again with their new additions and dedication to the show and breed. With the diversity of classes, people from all over the United States and Canada, and a unique arena, it is sure to be a showstopper. Let the countdown begin! ■
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ALCIDES RODRIGUES & RD CAPRIOTTI Ar abian Horse Times | 12 | Volume 50, No. 2
A New Dawn At Rae-Dawn by THERESA CARDAMONE
Throughout its more than 20-year history, Rae-Dawn Arabians has embraced the future with a zest that has carried them to the top of the industry. Hands-on and highly successful as amateurs in the show ring, Murray and Shirley Popplewell are equally adept as breeders on an international level. In addition to those achievements, they are perennial volunteers and supporters of many efforts to improve the Arabian horse industry worldwide. Such adaptability and commitment have resulted in a vibrant program that flourishes even as it continually transforms itself. In that way, a new dawn at Rae-Dawn means a balance between tradition and innovation. In a recent interview with Murray Popplewell, he stated a core philosophy that has clearly shaped his life both personally and as a founder of Rae-Dawn. “In life,” he said, “there is only one constant, and that constant is change. It’s not something that can be stopped—things will change.” Murray went on to illustrate that statement with several diverse examples of emergent change at Rae-Dawn Arabians. At the forefront of his thoughts was the recent ascendance of world-recognized halter showman Alcides Rodrigues into a position of increased importance within the Rae-Dawn team. “The 2019 national shows will have Alcides Rodrigues on the lead for Rae-Dawn,” Murray relayed. “This will be his first Nationals with Team Rae-Dawn, but he is no stranger to winning on the national level. Alcides’ wife, Margaux, came aboard in late 2018 and he joined us in March of this year. Shirley and I feel so thankful to have a team packed with that level of experience. That includes three of the best grooms in the business: Margaux, Mendoza and Tony. Our Canadian group, headed up by Amie Sewell at the home farm in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, completes an international team that gives us confidence our horses always have the best care possible.” Murray’s admitted bias for his country’s ultimate championships is understandable. “The Canadian Nationals is the best national event!” Murray exclaimed. “That’s a bold statement, I know, but remember; that’s coming from a Canadian! The thing I really love about the Canadian Nationals is that everyone is together: performance, halter, youth, sport horse, working cow horse. It’s a united feeling, even with two show rings happening at the same time. The main ring has such a nice mixture of performance classes interwoven with halter, amateur and junior classes—it’s like horse shows used to be. Even with smaller numbers, the quality is at the top. We Canadians love to host our American competitors, without them our show could easily become a two-day event.” Rae-Dawn plans to bring the show horses that are presently in Scottsdale up to the Canadian farm two weeks prior to the national show. Murray explained, “We do that so the horses can acclimatize before making the additional six-hour trip to where the event is held in Brandon, Manitoba. This year, it will also give Alcides a chance to escape the Arizona heat and to see and feel the atmosphere that Shirley and our farm manager Amie create for the foals. He will also take the opportunity to observe the babies and start the selection process of which ones will be making the October trip to Scottsdale to start their show careers.” Although the Rae-Dawn breeding program continues to be successful and produces horses marketable on an international scale, Murray and Shirley are always seeking to improve upon that already strong foundation. “We are so excited that our friend, the experienced breeder Sam Peacemaker (and his team at PCF Arabians), has allowed us to purchase one of his treasured mares, Natalia PCF (Invictus PCF x Maria PCF, by DA Valentino), an Arabian National Breeder Finals champion. The transaction included her filly and an additional filly by 2018 U.S. National Champion Stallion Polidoro FC (DA Valentino x Abha Palma, by Marwan Al Shaqab) to supplement our mare group and this year’s amazing foal crop.” As the quality of the Arabian horse continues to move to new levels, Murray acknowledges that the task of breeding top tier horses gets more and more challenging. “From what we have seen this year of the foal crops of other breeders, the quality is amazing,” he said. “We as North Americans need to keep breeding functional, useful, beautiful Arabian horses to compete in the world market.” With opportunities to show against international breeders on this continent limited to just a handful of venues, Murray appreciates the value of testing the Rae-Dawn horses against those of breeders from around the world at the Arabian Breeders World Cup show held in Las Vegas every April. “I believe it’s one of the best halter shows in the world,” he remarked. “The simple reason I believe that is because of its focus on being fair to all exhibitors. Besides that, it includes and honors all breeders, big or small. As Arabian enthusiasts, we have to recognize the breeder more often. That is where it all starts—and breeding is not for the faint of heart! The 2019 show committee stepped it up a notch for everyone with extra show entertainment and the introduction of the new Liberty Plus classes. These classes really put the emphasis back on conformation of the horse and added a new and extra dimension on experiencing movement. Changes like these excite us.” Murray and Shirley Popplewell will continue to dedicate themselves to the betterment of the Arabian horse both at home and around the world. They remain open-minded and responsive to the changes that will come in the future. As the industry continues to evolve, Rae-Dawn Arabians will stay in step with the transformation that unfolds. The ability to effortlessly navigate the unknown is the skill that is keeping them ahead of the curve and will serve them well as they gallop into the future. It is the skill that keeps their breeding and training program robust and vibrant. As Murray Popplewell so aptly puts it, “Change is healthy.” Change is at the heart of the new dawn for Rae-Dawn Arabians.
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CANADIAN Hot Spots N AT I O N A L S Things To Do … THUNDERBIRD BOWL 2140 Currie Blvd. | 204-727-2695 | https://t-birds.ca The perfect place for family fun bowling and arcade games at an affordable price.
RIVERS PROVINCIAL PARK Rivers Provincial Park | Daly This park has a popular beach, spots to catch pike and walleye, and 3,800 acres to explore.
FUN TIME POTTERY 535 34th St. | 204-728-4659 | https://www.funtimepottery.net Explore your creative side by customizing pieces of pottery.
RIDEAU PARK 305 Park St. From an outdoor pool, lawn bowling to picnic tables, Rideau Park provides a place for families to immerse in outdoor activities.
BRANDON FLIGHT CENTRE 425 Agnew Drive | 204-728-7691 | http://brandonflightcentre.com/sightseeing/ Join Flight Centre for a premiere flight and experience all Brandon has to offer from a bird’s eye view.
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Things To Do ...
THE ZEN ZONE 346 10th St. | 204-740-0100 | http://www.zenzonebrandon.ca Step away from the hustle and bustle of Nationals and give into a peaceful mindset at The Zen Zone where you can take part in Yoga.
WHEATCITY COWTOWN 1740 18th St. North | 204-727-8225 | https://www.wheatcitycowtown.com Find all of your equine essentials, from home decor to training accessories, at Wheatcity Cowtown.
BRANDON FARMER’S MARKET 800 Rosser Ave. | http://brandonfarmersmarket.com Jonesing for fresh local fare? On Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., visit local vendors at the Brandon Farmer’s Market.
RIDING MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK 135 Wasagaming Dr. | Onanole | 204-848-7275 Whether you’re looking for a hiking trail, a spot to camp or a place to see wildlife, Riding Mountain National Park has everything nature has to offer.
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Places To Eat ...
DOUBLE DECKER TAVERN 943 Rosser Ave. | 204-727-4343 https://www.doubledeckertavern.com With live music every weekend, imported beers and an upbeat environment, Double Decker Tavern isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience. THE KEG STEAKHOUSE + BAR 1836 Brandon Ave. | 204-725-4223 | https://kegsteakhouse.com Bask in a fine dining experience with The Keg Steakhouse + Bar. PRAIRIE FIREHOUSE 637 Princess Ave. | 204-727-3117 http://www.prairiefirehouse.com/home.html Prairie Firehouse celebrates tradition with their historic building and food that pays homage to local culture with a modern twist. BEEF AND BARREL RESTAURANT 1850 1st St. North | 204-725-1200 | https://www.beefandbarrel.ca Home of the steer burger for 30 years, this restaurant prepares a range of cut in-house steaks. FRASER SNEATH COFFEE 1031 Rosser Ave. | 204-717-7546 | http://frasersneathcoffee.com This one-of-a-kind shop creates specialty coffees, teas and freshly made smoothies.
CHEZ ANGELA 29-C 10th St. | 204-721-0719 | https://chezangela.ca This bakery is passionate about baking from scratch and being “local-first.” MARINO’S PIZZA AND PASTA 441 10th St. | 204-578-5555 | http://marinospizzaandpasta.ca This hotspot for pizza and pasta believes that if it’s not broke, don’t fix it. They’ve been using their recipes for years and know that tradition makes them unique. TANA ETHIOPIAN CUISINE 302 10th St. | 204-717-4771 | https://www.tana-ethiopian.com Savor the flavors of Africa with this all you can eat feast filled with authentic Ethiopian cuisine. PIZZA EXPRESS 360 10th St. | 204-727-2727 | http://pizzaexpress.biz With three decades of pizza making and pizza eating experience, Pizza Express prepares handmade pizzas with the passion of bringing people together. KIM’S ASIAN RESTAURANT 42 Mctavish Ave. E | 204-571-9266 http://www.kimsasianrestaurant.ca For 29 years, Kim’s Asian Restaurant brings Brandon the taste of Japanese, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine.
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CANADIAN Hot Spots N AT I O N A L S
Florists …
THE BLOOMBOX 535 Princess Ave. | 204-726-0382 BRANDON FLORISTS 761 18th St. | 204-727-7673 https://www.brandonflorist.ca CAROLYN’S FLORAL DESIGN 726 18th St. | 204-728-9047 https://www.carolynsfloraldesigns.ca
Nails/Salons/Spas …
REGAL NAILS 903 18th St. N | 204-725-0060 https://www.facebook.com/RegalNailsBrandon/
NANCY’S NAILS 559 8th St. #6 | 204-727-2060 https://www.facebook.com/NancysNailsBrandon/ EUPHORIA SALON 138 10th St. | 204-725-2777 https://www.euphoriasalonbrandon.com PANTAGES SALON AND SPA 1360 Park Ave. | 204-727-2053 https://www.pantageshair.com OAK + IVY SALON 120 9th St. | 204-571-6245 http://oakandivysalon.ca/home.html
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N AT I O N A L S
CANADIAN
Judges’ Perspective
MIKE BEETHE Discipline(s) Judging: Halter and Performance (Main Ring) Years as a Judge: 19
What are your personal pros and cons of judging on a selected panel specific to divisions/classes vs. judging a typical class A show where you’re judging all divisions/ classes? I personally really like judging all divisions and classes at a given show, as it gives a higher degree of variety and it allows you to see more horses and trainers from the show. What small detail(s) do you feel are often overlooked to complete the overall presentation of a horse and rider/ handler? The way each horse is groomed and the rider presentation really impacts you when you are standing in the middle, especially at a National show. Each exhibitor (and their trainers) should think about what it is like standing in the middle and seeing a horse/rider combination for the first time. What do you want that first impression to be? Then try to hit all those details and present the best picture you can.
As a judge, what is something that you always appreciate seeing? What is your biggest pet peeve? I always appreciate a rider that presents their horse like they want to win the class. You can tell from the middle of the arena, those riders that truly want to win. That is so important at a big show. Sometimes it is hard to put a finger on what it is that shows you the rider wants to win the class, but you often know it when you see it. Sometimes it means riding off the rail and showing your horse off. Sometimes it is simply knowing when to show off and when to take it back a notch. But that doesn’t mean that every pass has to be the closest horse to the judge. That takes me to my biggest pet peeve: overshowing your horse. In English, that could be going too fast and/or pushing too hard. In Western, it could mean trying to go on too big of a drape. Go for the win, but don’t do so much that you lose the true quality of your horse and its performance. How do you respond when people accuse/assume the outcome of a class was political? Any time I hear someone criticize the outcome of a class, whether it being attributed to bad judging or politics, I always say that you have to be standing in the middle of the arena judging that class. That means having the pressure of judging the class and make the placings, in front of the entire audience. That means having to devote 100% of your attention to that class, seeing all the good and bad things that develop during the class (as opposed to sitting on the sidelines and watching the class while having a discussion or not paying total attention to the class). And it means having to make decisions that you don’t always want to make, ensuring that the class is judged properly, trying to pin the best horse possible while following the rules and specifications of the class. Most of the time, when people put themselves in the place of the judge, they will understand why the judge placed it the way he/she did.
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What advice would you give to someone considering pursuing getting their judges card? Go for it! Judging is fun and rewarding, and it really opens your eyes as an exhibitor (knowing what it is like from center ring). Just know that it takes a lot of time, money and effort to obtain and maintain your card. You also have to be prepared to judge all the divisions, even those in which you don’t know well or have experience. It is also important to know how hard it is to balance judging with the rest of your life—your job, family and other obligations.
The other thing that I would love to see is better equitation on some riders. It is very sad when you look at a maneuver and realize that the horse is not incorrect, but the rider’s equitation is putting the picture off. As a judge, what is something that you always appreciate seeing? What is your biggest pet peeve? I appreciate seeing a true partnership and trust between horse and rider. When a horse will stand quiet at centre and wait for his rider’s cue with anticipation in his eye, ready for the next move. I love seeing a good trail horse absolutely hunt a trail course with confidence and quiet skill. Another thing I greatly appreciate is the evidence of good horsemanship when things do go wrong. When a rider goes back to training and turns what could be a bad experience into a learning one. One of my pet peeves is harsh hands and artificial gaits. How do you respond when people accuse/assume the outcome of a class was political? One of the great things about judging working western is that we have score sheets that are posted within the day, so you are totally accountable to your scoring. We also have the asset of video review on major penalties. It is much harder for anyone to say the placings are political because everything is there in black and white. We are judging against a standard and not comparing one horse to another, so politics should never enter the equation.
BETH HORA Discipline(s) Judging: Working Western Panel Years as a Judge: 13 What are your personal pros and cons of judging on a selected panel specific to divisions/classes vs. judging a typical class A show where you’re judging all divisions/classes? Pros of judging on a division specific panel are that you have a very clear focus point of where your eye needs to be. You can mentally prepare for your select few classes and be at your best. We are lucky with the working western division as there are many video tools to help prepare us for our job and get us in the zone.
What advice would you give to someone considering pursuing getting their judges card? Never quit learning and exposing yourself to new opportunities. Scribe, learner judge, volunteer, anything that gives you a chance to see more horses. Also, ask questions. Ask why the senior judge placed the class as they did. Ask what they saw that you didn’t. Some of my best learning experiences were having to view a class through someone’s eyes that saw differently than mine.
Cons for me are that you tend to get hired for only your area of expertise and it is hard to keep your eye as skilled in the other divisions. This is one of the reasons I sit and try to watch as much of the rest of the show as possible. What small detail(s) do you feel are often overlooked to complete the overall presentation of a horse and rider/handler? From a working western angle, one of the things I feel is often missing from some rides, especially Amateur rides, is a solid game plan and knowledge of their horse’s strengths and weaknesses; that ability to regroup and keep showing even after a bobble. One poor maneuver does not kill a run ... several in a row because you’re mentally still back on your boo-boo, will not serve you well. Ar abian Horse Times | 37 | Volume 50, No. 2
VICKI HUMPHREY Discipline(s) Judging: Main Ring Years as a Judge: 40+ What are your personal pros and cons of judging on a selected panel specific to divisions/classes vs. judging a typical class A show where you’re judging all divisions/classes? In an ideal world, all judges who had the same training should be able to judge all divisions equally well. In reality, the division we live and breed, English or western, reining, etc., becomes our area of expertise; no different than doctors who specialize in cancer treatments or heart surgery. For that reason, I think judges who are on a panel that judge an area they are familiar with on a daily basis, have an easier time making the many decisions in a timely manner. Conversely, judges who are on a rotating panel or who judge all classes at A shows, see the horses in a fresh, unbiased way and might have a fresh perspective on a particular division they do not see daily. One of the best Equitation panels we had at Youth Nationals was comprised of two halter trainers and a western trainer. Their expertise and ability to judge a division they personally did not see on a daily basis was as good as it gets.
The pros and cons of how panels are comprised and their success will have to be determined on a case by case basis. What small detail(s) do you feel are often overlooked to complete the overall presentation of a horse and rider/handler? All small details are important. While a dirty bit or hoof polish that stops half way around a foot may not cost you a class, it tells a story. If a judge notices you have cut corners in your presentation, they may wonder what other corners have been cut in the training, management, feeding and conditioning of your horse. It may not affect your ribbon until the third time a judge sees fetlocks untrimmed, or dirty stirrups, when it moves from the back to the front of their mind as they write down numbers. As a judge, what is something that you always appreciate seeing? What is your biggest pet peeve? I love to see a rider use the ring, ride straight lines and use the corners. My pet peeves are riders that circle center ring and do not use the ring well, and riders that get in another rider’s space or interfere with another rider’s ability to show their horse. I love fierce competition in the ring, as long as it is respectful and shows good sportsmanship. How do you respond when people accuse/assume the outcome of a class was political? So often, owners have developed their own set of specs for their classes. I encourage every spectator and owner to read the AHA and USEF specs for each class they show in. It helps teach owners the criteria they need to pay attention to. Some mistakes are easy for a novice competitor to see, like a wrong lead or a break of gait. What is much harder for them to see is poor cadence, lack of form, poor hocks. These are faults as well, but harder to determine for a novice. So often, a horse with great cadence and form makes a mistake but beats a horse with no obvious mistakes but bad frame or gait. Politics is blamed if owners can’t justify the reason. And the reason, most often, is that the judge is more educated than the owners, and judging to the Rule Book specs. What advice would you give to someone considering pursuing getting their judges card? Judging is a privilege and a responsibility. If it’s something you want to pursue, educate yourself, get lots of experience and develop a system that works for you. If you do your homework, know your rules and judge according to the specs, you can contribute greatly to the industry.
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When judging dressage tests, I always feel so proud of the rider for simply going down that centerline! It takes guts and perseverance to subject yourself to judgement of your riding skills. Often, I feel that riders are afraid to really RIDE once they enter the ring. Hoping that the horse will just do the job is not a real formula for success. Preparing each movement, being proactive, thinking ahead, setting up the horse for the tasks and showing your horse off … these are things that a capable rider takes control of. As a judge, what is something that you always appreciate seeing? What is your biggest pet peeve? I always appreciate seeing a wellmatched pair, meaning the rider is not overfaced with a horse that is too much for her/him to handle and the horse is not overfaced with the tasks of the level. When a rider presents their horse down centerline, the pair should show that there is an educated partnership and solid capability at the level of the test. We all know that things go wrong at times, but even then, it is usually obvious to the judge when there is a solid foundation and when there is not.
JODI LEES Discipline(s) Judging: Dressage Years as a Judge: 16 What are your personal pros and cons of judging on a selected panel specific to divisions/classes vs. judging a typical class A show where you’re judging all divisions/classes? Panel judging as opposed to being the only judge in the ring: Panel judging is truly a benefit to the rider. In Europe, rarely is there a show that does not have at least two judges for all classes. When a rider receives scores and comments from more than one perspective, it gives that rider an overall and more global view of the ride. Scores from different viewpoints can certainly vary because what is seen from C and from B can be very different stories. Of course, our rides in the ring are all about showing the judges how the training of the horse is progressing according to the requirements of the level. Riders are well aware that having only one judge at C can hide a lot of inconsistencies that the judge on the side would be able to see. I believe that there should be more panel judging rather than less. This not only gives the rider a more honest assessment of the performance, but also allows judges to keep a more immediate and open conversation that is valuable for maintaining consistency. Judges truly attempt to be fair and consistent. Panel judging helps this process because there is more accountability and discussion. One of the main reasons that we see less panel judging in North America is because it is more expensive for show management to hire more judges. That cost would be passed on to the riders, and many shows are reluctant to take the chance that riders will want to pay more for each class. Not only is there an added expense for the judges, but now show management needs to find double the number of scribes and do double the amount of calculating/scoring of tests. What small detail(s) do you feel are often overlooked to complete the overall presentation of a horse and rider/handler? Obviously, presenting a well-groomed horse and an appropriately attired competitor with a professional demeanor is fundamental to the overall presentation.
As for pet peeves, I think I feel most frustrated when a rider and horse are trying to ride above their level of capability and simply cannot meet the requirements of the level. You cannot pretend to have connection, positioning, suppleness, alignment, impulsion or straightness. These are the basic elements of the Pyramid of Training. Everyone wants to move onward and upward, but without correct basics, it is destined for hardship. Judges really want to give good scores, so giving bad scores makes our day that much more difficult, too. How do you respond when people accuse/assume the outcome of a class was political? I don’t really understand this sentiment of political judging. I have never been political, nor have I ever known myself to be a victim of political judging in my own riding. I feel that judges sincerely attempt to be as transparent as possible. We all know each other and have to face each other with the results of our judging. There are so many forums and educational opportunities that help judges to be more on the same page with scores. Trying to make a subjective position as objective as possible requires constant and continual education. All of the responsible organizations know this and continue to upgrade the education of judges around the world. What advice would you give to someone considering pursuing getting their judges card? START AS EARLY AS YOU CAN! This gets you on the track faster and gives you more time to complete the requirements. Also, it gives you the chance to see if judging is going to be something you enjoy. Stay on top of the process and all of the requirements, meaning don’t dally along. Keep at it! Apply as soon as you can for each new level of judging because the system can be fraught with delays and you want to be able to take every opportunity WHEN it is offered! If you find that you like judging, DON’T GIVE UP! Like training a horse, it takes time and practice to get comfortable and confident with your skills.
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My biggest pet peeve is when competitors do not jog in a straight line past the judges’ booth. I will make them jog again until it’s right!
DIANE RATIGAN Discipline(s) Judging: Hunter, Hack, Equitation, Jumper Years as a Judge: Since 2002 What are your personal pros and cons of judging on a selected panel specific to divisions/classes vs. judging a typical class A show where you’re judging all divisions/ classes? The shows where you are only judging specific classes as part of a larger program are typically more prestigious. This brings with it some added pressure. But it is also fun to be part of that type of show; the atmosphere is charged and super competitive. It’s a great energy. It is wonderful to see competitors and horses rise to the occasion.
How do you respond when people accuse/assume the outcome of a class was political? I think that it is too easy to say, “Oh, the judge doesn’t like my horse,” or “They like so and so better.” Remember, you didn’t watch the entire class from the exact same perspective as the judge. They may have seen something you didn’t. Or on that particular day, someone else was just that much better than you. Ultimately you need to leave it all in the ring and put forth your best performance and be happy with that, regardless of the final results. What advice would you give to someone considering pursuing getting their judges card? Judging is very much about being able to keep good notes and proper bookkeeping. You have to be able to remember from the first horse all the way to the last horse in the ring, and keep it all straight to pin the class. I would highly recommend sitting with a judge to see if you enjoy doing it and can manage the paperwork. If it’s for you, then go for it! Do some local schooling shows to get experience and start working on getting your judge’s card. It can be a lengthy process, but it’s worth the investment of your time. I really enjoy being able to judge all over this great country and give back to my sport.
A show where you judge all the classes in a program can make for a lonely and long day. Especially if the judges’ booth is far away from everything. It’s just you and your In-Gate person at the end of a radio. But honestly, any day I can spend watching horses is a great day for me. What small detail(s) do you feel are often overlooked to complete the overall presentation of a horse and rider/handler? Proper fitting tack is a must. It can really detract from the overall picture if something doesn’t fit properly. Something as simple as an ill-fitting saddle pad can really take away from a performance. And, of course, dirty boots. Make sure they are gleaming before you head into the ring. Look the part to be the part! As a judge, what is something that you always appreciate seeing? What is your biggest pet peeve? Pat your horse; it’s a partnership and I love watching when there is a real connection between the horse and rider. And that the horse is enjoying their job and the rider is appreciative of the effort.
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What advice would you give to someone considering pursuing getting their judges card? Absolutely do it! It’s a great way to give back to the industry, to see great horses from different regions, and is definitely an eye-opener. And it will broaden your horizons. Plus, you will get to meet a lot of great people out there. ■
NATHAN SALAMY Discipline(s) Judging: Main Ring Years as a Judge: 12 What are your personal pros and cons of judging on a selected panel specific to divisions/classes vs. judging a typical class A show where you’re judging all divisions/ classes? I enjoy judging both. When judging Class A shows, it seems the day goes by faster because you’re busier. It also means that you’ll be standing on your feet all day which can get rather tiring. When judging on a panel, it gives you more breaks and normally means that the show has a larger number of horses showing in it and a lot of quality horses. It also gives you time to get to know your fellow judges that you normally don’t get a chance to talk with. As a judge, what is something that you always appreciate seeing? What is your biggest pet peeve? I always appreciate seeing manners, especially with the younger group. I also love good competition. My main pet peeve is having to wait for the first horse to enter the gate, especially when you see them all out there, they are ready, and no one wants to be first. How do you respond when people accuse/assume the outcome of a class was political? It will always be “political” in someone’s eyes. The fact of it is, that we can only place one horse first, one horse second, etc. If it happens to be a well-known trainer or rider that places well, it always seems to be political to those that don’t place. We only have so many ribbons to give out sometimes. But my response would be, feel free to get your judges card.
Ar abian Horse Times | 41 | Volume 50, No. 2