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Most of the time our sport is based on individual results, and while we always cheer on our barn mates and friends, our time in the show ring is ours alone. Perhaps that's why I enjoy attending and judging the scholastic competitions so much. It's all about the team camaraderie, and it's contagious!
Last weekend, I spent time at White Horses, home of the College of Charleston Equestrian team (South Carolina), as they hosted the IHSA Regionals. As I signed and sold books near the awards table, I observed the riders picking up their ribbons after their classes. It was wonderful to see that not only were the blue ribbons cherished and celebrated, but even the pinks and greens were held up proudly as teammates took photos to send to parents.
For many of these riders new to the sport, learning to ride and show will make lifelong memories and set them on a path to a long future in the sport. It's very special to see these moments, and they remind me how fortunate we are to be here in this community among those who share our passion for the horse. As time goes by, I try my best to remember not to take these days for granted.
As always,
Tricia
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Julie Winkel: On The Halt
MJ Kaplan, a newsletter subscriber, asked: "I would love to hear what a judge wants to see in a halt transition. Leg, no leg...hip angle, etc.?"
Judging WTF Co-Author Julie Winkel: When the halt is asked for in the Equitation classes, the judge is looking for a smooth and prompt transition, with the horse remaining uphill in balance, immobile, straight, square and on soft contact. The halt should continue for 4 to 6 seconds.
To achieve this, the rider sinks in, opens their upper body a split second before closing their fingers on the reins to communicate invisibly to the horse. As the horse shifts his weight rearward, the rider softens the pressure at the right time to achieve a square halt, in front of leg and straight through the body. The rider’s upper body is open in a full seat with relaxed arms and soft hands.
The major penalties, as outlined in our book, are a horse dropping behind the bit, taking a step or more backwards, the horse raises his head above the bit, halting crooked, roughness or resistance in the communication between horse and rider, having a downhill/on the forehand balance, and not standing still long enough.
P.S. Today, March 8th, we wish Julie a Happy Birthday!
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The Judging WTF Question of the Week rocked this week—thank you so much!
We had a ton of responses, and most people knew the answer: "A lead change is considered late when it doesn't occur before the turn."
We loved reading all of the comments! (Often funny—and our favorite was from Michael O'Malley!)
Michael O'Malley
I know! When the judge marks it on the card as such!!!!
When it said it would arrive at 9:00 and it is now 9:45....
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Do you have any judging questions? Hit the button and let us know!
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Julie & Tricia Out and About
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Julie's next outing will be a clinic March 19-20 at Blue Heron Equestrian Center in Poulsbo, Washington. You can find Tricia in South Carolina and next attending the March Madness II show, March 18-19, at Highfields Event Center in Aiken.
To learn more about Tricia's and Julie's upcoming clinics and book signings, please view their calendar on judgingwtf.com and Julie's clinic schedule on maplewoodstables.com.
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Judging Hunters and Equitation WTF? - The Course
CLINICIANS JULIE WINKEL AND TRICIA BOOKER
RENO, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 3-4, 2022
After reading the book, are you ready to put your knowledge to the test and learn even more?
Judging Hunters & Equitation WTF? - The Course is an exciting new clinic based on the recently released book of the same name by Julie Winkel and Tricia Booker. This clinic takes the mystery out of judging Hunters and Equitation and allows you to understand step-by-step the processes involved through an educational yet entertaining platform. You’ll never look at judging the same again while becoming a savvier competitor in the show ring.
This clinic, which benefits the Goodtoknow Horses 501(c)3, is open to auditors, riders, trainers, parents, judges and anyone interested in learning more about judging and the processes involved, from ethics and integrity to bookkeeping, rules and licensing.
For more information and to register, please visit: Goodtoknowhorses.org.
To book your own Judging WTF Clinic with Julie and/or Tricia, please contact us for available dates for 2022 and customized options for your specific needs (info@judgingwtf.com).
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This newsletter is based on the book Judging Hunters and Equitation WTF? (Want The Facts?) by Julie Winkel and Tricia Booker.
We're thrilled to have you join us as we spend time together talking about judging, the history of the sport, scoring, tips to improve your show ring performances, judges' pet peeves, and show ring strategies, and best of all answering your questions! Something on your mind? Email us: info@judgingwtf.com
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