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Penn State Horse Show Judges School
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I was honored to be a featured speaker at the Penn State Horse Show Judges School this past weekend in State College, Pennsylvania. More than 110 people registered for the two-day school, which was hosted by the Penn State Extension and the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences.
As the USEF R-rated judge invited, I presented sessions on judging Hunters over fences, under saddle and Equitation over fences and on the flat. I created PowerPoints on what we look for when we're judging, how the process works in judging and setting up a card, and then we critiqued videos and discussed them together. With an attentive and enthusiastic audience that asked great questions, we all enjoyed a terrific learning experience.
Because of the snow and ice in the Midwest, our American Quarter Horse Association judge and featured speaker Art O'Brien, of the University of Findlay (Ohio), couldn't make it until Sunday. But, wow, was he worth the wait! I was so impressed with his presentations and knowledge. I had many takeaways and took lots of notes. Even though I'm not a western rider or judge, I realized once again that we all share many of the same attributes when judging. We're looking out for the welfare of the horse, the safety of the riders, and, of course, hoping to judge some amazing performances!
One of my favorite quotes from Art's presentations was: "If you want to see more of it, put it first."
It's often said that if you want to win, emulate the winners. So, through how we place classes, we as judges have a role in how a sport evolves.
Therefore, once again, I was reminded how important it is to keep learning and take every opportunity to expand your knowledge. I took home a lot of great information from this weekend at Penn State, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to share my knowledge but, more importantly, learn from others!
As always,
Tricia
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Rob Bielefeld: On Pinned Ears
Candice Appleberry, a Facebook contributor, asked: "Can we talk about pinned ears while cantering?" How does this impact a horse's score in a hunter class on the flat or over fences?
Judging WTF Panelist Rob Bielefeld: Hi, great question! I think in lower-level divisions, anything under 2'3", it’s OK. I have had some great beginner-type horses that might have their ears back but are saints! Safety is most important in these divisions. That being said, in the upper levels expression is important—starting with younger hunters all the way up to First Year Green and beyond, in both over fences and under saddle.
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We had great responses to the Judging WTF Question of the Week. Veteran judges and horsemen Tony Sgarlata and Brian Lenehan shared their depth of knowledge with us on Instagram:
Tony - "Side-saddle, unless mane is roached and tail pulled. But, side-saddle is also the only place I’ve found that requires leather tack for hunters. It’s amazing how we just assume so many things to be fact. It’s great that you point this out."
Brian: Side-saddle tack must also be sewn in as used to be the requirement also for appointment/Corinthian classes
Over on Facebook, Bailey Edwards made an excellent observation: "...Tradition and respect for the ring, judges and privilege this great sport offers us is usually why rated hunters are braided. Additionally, braiding does and should show off (or improve) the top line of the horse."
Thank you to all who contributed to the great discussions on social media!
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Julie & Tricia Out and About
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Julie is based at the Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California through March. She will be signing books this Saturday, February 12, at Mountain Mercantile. Stop by the shop on Vendor Row from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. for your personalized book!
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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