From: barrelmom (ANNETTE60) [#1]
1 Jun 14:04
To: ALL
We work with our kids all winter to get them ready to show. We teach them how to groom and show halter and showmanship. We teach them how to ride properly and safely. We teach them to wash, groom, band and braid for riding classes. We teach them the "universally accepted" rules of western pleasure, hunt seat, and speed events. The kids practice hard all winter for a chance to show their stuff.
It is really sad when they get to the show, after a day of prepration, to find a judge that has no clue about their event. I understand that someone might not know all the rules of every event but some are just basic. Like - you never use two hands with a curb bit in a western pleasure class. You do not have boots on your horse in a western pleasure class.
But the most sad thing of all is when the judge gives lessons to several of the participants in the classes. That is a major conflict of interest and is "Not Fair". And what is worse is to stand in front of the announcers stand and make plans for the next lesson with the barn!!!!
Am I the only one that has an issue with this? I do not mind getting beat fair and square, but there is nothing fair about the judge calling the kids and the horses by name because she gives them lessons!!!!!
From: Suanna [#2]
3 Jun 9:42
To: barrelmom (ANNETTE60) [#1] unread
I can understand your anger and frustration, but your information is not completely correct.
As for "universally accepted rules" The GCSC has no written rules about how a participant is to ride, nor how someone is supposed to judge any of the rail classes. The only thing our rules state is the following: "Decisions made by judges and referees are final, in all aspects of judgment."
I do want you to know, that I personally spoke with Terresa when she first gave me the list of of the judges for the season, because the same question came up last year as well. She told me then as well as a few minutes ago, that the only people that take lessons from the judge we had at the first show is herself, her daughter and one other student of hers, and none of them show with us.
If you have any other questions or comments, please feel free to contact me by phone or by email and we can discuss it further.
Thank You,
Suanna Geater