Just as exhibitors, horses, and trainers have their noses to the grindstone in preparation for World Show season, so do those who will occupy the center of the pen – the judges. Being chosen to judge at the most prestigious event of the season is not taken lightly. In fact, it may be the crowning achievement of a career.

Gripping a compact mirror in her hand, perched on the folding chair in the aisle of the barn, an amateur competitor applies lipstick as grooms and show horses bustled by. Squinting into the mirror once more, she reaches out and grabs the arm of one of her younger barn mates. “Is this too much? Or not enough?” she asks, tilting her face up to the dim light. “I always use a bright lipstick when I show,” answers the teen, glancing over her shoulder, wishing desperately for another amateur to come along to chime in with advice.