The Bottom Line – An EC Blog by Judge Jennifer Sawyer
Jennifer White and Bueno. Photo credit: Keli Wakeley Photography
An EC Blog by Jennifer Sawyer
With thousands of miles spent on the road already this year, I feel inspired to talk about things from the judge’s side of the pen. There is constant banter on social media these days about “what judges look for” and a million and one questions about every pattern and every maneuver a show manager posts. Almost a panic level to find a way to succeed.
The bottom line in regard to success in showing (and I don’t mean winning a ribbon) is CONNECTION and COMMITMENT. And that only comes with hours in the saddle and on the ground, challenging yourself beyond your comfort level and putting aside time both in the barn and on your own time to grow with homework, reading up and understanding the game inside and out. With these tools in place you will be ready to walk through the gate and master anything the judge throws at you.
Whether you show ranch, all around events, over fences, etc., it’s about being a true team player. It’s about you and your horse first and foremost. That’s what truly sets you apart and above. Next comes your “back”, that trainer, instructor, coach, or mentor who is your go to. Who keeps you straight, is your eyes on the ground and the voice of reason when your head isn’t in the game. Last is the list of support team members from family to veterinarians to farriers and body work people (for both of you!).
Success is measured at all levels and each of us has our own gauge for what that means. The level of commitment to place at a local show is a way different animal than to step into the pen and hear your name called on the breed show circuit or get on a judge’s card at a world show. Each of these is equally respected, one person’s win at the county fair is another person’s top 10 in the nation. But ALL these require that connection and commitment. Without those two essential components the machine that is your performance won’t run and you will find yourself back where you started.
Creds to my client Jennifer White and her ranch hoss, Bueno, for this great example of expression on the log work in Ranch Riding. This was the pony who would run away from a plain, unpainted pole this spring.
“Anything is possible with connection and commitment.”
An accredited PtHA, ABRA, POAC and GVHS judge, Jennifer Sawyer is a past contributor for Equus Magazine, Horse and Rider Magazine and other publications, and she was inspired to freelance these words of wisdom this week.
