Judging Hunters & Equitation - The Book

“As licensed officials, we’re the spokespersons for our sport. Through writing and producing this book, we have the opportunity to shed a positive light on this sport that we love, as well as paving a golden path for the future through education and a greater understanding of what sometimes seems like a mystery.”

— From The Introduction

How this book can help you.

The goal of this book is to demystify the subjective process of judging hunters, hunter breeding and equitation. Horse shows have been in existence in the United States for well more than 150 years, and understanding the judging process begins with knowing how foxhunting and its traditions have translated to our modern show ring hunters as well as the equitation ring.

Judging Hunters & Equitation delves into the history of showing and how the rules and regulations evolved based on foxhunting. The authors then explain how and why major and minor faults are scored as they are, the process judges use to mark their cards, score and place horses and riders in their respective classes, and outline how to become a judge. They then identify the ideals judges seek in the hunter and equitation rings, strategies to help you improve your performances in the show ring and an analysis of how major competitions are judged. 

Interspersed within the chapters is advice from top judges throughout the country who offer their own helpful hints to score higher, mistakes to avoid and the best ways to impress them. In addition, the book includes “Field Notes” from the authors’ experiences judging, reflections of past competitions and personal stories from the judge’s booth.

This book will not only unveil the mystery of judging, but it will also entertain, inspire and help you make the most of your partnership with your horse.