What is the judge looking for in the RoR Show Series Class when they ride my ex-racehorse?
Initially the judge is looking for a comfortable and safe conveyance. They will also want to see what level of retraining your horse has received. They will want your horse to be ‘soft and round’ and be obedient. They will be assessing whether he has settled into his new job and is accepting of his new show ring surroundings. Make sure you teach him to canter on either legs and to stand quietly whilst the judge gets on and off. It is a good idea to ask a friend to sit on your horse at home before you enter for a show. All judges ride differently and the more people riding your horse at home the better prepared he will be to give the judge a nice ride. Remember if there is a gentleman judge he is likely to have larger feet than lady riders. Make sure you stirrups are big enough and that the leathers long enough. You can always carry a spare ‘judges’ pair in your grooming kit if you don’t fancy juggling your feet in large irons!
