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EQUI JUDGES SERIES
July 31, 2012
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Contact: Jacquelyn Leuener
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Hello Equi-Notes News members. We'd like to introduce the
Equi Judges Series.
These are quick emails to gain insight for exhibiting and showing horses.
Meet highly qualified and experienced Judges from ALL disciplines and read their answers to your questions.
Even if showing is not your forte, you'll enjoy learning about those who have a passion for it.
~If the Equi Judges Series is not of interest, please just
email us here and we'll remove your address. That way you still receive our monthly Equi-Notes Newsletter~ Thank you for your support! Click to Send Your Show Question
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WESTERN SHOW QUESTION
Thank you~JUDGE MARK SHERIDAN
AQHA World Show Judge
HOW DO I GIVE MY HORSEMANSHIP PATTERNS THE POLISHED LOOK THAT CAN WIN AND WHAT ARE THE FIRST THINGS THAT CATCH YOUR EYE AS A JUDGE?
That is a great question and I could go on and on for hours about what it takes to win. This article will be part one of many installments. I will talk about the basics and importance of horsemanship. I always find myself wanting to get up and help everyone in the class and give my opinions on how they could improve their scores. That is the trainer and coach in me.I realize that is not my place as a judge or while judging. I do welcome questions after the class, if time permits or during down time at the show. The very first thing I notice is your hat.
 I don't personally care about how much silver you have on your saddle, or how much bling you have on your outfit. But, if your hat looks like it has been in a rain storm or you slept with it on, my first impression is going to be very low. First impressions are the most important, and as humans we all make first impressions especially being a judge. We are paid to do a good job and evaluations from the start are where it all begins. You do not need to have a thousand dollar hat, but you do need to have it shaped correctly by a knowledgeable person that can clean and block your hat. I have a 100x myself that cost that much and have had it for over 10 years. You can buy a 25x or 50x and if taken care of, will look just fine and last a lifetime. But when it comes to hats, you get what you pay for. It will need maintenance from time to time to keep it looking good. I purchase most of my hats and clients hats from companies in Georgia, Texas, and California. I only allow about three people to touch my hat when it comes to reshaping and cleaning. It must be kept out of the rain, it must be kept out of the horse trailer on hot days, and when you are done at the end of each day, lightly brush it off, and store it in your hat can. Make sure that the crown holder is adjusted properly where the brim does not sit on the bottom of the can. Do not sit your hat down on the brim, always upside down on the crown, and never, ever sit it on the bed. That is just bad luck! Now you know how important the hat is, in my opinion.
Click Image for Mark's Website
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