The classical trainer blames the judges for not penalizing the riders for riding behind the vertical.
The judge states I can only judge what is in front of me. I can't judge what I never see.
The spectators are horrified that horses rollkured are winning top medals.
The judges say, well... the horse’s head is up when he is in the arena.
The classical author wonders why the judges allow the lack of collection to continue to be rewarded.
The judge says that isn’t my job. I commented that the horse needed impulsion. I only have time to make a few short comments.
The judge clarifies it is the trainer’s job to train. It is mine to let them know that it is insufficient, not enough time to say why it is.
The judges have a point. This is how we have set up our marking system.
The judges only have a short time to make one of two comments on any test sheet. Busy as they are marking every movement.
Many have searched for an alternative way to set up a dressage test. Looking for an answer for a system that intelligent yet ruthless people have learned to work around. Training one way, riding another in front of the judges. Rollkured horses, brought up only for the few moments they are in the arena in front of the judge.
Expensive horses, beyond the reach of most riders, so talented that their bodies can work under extreme conditions. And those that can't? Well, they are never heard from again.
So, what is the answer?
To Read the Rest of the Article Login to Your Subscription first!
Check out our Subscription Options