Dressage writers' shorthand

[hussar]

I have been arm-twisted into writing for a dressage judge tomorrow (not even sure what test - probably a Prelim) and have forgotten nearly all the shorthand symbols apart from O for 'circle' and C for half-circle. Can anyone remind me what some of the others are?

 

[JLav]

Half circle is 1/2 O.

Many words are shortened ie trans (transition), imp (impulsion), fwds (forwards), 1/4s (quarters), C-L (centre line), G&R (give and retake), RB (rein back), med, (medium), ext (extended), pir (pirouette).

Can't think of anymore right now but I'm sure others will chime in with some more.

Remember how to spell RHYTHM!!!

Have fun.

 

[JoBo]

[] – square, as in halt. Well that’s my input. I did some writing last weekend and realised how slow I actually write. It was an insight.

 

[little_critter]

I have written for judges at prelim a few times (local, low key show) and don't find I use much shorthand. Only really O for circle, 1/4s for quarters and [] for square. I write fast-ish.
It really depends on the judge - some talk more than others!
Make sure you have a clipboard and a selection of pens.
I enjoy it, it makes you think about what the judge is looking for, I also like to try to (privately) second guess the judge and see if what I think is the same as what the judge says.

 

[hussar]

Thanks everyone - that's really helpful. I'm looking forward to it as it's years since I last even watched a test, let alone wrote for one. I like the comment about (privately) second-guessing the judge as I do remember blurting out Oh Dear! once at a very poor transition and getting a withering look from the judge before she marked it as a 2 ...