Dressage Writing

[sp33dy]

I'm thinking of helping out the local riding club by doing some writing for dressage tests.
Does anyone have any advice, I did it once a few years ago and seem to remember thinking it would be better to know what abbreviations could/should be used?

Any advice appreciated.

 

[silverstar]

I regularly do this for my local club. Its good to see what the common mistakes most riders/horses make.

The only tip I have is use O for circle cant think of anything else. I always spell rhythym wrong and I hate that word when having to write fast.

 

[happihorse]

Main thing is to try to write as clearly as possible - I know that you need to write very fast, but it is very frustrating not to be able to read the judges comments when you have done a test.

The only other abbreviations I can think of are square (ie a box), forward (ie 4ward) and quarters (ie 1/4's (as in falling out)) - mainly text speak!

From a learning point of view, dressage writing is really beneficial and highlights many of the common mistakes made by riders.

 

[Imonone]

British Dressage produce a sheet called guidelines for writers which lists the important do/donts and common abbreviations.

You will find it extremely instructive to write for listed judges, others can vary and centres often offer vouchers etc for writers for helping out. A good writer is worth their weight in gold and they keep the sport going through their support.

The most important thing imho is confidentiality, sheets are confidential and shouldnt be discussed except by the judge and competitor and not to talk unless invited to, it can be quite off putting when you are judging and your writer keeps offering their opinion/comments.

I hope you give it a go I am sure you will enjoy it.

 

[lorenababbit]

use whichever common abbrieviations you are comfy with. as a judge i am more concern writer can keep up and be legible than wether they can spell properly. as long s the letters are clear the meaning can genrally be deduced. but the other posters are correct BD does have a pamphlet and most listed judges are happy to help you if asked.

 

[sp33dy]

Thanks for all your advise.
Mickey66 do you know where to get the BD guidelines from - I can't see it on their web site?

 

[Orangehorse]

"Offer comments" !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wouldn't dare! I generally agree with everything the judge says. Some are talkative and want to discuss every rider with the writer - others are complete c*****ws (well, only one to be honest). It is nice when they want to discuss the tests, but beware the ones that want an essay on every movement because then there is no time to look.

It is certainly VERY interesting and well worth it. I can never spell rhythm under pressure either!