Good day...but I have a few questions!!!

[benson21]

So, Heathfield show today!!
Donovan loaded almost first time, so really pleased with that. Got there, got ready and went to the ring. we were entered in the 5yr old and over m&m sec B. there were 4 in the class.
He walked round really nicely, then trotted but broke into canter just once, as did the other 3.
Then they were lined up, and he was put 4th. Done his individual show and still ended 4th, which was fine.
The judge said to OH that he was 4th because he was still a baby.
We are really pleased we went because of the experience, and getting used to a bigger show, but my question is, if the class is open to 5yrs old and over, is it right or usual to mark a horse down because its only 5?

 

[misst]

This is why I hate showing, it is so subjective and is hard sometimes to understand the decisions made. I do wonder if instead of calling him a baby she meant green? It would make more sense if he looked green in the ring and would have more to do with lack of experience than age if you see what I mean

 

[Happy Hunter]

It bugs me sometimes - I know this is the reason I dont show!

Perhaps she was commenting on his muscle development and balance??? (I'm not saying he is a wonky bone bag!!!) (that would be me )

 

[orionstar]

The judge probably meant green. I was pulled in second in a county ridden class on my 5 year old after the initial ride around but was dropped to fourth after the individual because it took her a couple of seconds longer to respond to the canter aids than it should of. The judge was lovelly and explained this to me and I was more than happy as there was 17 horses in the class. Now I allways ask for constructive feed back as it tells me what I need to work on for the next time, and if it makes you feel any better it happens to us all. I was once told by a very red faced and embarrased judge in an in hand class, that the reason I was placed third was because my horses chestnuts were too big - 1st place couldnt get her horse to actually move in the trot up and second was sporting a dressage whip and no hat - but they were good friends so that didnt count!

 

[Walrus]

I think because he is quite young he may have not looked as mature as some of the others, just a guess. Judges tend to like them chunky and bulked up for in hand (not saying that's correct mind you). MY fell was a July foal and his previous owners didn't show him as a 3 year old as he looked too weedy compared to his peers. EVen now at rising 6 I always say he's not an in hand pony because I keep him too slim and he's not built like a house side! YOur lad is only young isn't he, maybe he just looked a bit immature compared to some older ponies. ANd showing is so subjective you could go out and win against the same ponies next week as a different judge prefers dainty ponies!