Judge's opinions : advice please

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Myself57

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When I show my ponies (in hand) we never seem to get in the top three. I completely accept that there will be reasons for this, but how do people get to know why they have not done as well as the winners. Often the judge will say it was a very difficult decision and/or there was very little between the top and bottom of the line up, but how do you find out exactly why you were not up with the winners-is it conformation / movement / turnout etc; Are you allowed to ask the judge? I would love to know if and how and what I could do to improve.
Many thanks for any responses.
 
I don't show myself, so I am sure someone more knowledgeable will advise, but my neighbour who was really into showing (HOYS level) always chatted to judges afterwards for feedback. As long as you are polite and non-confrontational, just asking for feedback, I can't see why anyone would be upset.
 
agree with booboos - as long as you are polite and just ask for feedback, i would ask the judge after the class :) i asked a judge for feedback once (it was at a tiny local show when i was about 10 however, but i still got helpful feedback and the judge wished me luck for next time :))

xx
 
I always ask for advice on how I can improve for next time. As Booboos said as long as you are polite.

Also have you got any photos you could post on here? People might be able to point out things you could improve on.
 
As long as you are polite, most judges will be happy to give you some advice. Be aware when asking though, you may not get an answer that is completely helpful. I do know some people who were simply told 'your pony isn't as good'. Blunt, but to the point.

Why not take a break from competition and go to one of the bigger shows. Take the time to sit and watch the class you would compete in from start to finish. Study how people run out the different ponies, stand them up, how they manouver them. Showing in-hand takes as much ringcraft and skill as ridden classes. It's amazing how much you can learn from just observing keenly. You may just pick up something you've missed on before.

Ditto what annabel2009 suggested. Post some pictures up here and we might be able to give you some advice regarding turnout. :)
 
As above, it's always worth asking a judge. I'm not sure how it works here but if you're concerned about the reception perhaps ask at the office/the steward in advance if the judge is likely to have time to speak to you, then pick your moment.

Another option is to invest in a session with the most successful professional you can find in your area. Such people are often surprisingly approachable and helpful. Get them to run through your turn out, presentation etc. and discuss ways of showing your horses to their best advantage.

Be aware though, you may not like all of the answers. With something like showing, it does often come down to quite small factors and something that doesn't in any way affect your horses usefulness or you enjoyment of him, may always keep you out of that top spot.
 
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