Blossom in Spring: T1

5/2/2012

This was just a schooling show of course, but I take them all seriously, rated or not. I was really pleased with the ride even before I saw the score sheet. It felt good to me, especially the canter transitions, and I was particularly pleased with movement #12, the E-B half circle canter. It was the most well-balanced that we've been able to produce. We even scored an 8 after that canter! That really tells me that it was more balanced than usual.

The stretchy trot? Let's just say the judge was a wee bit generous on that one - she gave us a 6. We got a few strides here and there of stretch on the circle, but it wasn't great. Just goes to show that we need to continue working on reaching for the contact. In Speedy's defense, that end of the arena was really busy and the "traffic" was just steps away. The barn aisle was literally ten feet away and was quite active. There were grooming vacuums in operation, stalls being cleaned, horses being moved from place to place, and spectators sitting close enough to touch us. These aren't an excuse, but I can see why a horse and rider new to the level might have difficulty achieving a downward stretch when there is a lot to ogle.

And finally, who wouldn't like the judge's final comment on the Further Remarks? Beautiful horse! How nice of her to say so. The score sheets are below. Training Level Test 2 tomorrow ...

Kelly link

5/2/2012 02:30:48 am

Wonderful test and score! Great job and thank you for your kind comments on my last post.

Karen

5/2/2012 12:25:04 pm

Thanks, Kelly, and you're welcome. We have to stick together, right! :0)

Kelly RGF link

5/2/2012 05:00:32 am

I just learnt something yesterday that I can apply to your post today :). Re: learning to judge, I have been having much discussion with my instructor (also a dressage judge) about what marks should be given when, and she gave me a page from the judges handbook explaining each of the marks.

A 6 is: Satisfactory. Either the movements are performed with accuracy and precision, but some weaknesses within the training scale, or the movements are lacking accuracy and precision but still demonstrating good qualities of the training scale.

Given that he was stretching some (and possibly the judge took into account the very busy surroundings), and I'm sure you rode the circle accurately, I think you deserve your 6 :). There has to be a serious mistake or clear weaknesses to go down to a 5.

8, on the other hand is: Good. All the requirements of the training scale are regarded as good. Movements are performed accurately, following the correct lines.

So go you guys! What a great test ... Speedy is a gem.

5/2/2012 12:26:58 pm

Thanks, Kelly! It's easier to accept that I've "earned" a 5 than to think that I deserve a 6 or even GASP, a 7! I like the chart of what the scores mean. I think I'll add it to my side bar in the next few days to keep reminding myself! :0)

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Not-So-Speedy Dressage