I heard a number of disappointed riders after the last show. The main comment was that they didn’t have many positive comments on their score sheet. Well, there’s a reason why. The judge’s responsibility is to evaluate and verbalize, in a minimum of words, what would make the score higher. For instance, if you got a 5 as a score, the comment should reflect why it wasn’t a 6 or what essential element needs improving. Also keep in mind That this must be done before the next movement is started. That’s pretty quick. Comments must be concise as well, or the scribe will have a hard time writing it in the box and keeping up with the test. Your entire test usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. After which another rider starts and expects the judge’s undivided attention.

At the bottom of your test you will often see a general comment. That is the place a judge will usually write the most reoccurring or important element that needs your attention. This is an area where they can quickly write other comments. If a judge takes too long the show will gradually get further and further behind time. If you are riding later in the day and thought your ride was at 1:20, it could easily move to 2:00, if the judge took even 1 or 2 minutes more. The judge also has a responsibility to show management and the competitors to try to keep the show running in a timely manner.

Another thing to keep in mind is the score itself. It is not at all like school. If you got a 55 or 60% on a test you might be sitting in study hall and losing your allowance. In dressage a 60% is a very respectable score. If you are new to the sport or riding an older school horse you will see some 50% scores.

Keep in mind schooling shows are practice shows. They are designed to help you get comfortable with showing. You have an opportunity to work on improving your basics and learning the ropes. If you own a horse it’s a great way to try a new test or bring a nervous horse along.

Take it all in stride (Pun intended!) and have a good time!

Some of our school horses have some soundness issues. These horses are considered “Serviceably sound”. If they were sound or able to move into more advanced levels we would not have the privilege of having them here at CARA.  We are extremely grateful to the wonderful owners that have shared these horses with Cara for you to learn from.

Our farrier has kept all of our horses sound for more than 20 years. It is the accepted practice to shoe horses every 5-8 weeks.  Their foot growth varies and often he doesn’t grow as much in the summer and winter months. There are more dramatic changes in the spring and fall.  Some also does show signs of stiffness with weather changes. They all benefit from regular work.  

As a student please understand that they have limitations and are not at the physical capabilities of a younger or privately owned horse. They are however able to teach you and help you progress and enjoy the sport of riding.  Many of them, actually have extensive show records are well known by long time Arizona riders. Many have taught some of our young professionals in the United States how to ride.

 

Some of you have asked ,"How much does a horse cost?" 
One of our boarders put this together for you. 

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CARA WISH LIST