Judging School Handbook - American Morgan Horse Association

Judging Procedures — Contracts & Contactsby Karen Homer-BrownUSEF RulebookArticle GR1040.1 states:“Good judging depends upon a correct observance ofthe fine points and the selection of the best horses forthe purpose described by the conditions of the class.A judge serves three interests: his own conscience,exhibitors and spectators. He should make it clearthat the best horses win.”Articles GR1040 and GR1041 outline a judge’sresponsibility regarding adjudication and restrictions.As a judge, you would be well advised to readthese sections and adhere to them exactly.Initial ContactThe first thing you need to be aware of as a judge isthat you must NEVER ASSUME ANYTHING.The judge will be responsible for anything thatoccurs from the initial contact by the person hiringthe judge until the conclusion of the competitionwhen you have arrived back home. Many times thejudge, along with the USEF Steward, are the only“professionals” involved with the competition.Initial contact is usually by telephone, from the individualchosen to contact the judge(s). This may ormay not be the Manager or Secretary. This contactwill inquire as to your availability to judge the showin consideration. Items you need to inquire about onthis initial contact are:1) Date of Show2) Location of Show3) Show approvals (USEF/CEF/AMHA/4-H/Local/Breed/USDF/ADS, etc.)4) Credentials necessary: USEF “R” or “r” orCEF “S,” “SN” or “r,” also, credentials forDressage, Carriage and Reining.5) Single or Multi-Judge System6) Type and number of classes to be offered(number of days/sessions)7) Is the show inside or outside8) Is formal attire required9) Amount of fee to be paid to the judge10)Expenses to be covered (airfare/travel, motel,meals, taxi/car, tux rentals)11)Nearest airport to show location or airportnearest to you12)Establish who purchases the plane ticket,i.e.: makes travel arrangements13)Request a written contract14)Establish a date of how long you will hold thedate before you get the contract.15)Request a Prize List when available16)Name, address and phone number of thecontact personAfter receiving the contract, you should sign theshow management’s copy and return it promptlywith a cover letter. The letter should include: yourmode of transportation, a request for accommodationsasking for a motel confirmation, mode oftransportation to and from the airport, motel andshow grounds. Be sure to keep copies of the contractand any and all correspondence with the contactperson. THIS IS IMPORTANT! Develop a file folderjust for judging contracts.The subject of expenses causes more problems thanthat of judging fees. Airfare should be charged atthe economy or tourist rate, if you want to fly firstclass, you pay the difference. Car rentals are at thelowest-rate you can get or you pay the difference.Personal phone calls, cleaning, movie rentals, barbills, etc. should not be charged to the shows.Meals, taxi fares, tips, motel rooms, etc. should becharged to the shows. Of course, as a private contractor,you are entitled to negotiate any provisionwhich suits you personally.Expect contact person to provide you with:1) Judge’s contract in duplicate (one for themand one for you)2) Prize List3) Airplane ticket (if they purchase and mail itto you)4) Copy of motel confirmation or address andphone number of the motel.5) Confirmation that they know of your arrivaltime and mode of ground transportationplans (taxi, chauffeur, van, rental car).6) Typical climate and weather expected forthat locale and season.18