Shouldn’t the three judges give their assessments on an individual basis? (Note: In Narth America we only judge with 2 judges.)
With regard to the assessments of horses, it is of the utmost importance to maintain the highest possible quality in reaching a decision. Separating the judges could cause different assessments which in turn will lead to average marks. By doing so however, no justice will be done to what the judge could or couldn’t establish that made him award a five. The same principle holds true for the judge who gave an eight. In order to reach a high-quality decision the interaction between judges is crucial.
Judging with or without catalogue?
Promoters of judging without a catalogue tend to forget that doing so involves the need to set up anonymity of the runners and assistants as well. Consequently, this would preclude the need for producing a catalogue as to avoid the information reaching the judges. From a practical point of view ‘blind’ judging is not an option. The presence of a catalogue has no bearing on the assessments.
How is the IBOP/ABFP-test information rated at conformation inspections?
If a horse performs well during the test, the test results will supersede the marks of the in-hand assessment. This must only be applied in a positive sense since horses with disappointing test results are not allowed to be put to a disadvantage if compared to horses that have not participated in either test. The judges performing the conformation inspection include the test results in their assessment to make sure these have an impact on the final ranking. Information based on sports results is not awarded the same merit as the IBOP/AFBP-tests. A horse can excel at sports but this is no indication of the quality of his basic gaits.
Should the canter be included in conformation inspections?
There is an on-going discussion within judging as to the inclusion of the canter at conformation inspections. Although it would be of added value to assess all 3-year-olds at canter, this could lead to organizational problems on breeding days.
How can a mare acquire the preliminary Star predicate?
Mares that combine good conformation with sufficient breed characteristics and correct legwork but fail to show enough movement in-hand can receive the preliminary Star predicate. Once the mare has accomplished a performance test averaging 6.7 for walk and trot the predicate will be changed to permanent. This cannot be obtained via a Sport predicate.
Will there be any testing for doping?
So far doping tests are restricted to Stallion Inspections but it is being considered to extend the use of doping tests to other situations. (FHANA does conduct random drug testing at various sites).
What is the KFPS’ attitude regarding welfare-related issues in the inspection arena?
Starting this year the judges will address this issue and will confront the owners with the KFPS policy in order to impose a change in conduct. From 2014 onwards it will no longer be allowed to trim ears and whiskers.
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