| What a judge expects in the ring. By Hugh Jones ( Seafire ) http://website.lineone.net/~hughseafire/homex.htm |
| The moderator has invited me, to give a brief resume of what a judge should expect in the ring when undertaking a judging assignment. The basis for my expectations will centre on judging at Championship level, and will include Kennel Club and F.C.I. shows. The first item I would expect would be a ring of adequate size for the type of breed being exhibited. It should also be able to accommodate comfortably all the classes of dogs entered. There are specific sizes quoted as a minimum in the rules and these must not be ignored. Secondly I expect my ring stewards to act as instructed and not make decisions on their own. I always instruct my stewards how I want my ring to be controlled, and will not tolerate ring stewards who deviate from my system without firstly discussing any proposed changes with me first. Thirdly, when judging under F.C.I. rules I certainly expect the ring secretary to be able to speak my language, and what is crucial is that the ring secretary is well versed in doggy terminology. Fourthly I expect a table from which to work off, and be large enough to accommodate all the paperwork, also two chairs. If I am judging any table dogs, I also require a separate table on which to make my examinations, and one which can easily be moved out of earshot of the ring secretary so she can carry on with typing my critiques. Fifthly I expect to be able to refer (if necessary) to the inviting Kennel Clubs Rules and Regulations, also the relevant Breed Standards for the breeds being judged. I have found that very rarely indeed is the award system ever explained to judges prior to the show in English. Far to often I have had to rely on my ring representatives to advise on local procedure. Sixthly, I expect the exhibitors to be able to understand the basic ring requirements and rules of showmanship and ensure that they are available when there class number is called. I have to be there on time and I expect the same from the exhibitors. Finally I expect that all the exhibits are typical of the breed they are representing, and that there are no obvious disqualifying features. I do not expect at Championship level to have to make a dog show itself, this is the handler�s responsibility. I also do not expect to be bitten or to have exhibits that cannot be handled. As the judge I can only judge what the exhibitors have presented me with on the day, and I expect all the exhibitors to accept my placing in the spirit they are given. Double handling will not be tolerated if observed; neither will I have folks entering the ring for any reason until the relevant class has finished. The more one judges the easier it becomes, having a well organised ring with stewards who ensure continuity is now what I find the norm, this applies both at home and abroad. |
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