TD Talk - Episode One

In light of the scoring mistakes that took place at the LEC show this past weekend, I thought I would take a moment to inform competitors of their rights regarding miscalculated scores.

Although the show office takes every possible step to ensure the scores are correct before closing the class, pinning. and handing out the tests, mistakes do occur. COMPETITORS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CHECKING THEIR SCORES. This means, along with your leather cleaner, boot spiffer, brushes and saddles pads, be sure to pack a calculator. The USEF Rule Book states that competitors have one hour from the posting of the scores to alert show management of a calculation error. If you do not approach show management within that hour, your miscalculated score will stand. It is important that your scores are correct, if not for placings/ribbons, but to ensure that your scores are reported correctly to the appropriate federations and organizations. If you have multiple rides and can't get to the office within the hour, have someone pick up your test for you and check the score. Don't just check the tape stapled to your test, actually calculate the total points and divide by the points possible. If you notice a mistake, alert the office. It might be a good idea to let the TD know as well, so that if there was a consistent mistake, the TD and secretary can make an attempt to get all tests back and correct the mistake before competitors begin to leave the show grounds.

Note to Show Managers: Always have two people scoring tests! Also, write down the time that you close the class and post the last score for each class on your master score sheet so that you will know when the golden hour for protesting has passed.

Note to Riders: If you have early morning rides and don't mind sticking around for a little bit, volunteer to help score tests in the office. You will learn a lot and it's a very easy way to get a few volunteer hours in for year end awards!

Some Words on Volunteers

Volunteers are an essential part of most of the functions put on by NDA and other local horse associations (Pony Club, NHJSSC). It is soooo important for all of us who take advantage of the benefits of our community give back. Your time at a horse show, manning a gate, or tabulating scores is far more valuable than monetary donations.

I volunteer for almost everything. In doing such I have not only enjoyed myself and the company of fellow horse folks immensely, but I've also learned a lot and met some great new people. Volunteering is worth your time, and honestly, you wouldn't want to be at a show, or clinic that wasn't manned by the small army of volunteers that make all of this stuff possible.

Here are some other perks of giving your time:

* If you scribe you gain valuable insight into the mind of a judge

* As a gate keeper you have a wonderful view of the tests being ridden

* Being a gate keeper can help in memorization of test, if you work a ring that is a host to your level.

* Working in the office gives you a chance to meet new horse buddies, or horse husbands/dads

* If you score at the Classic you can enjoy air conditioning in the office while the competitors fry outside.

* Running tests from the ring to the office burns calories

* Most times, they'll feed you lunch

* It is fun to see the faces of competitors when you post scores

Really and truly, make the effort this year to volunteer. Generally speaking all you have to do is email the show seceretary, or talk to someone connected with the show and they will work something out with you. Show managers will work with you to find the best place to use your particular talents!

There are plenty of horse shows of all kinds all kinds that need help. Don't wait for the annual outcry from NDA, make the effort and find the time. Your efforts are appreicated!