Interview with USEF R judge Woody Dykers

Last weekend I had the pleasure of judging the H.J. Fox show in Conyers, Georgia along with Mr. Woody Dykers, longtime USEF, IEA, and IHSA judge.  I had an opportunity to sit down with Mr. Dykers Saturday evening and pick his brain about his likes and dislikes in the IEA/IHSA show ring.

Can you give me some insight into how you judge equitation on the flat?

With regards to rider position, one of my biggest pet peeves is when a rider sits behind the horse's motion.  I want to see you sitting in the middle of your horse, over your leg.  I also like to see a solid leg and a nice soft hand with a straight line from bit to elbow.

Also, to add a little polish to your flat ride, when coming into the lineup at the completion of the class, continue tracking toward the right on your way into the line.  

I'd just like to add that I don't like to see trainers coaching from the rail.  It is inappropriate in equitation.  This applies to fences classes as well.

How about equitation over fences?

Again, no coaching from the rail as I mentioned before.

When performing the opening circle, you have the option of exhibiting a sitting trot or posting trot or going directly from walk to canter.  You are not required to do a sitting trot.  However, if you can do a sitting trot well and you feel it will increase your score, feel free to do so.  On the other hand, if your seat isn't up to par or if you've drawn a very bouncy horse, you may be better off with a posting trot.  It's better to do a nice posting trot or go directly into the canter from a walk than to do a poor sitting trot.  The same is true in the closing circle.  If your sitting trot isn't going to impress the judge, go to a posting trot or even transition downward directly from canter to walk.

Also, in recent years many riders seem to think it's necessary to go directly to fence one without an opening circle.  If you aren't confident that you can do that successfully, it is perfectly acceptable to begin with a circle to establish rhythm and pace, unless otherwise stated on the posted course.  An abrupt start to the course is not always the winner.

Regarding striding in the lines, you should do the striding that is appropriate for the horse you drew.  For example, if you drew a 15.1 hand quarter horse with a ten foot stride, the add may be the best choice.  Above all, be consistent.  Whichever striding you choose, try to maintain that striding throughout the course.

Any thoughts on riding attire?  Things you like/don't like?

I prefer conservative and traditional attire.  Keep it simple.  Clean and polished boots and well-fitting clothing are important in the equitation ring.

Your hair should be neatly contained in a hair net under your helmet.  If a younger rider chooses to wear braids and bows, the bows should never cover the back number.

Specifically related to IEA and IHSA, does the size of the horse (for example a tall rider on a smaller horse) affect your judging?

Honestly it doesn't.  I know the competitors don't get to choose which horse they ride.  What I don't like to see is a tall rider trying to make herself look small to fit the horse she drew if that horse is on the shorter side.  I want to see that rider sit up and carry herself with confidence regardless of which size or type of horse she has drawn.  

Thank you so much for your time.  Any closing thoughts?

In IEA and IHSA competition you should strive to do the best job you can with the horse you drew.  I want to see a rider who takes what he or she is given and shows that horse to the best of it's ability.  The winner is not always the one riding the fanciest horse. 

Woody Dykers been involved in the equine industry for over forty years.  A USEF R judge, he has officiated at horse shows from Florida to Alaska.  He is also an animal portrait artist. He resides in the Atlanta area.