Judging Hunters & Equitation Clinic

clinician Julie Winkel

September 13-14, 2025

The Judging Hunters & Equitation Clinic is based on the book of the same name by Julie Winkel and Tricia Booker. This clinic takes the mystery of out judging Hunters and Equitation and allows you to understand step-by-step the processes involved through an educational yet entertaining platform.

From learning how judges keep their cards and the process of scoring, to taking part in live judging of conformation, under saddle and jumping classes, you’ll never look at judging the same again while becoming a savvier competitor in the show ring!

Through the clinic you’ll receive valuable insight into how the United States Hunter Jumper Association and the United States Equestrian Federation prepare and educate their licensed officials, which will help take the mystery out of judging!  

This clinic, which benefits the Goodtoknow Horses 501(c)3, is open to auditors, riders, trainers, parents, judges and anyone interested in learning more about judging and the processes involved, from ethics and integrity to bookkeeping, rules and licensing.

Cost: $350 - includes a custom notebook and materials exclusive to attendees

Deposit: $100 - must be received before space will be reserved

Please visit the Goodtoknow Horses website to register and pay - Your registration may be tax deductible

tentative schedule

 
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Day 1 

8:30 a.m. - Participants gather in the Maplewood Clubhouse for continental breakfast, registration and introductions.

9 a.m. - The history of Hunters and Equitation, judging basics, keeping a card, faults and scoring. Classroom discussion topics include (but are not limited to): ethics, integrity and rules, horse and rider welfare and safety, and the role judges play in today’s climate of drugs and medications.

Noon - Catered Lunch

1 p.m. Live judging of conformation/model classes, with discussions about the judging process, attributes, faults and placings.

4 p.m. - Book signing reception with wine and cheese in the Clubhouse.

day 2

8:30 a.m. - Continental breakfast in the Clubhouse, video practice judging of over fences classes, discussion of judging flat and under saddle classes, handy hunters, Hunter Derbies and Medal work-offs.

Noon - Catered Lunch

1 p.m. - Live judging of Hunter and Hunter Seat Equitation classes, including over fences, under saddle, on the flat and work-offs.* Open discussion and critiques of the riders and horses competing and comparing cards and placings.

5 p.m. - Farewell

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*Are you ready to up your game in the show ring? We're excited to announce the opportunity for trainers and riders to participate in our Judge’s Clinic on Sunday September 17 by competing in one or more of the following classes:
Hunter Under Saddle
Hunters 2’9”
Handy Hunters 2’9"
Equitation Flat
Equitation Over Fences - 2’6"
Maplewood Medal class with a work-off - 2’9" to 3'

The fee is $25/ride on a first come, first-served basis. Each class is limited to six participants. Each rider will receive a numerical score, an oral critique as well as reasons for placement in the class. Price includes one assistant per rider, and ribbons will be awarded through sixth place for each class. This is a fantastic opportunity to practice your show ring skills and receive a one-one-one judge's perspective on you, your horse and performance! Please email Julie Winkel (mwstables@aol.com) to register.

Travel Information:

Reno/Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is a 20-minute drive from Maplewood

Recommended hotels include:

space is limited, so register now!

Please visit the Goodtoknow Horses website to register and pay.