How to Scribe for a Dressage judge
Dressage can be defined as the ability to ride a horse in a predetermined pattern in the arena with precision and skill. The judge needs to keep his eye on this at every moment to judge each competitor fairly. The duties of a scribe are to write out on paper what the judge thinks of a competitor's performance. A scribe is used so the judge can watch the entire test and dictate his opinion without taking his eye off the competitors.
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Instructions
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Be Prepared.
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To find out about a show in your area, get in contact with either your local dressage association or a local farm that may be knowledgeable about the subject. These can be found online or in the phone book. It is best to get a schedule and contact the organizers of a show to ask if you can volunteer as a scribe. Volunteering is always a welcome endeavor at local shows.
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Once you have found a show to attend, be sure to bring everything you may need. Do not rely on the show's management to provide them ( though they usually do). Several pencils with good erasers are a must. Be sure to bring your own comfortable chair if you have one. If the grounds are not shaded, you will be in the sun for hours at a time, so bring sunscreen and a sun hat or visor. Also bring a small cooler with food and drinks, as you will not be allowed to take food breaks unless the judge does so.
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Before the show, if you are completely unfamiliar with the terms used in dressage, consult a book or the Internet to get up to speed. You will be recording what the judge says, so be sure that you can spell and abbreviate adequately. Symbols are often used to indicate a circle or a "square halt" with the appropriate remarks on the performance added on the side. Dressage tests are broken down into sections, and the judge will let you know which section they are critiqing. The scores will be calculated by the show management, so you will not need to know how to do this.
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As long as you can take down legibly and quickly the judge's critiques, you will be successful. Scribing will be a great learning experience for you as a future or even a current dressage competitor. Be prepared to sit with the judge for as long as he needs you, and you will benefit.
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Tips & Warnings
Always be punctual!
Be sure to stay organized.
