Through the Judge's Eye:

How to Win at:
Western Showmanship,
Western Horsemanship
and Western Pleasure

Review from the March 1997 Horse & Rider

"In order to win, you must know what judges look for." That’s the premise behind this three-tape series narrated by respected judge, Robert C. Milkie. Though he often officiates at world-class events, Milkie doesn’t go for the glamour here. Instead, he gears his presentation to novice and intermediate competitors, illustrating points primarily with footage shot at an all-breed open horse show. (Snippets of top runs from the All American Quarter Horse Congress also are included.)

By lifting the veil on how judges sort between entries, Milkie manages to demystify the judging process while giving exhibitors many useful do’s and don’ts. He does a believable job of laying to rest a discouraging notion: that judges care only for exhibitors with fancy clothes and expensive tack. In each tape, he emphasizes the greater value of performing to class rules and procedures as he outlines what they are. (Tidbit: Worried that you’ll lose points for not wearing gloves in showmanship? Milkie says he won’t even notice because his job is to scrutinize what you’re doing.)

I’ve shown horses of three breeds to this judge and rank him in the top for consistency and fairness. If you’re looking for a primer on these three popular show events, this is an authority to trust.
-Juli S. Thorson

Return to How to Win Western Series

Through the Judge's Eye:

How to Win at: Western Showmanship,Western Horsemanship and Western Pleasure

Review from the March 1997 Horse & Rider

How to Win at:
Western Showmanship,
Western Horsemanship
and Western Pleasure