Hunter breeding article series in COTH

[lauriep]

SA McKee:
"Based on trainer affiliation I'm certainly not on your side of the fence, but 'enemy'. Hardly."

"I'm sure you understand the reference to Kool aid. You expect everyone to drink it. Meaning believe what the 'old boys' club tell us."

Meaning what, exactly?

Just for clarification's sake, I, nor my partner, are members of ANY "old boys' club." We win our share because 1) we bring nice (tho not perfect) horses to the shows, 2) they are carefully conditioned and beautifully turned out (I do this MYSELF), 3) we have, IMO, the best handler out there, and 4) we have wonderful customers who allow Junior to guide their careers.

[SilverBalls]

Originally Posted by CBoylen

I can certainly see how there are issues with a division composed solely of models, but I can't say I see workable solutions to them.

What a shame.... but true!

[Samotis]

Like C Boylen said,

There is always someone thinking this or that horse should have won, or should have been second.

I get the subjective part of the hunter breeding class. But when a horse blatantly has a club foot, or paddles out at the trot, or has a lot of knee action, that should put them out of the top ribbons.

I have seen these types of horses win before and it leaves you scratching your head!

If me, an amateur breeder that stands on the rail can see it, then why the heck can't the judge see it!!!!

I am all for the best horse to win, but when a paddler with a club foot beats a unknown better quality horse, I am not going to be happy!!

These are all just examples, but the few shows I have seen have confused me a little.