I had the opportunity to catch up with Nat Muhor, one of our experienced showjumping judges. Nat will be the judge in Ring 1 for our upcoming RB Sellers Interschools Jumping event. I wanted to learn a little more about what drew her to the sport, what she loves about Interschools, and what advice they’d give to riders and parents alike.
Here’s what she had to say…
1. How did you first get involved in the Interschools scene?
Seems like a lifetime ago, but I first attended Interschools when my 2 girls attended Christian College Geelong and were part of their school Equestrian Team. I believe our first ever Showjumping event was at Geelong Grammar. It was always super exciting and fun to be involved in, and I remember our first Victorian State Championships, and hearing my girls squealing with excitement when we drove through the gates at Werribee National Equestrian Centre with their two ponies on the float.
2. What do you enjoy most about judging at Interschools competitions?
I sincerely love the fact that these young and upcoming riders, love watching their peers and their friends, by supporting each other on the sidelines. You can see the kids really enjoy the fact that they have all their friends at these events. And what better way to spend the weekend with your friends, riding ponies!!! It creates lasting memories and friendships that last forever!
3. What sparked your interest in becoming a judge?
It’s funny because a lot of people ask me this question and I can’t really pin point an actual moment, but I do remember after penciling a few times, I knew I that I loved being involved in an ‘official’ capacity. I really love our sport and the fact that it is so unique ~ it’s the only Olympic sport where males and females compete alongside each other, and a sport where we also have to work and connect with a 500kg living animal. It’s fascinating when you think about it!
4. What’s one thing you wish more riders (or parents!) knew about how showjumping is judged.
Sometimes I wish everyone could see the rounds as I see them…and by that I mean to win, it doesn’t necessarily mean to go faster without any adjustability. The riders that consistently do well are riders that can see inside lines, and can adjust their horse by taking the lines nice and steady.
The other thing I think it is important for parents and Interschool riders is to be organised and have a plan for each Interschool Showjumping day. It’s important to know your:
– class height/category;
– which Ring your class is in;
– where you are in the draw and where to find this
– and know what Article numbers each class is run under
Having all this before the day starts really helps lesson anxiety and enables you to enjoy the day with minimal stress.
And when you are walking your course, if you have any questions, I am always open to answering them or providing explanations when needed.
5. What’s your top tip for riders or parents on competition day?
I think my go-to piece of advise for parents and riders, at Interschools is to remember that this sport can definitely be hard, but also rewarding and so much fun. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the ‘stress of it all’, and it becomes hard…so I often think we need to remember to stay calm and have fun, no matter what the outcome! It’s also important to be happy for others success, and to learn from each experience. This is a sport where you never stop learning and growing!!!
Thank you Nat – brilliant words of advice.