The Riding Your Best Test panel discussion, featuring Peter Gray, Karen Winn, and Susan Posner, brought together practical insights from judges and riders alike, starting with one key area: the warm-up. You truly can’t do too many transitions. Transitions sharpen responsiveness, balance, and focus without drilling movements.

Riders are encouraged to hack around the venue, incorporate multiple warm-ups, and keep intensity low. Relaxation matters more than repetition. As Peter Gray put it, one of his favorite comments to write at the end of a test is, “Happy horse, happy judge.”

When you enter the ring, think of your tour as an introduction. Show the judge something your horse does well around the outside of the court. Judges want you to succeed, and each movement starts at a 10, working downward, not the other way around.

Scribing was another key topic. Scribes should never text during a test, and riders should remember that judges are allies, not adversaries. Presentation matters too: clean tack, clean horse, and polished basics. As Karen Winn noted, choosing a new saddle pad over another lesson will not raise your score—fundamentals will.

Riders were reminded not to overdo the bling. Basics improve scores, not decoration. A new rule was also highlighted regarding number holders, which must now have numbers that are 1.5 inches tall and 3/8 inches wide.

Horse welfare remains paramount. Judges can issue warning cards, and if frustration builds, riders should take a walk break on a loose rein and breathe. Public perception matters, and how riders handle stress reflects on the sport as a whole.

If a judge blows the whistle, riders should calmly trot up and listen to instructions. Questions are welcome—communication is encouraged. Riders should study the directives, use corners to balance the horse, and understand that bending and flexion are essential components of quality movements.

One of the most commonly weak movements discussed was the free walk to medium walk transition. A helpful fix is adding a five-meter circle before the transition to maintain relaxation and balance. Keep the idea of the free walk in mind and resist the urge to rush into collection.

In the end, thoughtful preparation, respect for the horse, and attention to detail are what consistently produce better tests—and better partnerships.