Become a Certified Mudslingers Judge
The Mudslingers Gymkhana Horse Club is proud to announce our formal Judges Program. Qualified judges are essential to our events, ensuring fair competition, safety and efficient show management. If you’re passionate about gymkhana and want to take your involvement to the next level, consider becoming a certified Mudslingers Judge.
Requirements & Certification Process
Basic Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Strong knowledge of gymkhana patterns and rules
- Commitment to fair judging and safety
Apprenticeship Phase
- Obtain Signatures: Apprentice judges must collect 3 signatures per pattern from Certified Judges
- Self-Paced: You may choose to continue apprenticing even after obtaining required signatures to build confidence
Certification Testing
When you feel prepared and have collected your signatures, you’ll complete our two-step certification process:
- Panel Interview & Testing
- Speak with a panel of Certified Judges
- Answer questions about judging scenarios
- Demonstrate knowledge of all 13 patterns
Interview/testing process lasts approximately one hour.
- Practical Application
- Successfully participate in setting up each pattern for an entire show day
- Demonstrate ability to manage pattern transitions efficiently
- Show understanding of safety considerations in pattern setup and judging
Judges Governance
Our Judges Program is overseen by a Head Judge who is responsible for:
- Certification and qualification of current and new judges
- Administering testing for aspiring judges
- Maintaining consistent application of rules
- Initiating collaborative discussions on potential rule changes
- Facilitating resolution of rule discrepancies
The Head Judge is elected by majority vote among Current Mudslingers Judges and must accept the nomination to serve.
Head Judge for the 2025-26 Mudslingers Season: Warren Martin.