In the Arena – After You Complete Your Test
USEF/USDF Shows: When you finish your test, smile at the judge, then depart the arena at the walk on a loose rein. You may NOT talk to the judge and the judge may not (usually) talk to you. On very rare occasions, after the final halt, the judge may talk to the rider. I have seen this happen if the judge had a tack question and when the judge wanted to “chastise” the rider about an aid, etc.
Schooling Shows (including FADS shows): When you finish your test, unless told otherwise, you may walk up to the judge to receive oral comments. Be polite to the judge and do not argue with the judge. You should talk minimally; instead, optimize your minute to hear the judge’s comments. On occasion, the judge might ask you to school a movement; however, this is discouraged as it could put the show behind the schedule. After you receive the judge comments, thank the judge, smile, then depart the arena at the walk on a loose rein.
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