Question: I recently received a copy of "Judging Hunters" and I have studied it chapter by chapter. I need to know if there are any books written on the topic of course design - specifically for the hunter ring. I would also be interested in equitation and jumper courses but am mainly interested in the hunters. Ultimately I would like to pursue an AHSA judges license for hunter judging & possibly equitation and breeding. Where can I find specific requirements or at least a list of steps I need to take. The AHSA rule book seems so vague - maybe I'm not looking in the right places!

Answer: A book called "Designing Courses and Obstacles," by the famous course designer, Pamela Carruthers, is probably the best book on the subject. You can get it from Knight Equestrian Books by calling (207) 882-5494 or on-line at:

http://equisearch.com/bookstore

My book, "Winning: A Training and Showing Guide For Hunter Seat Riders," may be useful, too. It starts with gymnastic exercises and moves into course measurements, types of fences, and basic hunter and equitation courses. It can be ordered directly from the publisher, Trafalgar Square, at 1-800-423-4525.

As for your question about getting a judging license, the only written information I'm aware of is in the A.H.S.A. Rule Book. It is under Rule X in the "General Rules" booklet and is entitled "Licensed Judges and Course Designers." If you have further questions, you can call the "Clinics/Licensed Officials" division of the A.H.S.A. at (212) 972-2472. Julie Eller (extension 271) would probably be your best resource person, since she's over the "Learner Judge" program.