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Answer submitted by Sue Hughes:
The "Basics" are the basics both for the training of the horse and for the judge so to speak. Since we do our very best to judge the same way all through the day, we do the same for every level and every show.
It never hurts to reiterate the "basics": Actively forward from behind in the rhythm/tempo package most suitable for that particular horse to find relaxation into that rhythm and balance in that tempo; then that kind of forward allows the horse to seek the bit/riders hand/connection. Anatomically the horse then will be round over the topline and all the remains for the rider is to bring the horse into Direct Flexion.
Since what the judge is judging is the horses training as well as the purity and hopefully beauty of the gaits, that becomes the "basics" for all judging. What changes up through the levels is the undulation of the pelvis (collection), and the lift of the
forehand (frame/improved balance around the horses/center of gravity.
The execution of the geometry of the test and the correctness of the movements which appear starting in second level comprises the rest of the package which needs to be observed in order to arrive at a numerical score.
Therefore choosing the class one enters does, as you suggest, depends on against whom you wish to compete. Honest evaluation of yourself is best here. Instructors and knowledgeable friends can help. There are no others factors that come to my mind at this time. Class sizes vary, so that might help the choice. On the Florida circuit, Prix St Georges goes all day with the same class and sometimes in 3 different classes. Grand Prix may run a full half day. In contrast the Training and First level classes tend not to have more than 6 to 10 entries. The opposite balance is true here in Michigan. Fewer higher level competitors and many lower level ones. Interesting, but not meaning that Michigan is less "good" than Florida. Just different.
Sue
Answer submitted by Kerry Petty:
The classes are judged the same no matter what the division is. We might look to see overall what to expect but our judging criteria remains the same. The purpose on the divisions is to allow you to compete on an equal a playing field as possible with your piers. The novice horse will have a mixture of riders but always expect professionals to be in this group showing their clients young horses. However, in novice rider you may be competing against an old school master who has a new rider on his back. If you are new to riding dressage then you would qualify to be against other new riders but you will have a variety of horses in this class. So you could have new riders with new horses who don't want to compete against professionals in the novice horse class as well as new riders and very schooled horses.
Finally open classes are for anyone and many have to ride in it as they are professionals, have won many ribbons at that level or have already shown in the novice division.
Schooling shows all have their own rules as to divisions and qualifications for them. Try to find out what they are so when you get to the show you are not surprised that your 5 year old daughter at her first show on her 25 year old pony is riding against a professional on an imported horse (it may happen)!
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