Provincial Foundation Officials Course Available

It’s official! The Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) is one of five equestrian provincial sport organizations partnered with Equine Guelph to offer online training for those interested in becoming horse show judges in grassroots circuits.

Entry level judges are a vital part of equestrian sport and, beginning this summer, the opportunity to train to become a recognized provincial official will be offered bye Equine Guelph on TheHorsePortal.ca through the new Provincial Foundations Officials Course.

Provinces partnering with Equine Guelph to develop this new online training program include AEF, Equestrian Nova Scotia, Island Horse Council, Manitoba Horse Council, and Newfoundland and Labrador Equestrian Association.

The course content is based on an innovative online training model developed by Equestrian Nova Scotia on TheHorsePortal.ca two years ago.

The training will be self-paced, granting participants a full year to complete the 25–30-hour course that will help them become a provincial level judge. Candidates will learn the responsibilities of judging at the grassroots level, in order to officiate for multi-disciplined or general performance provincial shows.

As role models, provincial judges create a safe environment for equine sport at local shows by upholding rules, maintaining fair play, and ensuring equine welfare. Whether judging objective or subjective classes, entry level judges can help build sport and long-term athletes.

“Equine Guelph recognizes Equestrian Nova Scotia for being leaders in spearheading online training programs to its officials,” says Gayle Ecker, director of Equine Guelph. “We are thrilled to be working together with five provinces to offer this accessible model of training to as many budding grassroots officials as possible.”

Topics covered by the course include western performance, western speed division, showmanship, English flat, hunter, jumper, equitation over fences, dressage, and pleasure driving.

If you are interested in taking this first step in training to become a Provincial Foundation Official, you can register at www.TheHorsePortal.ca/AEF.