Betsy Labelle Attends USDF 'L' Judges Program With Help of The Trip Harting Grant

Harting Grant Report
By Betsy LaBelle
July 2010



The L Program has been quite a wonderful experience. Tracy Lert taught the 30 participants at CFCC - in Ocala, Florida and then we watched many fantastic horses at Charlotte Trentelman's farm.  Biomechanics of the Dressage Horse was chief on the discussion topic. It was an eye-opener to watch so many horses with my very green judge's eye, and to listen to the why's of so many different, "in the competition arena" circumstances. There were tools there that I put into my riding/coaching/pony club Dressage Committee work toolbox...and the opportunity introduced a whole new world of judging to me.

The second session took place in Lake City, Florida with Marilyn Heath, and her wonderful laughs helped us learn even more.  The horses in Wellborn/Lake City were outstanding, with super uphill qualities, and lots of great riding. The Magnolia Dressage indoor made the Florida summer not melt the awesome enthusiasm and enormous amount of dialogue. 

The work to know the USEF Rulebook backwards is apparent.  But, the way to learning what is needed to know is openly shared in such a positive way, with the floor open to all.

I would highly recommend the L Program to anyone, especially auditing for young riders to learn how to polish what the judge wants to see and why.  Meeting other riders who have worked so hard for so many years has also been quite a nice opportunity, as our discussions have brought the camaraderie of our sport together in such a positive light. 

A special thanks to The Dressage Foundation for their support and a special thanks to Trip Harting and all those involved in his life, as he would be so proud.  And thanks Judy Downer and Charlotte Trentelman for letting 30 of us go through this program in Florida this summer.


Go back to the Trip Harting Fund page.