The Hunt Test Know How (HTKH) Judges Seminar takes a common sense approach to the judging process. It starts with the realization that judging is a process, not a series of random events. As judges we are seen as being the primary force in the direction and improvement of the sport. Judging is much, much more then putting out a couple of marks or setting up a hunting situation. The HTKH Judges Seminar looks at the entire judging process, from the acceptance of the assignment, to handing out the ribbons and every step in between. We break the process down into basic components that are easily understood. The end result is that you will have a better understanding of test set up, judging and how to make decisions.

Why do I need a judges seminar?

It is a common misconception that people who judge have been asked to judge because they know everything. While they may have a significant amount of knowledge and meet judging qualifications, it is the rare person who judges that knows everything. Judging is actually the beginning of an entirely new learning experience, rather than the end result. Anyone who judges with an open mind will readily admit that they learn something new with each judging assignment. Most judges seminars today do little more then review current AKC rules, and often fall short of teaching you HOW to judge. While the best way to learn is through actual experience, our seminar presents more information, and insights into judging than can be found anywhere else.

What to expect at the HTKH Judges Seminar         

Here's just a portion of the topics covered at the Judges Seminar:

• Your responsibilities as a judge, and who judges are responsible to
• How to be prepared for anything
• The effects and use of natural and man made elements including distance, cover, terrain, wind, water, diversions, decoys, and more all while evaluating actual dog work
• What works when we test, and what does not
• Types of tests - conceptual vs. technical
• Judging etiquette
• How to interpret the rules, what the rulebook really says, understanding faults and how they are scored
• Course text booklet for each participant

As with our Handlers Seminar, the Judges Seminar can be held entirely in a classroom situation or can be held outdoors or a combination of the two. It can be held as a separate event, or in conjunction with the AKC Judges Seminar. The seminar is beneficial to anyone who has judged in the past or has any aspirations of judging. It is also educational for the person with no interest in judging, but wishes to learn more about how judges think, the process they go through, and how to better prepare for tests.