Judges Q & A........ with Robert Cockram

Name:    Robert Cockram.

Country of residence? Australia.

Which Judging panels are you on? Equestrian Australia National, Welsh Society, Riding Pony Society, Show Horse Council.

What is your favourite breed to judge? Riding ponies, ridden classes.

Why? I love to see beautiful ponies doing what they were bred to do.

Is turnout and presentation of the animal important? Very, as it all completes the full picture.

How can people improve an animal using preparation products? By not over doing the black make up and bling.

What is your favourite show of the year? Horse of the Year (UK) and Grand Nationals (Australia).

What is the biggest show you have  judged at? Melbourne Royal Show.

Is there a piece of show kit you just cannot live without?   My bridles, they are made by Barbara Butler (Scotland).

What is your favourite film? Out of Africa.

Apart from judging, do you have a hobby?  I have no extra time.

Who is your horse of a lifetime?   Sandbourne Royal  Ensign.

What are the big no-no’s when it comes to using preparation products?   Not to over use them. A little less is sometimes more...

Have you judged overseas?   Yes.

How does it differ?    Mostly in  the way classes are worded and you need to adjust to that when judging the same animals but for a different category of class.

What is you biggest / best piece of advice for showing?     Know your animals faults and learn to improve them for the show ring. Nothing is perfect yet.

Who do you admire most (past or present) in the showing world?    Robert Oliver, Colin Rose (UK) Darryl Hayes, Chris and Vicky Lawrie (Australia).