Judges' Corner

Master Judges

 

Dianna Malley, Vacaville (707) 410-7208 D4, D45, D49
Sheri Herchkorn, Watsonville (Rules Chairman) (831) 227-5861 D2, D27
Andy Krogh, Valley Center (760) 505-8241 D5, D10, D33
Randy Young, Riverside (951) 684-9058 D20
Janet Young, Riverside (951) 312-2182 D17
Margo Abatti, Santa Margarita (805) 459-1736 D14, D18, D40
Lea Legnon, Hollister (408) 461-0112 D1, D2, D6
Timmi Lemen, Vacaville (707) 301-6655 D3, D50
Sonja Peery, Bakersfield (661) 808-1963 Provisional Master Judge
Conrad Fimbres, Lancaster (661) 727-1505 D19, D35

Items from the MAC:

The Master Judges Advisory Committee had a meeting on July 19, 2025. The following items were discussed based on questions from the membership.

 

1. The MAC was asked about riders using Ear Buds and Video glasses. They are allowed as there is no rule against them. BUT, if a rider is found to be using them as a timing device they will be in violation of RB 5.1 (b) 3, which prohibits the use of stop watches or any other types of timing devices by the rider or someone helping the rider to deliberately alter the outcome of the ride. Doing so would lead to a disqualification and possible dismissal from the show. And further disciplinary action may be taken. Moving forward, if the MAC finds that these items are causing a disruption or distraction to riders or judges, we will revisit the issue and take appropriate action.

2. The MAC was asked about riders using a Bridle-less bit or war bit. After our discussion they are not allowed at this time. The MAC will be further discussing and will bring this item to Convention.

Also discussed were judges who are making calls based on a “belief” of a possible rule violation. The MAC recommends that all judges read the RB and Info Manual, to refresh their memory. It is important that a call be based on what is written in these books. If you can’t find it in these books to show the basis for your call, then the benefit goes to the rider. Any ambiguous situations need to be brought to the MAC for clarification.

A judge has the right to not allow a person to come into the arena simply to video a rider. The judge has complete control over the arena and may feel it is a distraction or a safety issue.

Any questions, please contact your Master Judge or the MAC Chair.

5/2025: The MAC was asked about riders using hair accessories such as headbands, scrunchies etc., and were they legal. Hair accessories are not part of the Rule Book. They can be worn since there is no rule in regards to their use.
But at this time they are not allowed under a helmet as the Rule Book states that nothing can be worn under the helmet that would affect the fit.
This issue will be on the agenda for the Rule and Judges Meeting at Convention.

2/2025: Following a question to the MAC, pants must have belt loops so that the required belt or 1/2 belt can be worn correctly.  The MAC feels it was always the intent of the rule that pants allowed as part of the CGA dress code would have belt loops.  This will be brought to convention for discussion.

Recent Rule Changes

Change Date 11/16/2024:

  • 4.7 Leave the Arena - The rider is requested to acknowledge the judge after bringing his/her horse under control. The rider should watch for the judge’s signal to leave the arena before walking the horse from the arena. The rider should not dismount at any time while in the arena without permission of the judge. However, if the rider dismounts for reason of safety or reasons beyond their control, the judge’s permission to dismount is implied.

Interested in becoming a Judge?

Any CGA member may apply to become an apprentice at 16 years of age or an official CGA judge at 18 years of age.  They must complete the entire process within 18 months of getting their apprentice card.  If they fail to do so, the apprenticeship is canceled and the candidate must start over from the beginning.  An apprentice may not start judging or taking tests until the apprentice card is received from the CGA State Office.  You can read the full criteria in the CGA Rule Book Section 6.1 - Requirements to become a CGA Judge.  You can request an apprentice packet by emailing CGAState@gmail.com.