Johnny Simpson's Showing & Training Clinic
Johnny Simpson's Showing & Training Clinic
Emerald International
Saturday, 13th September 2025
Clinic
1. The Exhibit
(a) On arrival at the show, the exhibit must be checked in at the TCR office. When checked in, the exhibit will be given an exhibition number which must be displayed on the exhibit at all times on the day of the show.
(b) The exhibit must be exhibited in a suitable properly fitted show bridle and bit that are clean and in good condition. Rollers and side reins are not permitted except in a winners’ parade. All foals (whether or not they are exhibits) must wear a head collar and be led with a lead rope.
(c) The exhibit must stand, walk, and trot in a controlled manner. If the exhibit cannot be exhibited in a controlled manner, then the exhibitor (handler) may be asked to leave the grading/show ring with the exhibit.
2. The Exhibitor (Handler)
(a) The exhibitor (handler) must be 18 years of age or over and must wear suitable show clothing and footwear and also protective headgear to standard. The exhibitor can carry a show cane.
(b) It is the exhibitor’s (handler’s) responsibility to ensure that they are ready and waiting to be called. Staying informed of the day's schedule is essential.
(c) The exhibitor (handler) must follow the instructions of the judges and stewards.
3. The Owner
(a) The owner is responsible for ensuring that the exhibit is kept under control during the entire day of the show and for maintaining a safe distance from the other exhibits and attendees.
(b) The owner is responsible for any injuries caused by the exhibit to any animal and/or person at the show.
(c) The owner is responsible for any damage caused by the exhibit to any property and/or to any vehicle at the show.
(d) The owner must accept that the decision of the judge (or judges) is final.
1. TCR 5-Star Grading
It is because TCR 5-Star grading is a show grading that TCR 5-Star grading includes Star 1 - Exhibitor Turnout & Handling.
Star 1 - Exhibitor Turnout & Handling
The exhibitor's turnout will be scored as well as how well the exhibit behaves and shows for the exhibitor.
Star 2 - Conditional & Presentation
The exhibit will be scored on its body condition as well as on the condition of its mane, tail and leg feather. The exhibit will also be scored on how well it is groomed and on the suitability and condition of its bridle, bit and lead rein.
Star 3 - Breed Type
The exhibit will be scored on how well it represents its Traditional Cob breed type (Traditional Irish Cob, Irish Cob, Traditional Gypsy Cob, Gypsy Cob, Mini Cob, Mini Irish Cob, Mini Gypsy Cob, Stepping Cob, or Part Bred).
Star 4 - Conformation
The exhibit will be scored on its conformation as its Traditional Cob breed type (Traditional Irish Cob, Irish Cob, Traditional Gypsy Cob, Gypsy Cob, Mini Cob, Mini Irish Cob, Mini Gypsy Cob, Stepping Cob, or Part Bred).
Star 5 - Movement
The exhibit will be scored on its movement at walk and trot. The exhibit’s trot should be normal or not over-exaggerated except for the Stepping Cob.
2. TCR Premium Grading
Although a TCR 5-Star grading is a show grading a TCR Premium Grading is breeding status grading and can only therefore be achieved if proven to have produced TCR 5-Star (show quality) graded progeny. To achieve a TCR Premium Grading, a TCR-registered stallion or mare must therefore be recorded by TCR as having produced at least two TCR-registered progeny that have been awarded a TCR 5-Star grading. Although it would be desirable if the TCR-registered stallion or mare also has a TCR 5-Star grading, is it not necessary for the TCR-registered stallion or mare to even be graded in order to achieve a TCR Premium Grading.
Johnny Simpson is Coming to Ireland! A highly respected panel judge for TCR, CHAPS, HCR, SSADL, CDSGB, and AEMHS is offering an intensive one-hour training session limited to 6 participants. This interactive clinic covers essential showing skills including The Go Round, Ringcraft, Way of Going, Show Performance, and Professional Turnout, with Johnny sharing insights from his extensive judging experience at prestigious events like Royal Windsor Horse Show and Royal Welsh Winter Fair.
Throughout the session, participants will receive personalized guidance on show ring techniques, learn what judges are looking for, and benefit from Johnny's expertise through open Q&A discussions. Drawing from his distinguished career judging at major championships including TOYS, SSADL Nationals, and HCR Grand Finals, Johnny provides invaluable knowledge on both technical skills and practical show ring do's and don'ts. Don't miss this rare opportunity to learn from one of the UK's most experienced judges!
Session Details
- Duration: 1-hour sessions (may extend slightly)
- Class Size: Maximum 6 people per session
- Format: Interactive training with Q&A opportunities
Topics Covered
- The Go Round - Essential techniques and presentation
- Comprehensive Ringcraft training
- Way of Going instruction
- Individual Show Performance coaching
- Professional Turnout guidance
- Judge's perspective and expectations
- Show ring Do's and Don'ts
- General schooling advice
Judge's Credentials
Johnny Simpson is a highly respected panel judge for numerous prestigious organizations:
- The Traditional Cob Registry (TCR)
- Coloured Horse and Pony Society (CHAPS)
- Horse & Country Racehorses (HCR)
- Senior Showing and Dressage Ltd (SSADL)
- Concours d'Elegance of Great Britain (CDSGB)
- Association of English Military Horse Society (AEMHS)
Notable Judging Experience
Johnny has officiated at some of the UK's most prestigious shows, including:
- Royal Welsh Winter Fair
- Royal Windsor Horse Show
- SSADL National Championships
- TOYS (Traditional of the Year Show)
- HCR Grand Finals
- NCPA Pony of the Year
Interactive Learning
Participants are encouraged to ask questions throughout the session. Johnny will provide expert guidance and share his extensive knowledge gained from years of experience in the show ring, both as a judge and trainer.
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