PAMELA ZIMMERMAN
Years as a judge: I received my judge’s card in 1992. Why did you decide to become a judge? I enjoy judging, traveling, meeting new friends and having the opportunity to see some truly outstanding Arabian horses from around the world. Judging offers a unique perspective on showing that just isn’t the same as what you see from the rail and is beneficial for all horsemen who desire to improve their showmanship and training skills. I feel that I contribute to the horse industry by bringing my experience, knowledge and impartiality to judging and my genuine love of the best breed in the world. What are you most looking forward to at this year’s 50th Nationals? The finest selection of Arabians and part-bred Arabians assembled in one place with the best trainers, owners and exhibitors all vying for their personal best performances. It is an awesome experience to have the best seat in the house and see the highest level of competition and superb horsemanship; to be part of that experience is an honor and a privilege. I enjoy the feeling that judging Nationals is like old home week, visiting with friends, favorite ring masters and show managers, and working with all the great people who dedicate so much of their lives to our industry to make our Nationals a success.
whatever the weather may be that week, gym clothes and a good book. Good nutrition, exercise and immune support gets me through a mentally and physically tough week and helps me maintain a good attitude. Judging U.S. Nationals makes for long work days. What is the biggest obstacle for you to overcome? Physically, it is keeping my feet and back pain-free by doing stretches each morning and night and wearing comfortable shoes. Keeping one hundred percent mentally focused for every single cut and class for every horse and exhibitor takes energy, so I let go of each class as soon as I have turned in my card so that I can concentrate on only one class at a time.
What do you do to prepare for Nationals? First, I always reread my rulebook and class specifications, look at the schedule to get a feel for the flow of the classes that I am judging, and prepare my “judging” tools: favorite pens, judging notepads and pack my briefcase with judging essentials. I always make a packing list for the entire week with the most comfortable shoes and layers for
Ar abian Horse Times | 145 | Volume 47, No. 5A