August 16–17, 2025, will be remembered as a turning point for Western Dressage in the Carolinas. With growing calls for more USEF Lite and USEF Western Dressage shows, Sandhills delivered—bringing opportunity, mentorship, and momentum to our region at the timeless Pinehurst Harness Track. 

I had the privilege of organizing an apprenticeship for upcoming “r” and “R” Western Dressage judges, including myself, Heather, as an “R” candidate. Thanks to the incredible collaboration with show managers of Sporting Services—Cassidy Oeltjen and Patti Hildreth— ran a smooth, friendly, and timely show despite the sweltering NC summer. 

Apprenticeship Highlights

Our group included: ("licensure they are working towards" and state they are from):

Amanda Delgado (“r” – NC) 

Bobbie Jo Jaakkola (“r” – MI)

Deborah Branson (“r” – NC)  

Emily Pethel (“R” – MD)

Heather Hamilton Boyer (“R” – NC)

Kris Hamilton (“R” – NC)

The show grew so much that the management added a second ring on Saturday, which allowed Amy Lanier (“R” – GA) to complete her final officiating requirement. It also marked the beginning of Andrea St. Hilaire’s journey, as she earned her sitting hours toward her “r” prerequisites.

Mentorship in Action

Day 1 featured Janice Mumford as mentor judge and Robyn Nunnally as presiding judge for Sandhills Western Dressage 1. On Day 2, they switched roles for Sandhills Western Dressage 2. Saturday focused on test judging per USEF requirements, while Sunday leaned into oral discussions—excluding Basic and Level 1 rides that still needed completion. Each mentor welcomed questions and promoted remarks with a positive undertone. The ease and comfort through years of experience shone through. They also emphasized learning never stops, and before each show, to review the scoring guidelines and the rulebook. I learned Janice has a keen eye for accuracy, and it told me I needed to be a bit more aware of that. Janice's tip for us judges was 7 words or less for the sake of your scribe. Robyn Nunnally was our go-to for rule questions as she is also a TD. Hearing her talk with confidence about hand spacing on reins told me that I needed to also recognize those smaller details, while still considering the whole picture. Both promoted education over elimination when possible and if there is something that can't be found in the rules, to give the benefit to the competitor. 

Community Power

This weekend counted as two separate shows, each with its own USEF number. Riders showed up in force, helping us meet every apprenticeship requirement. Word-of-mouth and grassroots enthusiasm made it happen— Candidates from Georgia to Michigan, passionate horse people came together to grow the sport and redefine what it means to be a judge: guiding, not criticizing.

This was more than a show—it was a movement. Thank you to every rider, volunteer, and mentor who made it possible. Western Dressage is rising, and we’re building it together.