Susanne Baarup has horses in her heart since she was a teenager. She is Dansk Ride Forbund coordinator and she lives north of Copenhagen
Dressage.it interviewed her for you
How and when did you meet horses? And where and why dressage?
«I started riding on a riding school when I was teenager – and rode there for many years before I got my own horse. I have been competing in both jumping, eventing and of course dressage – national Grand Prix level. And over the years dressage became my favourite discipline».
When did you become a dressage judge?
«I started as national judge many years ago – and my international career started in 1995. I became 5* judge in 2013».
How did you career develop?
«I have been lucky to have many fantastic mentors to develop my judging career. Among others: Eric Lette, Hanne Valentin, Mariette Whitages, Birte Willer Hansen, Gislain Fourage and Stephen Clarke. And I have enjoyed my travel through all the levels. I have judged many championships for Jun/YR/ponies. 2 European Championship Seniors, More World Cup Finals, Olympic Games in Rio, and this year I will act as President of the Ground Jury at the World Equestrian Games in Denmark in August. I forgot to mention that I also have judged several World Championship for Young Horses. (and that is really one of my favorites)»
In your opinion how should be the relationship amongst judges and other stakeholders? (riders, Trainers, sponsor, media etc)
«As judges we must act as a team. We must respect each other and be able to discuss our results and opinions. We must be humble to our “job” as judges. And always remember to judge the “basic riding” correctly».
Do you have any worries when you are going to start judging a class?
«No. I’m exited and I will always do my best based on my experience from judging many fantastic horses/riders over the years».
Your hobbies?
«It is still riding – and Yoga».
Any suggestions to FEI regarding judges?
«The FEI must keep working on the education of judging. It would be good if the JSP panel could go to other shows than the “big” championships in order to evaluate judging at the showground».
