Kind, always very co-operative, very ‘British’ attitude, Isobel Wessels has often been on the jury in Italy over the years. And her work has always been much appreciated. Isobel Wessels lives in rural Herefordshire, in that part of the UK which is close to Wales, Dressage.it interviewed her to share her pleasant acquaintance with many.
Mrs Wessels, how and when did you meet horses? And where and why dressage?
«I was always a horse crazy child but started with ballet and only began riding as a teenager. My first real job was in Vienna working with dressage horses under the guidance of Spanish Riding School Bereiters. Needless to say I was hooked immediately».
When did you become a dressage judge?
«I first started judging whilst living in South Africa (another adventure!) in the 1980s and gradually moved up to Grand Prix when I was back in the UK. I became a candidate FEI International judge in 2000 and then passed my exams for 4* when I had stopped international riding in 2004. In 2011 I was promoted to 5*».
In your opinion how should be the relationship amongst judges and other stakeholders? (riders, Trainers, sponsor, media etc)
«I think there should be endless dialogue and cooperation between all stakeholders and judges. We all want the same things and must work together to protect horse welfare and the sport we are so passionate about».
Do you have any worries when you are going to start judging a class?
«Before I start judging I feel excitement and some butterflies in my tummy but as soon as the horse comes in I settle into my observations and marks. There is no time for anything else! Comment and mark, taking care that every movement is fairly judged and that my concentration is not lost. I must do my very best – the horse and rider deserve nothing less».
Could you tell us about your hobbies?
«In my non dressage spare time I love classical music, gardening, walking the dogs in the beautiful English countryside and of course spending time with my ever patient and supportive husband».
Mrs Wessels, any suggestions to FEI regarding judges?
«The FEI has become more and more supportive and approachable over the years but perhaps for new judges coming into the sport there could be more opportunities for learning at shows and mentoring with senior judges. Now that the age limit has been taken away we will have many very experienced judges who could help the younger ones so much. At the moment I fear that there is no possibility of financial support for this but hopefully in the future this might be a realistic development».
