Back in 2015, OBCC did a series of interviews with judges from Canada, the US and the UK. We have resurrected the questions and over time will put the questions to a variety of current judges. Here is the first conversation with Lee Lumb.
Do you always approach judging a trial in the same way or do different circumstances require a different approach? Can you identify the highlights of your approach?
I would say I approach judging each trial in the same way - i.e.. be knowledgeable about the USBCHA Rules and Guidelines for judges - and I apply those guidelines to my best ability with consistency, understanding of sheep behaviour and lack of bias. I also want to work with the trial organizers to do the best possible job of giving dogs and handlers fair and even opportunities on the trial field.
What are your 'must-haves' in a top run?
For me a top run will show that the dog and handler are managing the sheep in a workmanlike, controlled manner. The dog showing it is reading the sheep at the top end and establishing a solid quiet lift if possible - given the sheep/set out/ field etc. I likely point the lift more specifically than some judges will as it is a critical part of the rest of the run. I look for a quiet drive showing the dog understands that job rather than relying on the handler to give continuous flank commands. The dog showing it can shed by coming in on the heads of sheep, if possible, and hold.
What do you not like to see in a run?
Sheep not being treated in a respectful manner. Handler having to tell the dog where balance point is at the top end. Dog chasing sheep down the fetch. Handler whistling non stop. Dog being aggressive or rash with the sheep. Handler yelling out commands. Handler making the opening for the shed and holding it for the dog and expecting me to call the shed just because the dog comes through that opening without showing purpose. Slamming the gate at the pen - show boating.
In what circumstances do you DQ a dog?
Dog gripping a sheep when the sheep have not directly confronted the dog, especially if the dog has caused the confrontation. Dog leaving the course or runs out of bounds. Dog showing rash behaviour that is overly stressing the sheep. Would retire the dog if it shows signs of lameness, or heat exhaustion.
If you have judged in different areas, like east or west North America or the UK, what are the significant differences, if any, in what you see on the trial field?
I haven't judged in the UK so can’t comment on differences there. As for East/West I haven't seen huge differences. Of course different breeds of sheep and how sheep are managed (small farm flock vs commercial operation or range) will lead to differences on how the trial plays out. You will find different challenges are presented at all trials based on the sheep. Some handlers who are used to farm flocks will find range ewes difficult when they trial out west for the first time but the same goes for handlers used to working commercial or range sheep when they have to work farm flocks.
What characteristics are you personally looking for in a dog and why?
I like a dog that feels its sheep, is biddable but has enough independent thinking for me not to have to tell it everything to do, has a sound and calm mind. I also like a traditional rough coat!
How do you personally benefit from judging? What motivates you to do it?
I learn so much every time I judge. You have undecided attention to the run so you see how different dogs affect the sheep and how handlers deal with those differences. I judge because I believe each handler needs to give back to the trial world if we want our trials to continue.