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NRHA Derby - Scores Too Big? Pat's Blog Gunnatrashya and Shawn Flarida We’re just about finished putting together our NRHA Derby coverage for the August 1 issue of Quarter Horse News. For sure, there was a lot to write about. I know you’ve already heard that Shawn Flarida and Gunnatrashya marked a 235 for the win and that Craig Schmersal scored a 234 on Boom Shernic for Reserve. But have you heard the complaints that the judges were way too generous with their scores? I admit, it was startling to hear those big numbers – they were the highest scores ever earned at an NRHA Derby. But I found that particular complaint interesting. The biggest knock on the NRHA judging system – since day one – has been it’s too negative; that not enough credit is given; that the level of difficulty is never taken into consideration. Shawn and Craig brought the level of difficulty through the roof. And they got scored – big time. That’s a good thing.   Boom Shernic and Craig Schmersal What raises the level of difficulty? Pure and simple: speed with control. When a rider can get his horse to boogie – and still maintain total control in every maneuver – that’s a plus one and a half maneuver. Not everyone or every horse can do that – duh! I’m still scratching my head trying to figure out how Shawn got Gunnatrashya to shut down facing the cone at the end of his left spin. And Craig’s circles? They were as close to perfection as you can get. Big fast, small slow in the blink of an eye – smooth as silk. Both riders ran to their stops, rolled back and came out loping. Now that’s control. Both riders were exceptional – deserving of exceptional scores. I’m glad the judges thought so too. Subscribe to Quarter Horse News Today!   Add comment Name (required) E-mail Website Notify me of follow-up comments Refresh Send Cancel JComments Mac os software dowanload