I was asked in another space about what I meant when I talked about string. Literally, a judge would place a maybe 1 foot (25cm) long piece of string or yarn over the top 15 or so models they were interested in placing, and ask for the others to be removed, so that the top horses would have more room for a close examination. The string might also be placed near or under the horse if a string over the back was problematic. Some shows have also used pennies or another marker, generally a marker you’re not meant to keep.
If you look at the classes in the post, the whole table is filled to the center and there’s no way to closely examine the center models for flaws or to really appreciate them. Removing the extra horses meant all the contenders could be seen and considered. This was especially important in spaces that aren’t aggressively lit.
Today we rarely tolerate models having to be in the center of a table at all, and we use oblong 8’ card tables in larger spaces. We also split classes much more aggressively - and no one offers a “stallions” class any more that would attract so many entrants.
I love this new list, and the engagement and ideas it represents. Super interesting to think about breeds and model horse show class lists in this way.
It’s important for us to keep thinking and innovating as we get new molds and new opportunities!