Competitions in the annual Hampton Classic kicked off Sunday in one of the largest outdoor horse shows in the entire country, and will continue through Sept. 1.

News 12’s Jamie Stuart got an inside look at what it’s like to be a judge at the highest level of show jumping.

Dave Distler took Stuart into the world of show jumping judges, telling him that his role is a fun, exciting experience that includes quick decisions and beautiful sights.

FULL NEWS 12 COVERAGE: The Hampton Classic

He says judges typically look for criteria like whether the horse brings a rail down, timing and other quick, on-the-spot objective judgments.

“It’s one of the top events in the country,” says Distler. “They do a fabulous job, and they try hard, which shows.”

News 12 is the official media partner of the Hampton Classic. Tune in all this week at 8 a.m. daily for exclusive coverage. Only on News 12.