Day 5 of the APKI Judging Course – with thanks to Interkoi Ameide
Year two of APKI Judge Training: A new perspective on quality
The second year of our training to become an official APKI Trainee Judge has officially begun! We have successfully completed the first year, which provided us with a solid theoretical foundation, well-balanced with hands-on practical experience.
From shadowing as trainees and practicing at live shows to even performing evaluations during online Koi shows: it has been an intensive, but above all, incredibly enjoyable year. We all worked hard, but we also shared a lot of laughter and fun along the way.
A Change in Perspective: Judging means looking at the present
What struck me personally the most during this first year is how differently you learn to look at Koi. In my normal routine, I primarily focus on the future and the potential for development. Judging, however, requires a sharp eye for the here and now. Switching between those two mindsets remains a challenge at times, but it is exactly what makes this journey so interesting.
Theory Meets Practice at Interkoi Ameide
The first year concluded with a theoretical exam, the results of which were discussed in detail today during the first session of year two. This day took place at Interkoi Ameide, where Andre de Groot gave us a very warm welcome. His facility is beautiful and his story is inspiring: moving from a passionate hobbyist to a Koi entrepreneur with a mission to help others enjoy the Koi hobby as much as he does.
The morning was dedicated to reflecting on year one and reviewing the exam. A key takeaway for the apprentice judges remains the link between theory and practice—an area where we certainly need to (and will) grow in the coming year. It also became clear that judging Koi during a live show is significantly easier than evaluating them from a video online.
Hands-on Selection: Kohaku ranking
After a delicious lunch—complete with well-filled sandwiches—it was time for the practical segment.
André had prepared two bowls featuring six Kohaku from Matsue and Momotaro Koi Farm. Following the official procedures, we judged them on body conformation, skin quality, pattern, and overall appearance. It was a fantastic and educational exercise. Although opinions differed quite a bit at first, we eventually reached a solid ranking that everyone could agree on.
After the official program ended, we closed the day in a relaxed atmosphere. We took the time to admire several multi-year Koi and a bowl of promising Tosai from the Interkoi Ameide collection while enjoying a drink.
André, thank you for your hospitality—here’s to an educational second year!
Written by Bas van der Hulst, owner of Kaizen Koi
