The Judge prepares for each race by drawing up a colour coding system to help them identify the silks that each of the jockeys will be wearing. They will also note any distinguishing features that each horse might have, such as white markings on the face and/or items of headgear and tack.

Once the Judge has taken up position in the Judges’ Box (which is always situated exactly on the winning line), they will speak with the Starter via radio to confirm that they are in position and the race can begin.