Horse shows can be a great place to test your riding skills and how well you and your horse work together as a team. Competing can be a very fun and rewarding experience when you take the proper steps to prepare your horse and yourself for a exciting, stress-free day.
Choosing the Right Show
Not all horse shows are created equal. There are many different kinds from schooling shows to national championships, and choosing the right one for your level of riding is very important. First, do your homework know what kind of show you want to go to, look for advertisements or search online for shows in your area. Once you find one that is the correct discipline and at the right level for you the next step is to pick the correct classes. If your horse has never been to a show before it is probably not a good idea to enter him in a class with advanced, seasoned show horses for his and your first time in the show ring. It probably won’t be a good experience when the competition is not at the same level as you are. Realistically evaluate you and your horse’s skills with your trainer and then decide on a class that will a show off your skills.
Before you sign up for classes, also check that the show grounds have all of the amenities that you need. Make sure that they have an area for lunging, ample space for warming up, trailer parking, and stalls. Another important point to consider when choosing a show is the show’s location. Is the venue hours away or is it a schooling show being held at your barn? The location is important when planning the amount of money you want to spend, if you want to travel, or if you can you travel. Do you have a horse trailer? If not it will make it more difficult and expensive to haul to a far away show. In that case you may just want to attend the schooling show at your barn or tag along with a few friends and split the cost.
Know the Rules
Before you get to the venue on show day know what the rules are for the classes you have entered. At some shows certain types of tack and bits are not allowed. If you don’t know about these rules or forget you can be disqualified no matter how well you did in the class. Also, if you are participating in reining, show jumping, or another pattern class know your pattern before you go in. Being prepared and having a plan will help your day go smoothly. Follow the show’s guidelines and know what is expected of you and your horse.
Style for Horse and Rider
Turnout is essential to a successful class, you must look the part as well as preform well. Read the show bill or rule book at an association show to find out what is expected. Riding attire at local and schooling shows isn’t as important as it is at bigger rated shows, but no matter which you choose groom your horse well and have your outfit neat and tidy. This will not only make a good impression on the judge but will also help you to feel more confident.
Bring Your Trainer
Having your trainer come to the show with you can be extremely beneficial as they can coach you through any problems in the warm up, let you know what to expect once you are in the ring, and give you a constructive critique of your class. If bringing your trainer is not an option have a friend or riding buddy tag along with you to assist you throughout the day. Have your friend record your ride to point out any flaws you may not have other wise noticed.
Calm the Butterflies
The best thing to calm your horse show nerves is to be adequately prepared. Knowing all that is expected of you and being confident that you can preform well will help you immensely. Having a calm, veteran show horse will also boost your confidence and help you feel comfortable while showing.
Show Essentials
Before you leave for the show make a check list of all the things you will need for the day. Some things you will need include: tack, this may mean multiple sets if you are showing different horses or in more than one class, copies of each horse’s important paperwork such as their coggins test and registration papers, hay nets, and water buckets. Bring enough hay for your horse to munch on all day, and if he is picky about drinking in the trailer or at the show you may want to bring some water from home as well.
Time management is extremely important when planning for and attending a show. Be aware of when your class starts and plan accordingly. Always leave enough time for you to tack up, warm up, and be at the in-gate on time. Making a plan before you get to the show and sticking to it is key.
Have a Positive Experience
With horses sometimes things just don’t go as planned. Your horse may spook or misbehave in the arena, or you may feel very nervous and go off pattern. All of these things are ok, you learn as you go and horse shows are all about the experience. Take it in stride, learn from your mistakes and both you and your horse will be better because of it.