How to Plan for a horse show

How to Plan for a Horse Show

Why is it that so many of us have such a love-hate relationship with horse showing?

Based on my own experience and observations, I conclude that many of us have mixed feelings about competing because we go into it without a plan. Lack of a plan leads to uncertainty and confusion and usually leaves you in frustration.

Having a plan gives you something concrete to rely on when your horse show nerves kick in rendering you unable to make decisions. It also keeps you organized. If you tend to get nervous, writing things down helps you to remember what you need to do.

The list below contains tips on how to plan and prepare for a show. None of them are complicated, matter of fact; they’re all pretty much common sense. And they can help make your horse show experience more positive.

Pack your horse trailer in advance. Nothing is more nerve-wracking and perspiration-inducing than running around the morning of the show packing the trailer. In this harried state, you’re bound to forget something, and it will probably be something important– like a bridle or riding boots. So set aside time before you’re scheduled to leave and pack your trailer.
Don’t compete at a level that’s beyond your ability. At many horse shows you may avoid this pitfall due to qualifying prerequisites. However, that’s not always the case. Before you enter a class, take an objective look at where you are in your daily training. If you and your horse are barely managing three-foot jump courses at home, chances are slim that you’ll pull it off at a show.
Set aside time to learn your pattern or test. If you’re a dressage competitor, you have no excuse not to know your test prior to the competition since copies of them are widely available. Hunter/jumper and event riders often have the opportunity to walk a course before riding it. Use that time to your advantage.
Make sure you know where your ring is located and the warm-up area as well. Don’t wait until you’re mounted for your first class to go find your ring. You’ll waste time that could be devoted to warm-up. Instead, locate your show rings well before your classes and make note of them.
Build a mini-schedule around each class. If you know what time you’re scheduled to ride or have an approximate idea, work backwards and schedule in all the stuff you need to do to make it to the warm-up ring in plenty of time.

Horse shows are nerve-wracking because so much is out of your control (the weather, the zipper in your riding pants). Devise a horse show plan and use it every time you show. I’ll bet you’ll start finding horse shows to be a lot more fun.

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