Horse Shows

When bringing your horse to a horse show there are a few very important things that you should be aware of.

Trailering your horse:

When you go to a horse show the show is must likely going to be far away, unless the show is held at your barn or a barn close by. Therefor, you'll have to trailer your horse there. When getting your horse into the trailer you have to put your horse on a lead rope, get a fairly big distance away from the trailer and walk your horse up the ramp without stopping or turning back to look at him, otherwise your horse will stop in the middle of the ramp and refuse to go into the trailer. This will give you some difficulty. Always make sure your horse is well latched onto the side of the trailer and the back bar is done up correctly.

When arriving at the show:

The first thing you will do is remove your horse from the trailer. Leading your horse out can sometimes be dangerous since there will be many other horses, cars and trailers around and could be exciting for your horse if he/she is not use to this type of environment. You always want to be extra cautious. Back your horse out of the trailer slowly, keeping your horse calm, never pull your horse back this would startle your horse and cause him to get anxious.

When in the show arena:

Since your horse is not at home and most likely isn't use to the barn your at you have to be extra cautious wen your riding. You should ride with a tighter reign and and always be wide awake and aware of everything that's going on. Although your horse might be very sound, the excitement of all of the cameras and people watching always get the horses excited.

How the shows are judged:

The judge looks at you position, the way your horse is moving, your use of the arena, your position over the jumps, your transitions and whether you keep the canter throughout the hole course or not.

Ribbons:

The ribbon you receive depends on your amount of points, each mistake you make, the judge will dock off 2-5 points, starting off with 8 points.

1st place: 7 points
2nd 5 points
3rd 4 points points
4th 3 points
5th 2 points
6th 1 point

You will receive at least 3 ribbons at a show (if you place).
The points are calculated end the winner will receive a trophy or metal.