Horse show tips

Horse show season is right around the corner. You’ve probably been taking weekly lessons and doing some hacking about, but what do you really need to do to be ready when the horse shows start?

I show an Off-the-Track Thoroughbred (OFTT) in the show hunters division because I love the camaraderie that the breed shows and classes offer.

We also foxhunt in the off season. But it doesn’t matter what breed or discipline you show; much of the preparation will be the same for both you and your horse. 

For the rider:

1. Try on your show clothes to make sure they fit and are show-ready.

   How to prepare a horse for show

2. How to prepare a horse for show
3. Western horse show packing list
4. Horse show must haves
5. Trim your horse beforehand, so it doesn't bother you on the show day.
6. Plan where you are going and what you will be doing beforehand, just like preparing yourself for a course.

They may have sustained some damage or a stain that you forgot about. After all, our shapes can change with age and varying fitness levels, and it would be no fun to wake up the morning of a show and find that you really need new breeches.

If you’re not sure about what you should wear, ask your trainer. There are plenty of consignment stores, and you may be able to sell some of your clothes for store credit to buy new — or new-to-you — items.

7. Hopefully, you have been riding all winter.

   If you haven

   first horse show tips
   horse show grooming tips