Horse shows are very busy, charged atmospheres. There is a lot of excitement, hustle and bustle, and emotions as riders, horses, coaches, and parents try to get to their next class. Listed below are some things you should pay attention to.

Be aware what is going on around you. Otherwise you may get run over by some horse and rider trying to get to their class!

At a hunter show, there are no specific times that classes run. There is a specific class order, so it is important to pay attention to what class is going on, and which class is before yours.

At dressage, two-phase events, and three phase events, ride times will be assigned, so watch the clock in order to make your class on time.

It is also important to check out the posted schedule. We will be posting times for tack up and warm-up times. At dressage and combined shows actual times will be posted. Due to the fact that there are no actual times for hunter shows, we will be posting class numbers that you need to be listening for.

We know Harmony Horse Stables riders will ride to the best of their abilities at every show. We also understand this does not mean you will always place in the ribbons. Somebody could just be having a better day, and this is fine. Things to think about during and after the show are:

Remember all the things that went well in your class.

Also think about one thing you would like to correct the next time the judge sees you.

We expect everyone to conduct himself or herself with good sportsman like behavior.

Part of horse showing is the friendships and camaraderie that develops between all members of the horse show team - riders, horses, grooms, parents, and helpers

Ribbons are the “icing on the cake”.

All members of the Harmony Horse Show team are extremely important. They include parents, grooms, coaches, horses, and all riders. Some of the responsibilities of grooms and parents are:

Help give an extra buff to rider’s boots once they have mounted

Wipe the slime off the horse’s mouth just before entering the ring

Help make sure riders and horses are drinking and eating

Most importantly they are part of the cheering section. So please take a minute and thank these wonderful people that help make every show an enjoyable event.

Keeping your energy up

Horse shows are pumped with adrenaline, and riders usually go, go, go all day. Then suddenly it is over, and they crash. To help your child keep their energy up during those long, hot, summer days here are a few tips to help keep their energy up.

Start with a good night sleep the night before a horse show.

Sleepovers often result in riders being up all night. Being tired for a show is no fun.

A good breakfast, with minimal sweets, the morning of the show will also help give kids the energy they need in order to ride their best.

Parents should pack lots of water and sports drinks to keep riders hydrated.

Soda is OK in small quantities, but it tends to dehydrate rather than hydrate.

Pack lots of snacks and food for kids to munch on, such as carrots and celery. Several of the shows we will be going to have food available, but it is usually a lot of junk food.

Horse Show Preparation