| The first few horse shows for a beginner can be | | | | ownership? Do you have to have a veterinary |
| a very intimidating experience. If possible before | | | | certificate of health or proof of vaccinations? |
| your first horse show just hang out and watch a | | | | There is nothing worse than getting to the show |
| veteran. If you know anyone who is experienced | | | | grounds with your horse, your kids and all of your |
| ask to tag along at his or her next show. It will be | | | | equipment, only to be turned away because you |
| apparent pretty quickly who is still in the beginner | | | | don't have all of the required paper work. |
| category and who has the process mastered. | | | | Trust me, telling them "I'm just a beginner" does |
| Pitch in and assist if you can. That is the best | | | | not help. Most horse shows will print a show bill |
| way for a beginner to get a feel for everything | | | | that will list the events and requirements prior to |
| that is involved. | | | | the show. Obtain a copy in advance. If you have |
| Watch and learn. You will see a multitude of | | | | any questions at all call them. The promoter |
| different styles. They will range from beginners | | | | should be able to answer all of your questions or |
| who are not organized at all to veteran horse | | | | at least be able to direct you to someone who |
| show participants who are extremely organized. | | | | can. |
| Most people fall somewhere in the middle. You will | | | | Your breed association is also a great place for |
| notice the more organized groups will also be | | | | beginners to obtain general information. Decide |
| much less stressed. As a beginner you should try | | | | which classes you are interested in. This is |
| to make your first show casual and | | | | especially important if you have more than one |
| non-threatening. Try to enlist the assistance of an | | | | person riding and sharing the same horse or tack. |
| experienced friend. | | | | Try to avoid back-to-back classes where a tack |
| If you are showing with a child draft a family | | | | or rider change is involved. Unfortunately this is |
| member to help. Just someone to get the kids | | | | sometimes unavoidable. |
| dressed and ready for you will be a huge stress | | | | If you have a tack change let the ringmaster or |
| reliever. Plan for your first show to be at a small | | | | gate person know. Be prepared have everything |
| local/open show if possible. Do not attempt to | | | | ready at the gate so you can just switch out |
| enter every event under the sun. Beginners tend | | | | tack and rider without delay. Horse shows can be |
| to make that mistake. Pick a few classes that | | | | as simple or as complicated as you want to make |
| you know you excel at. | | | | them. My suggestion for beginners and |
| Know the rules for your breed or type of show | | | | experienced alike; keep it simple. You will have a |
| you are attending. Are their age limits or | | | | lot more fun. |
| requirements? Do you have to show proof of | | | | |