Find out how you and your horse can really impress in the show ring with top tips from the judges themselves.
Don’t forget your flatwork
For Working Hunter classes especially, our judges explained that, for may people, the jumping phase of a class causes quite a lot of worry.
As a result, these riders don’t then spend enough time on flatwork phase of the their class.
Ride your horse in a dead straight line in a space where the judge can clearly see how your horse moves.
Perfect presentation
It would be rude to show up scruffy but don’t go too mad getting your horse shiny for the main event.
It appears that judges don’t really give you extra points for glittery hooves or perfect plaits.
Of course it does help with your overall presentation of your horse and can emphasise other right places for your overall confirmation score.
Get fit for action
The result you walk away from the ring with relies on you to perform as well as your horse.
So, while your getting him muscled up and trim for showing, be sure to give yourself a little TLC, too.
Train in the gym, go for regular power walks, run or workout at home. Being fit means that you’ll have plenty of energy to perform at your best on the day, just like your horse.
Manners please
As well as your horse having good manners the judge wants to see that you have good manners too.
Keep in mind that they have been watching you and if you let yourself down when you think you aren’t being watched, it could affect your whole day and your result.
Be courteous, smile and always be kind to your horse or pony.
Hone your halt
While it can be overlooked, the halt is your moment to shine but a lot of riders rush it.
Allow him to get square before you ride off.
This way you can see all the hard work you have put in by building muscle, washing and grooming.
