FromTheHorsesBack is excited to announce the launch of “Creating Champions,” a new series devoted to tips and tricks for excelling in the horse show arena!  These handy tidbits have been amassed from my own experiences in competition and I hope that you will find them useful as well.  *Disclaimer:  I am not a professional horse trainer or coach and am presenting this series based on my own experiences.  Please use your own judgement and seek out a professional opinion if you are unsure about any of the information provided here. 

To kick off the series, here are my Top 10 Tips for Entering the Winner’s Circle:

1.  Present Yourself

You wouldn’t go for your dream job interview without being prepared, why would you enter the show ring with any less thought?  Make sure clothes and tack are clean and fit well, hats are clean and shaped, and horses are turned out properly.  Attention to detail is key!

2.  Be a Good Sport

Regardless of your performance or placing, be a gracious winner or a good loser.  You can always learn from your performance and recognizing this is the first step in becoming a better rider.

3.  Never Give Up

If you make a mistake in the ring, CARRY ON!!  Don’t ever let anyone see you sweat.  Judges may not have seen or noticed it, and even if they did, you don’t know how the other riders in the class are performing.  It may be hard to believe, but I have seen riders make a critical mistake but still place high. 

4.  Practice, Practice, Practice

Nothing contributes to success like putting in the blood, sweat, and tears behind the scenes.  The more you ride and the better your riding program, the more consistency and confidence you will have in the arena.

5.  Fitness Counts

Both you and your horse should be fit to achieve optimum results.  Muscular and cardiovascular strength are important and should be addressed.  I have seen riders ensure their horse’s fitness, only to falter when asked to post the trot for an interminably long time in the summer heat.

6.  Cover Your Bases

Preparation is not only restricted to riding practice.  Before your show day arrives, be sure to have a current Coggins test and health papers for your horse, truck/trailer maintained and ready to go, directions and hotel arrangements made.  Don’t let last minute details trip you up – think ahead!

7.  Looks are Everything

Always project an air of confidence in yourself.  You should never need to look down to check a lead or a diagonal (this is where the practice comes in) and keep a relaxed, happy expression on your face.  When a judge is comparing you to tens or even hundreds of other competitors, you must have charisma to stand out.  Even if you are scared to death, don’t act like it!

8.  Master the Art of Riding With Your Seat

Top level competitors have the ability to control their horse’s speed and direction with the use of their seat and legs.  Steering, turning, and stopping should be done with a minimum of voice and hand cues. 

9.  Maintain Control at All Times

You should be able to control your horse’s shoulders and hips anytime you are riding (again, NOT with your hands!).  One thing that separates great patterns from good ones is the ability to create soft, consistent elements on a loose rein.  Complete control of the horse’s body is required in presenting a pretty picture that functions well.

10.  Make Horse Shows Fun

At the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about!  Spend some time enjoying your horse, walk around the show grounds to cool off and explore.  Watch some other classes and cheer for your fellow competitors.  Meet people and exchange ideas.  The more enjoyable shows are for you AND your horse, the more longevity you will both have.