How to Finish First Place in a Horse Show

Every rider wants to finish first place in a horse show. In order to rise above the competition, you must make not only perform well during the competition itself but also make mental and physical preparations. You can have that blue ribbon by following a few tried-and-true pointers.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Practice showing your horse repeatedly at home. Enlist the help of another showman who can watch for subtle mistakes and areas you can improve. Run your horse through the show moves in a number of places such as in the barn, the driveway, an arena and out in a pasture. This stops the animal from developing a habit of performing only in a single location.

2. Polish tack and pack supplies the day before the show. The morning of the show, you should only need to get yourself ready and trailer your horse.

3. Bathe your horse and tend to the hooves the evening before the show. (If your slot isn't until late afternoon, a morning bath is possible.) Scrub your horse well, removing all stains on the coat. Use a coat conditioner, rinse and dry well to prevent dust from settling back in.

4. Groom your horse right after the bath, focusing on the directional growth of the coat. Both a dirty coat and "cowlicks" on a horse can lower your score in a horse show. Comb the mane and tail thoroughly.

5. Spend quiet time with your horse on show day. The extra excitement of a trailer ride combined with strangers and an unfamiliar place can stress your horse. Your horse will cue off your emotions. It's essential for you to relax and bond quietly with your horse before the event. Calm, unhurried grooming and offers of a treat or two before show time can relieve stress for you both.

6. Form a partnership with the horse as you enter the ring. After all your practice, you know what moves the animal performs well and which ones are more troublesome. Allow the horse to take the lead on the "easy" moves. The horse can sense trust and will perform in a more relaxed, compliant manner.

7. Accept mistakes as minor inconveniences and move on. It's rare for anyone to have a perfect show. If you or the horse makes an error, there's no need to draw attention to it—just keep going as if nothing happened.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that horse showing is a fun event. Don't stress yourself or your animal. If you relax and work together with your horse, you have the best shot at that blue ribbon.