Navigating the Horse Show

Horse shows take planning, just like anything else! Whether you’re a rookie or a veteran of the horse show industry, Saur Horse Training has provided an invaluable tool to help you navigate the shows. Make them the best experience you can by remembering these tips – even if you come away with one item that helps you to make your show more memorable:

 

Before the show

-Check social media and club/show websites for the latest information, especially entry/rv/stall deadlines.

-Have photos of your membership cards and horse registration papers on your phone for quick uploading when entering.

-Read club/association rules regarding classes you are eligible to enter.

-After making reservations for rv/stalls/classes, screenshot the confirmation and store in your phone. (Album: Horse Shows 2025) The confirmation may arrive in an email, too.

-Sign up for club/association awards.

-Read the rules for your club/association.  There may be requirements for year end awards or show high point awards.

-Make a copy of the show schedule to post near your stall. Highlight your classes.

-Make 2 copies of your patterns if you are in a pattern class…..post a copy near your stall.

-Check social media, or email, or organization’s website for stall chart, class count, and class roster.

At the show

-Find your stall and rv spot.

-Check in at the office…leave a check, or credit card for payment—most shows don’t want cash.  Get your exhibitor numbers.

-Post emergency contact information on your stall.

-Listen for special announcements..Lunch break? How long? Showing inside/outside?

-Check social media and/or the organization’s website for last minute announcements.

-Check the class counts so you have an idea how many are in the classes before you.

-Know the show’s procedure for adding and scratching classes

-Go to the arena and check the draw/class order.  Note where you are in the draw and who you follow, although a scratch can change that.  Take a picture of the draw. Some shows will post the class order on social media.

-Let the ring steward/gate person know you are checking in and give them your number.

-Listen for special announcements.

-Check how the judges may be running the class….mares/stallions first to enter arena in  halter?  How are they sequencing the gaits in a rail class?

-Many clubs post scoresheets online…check your scores for your classes.

-Breed shows have professional horseman and amateur ambassadors.  Find out who they are and utilize them.

After the show

-Check out with the show secretary.

-Strip stall of bedding, if required.

-Double check your high point standing. You will be required to sign for it.

 

Click here to download a PDF of this list by Saur Horse Training: Navigating the Horse Show