Show Etiquette
You have worked all summer long and you and your horse have made it to the
fair. If you haven’t had a chance to go to open rides, go to an open show,
participate in drill team or practice at a clinic with other horses in the ring, you
ought to become familiar with show etiquette. What we are talking about is the
proper way to act in the show ring while you are showing your horse and
outside of the show ring before and after your class.
Before the class
Practice, Practice, Practice. If you expect to do well at a show, you have to do
well at home first. Be prepared and always be on time for your class. Nerves
and tensions all play a roll in how well you do. If you feel rushed because you
forgot to do something, tensions will grow and your horse will notice your
negative body language. So get a good nights rest, be ready and plan on having
FUN!
Entering the ring
Enter the ring through the proper gate and follow instructions of the ringman.
Sometimes you will be asked to walk in or trot in. As you enter, be aware of
the direction that the horses are traveling and yield to anyone that is about to
be in your path.
Proper way to pass
Almost always pass on the inside. It is dangerous to put your horse between
another horse and the rail while passing. While passing, allow enough room for
the horse you are about to pass from the side, front and back. As you pass,
look over your shoulder and make sure you have left a reasonable distance. Do
NOT cut off the horse you just passed.
Left shoulder to left shoulder
If everyone knew about this rule of etiquette, it would be less chaotic in the
warm up rings. If you are riding in a ring where horses are traveling in
opposite directions, remember this rule. Left shoulder to left shoulder. As you
approach someone coming straight at you, pass on the side that enables your
left shoulder to be adjacent to their left shoulder.
Speed issues
What should you do when some horses are cantering and loping and others are
walking? Obviously, if a horse is walking on the rail, it is standard to pass on
the inside to avoid the collision. However, what if the rider is walking off the
rail on an inside track? If they appear they are going to stop or continue to
slow down you can pass them on the rail. It is best to announce what you are
doing to a rider that doesn’t know you are approaching. Friendly statements
like “Inside pass, Outside pass, Rail, Left” are all very helpful.
Coming off the rail
When is it okay to come off the rail in a multi-horse class? The judge or
ringman may ask you to spread out, cut across the arena or circle to allow more
distance between horses. That spacing may work for a while, unless your horse
has a more ground covering stride. Then you simply pass using the ring
etiquette mentioned earlier. It is not appropriate to cut in between another
rider and the judge. This type of shielding will be noticed and frowned upon.
Proper distance
Always try to keep at least one horse distance between you and the horse in
front of you. Keep a safe distance, usually two horse widths, as well from the
side so no animal or rider is kicked or bitten.
Problem horse
If your horse acts up and becomes unruly, go to the center of ring, dismount
and ask if you can leave the arena. This is the safest thing to do for all
participants. Please do not use a show to “school” your horse.
Receiving your award
No matter what place you receive, accept your award with a smile and
gratitude. The judge’s decision is final and whether you agree with them or
not, it is their decision. Another day the outcome could be very different. You
should have a “roll with the punches” attitude. You only have control over
your performance, not the performance of others and certainly no control over
all the various elements of the environment. Do your best, leave the rest….
Outside of the ring- after the class
Please do not get angry at your horse, yourself, your parents, your leader, the
judge or other exhibitors. The scene that you create has a lasting impression on
those around you, not to mention how you feel after it is over. Your horse
may wonder why he should try so hard to get it right or please you the next
time if you get mad at him at the show. Win or lose, congratulate all the other
exhibitors. Remember, these are the same friends that you made while working
side by side on your horse project.