The Art of Showing - by Sherrye Johnson Trafton, AQHA Judge

Showing is a fun and rewarding experience for competitors of all ages and disciplines. All too often, however, frustration at a poor placing mars what should be an enjoyable day at the show. Here are some tips from the judge’s perspective to help you make the most of your time in the ring.

Know the rules. All breed associations and riding clubs have rules for judges and competitors which must be followed. Knowing the rules for each discipline (hunters, western, pleasure, in-hand, etc.) and class you are entering is one of the most important factors for successful showing. Be sure to obtain a copy of the rules before the show and be sure to read them thoroughly to avoid unpleasant surprises once you enter the ring.

Staying abreast of rule changes within your breed discipline is your responsibility. Knowledge of legal and illegal equipment can mean the difference between placing or being shown the gate. For instance, excessive ornamentation on bridles, flash nosebands or spurs that are too long (beyond 1” in AQHA) will result in disqualification in hunter divisions.

Appropriate attire. Clean, properly fitting and discipline appropriate clothing is imperative. Although wearing the current fashions is all the rage it is not necessary to wear expensive or flashy outfits to be successful. Your outfit should complement your horse – not detract from it. This is also true of your tack.

Continuing education. Have you heard the phrase, “knowledge is power?” It’s certainly true in the show ring. Many breed associations now offer their membership as well as the general public a chance to participate in open judge’s seminars and forums. Attending these forums will help you learn what the judge is looking for in each class. Instructional videos and DVD’s are also available from a number of organizations such as NCHA, NRHA, AQHA, and the USDF. Knowing your rule book(s), watching instructional videos and reading your breed association updates will ensure that competitors, trainers, owners and spectators all have a clear understanding of what is required and what the judging criteria are for each event.

Have a plan. Make the most of your waiting time before you head into the ring. Pre-planning where you want to be, how you want to be and how to be rail savvy separates the true showman from the casual competitor.

Making sure you stay in a position where the judge can easily see your performance in a flat class is the “where to be.” Don’t get lost or obscured by another competitor in a crowd of horses…the judge can’t see you and won’t be able to evaluate your performance in comparison to others. Additionally, exhibitors who are having problems with their horse in a crowd can have an adverse affect on the performance of the other exhibitors. And know your course pattern! New AQHA rules stipulate that an exhibitor who is off course or who knocks over a cone will be disqualified.

Following the rules of movement, speed, length of stride, and conformation, along with proper equipment, proper clothing and facial expression make up the “how to be.” Know what the rules specify in terms of both your horse’s movement as well as your attire before you enter the class. Most importantly, put on a pleasant face. Looking untroubled by inevitable show ring glitches are the mark of a true showman. And don’t forget your horse…any horse that is consistently lame (identified by head bobbing or marked hitching of stride) will be disqualified and excused before the class is placed. There are also severe penalties for horses that are consistently exhibited behind the vertical or excessively nosed out. Turning in consistently penalty free rides with smooth and accurate transitions can earn exhibitors credit.

Present your horse to her best advantage. The “rail savvy” competitor avoids trouble spots by artfully leg yielding or distancing themselves from areas of the ring that may present trouble – spooky spots, bad footing, etc. Identifying and avoiding potential problem spots before you get there will help you present your horse in the best possible way.

Taking the time to learn the rules and regulations for your discipline, paying attention to appropriate attire for both horse and rider and carefully planning your time in the ring will all make your time at the horse show more fun. Happy showing!