Perfect Horse Show Turnout
bridle path behind the ears creates a tidy place for the crownpiece of your horses bridle to sit.
Youll go a long way toward a sleek look by trimming the long shaggy hairs on the back of your horses fetlocks. You can also edge around the coronary band to create a neat hairline above your horses hooves which is important if oilingpolishing the hooves.
Bathing If you bathe and braid the day before dont be surprised if your horse tries to undo all your grooming efforts overnight. A lightweight sheet can help keep him clean while a stretchy hood protects braids and tames the mane.
Spotclean with a sponge or damp towel. Waterless shampoo or green spot remover is also great for a quick lastminute cleanup on show day.
Show Time!
On show day plan to arrive early so that you can get your horse ready and warm up without being rushed. An extra set of hands is always welcome at a showif mom or dad cant make it pair up with a barn buddy.
Dont forget to bring a helper ringsideits even better if they can take photos of all the fun candid moments at the show. Photo by Leslie Potter.
Assemble a grooming kit in a bucket or tote for lastminute touchups before you go in the ring. Youll want a brush fly spray a clean rag to wipe any goobers or green slobber from your horses muzzle and a towel to dust off your boots. Some people also like to dress the horses feet with hoof oil right before entering the ring.
Making sure that you and your horse are neat clean and tidy is important at a show. It demonstrates to the judge that you have respect for the sport take pride in yourself and your equine partner and that you are ones to watch. Very simple details such as wiping smudges off your apparel tucking flyaway hairs into your hairnet and your horses braids and shining up your boots will give you a standout glow.
Now that you and your horse are looking your best remember to have fun and get your helper to take plenty of photos and videos of your rides and candid moments. Its a lot of responsibility to prepare for competition and you can always be proud of what you have accomplished with your turnout!