Your boots are polished, your horse is shining, and your nerves are… real. There’s nothing quite like the excitement (and butterflies) of entering your first horse show. Whether you’re riding hunters, jumpers, dressage, or walk-trot, that first competition marks a major milestone.
It’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed—there’s a lot to learn. But with the right preparation and mindset, your first show can be a fun, rewarding experience for both you and your horse.
Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to help you step confidently from the schooling ring to the show ring.
1. Choose the Right Show for Your Experience Level
Not all horse shows are created equal. If this is your first time competing, look for:
- Schooling shows or local events
- Divisions suited for beginners, like walk-trot, green rider, or introductory dressage tests
- Supportive environments where the emphasis is on learning, not winning
Tip: Ask your trainer for guidance on choosing a show that matches your horse’s temperament and your current comfort level.
2. Know the Rules (and the Lingo)
Each discipline and show organization has its own set of rules and expectations. Before you go:
- Review the class descriptions and entry requirements
- Learn the basic show etiquette, such as who has the right of way in the warm-up ring
- Familiarize yourself with show attire and tack requirements
Not sure what to wear? When in doubt, aim for clean, conservative, and neat. A tidy rider makes a strong first impression.
3. Prepare Your Horse in Advance
The week before the show, give your horse a prep routine that includes:
- Light training rides focused on calmness and responsiveness
- Exposure to new environments if possible (like trailering to a different arena)
- A thorough grooming and bath the day before
- Making sure their tack is clean, safe, and fits properly
Pack your gear the night before: saddle, bridle, grooming kit, show clothes, entry forms, Coggins, water bucket, hay net, and anything else you might need.
4. Show Day: Arrive Early and Stay Organized
On the big day, aim to arrive at least 1–2 hours before your class. This gives you time to:
- Check in with the show office
- Walk the course (if jumping)
- Allow your horse to settle and acclimate
- Tack up calmly without rushing
Stick to a familiar routine with your horse—feed and warm-up just like you do at home. Horses feed off your energy, so staying calm helps them stay calm too.
5. In the Ring: Focus on Rhythm and Relaxation
When your number is called, take a deep breath and remember—you’ve practiced for this!
- Ride your plan, not your nerves
- Aim for rhythm, control, and confidence
- If something goes wrong, just keep going—mistakes happen, and judges know you’re learning
Win or lose, your first ride is about experience, not perfection. The goal is to finish with a better understanding of how to improve for next time.
6. After Your Class: Learn and Celebrate
Once you’ve finished your class:
- Cool down your horse properly and offer water
- Check your score or placing if it applies
- Ask your trainer for feedback—what went well, and what to work on
- Watch other riders and classes to observe different styles and strategies
Even if you didn’t bring home a ribbon, completing your first show is a huge accomplishment. Celebrate it!
Bonus Tips for First-Time Show Riders
Bring snacks and water – for you and your horse
Label everything – tack, brushes, buckets… they tend to wander
Keep a checklist – so you don’t forget essentials like your helmet or show gloves
Breathe – seriously, don’t forget to breathe!
Final Thoughts: It’s About Progress, Not Perfection
Your first horse show isn’t just a test—it’s a celebration of how far you’ve come. Every rider starts somewhere, and every champion was once a beginner nervously trotting into their first class.
So enjoy the ride. Smile when you enter the ring. And remember: you’re doing something bold, brave, and unforgettable.
