GoHorseShow has published several successful articles about Showmanship, including, Jill Briggs: How to Win at The Big Shows in the Showmanship, and Nancy Sue Ryan Breaks Down Congress Showmanship Pattern. These past articles asked the opinions of trainers and judges. This time–we have decided to interview, Amateur exhibitor, Courtney Ryan, who is a three-time AQHA World Champion and two-time bronze trophy winner to share some tips about how exhibitors can improve their skills in this class. We asked her questions about practice habits, show routine, grooming, and dressing to win. Let’s find out what she had to say.
Q: What do you think is the best advice you can give a novice or someone who is first starting to show in this class?
A: When you are at a show go and watch the other showmanship classes; for example, the Youth or Amateur. This will allow you to see how they execute the pattern and even warm-up prior to the class. I actually purchased the previous years of the AQHA World Show finals dvds in Showmanship, so I could see what kind of style I preferred and what it takes to win. Watching the finals will give you the chance to observe 15 strong and seasoned exhibitors with their horses. From there, you can begin to develop your own style, and it gives you a goal of where you want to be in the future…the finals!
Q: What do you think it is that you have as far as your abilities that sets you apart from others?
A: Consistency and Poise. I have great faith in my showmanship horses/partners. I find that the harder I work–the luckier I get. I put in the hours and always make sure my horses are happy and understand everything about what I ask. Practice is priceless, there is no substitute for time spent. When I step up to the start cone, I like to know I’ve done all I can and showing is the reward for all of my hard work – this helps release your nerves.
Q: What is your routine to prepare for the showmanship at the shows?
A: I do the exact same routine that I do at home, so, it is consistent for the horses and together we can have the same confidence at the show as we do at home. When I get the pattern, I will practice the pieces the night before very lightly. Then, the morning of the show, I will run the pattern all together but slowly. It is important to build your horse up and make them confident – not to startle them and make them insecure. When they seem to have the pieces and are listening when we run through the pattern slowly, then, I might run through the pattern at a 3/4 speed…maybe….
Q: What do you think about when you start planning to design a new showmanship outfit?
A: Color! I always consider what color will compliment my horse. From there, I always seek a classic but elegant design. Everyone has a different body shape. It’s important to ask someone or a professional about what lengths and cuts are appropriate for you.
Q: How often do you practice showmanship at home?
A: When I’m starting a new horse, I’ll try to practice five days a week and will always set them up in the cross-ties, or before they walk in their stall. This will encourage them to set up on their own. On a seasoned show veteran, I will practice on the days I don’t ride–so maybe one to two days a week.
Q: Do you do anything different before the big shows?
A: No. In my experience, I find horses are habitual learners and love the showmanship practice routine that we do. It is the same routine at home as it is at the shows. You can just feel how confident they are in the routine, and, in turn, you will gain confidence from their consistency in the routine.
Q: How do you normally handle your nerves?
A: Take a deep breath and remember how lucky I am to be here and to be able to show….and showing is the fun part…so just enjoy it!
Q: Is there a particular technique you use to make your pattern smooth and refined?
A: Finishing all maneuvers. I believe you should start each maneuver and finish each maneuver before you begin the next. It demonstrates control and how well your horse listens. Showmanship is about presentation not speed.
Q: Do you use hoof black? Any grooming tips you can share?
A: Hoof black on horses with black hooves; Clear polish for horses with white hooves. Good old fashion elbow grease….brush and rub and brush and rub – we also vacuum and use Rose-hips Premier.
Q: How do you teach your horse showmanship? Regular halter–particular training device?
A: Practice how you show. I use their barn halter and my showmanship lead shank….or a lunge line– something with a chain for practice. During the big shows, I’ll practice with my show halter and shank. Training devices will not be permitted at AQHA horse shows starting in 2012 – and I agree with AQHA’s position on this. I’ve witnessed these training device at work with inexperienced hands, and I think it is just too dangerous for all parties involved – handler and horse. Your horse is your partner and should never be your victim. Showing horses is a privilege, not a right.
Q: Do you have a particular routine before you show?
A: I like to give myself about 15 to 20 minutes to get to the pen and warm up before we show. I will do pieces of the pattern and make sure my horse is relaxed and ready, then, we will do a last minute grooming pit stop; fly spray, Pepi and a wipe-down…then we go show.
Q: Is there anything that you do to prepare yourself mentally?
A: I like to visualize the pattern and run it in my head before I show, or, even the night before, when I am laying in bed…it’s just as important as practicing with your horse.
Q: Anything else you would like to add that could help others improve their skills?
A: Practice, practice, practice and remember …..The harder you work, the luckier you get!
Photo © KC Montgomery
