Early spring is typically the time of year where horseback riders rejoice as we gather handfuls of showbills and compare them with our calendars to decide which shows we will be hitting up this year. As the first show approaches, it is important to double-check that everything we need is in order and ready to go. Below are some tips for preparing for the first show of the year.
1) Spring Cleaning
Once spring rolls around, spring-cleaning is not only meant for our houses, but it works for the horse show scene as well. Making sure that blankets, sheets, sleazys and any other horsewear is cleaned will make it much nicer upon arriving to the show, but will also help to keep your horse clean, too. Besides our horsey pajamas, saddle pads and leg wraps are other things that may need to be cleaned at the beginning of the year. A full season of showing outside in dusty arenas can turn even the crispest show gear dull.
2) Dress to Impress
A winter horse show hiatus is the perfect time for all of us to outgrow our show clothes from the past year. Before your first show, make sure to pull out all of your show clothing and try everything on. Clothing that is nicely fitted and clean will always stand out to a judge no matter the amount of bling and sparkle. Items like chaps and pants may need to be lengthened or hemmed depending on your individual needs. Growing children especially need to try on their show clothing many weeks before their first show so the proper alterations can be made. Hat shaping is another must before the first show, especially if your hat has not been stored inside.
3) Restocking the Supply
By the end of the previous show season, it is typical to begin to run low on supplies such as bands, hoof polish, vet wrap, tape, bobby pins and safety pins. All of these supplies have important uses in our grooming bags but can often be forgot about until we run out. Before the first show of the year, it can be beneficial to go though our grooming carts and make sure we have everything restocked and in order before crunch time.
4) Forms, Forms, Forms
Before you go to sign up for your classes in the show office, it is also important to make sure all of your forms are current and up to date. Some shows require a negative Coggins test that must be renewed every 12 months. In case your Coggins test is outdated, contact your vet as early as possible to insure you will have the results in time for your show. The new year also marks when association memberships may need to be renewed. The ID card is another thing that may need time to be mailed to your residence, so checking this in a timely manner is important. Also, if you are leasing your show horse, many associations require a copy of the lease as well as a special form to be filled out and turned in along with your show forms.
Besides the beginning of the year, it is a good idea to periodically check these things just to be prepared so you are not caught off guard at the show. After making sure everything is clean, restocked, valid and in order, you will now be prepared to go show.
