We’ve all been there – after what feels like an investment of endless time and money, you go to a show and have a blow-up in a class, struggle to make it through a pattern or find your horse would rather spook at the arena banners than listen to you. It can be maddening, disappointing, […]

Whether you call it “shouldering in,” “crowding the handler” or “falling into you,” it’s a habit that needs to be stopped. AQHA Professional Horseman Jason Smith of Whitesboro, Texas, has trained hundreds of halter horses to lead politely. Whether you’re leading your horse in a show class or leading him from the barn to the […]

Whether you are starting a young one or working on a steady veteran horse, changing leads can be tricky. Changing leads not only makes up an entire class on its own in the western riding, but the maneuver is also often included in multiple other all-around events. A lead change can be executed in many […]

Anyone who shows horses can agree that a competitor’s journey is filled with memorable moments, both in and out of the show pen. These “aha” moments come in various forms, but often teach us valuable lessons, keep us humble, and serve as a reminder of why all the hard work and sacrifice is worth it […]

Start at A. Trot up and around B. Halt at the judge. Back one horse length. Walk up. Set up for inspection. 540 degree turn and trot off. We all know the drill when it comes to showmanship — be ready, be confident, be precise. To hit all those goals, you need the perfect partner, […]

What is a Simple Lead Change? A simple lead change is a lead change made through a transition down to the jog or walk and then back to the lope on the other lead. According to AQHA’s rules, there should be only one to three strides at the jog or walk before picking up the […]

The MQHA Summer Series in Midland, Michigan, kicked off the state’s 2021 season with six days of showing over Memorial Day. Unfortunately, it was cold, and the weather didn’t exactly cooperate, but as you know, equestrians are hardcore, and the show must go on. With over 6,000 total entries, the show was packed with exhibitors […]