10 Things I Wish I had Known Before Showing at Quarter Horse Shows

I often think of the unspoken etiquette or secret knowledge that occurs at breed shows. Here are a few things I wish I'd been conscious of before I started showing:

1. Appearances are Everything.
• At breed shows people often try to look presentable. They do not lunge in their pajamas (usually). Their hair is combed, and they try to wear clean clothes. At breed shows there is a certain degree of professionalism. You are there as a representative of your trainer. You will stand out if you choose to look disheveled. Looking good will give you confidence. This is one of those unspoken tidbits.
• Conduct yourself well. Do not act poorly. People are watching how you treat your parents, trainers, and horse. Do not mouth off to anyone. Don't be rude to others. Treat others how you would treat yourself. I know this may sound harsh but don't cry in the show pen. I'm not referring to a situation when you may be hurt but if you didn't win or if you're disappointed don't act out in the show arena. Be a good sport and stay away from negativity. If you must cry, do it at the stalls or in private.
• SHOW CLOTHES: I will be making a post comparing bling/simple outfits soon, but your appearance in the pen reflects the work you put into your ride. Be clean, presentable, and make sure everything fits. (Like I said- more on this later)
2. First Impressions Matter
• The first time you meet someone will determine a ton about your relationship.
• At the shows, your trainer and other trainers deserve respect no matter what. Even if they are grouchy/rude/mean do not get on their bad side. Not because they are better than you or can do no wrong. Trainers perform an incredibly hard job and run a business. When at the shows, they are conducting business. If they come across as mean, they may have been working long hours or just had a bad day. Don't take a snub personally. Most of the time, they don't realize they have offended you.
• Respect the judges. Do not address them unless spoken to. I don't feel like I have to elaborate on this further but comment below if you want me to go in more depth with the judge-exhibitor relationship.
• Show managers/Volunteers: These men and women have a lot of pull at the shows. Build a relationship with them. Learn their names and follow their rules. Gate managers/ judging assistants are people you want to be acquainted with. To get on their good side: be on time for your class, speak respectfully, and inform them if you're going to be late or if you have a tack change. These individuals have the difficult job of making sure the show runs smoothly. Most are tired and ready to go home, so do not be rude or shout at them.
3. There are so many deadlines!
• Hotel Rooms/ Camping Spots: These always sell out fast. Make sure to reserve these ahead of time. It is so nice to wake up and make a ten-minute drive to the show grounds rather than a thirty minute one.
• Stall Reservations: Don't forget about reserving your horse a bed! Make the reservation as soon as possible. Usually, you will be closer to the pen if you book your stalls early rather than late, which means less walking and exhaustion.
• Shows: Keep up to date on the shows in your area. If you are chasing points, make sure you plan ahead.
• NYATT/World Teams: Make sure you are meeting the deadlines for the team you want to compete with. There is always paperwork, money, and shows that you need to take care of. Almost every group requires you to perform "work hours" so stay informed and attend your meetings. (For more information on this topic check out my post, "How to Choose an NYATT Team")
4.  You will spend more money than you'd like to.

• Show Clothes: They cost money. The more money you put into them, the better they will appear. You can tell the difference, especially in the pen. 
• Show Tab: Shows are expensive. Usually, if the show is in the north-east, it will be more expensive. This is a hobby, and it's pricey. Pick and choose shows you can afford. 

Quick Tip: shows in West Virginia and Tennessee are usually less pricey than ones in Ohio or Indiana.

• Quality: To get the best horse or trainer, you will almost always spend more money than you'd like. Same applies to show clothes and tack BUT the better quality of the trainer, horse, or item the better you will be in the show pen. 

5.  Saying sorry is okay

• If you cut someone off in traffic or accidentally block their way, saying sorry is always the best route.
• It's easy to make mistakes, but you will face less embarrassment and move past the moment quicker if you take time to apologize.

6. Making Friends/Meeting People

• Many shows give away magazines like "In-Stride" or "The Way to Go" or "The Chronicle." If you want to learn who people are read these magazines and articles.
• If you want to know someone have your trainer point them out to you. Even better, ask them to introduce you.
• Going to your association's meetings will guarantee that you meet someone!
• Attend events! Go to the show's ice cream social or even sign up and attend the AQHA Youth Excellence Seminar (YES).

7. Standing up for yourself
Saying sorry is a nice thing to do, but if for example, you notice someone cutting you off consistently it is okay to say something. If someone pushes your boundaries, it is okay to stand up for yourself. If you notice someone is about to back into your horse, you can tell them to look before they back. Don't do it in an angry or mean manner just don't get pushed around!

8. Not to be embarrassed
Everyone struggles with this! Everyone has to start somewhere, and no one knows EVERYTHING! You have nothing to be ashamed of, and asking for help is okay. Embarrassment will always hinder you, and confidence is something you learn. Don't let insecurities rule you!

9. It is possible to be successful and achieve your dreams
Before I started showing at breed shows, I was told I couldn't possibly compete. Currently, I have met all the goals I could think of when I was little and some I couldn't even comprehend. I understand the feeling of "it's impossible," but it's not. You can do whatever you set your mind to if you are determined and surround yourself with positive people.

This is my last crucial point.

 I actually started with a trainer before I showed at AQHA -approved shows but I didn't understand at that time how important having a trainer who can coach is. I was blessed to find one who could.

10. You need someone who can coach

Many people underestimate the importance of a trainer having coaching abilities. I personally believe that you need a trainer who can coach if you want to compete at a higher level with AQHA. Their professional opinion will help you get better and better. If you choose to compete without a trainer, then you need someone like a parent, sibling, or friend that is there for you to push you. When you are at your lowest low, they will be there for you, forcing you to be the best that you can possibly be.
Some trainers do have this ability, and some do not. I think it is the most essential quality to look for.

 

 

Good luck with the rest of your shows this year. I hope that you do decide to show at breed shows if you're considering it.

Check out AQHA's website for more information on breed shows and  AQHA: Find A Trainer for more information on trainers.