Horse Show Ring Etiquette

Showing horses can be a lot of fun, but it's most fun when everyone gets along . Have you ever been in a show and have someone cut you off or run into you? You probably didn't enjoy that experience. Have you ever had someone offer to help you or loan you something you needed? How did that make you feel?

Many people get caught up in competition and focus on winning ribbons, forgetting about the fun and camaraderie aspect of the sport. They ignore the needs of people around them and can cause problems in the show ring. By following a few simple rules of etiquette, you can avoid alienating your fellow competitors and everyone will get more enjoyment out of the showing experience.

1. Follow the rules of the show and the show grounds. Only bathe your horse in designated areas, don't litter, and park in designated areas.

2. Be courteous to others. If you see someone needs help, offer to help! They may do the same for you one day.

3. Don't block the gates to the arena. If you are waiting for your class, make sure that you are not in the way of horses who need to enter or exit the arena.

4. Be aware of your surroundings in the warm-up arena. General etiquette says that when you pass someone going the opposite direction, you should pass with your horse's left shoulder to the other horse's left shoulder. If the majority of riders are going in one direction, you should try to go with them. Don't stop to chat, rest, or fix something while on the rail-go to the center or outside of the warm-up area.

5. In the show arena, remember that you don't have to make your transitions as soon as they're called. Take a few seconds to get your horse ready, then let the riders in front of you make their up transitions first so that you don't run into them, or wait until riders behind you have made down transitions or are not too close to you so that they don't run into you.

6. Make sure that you have as much space around you as possible at all times. This will not only make sure that the judge sees you, but if you or another rider has a problem, there won't be a crash. Your horse will also be happier if he isn't crowded.

7. If you need to pass someone, pass on the inside. If you absolutely must pass on the rail, say "Rail!" so that they know you are there. When you pass on the inside, make sure you are well past them before moving over to the rail-do not cut them off! If you cause their horse to break, they may not place as well as they should and that is not good sportsmanship.

These rules are simple and easy to follow. Just remember to treat others as you would want to be treated, and everyone will enjoy the horse show a little more!