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Succeed Without Breaking the Bank: Practical Show Season Planning

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Written by: Brittany Chaffee
Category: Learn
Published: April 03, 2025

Photo by Julia Shelburne-Hitti.

For many amateur riders, the dream of excelling in their sport can seem out of reach due to financial constraints. The truth of the matter is horse shows can get expensive. From care costs to gas mileage to shavings and class entries, the costs add up, especially if you’re not expecting them. However, with some strategic and planful choices, you don’t need to completely break the bank.

From scoring custom-made gear on a budget to sourcing local horse shows to qualify for bigger shows, here’s a practical guide to help you stay focused and motivated without feeling overwhelmed. Ready, set, whup trot!

Read more …

On the Off Season: What to Consider When Letting a Horse Down for the Winter

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Written by: Allie Layos
Category: Learn
Published: January 14, 2025

What does a show horse do when there are no horse shows in the near future? In the Saddlebred world it has been a longstanding tradition that many horses are “let down” for the off season, but the methods that are used vary greatly from barn to barn. When, for how long and to what degree a horse is let down depends on many factors, including the geographical location as well as the individual horse.  

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From Center Ring: A Peek into the Judging Process

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Written by: Brittany Chaffee
Category: Learn
Published: August 21, 2023

Show season is well underway. By now, everyone has a few classes under their belt, summer is heating up, and the countdown to Louisville is on. Peak show season is often bittersweet, as riders make goals to improve and fall into a groove. If you’re showing a new horse, it’s likely you understand their quirks and tricks. If you’re showing in a new division, it’s likely you’re feeling confident in its space; excited to take on the last half of the year. 

It’s easy to get caught up in the day-by-day of showing and forget about the broad spectrum of the experience. Division by division, what is the first thing a judge notices when you enter the ring? Or, during a tough class you want to stick out in, what should you be doing to get to the top of the judges card?

The simple answer? Showing successfully is like a five-star restaurant. It’s all in the presentation and a good first impression. And while the general judging specs are important, each judge has a preference.

Read more …

Finding Your Superpowers: Awareness and Mental Balance

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Written by: Beth Watson Hedgepeth
Category: Learn
Published: May 08, 2023

Photo by Abigail Asiatico.What brought you to the world of show horses? There are a million and one possibilities as to why riders participate in the sport, but once here, all riders experience the same thing. Physical ability is only half the battle; having a game face and the mental capacity to perform is equally as critical. No matter the level of competition, it takes mental balance to be the best rider you can be.

Read more …

Show Shape: Getting (and Staying) in Shape for Show Season

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Written by: Brittany Chaffee
Category: Learn
Published: May 08, 2023

It’s that time of year again. Tune-ups are popping up nationwide, bridle paths are trimmed, tack cleaned, trailers reorganized, and suits refitted. Horses coming off a long winter break are reshod and treated like royalty. The happiest ones are conditioned for the season, fed the most quality food, and exercised against the most meticulous workout plans.

Equestrians spend most of their time on horse fitness, while their own fitness tends to take a backseat. And yet, rider fitness is an essential part of riding effectively and correctly. If you know how it feels to trot on a park horse, you'll know that one rail can feel like a mini marathon. We owe it to our horses to feel confident and well-balanced in the saddle. The good news? Getting in shape for show season is as simple as being aware of our body so we can have the space to be aware of the horse.

Read more …

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