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tryingnotogiveup

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ive had my 5yo nearly a year now and tbh were only just starting to get somewhere after moving to new livery yard ( seems so much happier for some reason) im pretty much on now after a long long journey (was broken wrong by past owner and reverted himself to the start) weve now established a really strong bond too. but i want to start addressing other issues too theres a local show at the end of the month which i could walk him too i was thinking of going in the in hand classes or even just meeting a friend there and having him around her trailer etc so hes just in the show environment good idea or is my head in the clouds ? also not talking this year more start of next year but what would be the best classes to have him entered in then? i know theres like just ridden classes but ive never watched one so dont know whats involved ive only ever show jumped and mum used to deal with the paperwork because i was a kid.
 
I wouldn't see a problem with doing a bit of in hand showing now, take him to the show for a look and if he's pretty chilled out about it enter him in a class or 2. The best way to learn and gain experience is to go out and do it :) I tend not to enter any more than 2 classes at a time with a young or novice horse, I like to quit before they start to get bored so it's all a positive experience for them.

For ridden classes at local level you will often see things such as novice ridden or ridden youngster (for horses aged 4,5 or 6). They are a good starting point. Usually you do walk, trot, canter on each rein as a group then a short individual show. Or even just go in tack and turnout as a starter because you generally don't have to do more than walk round for that.
 
I would just hack him there and wander round letting hi get used to the atmosphere without doing any classes, that way there is absolutely no pressure or real preparation, if he does not relax with you riding you could take a headcollar so the tack could be put by the trailer and he can go and graze somewhere in the lorry park, allow him to gradually move closer to the rings once he has got used to the new sounds and exciting things going on .

Without knowing what type he is I cannot suggest what classes would suit in the future, take the chance to look at what is going on so you have an idea of what may be the right class, if you want more advice put on some photos and I am sure you will get plenty of help.
 
Sounds a great idea. I was toying with taking my 5yo to his first show at the end of the month. Problem is that my show buddy (grown up daughter) is off to America for 4 months (how selfish) so I am nervous about taking him on my own. I was just thinking about doing an in hand cob class and having a mooch about. Will have to wheedle OH to come, he hasn't had to come to a show or horse event for about 10 years!
 
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