Horse show

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showgirl123

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I'm thinking of putting on a few horse shows in my area that are crying out for a decent show with qualifiers for Equifest etc. With decent judges, and a good mixed schedule for everyone.

Can anyone please give me any tips, advice, information with regard to doing this, especially insurance. Will the show automatically be covered for insurance under the venue insurance?

I have a fantastic venue that is cheap, it has all the facilities I need, toilets, cafe, plenty of hard standing parking and an indoor if needed.

Many thanks in advance x
 
Check with the insurance provider but i expect you will need a specific event insurance.

Do lots of advertising.

making it friendly and welcoming and make sure it is well run, classes running on time etc!
 
Have contingency plans for EVERYTHING. I was involved in organising our yards show series which involved even terms challenges, general shows and dressage. Think about everything that could go wrong and how it can be solved, eg, generators which pack up, adequate first aid levels for each event what to do if people get vehicles stick in mud ect ect. Finding good judges is also very important.
 
You will need your own insurance. Try The Event Insurance Comapany. You don't need panel judges for Equifest but try to make sure you get judges who know their stuff - people WILL complain about the judges NO MATTER WHAT!! I run 3 shows a year at our place and it is a bit of a nightmare to be honest.

My tips would be;-

Nice rosettes - pricey but keep competitors happy and coming back

Get experienced judges and stewards - they will make your day run much more smoothly!

Good quality highly commended rosettes, for all in children's classes, we give the first 3 medals and they love them.

Don't expect a massive turnout at your first show, it has taken us a good few years and our following is growing, build on your reputation and try not to be too ambitious at first.

We offer a discount for competitors entering 4 or more classes, shows can get pricey, especially if you are a mum with more than one child competing.

Equifest classes can be quite specific - only run classes you know will be quite well filled. I would reccommend BSPS Bright Stars qualifiers rather than Equifest for a first show. Or do Bright Stars and some Equifest M & M qualifiers.

By the time you fork out for rosettes, insurance, portaloos (if required), a venue, food, drink and gifts for judges/stewards you are looking at scant profit margins.

And most importantly you will need thick skin and the patience of a saint :)

Edited to say First Aid is another expense but always vital!!
 
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