in hand showing for beginners!! - which classes please

[lexibell]

I'm taking mothers youngster inhand in a few weeks time.

Hes 3 in April so obviously young stock. is it silly to ask whether its OK to take a youngster into other more 'general classes' (I've only done in hand twice at a very low level local show so please don't laugh at my ignorance!!!) and if so which classes do you think he would be best in....

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151169498979651&set=a.10150186240894651.324898.643614650&type=3&theater

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151169498674651&set=a.10150186240894651.324898.643614650&type=3&theater

I dont want to do too much as it will be his first show, but we are sharing transport so likely to be at the show for the whole day so thought I might take him in another class or 2 for experience and to pass the time.

Any other advice on showcraft?

 

[Bobbly]

He looks just like my first pony with a bit more feather. Apart from the young stock there may be a 'cob type' class, 'driving type' as well as turnout and fun classes just to get him in the ring with others. I like turnout classes for youngsters, gets them used to being washed and preened to the nines then walking the ring, standing in a line and having someone scrutinise them. Use a good solid in hand bridle, have him striding out confidently on a good length of rein with you leading from his shoulder, in both walk and trot, teach him to stand correctly and move about when asked, practice walking away from the judge a good distance, lollipop turn him to the right and step up into trot as soon as you are back on the return line, heading straight for the judge (who will move) and trot on by and away behind the line up before stopping, there is nothing more annoying as a judge than the pony being trotted off in the wrong direction as you then cannot assess the straightness of the movement if they are across the other side of the ring. Always finish with a nicely presented halt whether the judge is still watching you or not (the steward might be and might mention so if it comes down to nitty gritty!) Good Luck!