Local Show Help - First Timer

[SamBean]

Hi, I'm hoping for a little advice please? I'm thinking of taking my horse to a local show at the end of the month, it is well known but low key (if that makes sense). I'm at a point of just starting to take him out to different experiences and he is being pretty amazing, I've had him a year, he is 7 and has raced. I just want us to both have fun and enjoy experiences together, no pressure on achievements within a time frame and seeing what we enjoy.

I was thinking about best turned out and maybe ridden horse, but stress for the experience. My questions may seem silly to you but valid to me so here goes; Being in my 40's would I be ridiculous? I tend to ride in a white pad, should I swap to a black numnah for the day and would I be ok to leave his brushing boots on? He occasionally catches himself though getting less often. His tack is new so not too concerned about that and I keep it simple. Last question, tweed of a jacket? I've bought both second hand whilst I figure out what we like. Finally, he can be a bit of a fidget if he stands a while, would we be allowed to circle if he does?

Any advice would be appreciated, thanks.

 

[Pearlsasinger]

Most shows just want to encourage exhibitors, not to make judgements about why they might be there, you certainly won't be the only person taking a horse for the experience.
You should wear tweed for showing, with cream/beige breeches. Your numnah should be rown, as should your tack but if you have just bought black, it will be fine at local level. I would take his boots off just before you enter the ring, the judge can't judge what s/he can't see! If you need to circle 'on the spot', you are unlikely to be the only one doing that, either. Have a good day!

 

[SamBean]

Most shows just want to encourage exhibitors, not to make judgements about why they might be there, you certainly won't be the only person taking a horse for the experience.
You should wear tweed for showing, with cream/beige breeches. Your numnah should be rown, as should your tack but if you have just bought black, it will be fine at local level. I would take his boots off just before you enter the ring, the judge can't judge what s/he can't see! If you need to circle 'on the spot', you are unlikely to be the only one doing that, either. Have a good day!

Thank you, Yes my tack is all black with white trim, I do have a brown pad too but thought a black numnah may be a bit more discreet for this time. Thank you for your reassurance about the day too, I guess I should try not to overthink it and relax!

 

[Red-1]

For showing at local level then just use the tack you have and have a fab time. Black numnah will be fine. Tweed jacket wonderful. No boots is necessary, but as mentioned above they can be whipped off last moment.

Have fun and I look forward to your show report (with photos, of course).

 

[SamBean]

Great, thank you. It looks like I'll be using the bank holiday as a bathing day! I'll try and post some photos, whatever happens I'll be proud of him just hoping I can do the best I can for him and us.