Showing yearling sport horse in hand

[Fletcher Boy]

Hi all,

I have a 9 month old holsteiner colt (Duke of Hearts xx/ Casall ASK/ Accord II) which I am planning on taking to the futurity later on this year alongside my broodmares with foals at foot, however I would like to take him to a few shows throughout the year in preparation and also to have a bit of fun along the way. I am completely new to showing but wondered if there are any turnout tips that are worthwhile knowing, for example I had read that his tail ought to be pulled but I am a little reluctant to pull with him being so young.

I had planned to plait him up and he is already used to wearing a bridle with a very soft straight bit and he is very amenable when handled.

Are there any particular shows you would definitely aim to enter? Travelling isn't really an issue but we are based in North Lincolnshire.

Finally, I wondered would it be suitable to wear either a hacking jacket or tweed jacket with a shirt and tie (and if so colours??) and light coloured trousers. I would probably choose to wear a helmet but what shoes are the most appropriate.

Many thanks.

 

[cundlegreen]

I'd plait as a yearling, always have done with mine, and won plenty of classes like that. Tidy tweed is fine, and light coloured trousers. possibly matching trainers for running. Remember you will have to run a triangle, that may be decorated with boxes and possibly flowers at each point, so try to get him used to those. a lot have a complete melt down at a bigger show, so make sure he's really going forward at walk and trot for you. Royal Norfolk and Suffolk both have sport horse classes, RN is a higher standard usually. The judges tend to like them very big, so unless he moves really well, thats something to bear in mind. Its not unusual to see a 16 hand plus yearling winning, although I think that's far too big IMO.