Stewarding at a show

[khalswitz]

So I’ve been asked to steward for a friend of mine who judges showing classes. Not had confirmed yet which classes I’m being signed up for but looking forward to giving it a go.

Can anyone offer any tips on things to bring/wear/be prepared for? It’s not something I’ve done before although I have shown in hand and ridden myself in the past.

 

[meleeka]

Comfy shoes, a decent pen, water bottle and layers, including a waterproof coat. I use to really enjoy it and you learn a lot.

 

[Carlosmum]

Enjoy, be guided by your friend who will tell you what she needs you to do, and don't take any nonsense from competitors. If they get awkward point them towards the secretaries tent. Its not your fault! Usually because they are late for their class. Agree with the judge at what point the class is closed, so you don't let anyone in. The judge is in charge but you have to make it happen

 

[Northern Hare]

I always just wore smart trousers and boots and shirt and waistcoat etc, and a hat of some description if it was very sunny.

I don't know what level the show it is, but I always took a few minutes to go and collect the rosettes from the Secretary's or awards tent and have a quick sort through. Ime they're usually given to you with the rosettes in one pile, the envelopes with the prize money in another pile, then all sorts of vouchers to be given out - and then if there are any qualifiers (for HOYS etc) you had those tickets as well.

So I'd just put all the bits for 1st place together, then 2nd place etc. Then you can be sure that nothing gets left over. By the time you're standing by your judge in the middle of the ring, you've usually got a clipboard and pen, plus a schedule and probably another folder or two, then add to all that the rosette basket and awards and I would get all "fingers and thumbs" so I found it's good to get the rosettes and prizes sorted through first.

Good luck, you'll have a great time!

 

[MagicMelon]

Comfy shoes, a decent pen, water bottle and layers, including a waterproof coat. I use to really enjoy it and you learn a lot.

This. Its also really really helpful if a steward who isnt busy for a minute is willing to hold a horse if needed. My mum comes with me to babysit my kids so she cant easily rush into the ring to hold my horse so I can take her saddle off for the trot up for example. I was so grateful at the last show when I asked the steward to hold her just for literally 30 seconds so I could do this.

 

[gallopingby]

Depending on the level of show there might be a stewards / judges briefing but if at local level maybe just a box of rosettes and prize money?? It’s worth having a look at what you’ve been given before judging starts and remember to write the results down including any queries!

 

[Mary Anne]

I've also been asked to steward at my local show. It's been a long time since I've shown myself and to be honest I don't pay much attention to what the steward is doing anytime I have been spectating since then.
I know the script for in hand but for the ridden do I just shout out when the judge wants everyone to change to trot, canter, etc. When they want them to change the rein do I just stand in a corner and signal for them to change?
Any advice appreciated

 

[humblepie]

Yes in a loud voice trot on or canter please. For change of rein walk towards where you are going to ask them to change, decide who you’re going to ask as first person then ask change of rein. Plenty of warning though hopefully riders watching what’s going on.

 

[Rowreach]

A good judge will brief you on exactly what they’d like you to do. What you wear depends on the level of the show.

Being pleasant and helpful is obviously a given, but you’re not there to be a stand in groom for the competitors

 

[humblepie]

A good judge will brief you on exactly what they’d like you to do. What you wear depends on the level of the show.

Being pleasant and helpful is obviously a given, but you’re not there to be a stand in groom for the competitors

Lol. I’m often on my own and had a fair few stewards help put saddle back on but never expect it.

 

[cornbrodolly]

I like stewarding , but after a few hours , it can be hard on your back. My tip for that is to crouch low over the rosette boxes at the end of every class and stretch your spine out as much as possible!