Equitation: Improving Your Skill and Scores Part Two

Equitation: Improving Your Skill and Scores Part Two
Renee Swanepoel N Dip Equine Science SANEF Level 1 Instructor

In this part of the article, we will be taking a look at an example of a Novice equitation test with pointers on how to ride, what the judge is looking for and how you can improve, plus I will include a video of the test being ridden at an actual event so that you can see what it should look like. The test we will be using as our example will be the SANEF 2011 EQUITATION NOVICE TEST 8, as ridden at the 2011 Gauteng Finals in July of this year. The test is as follows:










The first thing that I do with a pupil when we look at a new test is to break it down into its movements and discuss what we think is being tested with each question. In this test we start with a walk, no stirrups. What the judge would like to see is the walk and the position of the rider without stirrups – heels down, quiet leg and steady contact. The test commences the second the rider takes the feet out of the stirrups. The walk should be athletic and marching and the horse should at all times be between hand and leg, ready for the next instruction. Important too is that the walk is shown in a place where the judge can see the movement. Remember, a judge can only mark a movement that they have actually seen, so make sure that you never work towards or right in front of the judge. The walk needs to be 10m, so make sure that you have paced out the distance and are sure of how much you need to show. At this venue we realised that the brick posts were 10m apart after pacing them so we planned to start and end at a pillar and in that way the walk was accurate. From the walk movement we proceed into the trot 15m circle without stirrups. Again, the judge is checking position – keeping the body quiet, keeping the leg relaxed and the heel steady and low. The circle is very important – when we walk the course, I have the rider pick a start/finish point on the circle so that we ensure that the dimensions are correct and that the circle starts and ends neatly into the next movement. In this test we used the brick pillar again as a marker to make sure the circles were accurate.

Our next movement is a 20m canter on the circle with stirrups. There are a few things that need to happen into this movement – firstly the circle size increases by 5m. When walking the course I have the rider walk 5m away from the far point of the 15m circle we have just paced. In that way they know where to increase to. The biggest problem you will see with riders in this test is that they do not show a difference in size in the two circles. The first circle is often a little too big; they then proceed to canter the second circle exactly where they have just ridden the first. The judge is looking for a difference in size on the circles. Another problem is that the start and finish of the circles needs to be in exactly the same place, hence the marker you have chosen as your start. This often happens when riders do a figure of eight in their tests as well – they forget to start and finish on the same point and often don’t close the figure. At the exact start point of the 20m circle, the rider puts the feet neatly back into the stirrup and asks for canter. This is a movement that has to be practised as it should be smooth, effortless and instant. There should be no looking down, hesitation or legs moving around when finding the stirrup. My one criticism on this movement was that the pony was a little above the hand and was not bent in the direction of the circle all the way through.

Our next movement now that we are in canter is to show a change of leg through trot. Again, never do your change coming towards the judge if there is only one as they cannot see you or your horse properly and you will lose marks because they cannot judge the movement. A change across the diagonal ensures the judge sees you and gives you time to prepare the change. I also feel that a change on a straight line shows more riding ability than a change on a figure of eight or bend, so we practise changes of leg on straight lines with all our equitation horses. They also need to be able to lead off on any leg on a straight line which tells us that they understand the aid and are not using the bend to decide what leg to strike off on. Important in the change is maintaining rhythm – not letting the horse run in to the change but keeping it slow, balanced and straight.

From the change we ride the gymnastic. In the course walk, we would have paced the distance, discussed how we should ride it on that particular horse and decided how we would like to approach. In equitation, we are always looking for a rhythmical balanced approach in the centre of the fence. We want the horse to maintain rhythm throughout the gymnastic, as many will tend to speed up as they go through. Important also to note the going and riding surface on the approach – harder surfaces tend to ride a little shorter than the deeper sand going, so you will need to check for that. Also this particular gymnastic was on a slight uphill, so care was taken to make sure we did not push too hard going through as the pony would already be opening the stride since it was uphill. On this particular course we had to change the rein when going on to jump the course as the gymnastic was on one rein and fence 1 on the other. Again, a neat balanced change on a planned route is much better than coming round the corner on an incorrect lead, breaking a mad trot and kicking on again. We planned the change on a convenient spot and kept it sort and balanced. This particular pony is quite adept at flying changes and you will note in the change that she in fact did the flying change before Gerdi asked for the trot. We decided before the time that we would do the trot irrespective of whether she did the flying change as firstly it was directly away from the judge which meant seeing what was happening was unlikely and secondly in case she misunderstood the aid for the change, we rather wanted to be sure she did it. This pair is a relatively new combination, having only been riding and competing at equitation this year, so as she gets to know the pony, so the risks they take can get bigger.

The course was quite straightforward for this class, however there were many turns where riders had to be careful to come in straight in the centre of the fences. Also important which many riders struggle with is picking up the correct lead after a fence – this is something we drill at home from the very beginner riders. Although not marked as strictly in the lower welcome classes, I feel the horse and rider should ride the correct leads from the start of their training as it is very difficult to try to fix a horse that has learned to ignore the canter leads than teach it correctly from scratch. Teaching the flying change is also done early as it is vital when riding equitation that the horse understands how to stay in balance and be correct around a course of fences. Important too to use the whole arena – often the younger riders will try to squeeze their test into a small area of the arena – use the space you have so that your test looks neat and polished and that the judge can see you. Vital in the course is keeping the rhythm. This is where a good horse with a steady rhythm makes it so much easier for the rider in a class. The judge is looking for a horse that goes around the course without speeding up or slowing down or needing to be checked every few strides by the rider. The ride must look effortless, calm and polished. Position is vital – maintaining a good foundation that has been drilled at home is so important. The riders who go far are the ones who are willing to do endless hours of sitting trot, jumping without stirrups and learning tests and doing the homework I give them every week. There is a lot of hard work that goes into the sport and the good riders are the ones who put in the time and the effort – not always the ones with the best horses. Feel for the track is important – riding steady corners and looking ahead to the next fence is vital. Meeting every fence on a good stride in the middle and out of a rhythmical canter is key.

A short word on turnout for competition. Do not forget that you make a certain impression on the judge in the way you are turned out for your test. While there are fashions that will come and go, a classical approach to your turnout will achieve the polished look you are aiming for. Tack should be clean, polished and not too bling. (while a little bit of sparkle here and there is fine, don’t go overboard on the fairy dust – you will end up looking like a Disney character, not a rider to be taken seriously!) Make sure that martingales, boots etc fit well and are fitting with the entire look you are presenting. A fitted numnuh is more correct, although at School level most numnuhs have the school logo on and are square. Sheepskin numnuhs present well providing they fit well and are clean and in good condition. Plaits are important. If you are not able to plait well, find a friend who can help you or practise as much as you can. There is nothing worse than a lovely little rider coming in to do a great test but the pony they are riding has bits of hair sticking out all over the place with plaits that are falling out, a scratched up tail and dirty tack. Hairnets are another bugbear of mine – I cannot abide bits of rider hair all over the place or riders who have messy ponytails hanging out behind. Hair should be neatly pinned up and in a proper net. Gloves are a must - in any show ring! Your turnout is vital in the overall presentation of your test and should not be underestimated.


In conclusion, if you are not scoring those extra few points that mean the difference between a good test and a brilliant one, you may need to look at the following:

- Have you planned your test well to flow from one movement to the next without extra bits in between or interruptions in the movement?

- Are you showing the movement that is required?

- Are your movements accurate according to the test being asked?

- Is your technique over a fence perhaps lacking? (Video yourself over some fences and have a look for yourself – be critical – the only way to improve is to understand what you are doing wrong!)

- Is your rhythm exact and flowing?

- How was your turnout?

- Did you enjoy yourself?

Equitation is a wonderful sport for bringing along talented youngsters and teaching them to ride correctly. Many of our top Showjumpers today came through the ranks as talented junior equitation riders. It is possible to achieve great heights with lots of work and focused schooling at home. Get out there and go ride!

Tense in Dressage Test

Question:

My horse works really well on the flat at home, he is such a little superstar but the minute I enter a dressage arena (he is fine in the warm up) he gets very tense and really starts acting up - spooking, bolting, refusing to work on the bit, won't go round in a circle etc etc. Its not that he can't do it, he just isn't listening. Have you any tips to make this better? We have now done 4 tests and they are all as bad as each other, time doesn't seem to be the answer! He works in a better outline in a jumping arena than in a dressage one.

Answer:


I know this is probably not the answer you were hoping to hear, but 4 tests or even shows is not really a lot if your horse is tense and fearful in a Dressage arena. It is going to take a few months and many shows to make him understand what you would like from him and get him to relax. Your own reaction to his nerves will also play a huge role in dictating how quickly he is going to learn to relax and enjoy his test.
What I would suggest is that you take him to as many training shows as possible in order to make him understand what you expect of him. At a training show, the judge will be a little more forgiving and really, there will be no pressure on your to perform and get a place.
Once at the show, be very sure that you are clam, relaxed and allow yourself plenty of time to warm up properly and even have a little extra minute or two before you have to enter the arena.
Your warm up should conclude with your horse active and listening to your aids. The idea is to warm up the muscles, stretch and supple the horse and get him between your hand and leg, ready to take his test.
If possible, try to walk your horse around the very outside of the arena and riding areas, giving him time to look at the judge's box, the flowers and the other objects that are so scary to him! Of course you should not go into the riding area, but even viewing these objects from a distance will help him see that there is nothing to be afraid of. Once you have done this, you can proceed to the gate and wait to go in - you should plan to be at the gate just as the previous competitor is performing the last movement on the test. A good helper can wait at the gate for you and make sure that you are there right on time. Waiting around too long will make your horse impatient and will confirm his suspicion that the whole process is exhausting and unpleasant! Once you go in, walk him out confidently and strongly to the judge's box to announce yourself - he will probably be looking at everything and this is fine. Do not react with sharp kicks or punish him for looking - you will make the fear even worse.
As you enter the arena at A, he may look at the judge's box, wobble a bit on teh centre line and do a horrid halt! That is ok. How YOU react to all of this will help change his mind or confirm his mistrust! A common problem I notice with riders in a Dessage show is that the warm up and preparation work is great - they are relaxed, riding in the usual way they would ride at home and so on, but as soon as they enter the arena, they seem to start rushing. The test becomes a mad rush from one movement to the next and the rider almost tries too hard - using more leg, using more rein or tensing to the point where nothing is happening and the horse is just running along through the test. The rider often does not notice this and even thought they don't FEEL too nervous or worried, their bodies are telling a different story. As you ride your test, you should not ride any differently from how you ride at home or in the warm up. Slow your test down and take deep breaths. This will help relax you and your horse. I often imagine I am at home in my own arena while I ride a test - it helps relax me and I ignore the people, the judges and everything around me. I simply focus on the feel of my horse and the movement I am busy with. If your horse does feel tense and rushed or spooky, just stay perfectly still, take a breath and do not react other than to drive him on a little. If you tense up, shout or get cross, things will get worse. Pretend nothing is happening and keep riding the movement! (Easier said than done!)
What you are looking for is a slow improvement and a sign that your horse is starting to learn that it is ok to be in a Dressage arena at a show. What is vital is that you stay clam and focused and let him relax.
I would give him at least 10 shows to see if he will relax! Remember the long way round is often the best way! Good luck and let us know how he is doing!

Fresian In Hand Showing

Question:

I have bought a 7 month old friesian colt and have entered him in the pta show.. the problem is i have no idea how in hand showing works! he can trot next to me reasonably well, walk and after a few seconds of tugging he does halt... has anyone got any tips on how to refine his training and advice on techniques that i can use because right now its the classic "follow the carrot" technique thats proving to be most effective but i guess the judges wont like that very much.. bottom line- what should i be training him and how?

Answer:

Congratulations on getting what I am sure is going to be a horse that will bring you plenty of pleasure and hours of fun. Having worked with many Fresians before, I have developed a bit of a soft spot for them. They are easily trained, hungry to please and they still have plenty of spunk! I have always been amazed at the types of things those horses could be taught and how easily they form strong bonds with their owners.

My worst moment with a Friesian at a showing show was when my recently backed young Friesian boy decided at his very first show that all this clean and shiny nonsense was for the birds and decided to roll in the middle of the in-hand class! I could only stand there miserably and wish the ground would swallow us whole! Fortunately, the grass was soft and green and the judges were busy with the other horses so he got up, I dusted him off and we went on to come second in that class and reserve champion for the show. What I am trying to say is that even if your worst nightmare is realized in the middle of a class, you still never know how things will go and after that you can laugh about it and never forget it! Don’t let your nerves get the better of you and enjoy it no matter what!

The way that Friesians are shown in hand in Society Fresian Classes is basically as follows:

Dress:

Neat Khaki Long pants that cover the ankle(you could wear a long khaki skirt of you wanted to – might be in the way when you run though!) with a White collar shirt and Khaki Cap. What is preferred is the official Society shirt and tie with their emblem on. You may not wear any clothes that advertise a stud, for example, and the Handler and his/her Assistant (should there be one) must be dressed the same. The emphasis must be on neatness and presenting a professional image.

Your number must be pinned neatly to your back and must be A5 sized.

Your Horse:

The focus is on a healthy, good looking individual that is a proud ambassador of the breed. Feet must be neatly trimmed, hair under the chin/jaw and excess hair under the stomach may be trimmed neatly. I have also noted that some Friesians have had their ears neatly trimmed of excess hair however the rulebook does not say anything about it being allowed or not.
The horse may be shown in a halter if he is under 12 months, and for horses over 12 months, a bridle is used. The halter may be black, brown or white. White presents best.
Basic show turnout does apply here – things like polishing hooves, face makeup and things like that to improve the appearance of your colt.


Procedure:

Horses are judged from the moment they enter the arena. Normally, horses enter in an anti-clockwise direction at a trot and line up facing the pavilion or where the judge is standing. Normally, judges are very good at tlling you what they expect so that everyone knows what to do. What usually happens is that one by one, the competitors walk towards the judge, halt and present their horse. You will then be asked to walk away from the judge, trot in an anti-clockwise direction past the spectators and return to the line. Sometimes, a triangle is set up to help competitors, and the horse will walk and trot along the triangle. The judge will tell you what he prefers. Each horse may have a maximum of 2 handlers in the arena, although you might not need an extra handler if your colt is well schooled. If you would like to use a crop of sorts, a neat crop of approximately 1m should do.

I hope that helps you a bit. In terms of schooling, your young horse should be performing walk, trot and halt on your command. His shoulder should be in line with your shoulder and he should be able to quietly stand in the que with other horses (often the most difficult part of the class!) as the judging may take some time. Try to position yourself near the front of the que when lining up so that your horse is judged sooner as he may get difficult if he has to wait a long time and that may spoil your individual judging later on.

If you are going to be doing normal SANEF showing in –hand classes, things are a little different, so do let me know!

Also, you might want to get in touch with the friendly folks at the Society, who can direct you in terms of clothing, halters and more tips.
Call them on 051-4302456 or friesperd@studbook.co.za

How Many Plaits

Question:

Is there anyone who knows the showing rules concerning plaiting of horses for shows. We are doing priamry school shows. How many plaites must a horse have for Performance riding? Some people say only 12, and others say any amount, as long as it is an uneven number. Can someone help us?

Answer:

Great question! There are no set rules about plaiting, however there are a few ‘tricks’ that you can use to make sure that your horse looks his best as well as a number of traditions that everyone sticks to! (Those annoying ‘unwritten’ rules of showing!)

What you are aiming for is a ‘combined effect’ – in other words, your tack, turnout and preparation should all be focused in the entire picture you are presenting at the show. That is very important, because simply by paying attention to all the detail, you will present much better at the show, and with showing – God really is in the details!

Traditionally, plaits are done on the right side of the horse and there should be an uneven number of plaits, so that with the forelock plait you get an even number of plaits. (9 or 11 plaits along the neck are the ideal, but every horse is different)What you will need to decide is how you are going to do those plaits. For example, if your horse is a little lacking in topline, you might want to raise the plaits slightly, which creates the illusion of a little more height on the front end. You would also do that if your horse is a little croup high. (common in young horses that are still growing!) The type of mane your horse has will also dictate the kind of plaits you might have to end up with. It is important to start off with a good base – in other words, a clean mane, evenly pulled to a length of about 15 cm (depending on the size of your horse!) and remember not to use any conditioner or mane spray before you start plaiting – it will make the hair very slippery! Ideally, I wash the mane at least a day or two in advance (and keep the horse out of mud and dirt!) which makes it even easier to plait on the day. If you want to cut a small bridle path, do so, and if your horse has a very long neck, a slightly longer bridle path will create the illusion of a shorter neck. (slightly! Not cm’s please!)

Plaits that are sewn in are generally tidier than those plaited with elastics, so I would recommend that you sew them in.

You can simply do a plain plait down the forelock (as opposed to a French plait) and sew it up – especially if your horse is a bit fidgety. If it is done neatly on a good forelock, it will present as well.

Tails should be trimmed to below the hocks – remember to lift your horse’s tail before you trim so that the line is level and the tail looks good! I would use a clipper to trim the tail, as it gives a neater finish than a pair of scissors. Tails also need to be plaited and sewn up.

Performance classes are not as strict as tack and turnout classes, for example, however by presenting really well, you immediately draw the judge’s eye and show them how proud you are of your horse!

Don’t forget your other things like trimming excess hair on the legs and face, trimming the ears and ensuring your tack is SPOTLESS and shiny and shows off your horse’s best features.

Good luck and enjoy your show! The judges are really nice and if there is time, they are always happy to give advice at the end of the class. Also, study the riders who do well and see what they are doing differently to you to try and improve.

The Show Parent's Survival Guide!

THE SHOW PARENT’S SURVIVAL GUIDE!
RENEE SWANEPOEL
N Dip Equine Studies, SANEF Level 1

Having been to countless shows with pupils, friends and otherwise, I have had a chance to observe riders and their parents and the influence that their personalities and interactions have on the eventual success or failure of the outing. Parents often do not know how to help their children do their best at shows and also often do not know where to start or what to do when things go wrong! In this article I will try to help parents understand what their children may be going through at shows and how to best help them do their best and enjoy the day! (I have focused on shows in the Gauteng area; however, your local Show Body will be able to assist you with shows in your area!)

Your child has been begging you to go to a show for weeks and months; her instructor says she should go… NOW WHAT! Most parents are thrown into turmoil at the mention of shows, and most have no idea where to begin or what needs to be done. Often they stand on the sideline, watching their children perform with no idea of where they themselves fit into this hectic picture. After a bad class, they are often left holding the reins, their child sobbing or ranting and the experience can be very traumatic!

There are three main types of shows that are available to the younger rider, depending on the level of competition and the objectives they are trying to achieve.

1. Training Shows:

Training shows are exactly that – a chance to familiarize yourself with the sport and help your horse learn his job without the added stress of competing for points or a place on the school team! They are usually privately organized by the yards concerned and often rules such as dress are relaxed slightly to give kids the chance to compete and see if they enjoy a particular discipline before investing in expensive equipment and clothes. Often a rider will be allowed to finish, even though they have made mistakes that would otherwise eliminate them in ‘normal’ shows. Training shows can also be very useful in between more competitive shows to practice elements that need work or to keep the horse sharp or just introduce enjoyment to the sport without the pressure of performance. Young horses and inexperienced riders benefit greatly from training shows. There is no need for the horse or rider to be registered with any Show Body and there are often ‘fun’ classes incorporated into these shows that are not found elsewhere. To find out about training shows in your area, visit your local tack store, where Riding Schools will advertise. (A training show entry form will often say something like ‘An Open Training Show’ or something to that effect.) Training shows are also a great way for a rider to try new disciplines and see which ones they might be interested in pursuing.

2. SANESA Shows:

There has long been debate about serious riders not being able to get credit for the hard work they were putting into their horse-sport at their schools. Riders wanted to get recognition for their achievements in the arena and schools wanted to embrace the riding community and the pupils who were doing so well. Thus, the ESL (Equestrian School’s League) was born. Riders now had the chance to ride competitively for their schools and schools had the opportunity of competing with each other under the banner of an official organisation. School’s League took off. After the initial birthing pains, a new need arose for riders who were competing officially for points under the THS banner to not only ride for their schools, but earning valuable grading points as well. THS and SANEF were approached by schools and parents who wished to have an equestrian schools league that operates within recognized and approved structures. SANESA (South African National Equestrian Schools) was recently established to service this need. Recently, the original body (ESL) and SANESA have decided to join forces and create one body under which shows will run. They are also finalizing the rulebook and a temporary committee has been elected. Equestrian Sport at school level will only go from strength to strength. Riders and horses need not be registered with THS, but those that are may earn points on their grading at the appropriate level. School’s league is a fantastic opportunity to get involved in shows. For more information, visit their website (www.sanesa.org.za) or approach the school to find out if they have registered and get involved in the School Team. Something to know about these shows is that in my experience, the stress of riding for their schools and in front of their friends can be immense, and it may take a few shows to get the nerves under control!

3. THS Shows:

From their website:

“The Horse Society (THS) is the governing body of competitive Equestrian Sport in its region for the disciplines of Dressage, Driving, Equitation, Eventing, Showing, Showjumping and Vaulting.
Previously known as the Transvaal Horse Society, THS was founded in 1946. Approximately 25 years ago THS moved its offices from Milner Park to Kyalami Equestrian Park, situated at 1 Dahlia Road, Kyalami, Midrand, in the heart of the Equestrian community.
THS falls under the South African National Equestrian Federation (SANEF), which formulates the rules and codes of practice for competitors and officials. SANEF, in turn, falls under the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), which governs the sport internationally.
THS is run by an elected Executive Committee. Each discipline is run in turn by an elected Discipline Committee. Committee members and officials are all volunteers who work freely for the benefit of the sport. The THS administration (comprising the THS office and Kyalami Equestrian Park) is under the management of the THS General Manager.
THS is a non-profit making voluntary association which exists for the benefit of its members and seeks to serve the equestrian community. Nevertheless, THS is a substantial undertaking, which requires effort and commitment for all concerned to ensure its continued success and growth.
Competitors are divided into three categories Pony Riders, Juniors and Adults. At present there are approximately 2,900 members and approximately 2,600 horses registered for competition.
Equestrian sport is one of the few where men and women compete on equal footing without any discrimination.
THS and its affiliated bodies run competitions to cater for all levels from the less experienced competitors to international competitors. Shows are held throughout the year in its various THS regions, which are run by trained judges and officials who give up their time on a voluntary basis.

The THS vision is:
- To improve and maintain standards in all disciplines, while encouraging riders at all levels to enjoy fair competition in safe and attractive surroundings, both at Kyalami Equestrian Park and the venues of the THS Affiliated Bodies.
- To raise Kyalami Equestrian Park to an international standard.
- To promote and develop equestrian sport in all communities, providing assistance through the Equestrian Training Scheme to disadvantaged equestrians.
- To promote and hold top class competitions.

Contact THS at (011)702-1657 or visit us at Kyalami Equestrian Park, 1 Dahlia Road, Kyalami, South Africa

E mail address: thsinfo@iafrica.com”

THS shows provide the opportunity for horses to gain points on a grading system and climb the ladder to top levels in South Africa. These shows are well run, standards are high and great care should be taken to adhere to the rules of the various disciplines.

Riders have the option to register themselves as ‘Entry Level’ riders, which means that they are able to gain a taste of the disciplines at a lower level without having to register their horses and they do not gain points. This is a very good start because riders can ease themselves into the atmosphere of an official show without the pressure of having to earn points.

Once you and your child have decided which shows he/she will be participating in, as well as the disciplines you would like to try, it is time to enter!

Once entries have been made and the show date approaches, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your child is well prepared for the big day.

 Make sure that you have a copy of the rules of the discipline and go over the most important points with your child to make sure they know what is expected.
 If there are tests to be practiced, the instructor will often provide these, but parents can always help by ensuring that their children have learned them properly.
 You will need to liase with the instructor or yard to arrange transport to and from the show for the horses.
 Timetables and Schedules are usually provided in advance. Check your child’s number, riding times, arenas and entry details and make a note of them to take with on the day.
 The instructor should be able to advise on any equipment needed to prepare the horse or for the rider. Liase with him/her and make a list of things you will need.

With practise, show prep becomes easier, and roles become defined. The more prepared you, the parent are prior to the show, the more relaxed the day will be, which will help your child feel more secure.

On the big day, nerves will be running high, so try to remain as relaxed as possible. Your child will be reading your attitude and manner and if you start to panic, so will they. Approach any problem calmly and reasonably and always be a good example for your child.

In the US, 75% of athletes drop out of their chosen sport by the age of 13. The reason? It is no longer fun! If you, the parent, only remember one thing, this should be it. Focus on the fun, not the outcome! You should be placing emphasis on effort, rather than the results. When your child comes out of the ring, if you say ‘Did you win?’ you are placing emphasis on performance. Rather ask ‘Did you have fun?’ That teaches your child that he/she is there to have fun and enjoy their sport. Keep your sense of humour – if you are relaxed and smiling, your child will too. If you feel your child did not put in their usual effort, you could ask them something like ‘Are you feeling ok? You normally try so hard. Is there something I can do to help you?’ rather than tell them they are not trying.

I have found that parents and coaches will often pick the rider’s performance to pieces before the poor child has even had a chance to dismount. Give them some space, let them dismount and unwind and then talk about what happened when they are ready. If your child missed the finish, they know they did – and they probably will never do it again. There is no need to keep asking them why they did that – they know it was wrong and are sufficiently embarrassed! Don’t nitpick. Some days it goes well, and some days it does not. Teach your child to see failure as a challenge – something that should tell them what needs work on at home. Ask them what they think they could have done differently and let them figure out the answer for themselves. Show them by your attitude that you still love them and are proud of them regardless of whether they win or lose!

Children model their own experiences and attitudes after their parents. Badmouthing other competitors or judges does not teach children to love their sport. It teaches them to foul the sport when things don’t go their way – drag them down to your level to justify your own shortcomings! Gossip and storytelling has no place next to the show ring. Emphasize the importance of learning, hard work, self-discipline and commitment. Show interest in your child and ask questions, but also recognize that sometimes your child will need some space. If your child demands to give up half way through and go home, insist that they finish. That teaches them to stay committed and to push through.

Another issue I often encounter at a show is that the parent will take over the coaching from the instructor. What often happens is that the parent says one thing and the instructor another. Leave the instruction and motivation to the instructor. That is what they are there for. When there are too many ‘teachers’, it only confuses the child. When mom says one thing but the coach says another, who are they supposed to listen to? It becomes confusing and riders panic.

For those parents who ride or rode competitively, be very careful not to tell your child that you would have done it a different way or tell them about the 1st place you got in a class just like that one when they come in after a bad ride. You are building a pedestal for your child that they can never hope to climb and they will rather quit than be a loser in your eyes.

Children are all different. Some are naturals at shows and never get nervous and enjoy themselves no matter what. Others struggle to handle the pressure and never do well at shows despite doing very well at home. The key is to talk to your child – ask them what you can do to help them. One rider surprised her mom by saying ‘Please don’t come to watch, rather stay away.’ That child always did very well on her own and when her parents were not there she excelled. If her mother was there, the pressure of performing in front of her was too much, and inevitably, things went poorly. Your child will tell you what they need from you if you allow them.

If your child is involved in unacceptable behavior at a show, do not tolerate it and know when it may be time to take a break from shows until you feel your child is ready. If your child blames the horse, think creatively and tell them that ponies have bad days too just like people and maybe what he needs is a hug and some carrots!

Becoming a great showman takes time and the more shows riders attend, the better they get. With support and encouragement, your child will have the oppertunity to partake in something they will love and enjoy. If your child struggles at shows but really wants to take part, it may be worth your while to take them to a sports psychologist, who can help them make their experience a much more pleasent one.

I trust this article puts parents a bit more at ease and makes their role seem more defined. The most important piece of advise I have for parents is this: Never do or say anything that will make your child think less of themselves or of you!

Enjoy your showing!