Latest from Horse & Hound in Showing-tips

‘It’s the attention to detail that makes the difference’: Royal International judge shares his advice for competitors

Bethan Simons — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:00:13 +0000

Martin Jones has been tasked with officiating two sections at this year’s Royal International Horse Show: the jump phase of the mountain and moorland (M&M) working hunter pony finals, and the conformation phase of the mini M&Ms.

Martin’s co-judges are Sara Hird and Emma Hector respectively. With just days to go, Martin shares an insight into what he will be looking for in the ring.

Martin Jones’ background in horses

Martin has been involved with ponies all of his life.

“As children, my sister and I had our own ponies, which we enjoyed taking to Pony Club, riding club, gymkhanas and hunting. We were very much grassroots competitors, attending local agricultural shows, and so I didn’t really get into showing properly until I was in my twenties and began keeping my own broodmares and so on,” says Martin.

After leaving school, Martin went to Millfields in Newmarket, and under the tutorship of Anne Rolinson, he gained both his British Horse Society intermediate instructor’s certificate (BHSII) and National Pony Society diploma in stud management (NPS Dip).

“While working in Newmarket, I had the fortune to visit and work at some of the major thoroughbred studs and benefited from the teaching of both the renowned vet, Peter Rossdale, as well as the late Colonel Gray, director of the National Stud,” says Martin

His first love has always been the British Riding Pony though, and he “was fortunate enough” to work for Liz Mansfield-Parnell at her Rotherwood Stud.

“I learnt so much about the successful production, breeding and showing of world class ponies, where standards were always the highest and only perfection would do,” he recalls.

Latterly, Martin worked in the banking industry, breeding British Riding Ponies under the Landemann prefix, with a small, select number of mares, chosen for their bloodlines as well as their pony characteristics, movement and good temperaments.

Several of his mares enjoyed successful ridden careers previous to motherhood, and their progeny have continued to shine under saddle.

Landemann Peony, for example, is a former supreme champion at the BSPS championships, and Landemann Bird Of Paradise claimed the show pony championship at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2024.

“I’m delighted to have bred show ponies to win at HOYS and the RIHS,” says Martin. “But being presented with the Bwlch Valentino trophy – a beautiful bronze first presented by the Eckley family in 1968 – for breeding the champion show pony at HOYS was a bit of a dream come true. If you breed show ponies, it’s the trophy you want to win, so to have it on my dining room table for a year was a real thrill.”

Since his semi-retirement, Martin has been more heavily involved with the NPS, having served many terms as a council member over the past 30 years or so. He is currently the vice-chair of the society, having held the chairman’s role for three years previously. He’s also an active member of his own area – NPS Area 29.

Martin Jones’ judging experience

Martin sits on a whole host of panels covering a vast array of types, including the British Show Pony Society (BSPS), National Pony Society (NPS), British Show Horse Association (BSHA), British Connemara Pony Society, Coloured Horse and Pony Society (CHAPS UK), Sport Horse Breeding GB (SHB GB), The Showing Register and the British Miniature Horse Society.

As well as judging at many of the UK’s leading county shows, he’s had the pleasure of judging in Europe, New Zealand and Australia, and considers officiating at the latter two some of his judging highlights.

“The judging systems are different over there and it was a real learning experience to see their ways. Ponies and horses are produced and ridden to the highest standards, and I particularly enjoyed judging the young rider classes, which are really popular in Australia and New Zealand.

“Over here, we don’t really have similar classes at the same level, where the children are judged primarily on their riding abilities. The standard of riding in these classes is so high and they’re fantastic to judge because of it.”

Of course, he also considers previous appointments at HOYS and RIHS to be some other highlights.

What will Martin be looking for in the M&M workers?

“I’m looking for what I would describe as a balanced and fluid round with ponies moving through the track in a good forward rhythm, in a way that is appropriate for their breed,” he says.

“In the plaited workers, I would look for a more bold and enthusiastic round, but some mountain and moorland breeds are not necessarily built to gallop around a worker track, so I’ll want to see these ponies working in balance and covering the ground in a forward rhythm.”

Martin has words to the wise for competitors.

“I’ve watched these working hunter pony classes for many years and so know it to be a long track in a big ring, with up-to-height fences and on an incline. I’ve noticed that a lot of ponies demonstrate a lack of fitness and start to tire and sound ‘breathy’ in the latter half, losing their rhythm and forwardness as a result.

“So I would say, make sure that you and your pony are of the appropriate condition and fitness to jump around a long, testing track. The course at the Royal International finals is very different to the courses that many will have qualified on, which in many cases is likely to have been on a flat surface in a small arena.

“I’ve also noticed that the bogey fence is often the open ditch or water tray, so practice that in advance if you can. It catches some of the most seasoned campaigners out.

“In short, be prepared. Be prepared for a long, varied and testing track, and for undulating ground.

“I would also advise competitors that it’s always a good idea to take some coaching, on a regular basis if you can. Even Olympic riders have coaches on the ground. It’s a good thing to have someone helping you and your pony improve your technique and the investment will help you be fully prepared.”

Martin Jones’ pet hates

“Having been so involved in the NPS and its welfare remit over the past few years, I’m very aware of welfare as I’m judging, too. No matter how frustrated you may feel if things aren’t going to plan during your round, inappropriate use of the whip is not acceptable.

“I also get a little bit frustrated by the number of people walking the course. It’s not a family day out, so I prefer to see competitors accompanied by one other person. Walking round chatting to your friends is not an effective way to walk the course!

“And I may sound a bit of a ‘fuddy-duddy’, but those walking the course should also be dressed appropriately for the occasion, and in a way that is respectful to the show, its officials, sponsors and fellow competitors. The weather may be hot, but that’s not an excuse to walk the course in beach wear.”

What will Martin be looking for in the M&M mini classes?

As well as the M&M working hunter ponies, Martin will also be assessing the mini classes, which naturally have very different requirements.

“These classes are always a joy to officiate,” he says, “though it’s easy for the grandness of the occasion to unsettle some young riders, whose mental and physical ability can be so different, even though of similar ages.

“I do love to see a pony with a good walk, and an animal that marches into the ring, tracking up, ears pricked and looking through its bridle – rather than down at the ground – will catch my attention. A pony that carries its jockey forward, in a safe and steady manner, without having to be encouraged forward every stride, is always more enjoyable to watch, and more comfortable to ride.

“During conversations I hear, my experiences of judging and comments on social media, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the ridden classes are judged solely on way of going. Please remember that 50 marks are for conformation and freedom of action, so it’s important as much time and effort is put into this phase, too. It makes the judge’s job much easier, and shows the pony off to its best advantage if it is correctly presented to the conformation judge – which means an adjustment by the rider/ handler as the judge walks round the pony.

“You can’t change the pony’s conformation, but presenting your pony correctly will give you the best chance. Again, practice at home so that this phase comes naturally and is easy on the day. A pony reluctant to trot up, with its ears back and tail swishing, is not going to show itself off in the best way, and can easily lose marks as a result. Don’t let the conformation phase be an afterthought.”

Martin’s tips for major final first-timers

“Planning is everything. If you’ve not competed at the Royal International Horse Show before, you are in for a treat, as it’s a wonderful venue. But it can be a long walk to the ring, and a long way back to the stable area if you realise you’ve forgotten something just minutes before you’re due to enter the ring.

“It takes a lot of time, effort, energy and money to qualify, so you want to give you and your pony the best chance. Ask someone experienced before the show for their advice.

“Most judges would be happy to help if asked in the right way and at a suitable time. Often, it’s the attention to detail that makes the difference, and shortening a pony’s tail an inch or two, or suggesting a rider try their stirrups a hole longer, can make all the difference to the overall look and impression.

“Practise at home, but not so much that your pony becomes disinterested. And remember, though everyone wants to do well and get a rosette, there’s only one winner on the day. Win or lose, there’s always another show, but your pony’s trust and happiness are the real prize worth taking home.”

For unlimited access to more expert training advice from top riders, judges and coaches, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

10 experts reveal the products they can’t live without at a horse show

Bethan Simons — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 14:30:33 +0000

After a busy first half of the season, it’s likely your grooming kit or stripping basket are in need of a refresh – this could be true whether your next stop is an area show or you’re prepping for a week at the Royal International.

From emergency saviours to cheap hacks, we asked some top producers what they can’t live without on show days.

Show kit essentials

Hannah Horton: “I wouldn’t contemplate going showing without good old baby wipes – they can be used for anything. We also make sure we have drinks for humans in the stripping basket.”

Emma Burrows: “For me, I need a good mane and tail detangler, coat gloss and a bit of baby oil gel [like this one] to smooth the hair.”

Danielle Heath: “We love Smart Grooming Super Shine; it’s fantastic on faces and gives a mega shine on bodies, too, especially in an evening performance.”

Having products you can rely on in your basket will make things easier on show day. (Image credit: Elli Birch)

Joe Watson: “This olive oil sheen spray is brilliant on our natives’ manes and tails especially,” he says, “and we use it as a coat gloss and highlighter, too. It’s not very expensive, which is great as we go through tons of the stuff.”

Leon King: “It has to be this Got2b hair gel for plaiting. We always have Leovet’s Power Phaser fly spray and this Cowboy Magic shampoo as well as their Detangler and Shine on tails; it’s incredible – like nothing else I have tried.”

Sara Parrott: “If I had to choose one product that I couldn’t be without it would have to be Supreme Products’ Sparkle Spray for those last minute finishing touches, manes, coats and tails – and even hooves and rider’s boots at a push!”

Sue-Helen Shuttleworth: “On the lorry we always have a good shampoo to quickly wash and dry if horses need it after travelling or working in. Personally I use Equioils Super Soap, Equioils Whitening Wood Flour and towels.

“In the strip basket there’s always a good, clean damp sponge for wiping away saddle marks before the conformation phase, and a good mane and tail brush.

And there’s always full fat Coke and sweets to keep us going.”

Harrison Taylor: “We use glycerine mixed in water for a sponge over, then Arena Products’ Show Shine spray on top. I also use Arena Products’ Clear Highlighter, which contains SPF for eyes and muzzle, black make up, Brylcreem, hair spray and baby wipes.”

Edward Young: “We always have tea, sugar and milk on the lorry. We also have a portable shower to wash any plaiting gel out of the manes and condition them when we unplait; it must be more comfortable for them, and it stops the mane getting too brittle. In my stripping bucket I carry fly spray, Brylcreem as long as it’s not too hot and sunny, hoof-stain, a good brush and a cloth [like this one].”

Simon Reynolds: “Our basket is like Mary Poppins’ bag; we carry everything we could possibly need as there’s nothing worse than having to go back to the lorry if you have forgotten something. But essentials include wet wipes and plaiting bands, plus electrical tape [like this] can be a great save in an emergency. And I’m diabetic so we always have fizzy sweets, too.”

For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘I strongly dislike seeing fat horses’: Top judge shares his ‘pet hates’ and tips for first-timers

Bethan Simons — Wed, 13 May 2026 10:38:39 +0000

John Cutts joins Adele Hanson this year to judge the hack championship at Royal Windsor, in which the champion will receive the coveted Count Robert Orssich Challenge Cup.

John will be assessing the conformation section, while Adele is assessing the ride each exhibits give, before finally, both will cast their eyes over an individual show performed by each combination. We’ve already caught up with Adele Hanson to find out what she’s looking for in this championship, but what about John?

John Cutts’ background in horses and showing

John came from a non-equestrian family, but his passion for horses started from a very early age.

“I spent as much time as possible helping out at local stables, learning the day-to-day care and management of horses alongside learning to ride,” says John. “I saved all of my birthday and Christmas money to buy my first pony — although I told my parents I was only looking after it for a friend.”

That first pony was a Welsh section D, and that is really where his passion for showing began.

“I started competing at local agricultural and riding club shows, and at my very first show I came home with two first rosettes from two large classes. From that moment, I was determined to keep improving and become better.”

John also spent time helping friends at shows who were competing “on a much bigger scale” than he was at the time, and learned “a great deal about turnout, presentation, and what judges were looking for in the ring”.

From there, John’s involvement with horses continued to grow and eventually led him into producing horses for the show ring and breeding horses that have gone on to enjoy success at major level, including competing at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) under saddle and in the prestigious in-hand championship, something he considers a highlight.

“One of my biggest privileges has been taking championships at some of the major shows over the years, but, my personal highlights would have to be standing third in the Price Family supreme in-hand final at Horse of the Year Show 2024 and being crowned CHAPS UK [Coloured Horse and Pony Society UK] supreme in-hand champion for five consecutive years.”

John Cutts’ judging experience

“Along the way I’ve made many lifelong friendships within the sport,” he says, adding that as he got older he “wanted to give something back to the sport that I love and helped shape the person I am today”, which inspired him to become a judge.

John currently sits on three judging panels: the British Show Horse Association (BSHA), the Coloured Horse and Pony Society UK (CHAPS UK) and the British Show Pony Society (BSPS) panels.

“I have had the privilege to judge at some of the country’s finest shows. My biggest judging highlight is seeing the reactions from competitors when they achieve a goal or lifelong dream. Being part of those special moments – whether it’s a first major placing or a championship win – is incredibly rewarding and something I never take for granted.”

This won’t be John’s first time in the centre of the ring at Windsor. He judged the ridden coloureds in 2016 and the cobs more recently in 2023.

Nevertheless, he is looking forward to the appointment.

“Windsor is my favourite show,” he says. “The setting really does have that classic British atmosphere – the castle nearby, the parks, the traditions, and the mix of countryside and ceremony all make it feel very distinctive. The carriage driving and military displays especially give it that unmistakably British character. And because it’s held in the grounds of Windsor Castle, it feels more personal and historic than many larger commercial shows.”

What will John be looking for as he judges?

Just like his co-judge Adele, type and manners are important to John.

“I will be looking for horses of trueness to type and way of going, exceptional manners, good horsemanship, composure, and how well the rider works with their horse.”

If you’re exhibiting a hack, take note.

“My main pet hates would be over-bitted horses and seeing horses being over-ridden, as good horsemanship should always come first. I also dislike seeing horses stood up incorrectly, or having to repeatedly ask competitors to move their horse so it can be judged properly.

“Presentation is important, but I’m not a fan of excessive make-up or an overly artificial look in the ring.

“Most importantly, I strongly dislike seeing fat or obese horses; fitness and condition should never be confused with excessive weight, and the horse’s welfare must always come first.”

John’s tips for Windsor first-timers

“The atmosphere can feel overwhelming at first – the crowds, the setting, the pressure – but once you enter the ring, it’s still just you and your horse doing the job you already know how to do.

“Horses pick up tension very quickly, so try to remain calm and enjoy your moment to allow the best of your horse. Take a moment to enjoy it. Competing at Windsor is very magical and a lot of competitors that you may be competing against have been showing and competing for many years at such shows, so even if things aren’t perfect, have an enjoyable time.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from Royal Windsor and other major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘A well thought out show is a big tick’: Show pony judge Gina Kobbe reveals what she wants to see

Bethan Simons — Mon, 11 May 2026 13:46:58 +0000

The judge shares her advice for competitors in this exclusive article for H&H subscribers

Gina Kobbe is one of two show pony judges at Royal Windsor this year. The show pony section at Royal Windsor Horse Show is a real treat for pony lovers. Some of the country’s top ponies will make a bid for the crown, played out in the show’s iconic Castle Arena.

This year, deciding who will take home the championship are Gina Kobbe and Pam Prickett. Gina will be in charge of assessing each hopeful’s performance, and Pam will be casting a keen eye over their conformation.

Here, Gina Kobbe gives us insight into her background and tells us what she is looking for as she put each entry through their paces.

Gina Kobbe’s background in horses

“My introduction to horses was, I would say, different,” says Gina. “My dad was a miner in the north east and he would take me to sit on the pit ponies in their stalls. That first smell of a horse along with a blackened face from nuzzling into a neck covered in coal dust is something I have never forgotten. My love of ponies started with my first visit in June 1959.

“Later, I befriended a girl who lived on a farm. She had a cheeky 14hh chunk named Hayboy. He could sniff out a novice and I was off in seconds. I went back to try over and over, but sadly had the same result. I also had the odd ride at the beach on a donkey over the years.”

When Gina married, she was able to really develop her love of horses.

“When I moved to our home with land and stables, it would have been rude not to get some lessons and buy horse for me and a pony to keep her company.”

Gina would walk miles to local shows with her daughters and “Thunder” who was, she explains, “not ideal” for a three-year-old child as he jogged everywhere.

“We did novelty classes and later started Pony Club — Iona jogging on the pony and baby Yasmin in the pram.

“We were very lucky that with my husband’s hard work as a surgeon, very few holidays and never new cars, the girls could have a wonderful time with ponies at home. They had lessons — side-saddle for Yasmin and astride for both — with the late lovely Linda Cadman, who encouraged further training clinics.”

But education was priority so we decided the ponies would be produced. We were very fortunate the girls had wins at Royal International Horse Show (RIHS), high results at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), and Yasmin also had a win and championship at Windsor in the show hunter ponies with Double Dutch III.

“Iona and Jemoon Star Catcher were also second in the small hunters at HOYS and to this day she can’t believe this happened! However the most momentous and memorable occasions were in 2007. Yasmin and Basil — Double Dutch III — were supreme champions Intermediate at Hickstead and supreme champion at the BSPS Summer Championship show, the first ever Intermediate to take this title.”

Both Gina and husband Eugene have enjoyed giving back to the societies, either stewarding or, in Eugene’s case, by taking up the role of medical officer.

“I feel stewarding is a vital part to becoming a judge; we never stop learning. I was fortunate to work alongside many hugely respected senior judges. I learned so much and will always be grateful for their knowledge. I don’t think anyone should be considered for any judging panel unless they have done at least a couple of years stewarding at all levels.”

Gina has been fortunate to officiate at several leading shows involving the BSPS championships and the RIHS, and has previously judged the intermediates and mini show ponies at Royal Windsor.

“Co-judging the show pony section at Windsor is a huge honour. The occasion, the atmosphere, and the surroundings are like no other show anywhere.”

What will Gina be looking for in the ring?

“I feel you can see a confident, well schooled and relaxed combination. The way they enter the ring and the initial walk says so much, so I want this to make me feel excited. I keep my fingers crossed for those combinations who catch the eye to perform well throughout.

“A well thought out show with my favourite element – walk on a long rein – included anywhere in the individual show is a big tick,” says Gina.

Competitors should mind their conduct in the ring, as well as their ponies’.

“Manners are of utmost importance and I like to see this from jockeys – not just to the officials but most of all to fellow competitors,” says Gina.

“Any show is always important but in this day and age it’s getting more and more expensive to attend the prestigious shows, so being kind and respectful to each other both in and out of the ring is something I look for.

“Royal Windsor is a local show to many competitors, but I doubt anyone hacks there as we did to our local shows, but who knows! Every single exhibit will be judged fairly. A good ridden show, no matter the pony’s conformation, should be rewarded.”

With daughters who have progressed through the ranks, Gina understands that things don’t always go to plan.

“I don’t give negativity to the children,” she says. “They know when things haven’t gone too well on a go-round so I will definitely give a smile and some positive words.

Ultimately, it’s an honour to judge at any show as exhibitors pay for an opinion and are out to enjoy the day.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from Windsor and other major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘I hate to see horses that are too fat’: judge reveals what she wants to see in the show ring

Bethan Simons — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 12:44:51 +0000

The judge shares her advice for competitors in this exclusive article for H&H subscribers

Victoria Mullen is the 2026 Royal Windsor novice hunter judge. The hunter classes are a big deal at Royal Windsor. If you watch the open weight classes, you’re guaranteed to catch a glimpse of some of the biggest names – human and equine – in the hunter ranks.

The real aficionados will know that watching the novice classes here is likely to get you a look at some of the future stars of these classes, with producers turning out some of their most exciting young horses in a bid to secure the novice spoils. This year, the job of sorting these young hopefuls falls to Jenny Thomas and Victoria Mullen, who will assess their ride.

Victoria Mullen’s background in showing

Victoria got her first pony when she was two years old.

“I was that pony-mad child all through my school years; I rarely went to other kids’ houses because I was riding or going to shows at weekends,” she says.

It was showjumping, not showing, that first captivated her.

“I started off as a through-and-through showjumper, but when I reached my late teens I was lucky enough that my mum and dad bought me a beautiful coloured pony who had looks to die for. Somehow, a friend convinced me that it would be a great idea to do the workers class at Balmoral, despite the fact I didn’t own anything that resembled proper hunter attire.

“After competing in the 148AB as it was at the time, I trotted off across the show ground in my full showjumping gear and jumped a clear round in the workers and was pulled second. After that, I got the bug. Mum bought me a nice jacket and we picked some workers shows to go to on weekends when we weren’t showjumping.”

There was more showing success to follow.

“We bought a four-year-old mare and later we went on to win the young riders at the Dublin Horse Show two years consecutively.”

Once she had finished studying for her A Levels and left school, Victoria went straight into working with horses, and was led into eventing.

“Eventing is predominantly what I do now,” she explains. “It was at the Eventing Ireland ball about 10 years ago that Richard Iggulden and I got chatting and he asked if I’d have any interest in coming to ride his show horses. Of course, I jumped at the opportunity and started working at his yard not long after. I’ve enjoyed great success riding for Richard, including winning at Dublin, Balmoral and at the Royal Highland.”

Winning at Dublin is something that Victoria maintains is a career highlight, alongside eventing at three-star, and qualifying for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Royal International (RIHS).

What will Victoria be looking for in the ring?

“I love to see a good looking horse who walks into the ring like they own it,” she says. “They must be mannerly, carry themselves naturally, and ride in a nice, relaxed manner.

“A good mover is essential – I want to see something that is athletic and something I would enjoy taking out for a days hunting.”

Once on board, Victoria wants a horse who is “soft in the hand and reactive to the aids”.

“I don’t like to see a horse that is stressy or a horse that looks like it’s been pulled into shape and isn’t going from behind.

“I hate to see horses that are too fat.”

A turnout tip, too: “I don’t like to see excessive make up on horses or hoof paint. I much prefer old fashioned hoof oil.”

Victoria’s advice for first-timers

“If I could give any advice to somebody coming to a big show like Windsor for the first time it would be not to stress; what’s in the brain goes down the rein. Enjoy the experience. Also, prepare and do your homework and hopefully it will pay off.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Top judge with extensive CV reveals what she’s looking for – and hoping not to see – in the ring

Bethan Simons — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 07:30:30 +0000

Adele will be judging the 2026 hack championship and she shares her advice in this exclusive article for H&H subscribers

The trophy for the hack championship at Royal Windsor, the Count Robert Orssich Challenge Cup, is one of the most coveted among show horse producers and riders. This year, the task of deciding who wins this prestigious trophy falls to Adele Hanson who will assess their ride, and her co-judge, John Cutts, who will be assessing the conformation of each exhibit.

So who is the 2026 Royal Windsor hack judge Adele Hanson? And what will she be looking for in the ring?

Adele Hanson’s background in showing

“I was brought up on a farm so my parents always had horses and bred them,” says Adele. “My first pony – Joansey — bucked me off daily and she was the one that really taught me to ride. My dad said I wasn’t allowed to have another pony until I learn’t to ride that one, and that’s where I learnt determination and perseverance”.

Adele had a natural introduction to showing.

“My parents did a lot of in-hand showing with the youngstock they bred so we were regularly at shows growing up,” she explains.

As a girl, Adele enjoyed considerable success in the show ring, predominantly in the working hunter pony ranks.

“I’m led to believe I’m the only rider to have been national BSPS working hunter pony champion two years on the trot on two different ponies when the final was held at Peterborough and before the workers went to Horse of the Year Show,” Adele reveals.

After graduating into the horse workers, Adele and her multi-garlanded Omegas Boy were supreme champion two years on the bounce at the Royal Agricultural Show netting a cool £2,300 from both wins. She’s also enjoyed championships at several other leading fixtures, such as Royal Cheshire County and Great Yorkshire, and posted solid results at HOYS.

However, her 2024 working hunter championship at Royal Windsor with The Top Drawer stands out, not least because the pair’s photo graced the cover of the 2025 Royal Windsor catalogue.

“It was just the best,” she asserts.

Adele and The Top Drawer stand working hunter champions at Windsor in 2024. (Image credit: Fiona Crawford)

Adele’s judging experience

Adele sits on four panels: British Show Horse Association (BSHA), Retraining of Racehorses (RoR), Arab Horse Society, and the Shire Horse Society – so it’s no surprise that she has an extensive judging CV.

“I’ve judged at several leading county shows, including Royal Cheshire, Royal Three Counties, and at the BSHA champs. I’ve always loved every minute,” says Adele.

“I’ve also judged the Royal International twice, HOYS twice and I’m soon to have judged Royal Windsor twice, which is an absolute privilege.

“Last time I judged Windsor, I did the ride section of the riding horses and my mother and I had the absolute privilege of meeting the late Queen Elizabeth II and had a short conversation with her, which I’ll never forget.”

This year Adele considers herself to be very lucky to be invited back. “I’m looking forward to it as Windsor is one of my favourite shows,” she says.

What will Adele be looking for in the ring?

To begin with, Adele will be looking for a “good overall picture and turnout, a horse with presence and of a good hack type.”

For Adele, the horse that catches her eye will be one with “a ride to match its type and that carries confidence.”

Competitors and spectators alike take note: Adele’s pet hates include seeing an “over-bridled horse in a heavy hand that restricts to the horse’s movement and causes them tension and stress.”

Adele’s advice for first-timers

“Get help and training from someone experienced who can help you, guide you and give you the confidence you need to reach your goals on the day, but most of all, enjoy it,” she says.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website,subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Gill Cowell reveals what she’ll be looking for as judge an in-hand championship

Bethan Simons — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 07:30:26 +0000

Gill will be judging the 2026 championship and she shares what she’ll be looking for in this exclusive article for H&H subscribers

Gill Cowell has been given the task of judging this year’s in-hand mountain and moorland championship at Royal Windsor. This championship takes place on the Friday in the Castle Arena and is a real must-see for anyone with an interest in native breeds – it’s a rare treat to see so many excellent examples of our splendid natives all in the ring together.

To progress to the in-hand mountain and moorland championship, each pony will have had to have won and/or stood champion of their own breed – this depends on the breed and the numbers forward – having been judged by a breed expert. The job of choosing a champion, however, falls to just one person – Gill Cowell gives us an insight into what she’ll be looking for to help you prepare for in-hand showing classes.

Who is Gill Cowell?

Gill is this year’s in-hand M&M judge at Royal Windsor and she has been “horse and pony mad” for as long as she can remember. As a child she taught herself to ride and would read to learn as much as possible.

As she grew older, her passion continued and when she left school, Gill enrolled as a working student at an equestrian centre and riding school where training was given for BHS exams. She worked with a variety of different types of horse and pony, including riding school ponies, hunters, dressage and event horses, and naturally gleaned a wealth of knowledge.

Native ponies became Gill’s main interest after purchasing a black Standard Shetland pony stallion named Salterswall Spartan. He was initially purchased as a companion, but Gill soon found herself showing him, and “caught the showing bug”.

It’s a bug she has never shaken off, and she’s since bred, owned and shown a variety of the native breeds. Gill continues to enjoy looking after and showing her Shetland ponies, and continues to breed under the Checkleybank prefix.

As well as tending to her own ponies, Gill has worked part-time for the past eleven years for a family who own a “variety of large breeds and they have had great success with many of their ponies”.

Gill Cowell’s judging experience

Gill has been judging for thirty years and is on a number of panels. She sits on the Shetland Pony Stud-Book Society’s panel and the Highland and Fell breed societies’ panels, as well as the mixed M&M panels for the the National Pony Society (NPS) and British Show Pony Society (BSPS).

Her judging has taken her far and wide, including judging Shetland ponies in Finland. Previous judging highlights include officiating at the Shetland Stud-Book Society Breed Show, the Great Yorkshire Show, and Royal Bath and West, as well as several Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualifiers.

In 2025, Gill had the pleasure of judging the Highland pony HOYS qualifier and the NPS finals at the inaugural running of Scotland’s famous event and show held at the stunning Scone Palace.

This won’t be Gill’s first trip to Windsor to judge. She previously judged the Shetlands and the M&M working hunter ponies there in 2024.

Nevertheless, Gill says that she is “honoured to be asked to judge the M&M in-hand championship” there.

Last year’s champion was Clover Hill Magic, owned by Cathy Wood and shown by Jamie Frost. (Image credit: Elli Birch/Boots And Hooves)

What will Gill be looking for in the M&M in-hand championship?

“The ponies trot into the arena for this championship. It’s important to remember that each of the native breeds have their own correct movement, so right away I’ll be looking for a pony that shows outstanding movement for its type and breed, and that is covering the ground appropriately.

“When I get a closer look at the ponies, I’ll be looking again for a pony that is both correct in conformation, and that stands out as an outstanding example of its breed.

“I’m a stickler for feet and limb, too, as they are so important to the soundness of a pony and their ability to do the job they were intended to do.

“Finally, it’s a show championship and a prestigious one at that, so I’ll want a pony to really sparkle in the arena and have that crucial presence to attract my eye.”

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Justine Armstrong-Small reveals what she looks for in working hunter pony classes, and shares her advice for first-timers

Bethan Simons — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:49:46 +0000

The judge and leading producer shares her thoughts and tips in this exclusive article for H&H subscribers

If you’ve spotted that Justine Armstrong-Small is down to judge your pony in working hunter pony classes, then you’re in luck. I caught up with her to find out what she’ll be looking for on the day.

About Justine Armstrong-Small

Justine Armstrong-Small is a showing judge and leading show horse producer who has won accolades at all major shows. She’s won the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) several times, and she’s reigned at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) before, too, which includes lifting the supreme horse of the year accolade in 2003. She has ridden many top working hunters, including the legendary Zin Zan, and more recently, the prolific middleweight Carlingfords King.

Justine is on the judging panel for the following showing societies:

British Show Pony Society (BSPS)
British Show Horse Association (BSHA)
Sports Horse Breeding of Great Britain (SHBGB)
British Skewbald and Piebald Association (BSPA)

Former HOYS supreme champion Zin Zan, who was ridden to glory by Justine Armstrong Small. (Image credit: www.trevor-meeks-photography.co.uk)

What does Justine Armstrong-Small look for when she’s judging?

Open working hunter pony classes

“By the time it gets to the summer season, I would hope that each combination entering the ring for an open class is established and will be attacking the course head on,” says Justine. “This is especially the case at Hickstead as it’s a course like no other and it requires forward, positive riding.

“I will be looking for a round to be ridden in a nice, forward rhythm with confidence. I like to see a pony going forward but in a mannerly fashion – not pulling the jockey’s arms out of their sockets with its head in the air.”

Justine hopes combinations for open classes will “attack the course head on”. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Some county shows and finals, such as the RIHS, have big, awesome-looking fences. These occasions can certainly provoke nerves and it can make some riders a bit hysterical,” notes Justine.

“My advice is to not panic so you don’t rush your pony out of its rhythm. Plenty of practice at home will go someway in subsiding nerves. Some jumps, especially at the RIHS, such as ditches, the open water and bullfinches, can catch riders out. Putting in the work in at home will mean you can ride confidently on the day.

“Take note if the ring is on a slope, too, as you’ll need to ride the hills in balance with control.”

Novice working hunter pony classes

“In a novice round, I’m looking for a pony to be willing as it takes on a course,” says Justine. “It doesn’t necessarily need to have its hocks right under it and it shouldn’t be over bridled, it just needs to be happy in its job and looking to the future.

“In a novice class I want to see a positive rider that’s supporting the pony and its balance, and not rushing it out of its stride. I see lot of people gallop at jumps and then a pony stops and they end up losing confidence.

“I know we ideally want to see a pony canter around, but at this stage I would rather see a pony take its time and the rider wait for it and trot into a fence than chase to it,” she advises. “When you chase them, they end up putting the breaks on.”

Cradle or nursery stakes

“In a cradle or nursery stakes class, I like to see a pony that doesn’t over jump. The pony should stay in a nice rhythm and not be tanking round the course,” says Justine.

“A nursery and cradle stakes pony should be in a lower gear than an open pony – think more 25mph to an open pony’s 40mph – and looking after their little rider.”

A good cradle or nursery stakes pony will look after its rider according to Justine. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

What does Justine look for in a champion working hunter pony?

Justine says her champion will have a bit of presence and look-at-me factor.

“Quite often at the workers – especially where the jumping phase is imposing – you don’t always get the best show animals through to the championship as they haven’t fared as well over the course as the jumping ponies, so it can be a bit of a lottery.

“The championship is still a showing class though, so I will be looking for something that is well put together and moves well. A champion should also cope with going round in a group with the others as they wouldn’t usually do that and some can get giddy at that point.”

Justine Armstrong-Small’s show ring pet hates

Justine shares one thing she really doesn’t want to see in the ring.

“I hate it when a rider slaps their pony on the neck with their stick. It’s a sign the animal isn’t going forward off the leg.

“I would usually deduct a mark every time the pony is smacked on the neck,” she warns.

“If the pony isn’t going, use your stick once as an aid correctly behind the saddle. Slapping them on the neck isn’t effective and if you do it going over a jump the pony is likely to drop a leg anyway.”

Advice for Hickstead first-timers

“The RIHS is an amazing track and the show is such an occasion. The fences are sturdy and are well-dressed so they’re an eye-full for both pony and rider,” says Justine.

“There are lots of natural features thrown in so you need to do your homework. Hiring a local cross-country schooling venue ahead of the show is a great idea – you can practice solid fences as well as riding into the water so you’re not caught out on the day.”

Any advice for HOYS for the first-timers

Justine recommends: “Before jumping at HOYS, you need to get some indoor practice as the ring is smaller and you have to use your corners and all your arena. The fences feel bigger in there, too, as it’s a smaller space, so be prepared for that.

“It’s very bright in the arena at HOYS, so try to go jumping in an indoor arena with the lights on as it’s very different to jumping outdoors or even in a normal indoor.”

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5 tried and tested tips to clean muddy feather – and keep them sparkling

bethany.stone@futurenet.com (Bethany Stone) — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:30:52 +0000

These quick and easy feather hacks have helped the team at H&H keep their horses spotless over the years

Whether you own a mountain and moorland, a traditional cob or a heavy, like many horse owners you spend a lot of time wondering how to keep your horse’s feather clean. It can seem like an uphill battle, as well as a thankless task. For one thing, you might spend half a day washing your horse’s legs with your best horse shampoo. Then, feather gleaming, you turn him out through a muddy gateway into a boggy field, and all your work is undone. What’s the point?

If this sounds like you, don’t stress. As someone plugged in to the Horse & Hound network, I can bring you the very best advice from the inside. And trust me, these owners, breeders, competitors and producers really know what they’re doing.

So, if you want to know the processes and products to use that will not only get horse feather clean but also keep them that way, read on.

Five steps for clean feather

1. Use purple shampoo on white feather

For that initial feather wash, make sure you opt for a powerful shampoo (like this one on Amazon). As products editor Franchesca Slack told me, purple and blue shampoos are a must for whitening. “They will remove brassy tones in the hair,” she says. “Make sure you use warm water to lift dirt better”.

Our former showing editor Alex Robinson tested the best whitening shampoos on the market and she picked out the Supreme Products Blue Shampoo as her favourite.

While it can be tempting to reach for washing up liquid, it’s not ideal for feather. “It cleans well but it dries the hair out,” says showing editor Bethan Simons.”

Use warm water to lift stains. (Image credit: Phillip Barker)

2. Don’t forget to condition

“We use hair masks for humans on the feather to keep them well-conditioned,” says Bethan. There are plenty of horse-specific conditioning shampoos on the market too, however, such as the Carr & Day & Martin Gallop, which comes recommended by deputy website editor Georgia Guerin.

3. Treat stains as they come up

Franchesca added that keeping on top of feather staining is important, but you don’t need to spend hours and hours bathing your horse. Instead, use one of the best dry shampoos to spot clean and remove stains from the legs. Fran particularly recommends this one from Absorbine and this one from Supreme Products.

“It’s tricky through the wetter months, but try to keep your horse out of the mud and wet as much as possible,” adds Bethan. “It damages the hair and can stop them having good cover over the hoof.

“Using turnout pens or the school for periods where you can will help,” she adds.

4. Prevent stains setting in

Keeping horse feather clean is much easier when you apply one of the best coat shine sprays or pig/showing oil, such as this oil product on Amazon that Bethan loves. “I get through loads of this!” she says.

It works by making the hair shaft smoother and, therefore, harder for mud to stick.

“In the summer especially, I apply it at night so that it soaks in and doesn’t contribute to any burning during the day,” adds Bethan. She also makes sure to apply to oil to dry legs.

“Through winter, I wash my horse’s legs off at night and oil them before turnout to stop mud sticking.”

Spot cleaning will help you keep on top of your horse’s feather. Photo: Findlay/Alamy (Image credit: creditUnknown)

5. Add a little touch-up

To achieve brilliant white legs, apply a little chalk – this will neutralise yellow areas and give a brilliant finish.

“It’s best to use a paste [like this one] rather than a powder; they’re easier to apply and I find them less wasteful,” Bethan advises. “Or, take a chalk product like this show preparation powder, mix it with a little water and make a paste yourself.”

How to keep horse feather clean overnight

I spent more than fifteen years keeping white legs and feather clean for shows. Here’s what I learned:

Stable your horse if possible on a deep, clean bed
Skip out as late as possible the night before your show to minimise the chance of poo stains
Bandage your horse’s legs – but ensure the legs themselves are washed, conditioned and dry beforehand. Bandaging damp legs increases risk of skin irritation and other skin problems, but can also cause any missed dirt at the root of the hair to be absorbed by the bandage, compromising the clean feather
Use clean bandages so there’s no risk of transferring dirt
If you plan to bandage the legs, avoid using too much oil or coat shine after washing them, as the bandages may slip. However, you can apply it above the bandages at the knees and hocks
If you can, keep the bandages on while travelling and fit travel boots over the top
Take a spot-cleaning kit with stain removers and chalk in my grooming bag for touch-ups before my classes

For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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6 simple steps to supple and sparkling tack

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:19:05 +0000

I learnt how to clean tack as a child – at the time it was not my favourite job at the stables where I spent my weekends, but looking back I’m glad we were drilled in it because I’m not sure where else I would have learnt how to do it in the pre-internet days.

Years later, while at equine college, I won a competition that involved putting a bridle back together while blindfolded. I remember being surprised at how many of the other students had never taken a bridle apart to put it back together, while I was feeling confident I could do so by feel alone – who knew how handy my tack cleaning practice would be all those years later.

Nowadays, like most horse owners, I probably don’t clean my tack as frequently as I should as I was once told: “Georgia, if you’ve got time to clean your horse’s tack you don’t have time to ride it”, but I still pull out all the stops if I’m heading out in public or if I’m tasked with putting the best saddle soaps to test.

I’ll take you through everything you need to clean your horse’s tack, including what to use and a few tips I’ve picked up along the way, to help you clean your kit in the best and most efficient way.

Horse tack cleaning kit

You will need:

two sponges – one for cleaning, one for conditioning
microfibre cloths (like these) for buffing and drying
leather cleaner
leather conditioner
soft toothbrush
cocktail stick
bucket of warm water

Before you start, dismantle all your tack. (Image credit: Bex Pattenden)

How to clean tack

1. Take the tack apart

For a full and proper clean, you need to take the bridle apart completely – including the martingale if you have one. The same goes removing stirrups, stirrup leathers and girth from the saddle. Remove the bit and unbuckle every strap on the bridle – you can’t clean the leather under the buckles if you leave it assembled, and that’s usually where sweat and dirt causes the most damage.

2. The dry wipe

Use a dry cloth to wipe off loose hair, dust, and dried mud off the leather. If you jump straight to a wet sponge, you’ll just be “painting” mud into the pores of the leather.

3. The deep clean

Dampen your sponge (it should be damp, not dripping) and apply your leather cleaner (I like this one). Focus on the buildup of grease and sweat that you’ll find on the undersides of straps.

Soak the bit in warm water to loosen dried saliva or grass, then scrub it clean, using a toothbrush to get into the links. Do not use leather cleaner or chemicals on the bit. Do the same with the stirrup irons and use a toothbrush on the tread.

4. Rinse and dry

Wipe away any excess saddle soap with a clean, slightly damp cloth, then let the leather air dry naturally.

Never put leather near a heater or in direct sunlight to dry as it will shrink and crack.

Apply leather conditioner once you’ve finished cleaning. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

5. Condition and feed

Once the leather is clean and dry, it’s time to put the oils back in. Apply your leather conditioner (I like this one) with a clean sponge or cloth.

Avoid over-oiling as the leather will attract more dirt. You should also avoid heavy oiling on the seat of your saddle unless you fancy a very slippery ride and oily breeches.

6. Buff and reassemble

Use a dry microfibre cloth to buff the leather to a soft sheen and polish your metal buckles (I use this one). Then put everything back together, ensuring all the runners and keepers are in place.

How to clean mouldy leather

If you’ve not cleaned your tack in a while and come across mouldy leather, make sure you clean it outside to avoid spreading spores. Wipe off any mould with a damp cloth, which should be soaked in boiling water with disinfectant if you plan to use it again, then treat the tack with a leather-specific mould inhibitor (like this one), and finally condition the leather.

Check that stitching hasn’t rotted and that spores haven’t spread to other items. Fitting a low-wattage electric bar heater (like this one) in the tack room will help prevent leather from going mouldy.

How to clean synthetic tack

Synthetic tack is not only usually cheaper, but it is also easier to maintain – and you don’t need to use any soaps or conditioners. You can, if you would like, use a synthetic leather cleaner (like this one), but otherwise you just need to use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down synthetic leather areas.

For faux suede, use a stiff brush or suede brush (like this one) to lift the nap and restore the texture. If there is dried sweat, use a lightly damp sponge to dissolve it, then brush it once it’s dry.

Tack cleaning tips

Gift your tack a “daily wipe” after every use – it might seem like hard work at the time, but it will make your life easier in the long run
Keep tack cleaning wipes (like these ones) in your lorry or tack box – they’re perfect for a quick wipe down when you’re short of time
If your bridle is not well worn, make a note of which holes your cheekpieces and noseband are done up on for a good fit before you take it apart
Use a cocktail stick to gently poke out dirt and product deposits from buckle holes in the bridle pieces and stirrup leathers
If you have a crystal browband, use a toothbrush to clean between the stones
You can use any sponge, but a purpose-made tack cleaning sponge (like this one) will last well over time and create less waste

Before cleaning, inspect your tack for wear and tear. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Why bother cleaning tack?

Keeping your tack clean keeps in it good condition from a safety point of view. It gives you a chance to check the stitching and fixings, so that you notice any wear and tear before it becomes an issue. Keeping the leather clean also increases its lifespan, preventing it from becoming brittle, which could cause it to break. Well-maintained leather lasts for decades, but neglected leather becomes dangerous.

A bridle breaking while it’s hung up is annoying – you’ll have to buy another – but a bridle or stirrup leather breaking while you’re riding could leave you in a tricky situation.

Aside from safety, keeping your tack clean is important if you want to look smart. This might not matter so much to you on a daily basis, but if you’ve got a lesson booked or have a show, competition or day’s hunting in the diary, it pays to make the effort.

Best way to store tack

Ideally, you want to tack room to be at a consistent ambient temperature, but this is often not the case. Storing your bridle in a bridle bag (like this one) and covering your saddle with a shaped cover (like this one) will give them extra protection.

For more advice on how to look after your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

H&H’s guide to working hunter pony classes: what to know before you give them a go

Bethan Simons — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:34:38 +0000

The working hunter pony (WHP) classes are some of the most popular on the showing circuit today. They are an all-round test of both pony and rider, with the judges assessing not only type, suitability, conformation, paces and manners, but also accurate and stylish jumping ability.

This feature covers everything you need to know if you’re thinking about having a go at working hunter pony classes, or you’ve already started and want to know more.

We’ve included:

History of the working hunter pony class
What makes a good working hunter pony
Correct turnout
Class format
Fence heights
Who can compete?
Prestigious finals

History of the working hunter pony classes

These classes first began at local shows and gymkhanas in the 1960s. As they gained popularity, they came under the umbrella of showing societies, such as the British Show Pony Society (BSPS), who first published rules to regulate the section in 1970.

“The working hunter pony class evolved from replicating a day’s hunting, when you would arrive at the meet well turned-out and on a smart animal that is mannerly in company,” says BSPS judge and WHP team chef d’equipe Philip Hilton.

The track at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) closely emulates the class’ roots on hunting field, as the ring is slightly sloping and undulating, and includes natural obstacles. This makes it an extremely popular goal.

The Ryder-Phillips’ Young Dragonara was a phenomenally successful 15hh (153cm) working hunter pony of his era and was twice section champion at HOYS (1994 and 1996). (Image credit: H&H Archive)

Nowadays, separate WHP classes exist for plaited and native ponies, but some — particularly the Welsh section B, New Forest and Connemara — can often double up and compete successfully in both sections.

As plaited pony classes are age restricted, the introduction of the mountain and moorland (M&M) WHP classes means that adults can enjoy competing ponies in these classes, too, provided they are suitably mounted on an appropriately registered pony. These classes are often some of the largest classes at qualifying shows for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), growing in popularity year on year since their introduction there in 1992.

M&M WHP classes are extremely popular, and allow adults to enjoy riding ponies, too. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

What makes a good working hunter pony?

Working hunter ponies should possess qualities that are recognised in the hunting field. These include good manners, ground-covering movement and a bold jumping style. A WHP should be a scaled down middleweight hunter and have the same quality, while also having plenty of bone and substance.

Judges look for combinations with a bold, consistent jumping style that are going forward in a balanced rhythmical canter and meeting each fence without a break of stride. They also look for good conformation, a calm and obedient temperament, and harmony between pony and rider.

We’ve put together some advice on how to buying a working hunter pony.

Working hunter pony turnout

Working hunter ponies should be shown with manes plaited and with quarter marks, similar to show hunters.

Native workers are shown with their manes and tails trimmed – or untrimmed – as is allowed by their respective breed society and without quarter marks, as expected in a flat class for natives.

Tack for working hunter pony classes

Many riders choose to ride in specific working hunter pony saddles, which are designed to be a halfway-house between a show saddle that best shows off a pony’s conformation, and a jumping saddle. But you can also ride in your usual jumping or GP saddle, providing it is plain leather with no bling or bright colours on.

Beat The Boss and Polly Eddis are beautifully turned out in the supreme championship at the Royal International. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Bridles should be plain, too – no diamanté browbands. Grackle nosebands, flash nosebands and martingales are allowed in WHP classes, but you should always check the rules for tack and bitting guidance varies depending on your level.

Unlike flat show classes, brushing boots are allowed on the forelimbs only, but they must be plain black or brown and must not have elasticated straps. Plain overreach boots are also acceptable, but rarely used. All boots must be removed after jumping and before your perform your show.

You can also use appropriate studs if you feel your horse or pony would benefit from them.

In native classes, stallions can compete, but should wear a stallion badge on their bridle to alert other riders to their presence.

Brooke Pickering demonstrates correct dress for working hunter pony classes. (Image credit: Steve Dawe)

What to wear for working hunter pony classes

For WHP classes, wear tweed. Brown or green tweed show jackets are most common and always look smart. Be warned that while choosing your jacket, bold tweeds can be frowned upon by some judges so it’s usually best to stick to plain or a subtler check. Navy jackets are sometimes worn in championships held in an evening performance at the more prestigious shows such as society championships, or at HOYS. At qualifying or county shows, it’s appropriate to wear your tweed jacket in the championship.

As the WHP are rooted in the hunting field, think along traditional lines and aim for a smart, workmanlike appearance, and steer away from bling on ties, hats or the tops of sticks.

Wear plain gloves (preferably brown) and, if you need to, carry a plain black or brown stick, but make sure you check the rules for your class regarding sticks as they do vary.

Riders on ponies under 143cm traditionally wear short brown jodhpur boots with jodhpur clips, but nowadays it’s generally not frowned upon to wear plain black long riding boots with no bling, especially for adults in mountain and moorland WHP classes.

Hats can be peaked or a skull cap with a navy, brown or dark green velvet silk. Just make sure your hat is up to standard – here is our guide on what to wear in showing classes for more information.

Some societies, such as the BSPS, also stipulate that you must wear body protectors for their classes during the jumping phase. Most riders wear them over their jacket as you are generally permitted to take them off for the second two phases of competition if you wish.

Make sure you read the guidance carefully to make sure that your body protector is up to standard and please note that there are also specific rules relating to the wearing of air jackets, so check the relevant rule books if you wish to wear one.

Working hunter pony class format

A WHP class consists of three phases – jump, show and conformation. The maximum score for all three phases is 100, and only in a championship do the judges confer.

2025 Royal International working hunter pony champions Noble Banksy and Ruby Ward make light work of a bullfinch. (Image credit: Equinational)

Phase 1: Jumping

In this phase, combinations are expected to tackle a set of rustic fences and obstacles designed to emulate what they may have historically encountered on the hunting field, such as a bullfinch, a pen or a water tray. The classes can be held on grass or on a surface and may include natural obstacles where available such as a bank, ditch or small hedge.

Usually, there is at least one double to negotiate, but the smaller divisions designed for children will have lesser obstacles – such as no water tray – and less combination fences to tackle.

Generally, there are 50 marks available for a clear round with marks deducted for stops and poles, as in other disciplines. There are an additional 20 marks that are allocated for style.

The second phase is an individual show. (Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

Phase 2: Show

The second phase is a show. Nowadays, for the swift running of classes, the individual show is usually judged in a small ring adjacent to the jumping ring. Here, a second judge will assess a pony’s way of going and manners in a short show.

Usually, you stand before the judge, move off in walk, then trot, complete a figure of eight with a canter on each rein, give a short extension, before making your way back down through the paces to stand again and give a salute to the judge. You can make up 10 marks here.

Phase 3: Conformation

This your final phase, and 20 marks are available. Here, you will present your pony in-hand without its saddle or boots, so that the judge can assess your pony’s conformation.

The judge may ask questions before assessing your pony stood still and then walking away and trotting back towards them.

Once all three phases have been completed by every competitor, all combinations eligible and hopeful of a placing re-enter the arena and line up ready for placings to be announced. At this point, it’s important that your pony walks in and stands still in a mannerly fashion. While not marked formally, judges will be reluctant to award high – especially qualifying places – to badly behaved ponies and such ponies can be asked to leave the ring disqualified.

Placings are usually called forward using the competitor’s back number, so know yours in advance and listen for it carefully.

How big are working hunter pony fences?

One of the principal benefits of competing in classes affiliated to one of the societies is that the course will have been designed by a recognised course builder, and is unlikely to be oversized or “trappy”, which can often happen at local unaffiliated shows. Courses for HOYS and RIHS qualifiers will always be slightly more difficult and built up to height.

There are now variations between the societies and the major finals, so for a full accurate list of fence heights, consult the society rule books:

Who can compete?

Plaited working hunter pony classes

Plaited working hunter pony classes are age restricted, with age dependent on the height of the pony.

Cradle stakes – ponies under 122cm
Nursery stakes – ponies under 133cm
Under 143cm
Under 153cm
Intermediates – up to 158cm for riders under 25

At the very beginning of their workers careers, competitors under eight years old can compete in “tiny tots” sections at many area and society championship shows.

Next, ponies and children compete in cradle stakes, with ponies under 122cm high. Then there are the nursery stakes, with ponies under 133cm. There are finals for both these competitions at Hickstead and London International, but not at HOYS. Both these finals are run under BSPS rules.

Once a little older and more experienced, children can compete their 133cm pony in open classes for their heights, and this is where things get a little more complex as the ages differ for competitors aiming for Hickstead or London compared to those aiming for HOYS.

Regardless, once out of the 133cm division, children can move up onto 143cm ponies, and later, 153cm animals before finally, intermediates capped at 158cms for riders under 25.

M&M working hunter pony classes

In native ranks, there are again tiny tots classes, but for those aiming for Royal International, there are four height divisions to cater for the different breeds. At HOYS, however, there’s an added junior class for riders under 12 years old and ponies under 122cm.

The major societies will run novice classes across the same divisions for both plaiteds and natives. In addition, as you work towards qualifying standard, the BSPS and NPS run training classes that are divided by the height of fences rather than height of ponies, and there is no requirement for a show or conformation section.

Prestigious finals to aim for

There are a range of classes for all abilities from novice to open for all heights and ages. But there are a handful of more prestigious and coveted finals for open combinations to aim for, such as the WHP of the year final at HOYS and the RIHS WHP championship. If you’re aiming to qualify for one of these, make sure that you read the rule books carefully to ensure that you have the correct memberships in place, and you – or your child – are of the correct age to compete, as there are variations in rules.

Twice HOYS working hunter pony champion, Noble Peppermint went one better in 2022 to stand supreme pony champion ridden by Elsie Lynch. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Desert Orchid at the BSPS summer championships

This is always an extremely challenging course where heights and widths of fences are usually bigger than those in other championships; just to jump clear is considered a major achievement and in fact, earns an bonus 20 marks. Historically, this was only open to plaited ponies, but there is now a native section, too.

Gold Cup at Burghley

Seasoned WHP young riders also aim for the “Gold Cup”, which is run by the BSPS and the Pony Club, and has a final at Burghley International Horse Trials. It does not follow a traditional working hunter pony class format, but the inclusion of a rustic set of fences similar to that seen on the workers circuit makes it an appealing challenge for these competitors.

London International

Similarly, WHP enthusiasts are offered the opportunity to compete at London International via the BSPS’ increasingly popular working sports pony classes, which now include classes for children and adults, including smaller children still on the lead rein.

Successful WHP Star Smokey and Leela Wheelwright take a winning turn and claim the WHP championship during the 2019 Royal Windsor Horse Show. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Royal Windsor

You don’t have to qualify to compete at Royal Windsor, but many riders in the native and plaited WHP classes enjoy the challenge of tackling the usually testing track here, especially as it’s hosted on such an iconic show-ground.

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6 frequently asked showing questions – and the answers you need to help you stand out

Bethan Simons — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:17:09 +0000

If you’re an amateur showing rider looking to have a go at affiliated competition this year, then you’ll want all the tips you can get – and who better to ask than a leading producer with plenty of big wins to their name.

Professional producer Vicky Smith, who recently stewarded at London International on behalf of the British Show Horse Association to help the Rising Stars competitors, has tallied up the questions she was asked most frequently – and gives us the answers we’re all looking for, so that you can be one step ahead coming into the next season.

Rising Stars classes are aimed at home-produced amateurs hoping to step up into affiliated competition, and this was the third time Vicky has been around to help competitors during the show.

“As always, we had a mixture of questions – some were really specific, but some were those that crop up year after year,” says Vicky, who is always happy to share her showing tips and advice.

It’s great if you have the correct attire, but what really matters at this level is that your horse goes well. (Image credit: Real Time Imaging/HPower)

Will I be marked down for wearing the wrong jacket or not having a showing saddle?

“I was asked this a lot,” says Vicky, “and the answer is simple: no. At this level, what’s important is that your horse is neatly presented, looking well and going well.

“Obviously it’s great if you can have the correct showing attire by the time you get to the final, but you certainly won’t be penalised if you’re in a tweed jacket instead of navy or visa versa, and it doesn’t matter if you’re in a GP or non-showing saddle if all you want is to dip a toe. What matters is that your horse goes well.

“If you really do feel self conscious about your turnout but want to give showing a go, then the performance classes could be a good place to start as the emphasis is entirely on performance.”

When should I hog and trim my cob? And how long should his mane be?

Interestingly, it’s written in the BSHA rule book that show cobs should be clean shaven.

“Because it’s in the rules, I do all of mine about three days before a show,” says Vicky. That includes the legs, which should also be clean shaven.”

She would, however, advise clipping their bodies earlier.

“You want the coat to have come back a little, so for HOYS I would clip about two weeks before. For London, when they aren’t naturally throwing their coats, however, I would clip a month before.”

How short should I cut my horse’s tail?

“This is a question I get asked so many times, and almost invariably I tell them to cut it shorter,” says Vicky. “In general, I place my arm underneath the dock so that the tail is in a similar position to when the horse is working. Then, I cut the tail at the hock.”

Questiontime was BSHA Rising Stars hunter champion at LIHS 2025 – with a tail just as Vicky describes. (Image credit: Real Time Imaging/HPower)

She advises caution, though.

“Remember all horses carry their tails slightly differently, so if they are prone to carrying it higher, then you need to account for this when cutting it or else it will end up too short. If they barely lift their tail when working, then you don’t need to lift it as high.”

What can I do to help my hot horse in the go-round?

“Make sure that the horse has a good workout the day before a show, and possibly let them blow off some steam with a good canter,” Vicky advises.

“Usually, these horses need more work and more time moving around to release tension on the day, too, even if that’s just walking around becoming more comfortable with their surroundings. London is very busy – as are some of our county shows – so you will probably need to give them more time to prepare there than at other shows.

“Make sure you give them enough time to walk around, and have another trot and canter before going into the ring – don’t just walk straight in.”

Anything else?

“Ear plugs,” she says. “It’s a go-to solution for lots of horses. They just blur the sound for a horse, and make the environment much softer and more comfortable for noise-sensitive horses.”

Don’t underestimate the time it will take to get from the yard to the ring. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

How much time should I give my horse to warm up?

“This is a difficult one to answer as all horses are different,” she says. “Some will need more work than others. A lazy horse, for example, may only need a short burst of work with lots of transitions to get them in front of the leg. An excitable horse is different, and will need a lot more time to prepare.”

Irrespective, she says that a lot of competitors new to the county show circuit in particular underestimate the amount of time they need to get from the yard to the ring.

“I live 15 minutes away from Cheshire showground,” she explains, “but during the show, I allow an hour to travel the same distance. You must account for traffic and queues.

“Then there’s the time to prepare. Give yourself enough time to tack up, clean them up if they’ve travelled badly, negotiate the horse walk and so on. It all takes time and being in a rush won’t help a nervous horse or you to perform at your best.”

What can I do to stand out in the class?

“In the main, the best thing people can do to stand out and catch the eye of the judges is to get the go-round right,” says Vicky. “People often think that they have to sit looking pretty all the time, but that’s not the case.

“In reality, most of the time judges are only watching one side of the ring, so most important is making sure that you have a space to show your horse off best along that side.”

Wondering how to do that?

“There are different ways you can achieve this,” Vicky explains. “You could circle behind the judge to find a space. Alternatively, play with having gears in each pace and make sure you can get deep into corners.

“For example, you can collect your trot into a corner to allow a bit of space for yourself before you trot across the front more freely. This is a simple way to ensure you get a space.

“Whatever you do, try not to overtake people and hide them from the judges,” she warns. “It’s a forgiven mistake in some pony or native classes as it’s sometimes difficult to find a space in such packed classes, but in horse or plaited pony classes, it’s considered poor showing etiquette. If you do this by accident, don’t worry, just remember that a ‘sorry’ goes a long way.”

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I’ve got first-hand experience of competing at London International and these are my top tips for first-timers

Bethan Simons — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 08:30:57 +0000

Horse & Hound’s showing editor explains what to expect if you’re competing in London for the first time in this exclusive article for H&H subscribers...

If you’ve not competed at London before, then a show in “The Big Smoke” in the middle of winter can seem a lot to get your head around – and so you might be looking for some tips for competing at London International Horse Show. Especially if, like me, you’re part of a home-produced family team battling the weather and general Christmas prep to get there! But trust me, you are in for a treat.

Firstly, congratulations on qualifying for London. We first qualified as a family in 2010 and we’ve been extremely lucky as amateur sisters to have shared the ring, each with a ride, in the prestigious native final held on the show’s last day. Our uncle bred the first-ever Welsh cob to win the final, so it’s even more special to us as a family. So with a week to go, here are my tips for competing at London International for the first time…

Ballynacoy Prince and Bethan Simons finish Best of Breed and fourth overall in 2017. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Tips for traveling to London International

Unlike most other shows, just getting to London International does take a bit of negotiating. By now, you’ll have received your pack with all of your instructions. Having shown at the old Olympia site, I took this step a little for granted the first time I showed at the Excel.

I really recommend reading the pack carefully, even if only to book your arrival slot. Don’t worry if you haven’t already booked your slot – I was really last-minute on this, and it wasn’t a big problem. It just meant that we were arriving later than we’d hoped and that we had to negotiate the final (and most unknown) part of the journey in the dark.

Make sure to carefully read all of the information on London’s ULEZ charges as the last thing you want is a hefty fine marring a super experience.

Before the day, put your horse’s passport and your paperwork in your vehicle and triple check it’s there before departure.

Also remember to check what your ticket allows you to do. The New Horizons Plastics Arena exhibitor bands won’t get you into the International Arena’s seating, so if you want to watch some showjumping or other highlights on the schedule – I can never resist the mini-major relay myself – be organised with getting your London International tickets.

Even though I had travelled there many times as a passenger, the first time I drove to Olympia, the prospect of driving in London with my precious cargo on board terrified me. But it was absolutely fine and now that it’s outside the city centre, it’s really pretty simple.

Tips for arriving, unloading and stabling

Once you get to the Excel, you’ll be directed to wind up and up and up until you reach an unloading area. Listen carefully to the instructions here, too, as it can be slippery as you unload, and slipping is avoidable if you take heed.

Once unloaded, you won’t be allowed to access your stable until you’ve been vet-checked, so that’s your priority at this point. Take your passport and your paperwork with you so that it makes this process as swift as possible. If you feel confident – which you should be if your vaccinations are correct – and have a second pair of hands with you, send them to the stable manager’s office to get sorted while you stay with your horse, or visa versa.

Bedding is provided, so you don’t need to worry about lugging bales of shavings. Last time I showed there, the bed wasn’t quite as deep as I’d have liked as my mare digs a hole for herself in no time, and so paid for extra, which was delivered in a jiffy – so don’t stress if that happens to you, too.

What to pack for competing at London

I have only showed in the International Arena. The stabling for this side is blissfully warm and the temperature is controlled – I think we can thank the FEI stabling for this – so you won’t need lots of heavy rugs for when you’re in there. My mare wore a Lycra body suit and a Thermatex waffle-weave rug and was warm enough.

That said, we did once break down when the weather was atrocious, and once got caught out by a snow-storm and had to unload the pony on the side of the road and walk the last stretch home. At that point, we thanked our lucky stars we had extra rugs to keep them warm so it’s worth packing a separate, emergency bag that can stay on the lorry just in case.

As well as being unnecessary, you won’t have space for extras as it’s inconvenient to go back and forth to your lorry. We have always taken a tack locker on wheels packed to the rafters, and chained it – with a padlock – to the stable. In it we have tack, a spare numnah for working in, a spare Lycra suit and fleece, clean bandages, our essentials-only grooming and wash kit, a shallow feed bucket and pre-prepared feeds in freezer-bags. That’s it.

Carry your water bucket, your extra haynets, a skipping-out bucket and fork. Tie the spare nets outside with your padlocked tack-locker.

I like to take a suitcase with two separate sides that is, crucially, on wheels. In one side I put my showing gear and in the other, the rest of my “stuff” including my pjs, clothes and wash bag. This means I only need worry about wheeling one case to-and-from the hotel and it doesn’t take up masses of room in and around my stable. For ease, this is the one show of the season where I wear my “best” helmet and boots to work in.

Finally, pack Christmas decorations and a Christmas jumper. The magic of London International lies in the timing. Throw yourself into the spirit and enjoy the frivolity of festive attire and decorating your stable, and team Christmas jumpers are really helpful for lifting your mood if things don’t go to plan and for spotting your team if nothing else!

Embrace team jumpers with friends and family! (Image credit: Linda Atkinson)

Tips for working in and getting ready

You should have a working-in timetable in your pack – take a photo of it on your phone so that you always have it to hand.

As I said in my tips for competing at HOYS, we have taken ponies who don’t like to be surrounded by lots and lots of others so we’ve deliberately used only the latter half of our slots when it’s less busy.

At the end of each slot, it’s much, much quieter and a good opportunity to let your pony have a last look around if they need it, and a practice gallop without endangering others.

If you can’t avoid getting your horse or pony a bit sweaty, there is a wash bay available, but be mindful of timings. If you only have a short space of time until you are needed in the arena, you may be better off giving them a hot-cloth so their coat has time to dry.

To plug or not to plug?

The atmosphere during the morning judging of the M&Ms in the International Arena is fairly quiet, so when we’ve shown ponies who are experienced and not especially noise sensitive there, we haven’t bothered plugging ears until the afternoon’s prize-giving, when the atmosphere is truly electric. The prize-giving is an utterly brilliant experience and such fun if your pony is well behaved, but it’s very noisy with an enthusiastic crowd so we always plug for this and have never regretted it.

Personally, if ever we were to qualify for classes in the New Horizons Plastics Arena, I would plug there, as there is a lot to take in around the arena and noise is then one less thing to worry about. Obviously you know your pony best, but if in doubt, at least take some with you. You’re better off having to use more leg than sitting on a time bomb.

To prepare, you can use a radio in your stable, or when you’re working your horse – even out hacking.

If you’re jumping and are unsure whether to use them, we were once warned by a pro that she had found some horses can feel disconcerted by plugs when jumping, almost as if it unbalances them. I can’t tell you if it’s true or not, but it felt like good advice and something we are always mindful of now. If you’re in a similar quandary, take heed and practice with them in before you decide.

Will I need a rug down at the arena?

In short, no. The whole site is indoors and after weeks of preparation in the cold under multiple layers, it feels blissfully warm! The only times you’ll feel a wintery chill is going back and forth to your hotel.

What to wear

A friend of mine new to showing qualified for one of the BSHA Rising Stars cob classes last year, and intended to wear her normal showing gear, only to discover that navy championship attire was correct. A quick Facebook appeal and we soon had her togged up looking super. The moral of this story is, check what you should be wearing, and if you’ve overlooked this detail until now but don’t have the necessary in your kit bag – don’t worry, just borrow. Pros and fellow amateurs are usually only too happy to help. Incidentally, for more information on the etiquette of dressing for a championship, Katie Jerram-Hunnable explains some of the finer showing etiquette rules.

There is no set rule for the championships of the BSPS performance classes. In the past, some competitors have changed into evening attire – a navy jacket and a stock – but others haven’t changed. We have never packed one for HOYS from superstition, and have always had someone lend one (as have countless others) so if you make it to a championship and want to change, ask around and borrow. If in the event you can’t find one, worry not, plenty have come forward in their tweeds and not been penalised for it. You won’t be penalised either.

My “grandma” tip

However nervous you may feel, it’s important to eat as you need to be on top form.

There are lots of great options for eating inside the Excel, and there is a free tea and coffee station in the stabling area. But I would pop something in your suitcase that you can stomach for breakfast and a quick snack. If you’re in the arena early for your class, you may not have much time to go hunting for food.

My top tip: don’t be scared to ask

If you find that you are in a quandary, don’t stew on it, just ask for help. I promise you will find someone who knows the answer and is willing to help, from officials and stewards to your fellow competitors. London is such a fun experience that you don’t want to let the fear of asking for help mar it for you.

And enjoy!

This show is such fun — to a certain extent I have FOMO at the prospect of being sidelined even by my own doing! As I said before HOYS, the worst that can happen is you fall off or you have to leave the arena. In the highly unlikely event this happens, breathe and smile – you won’t be the first and you absolutely won’t be the last.

So, try to enjoy every minute of it in the arena, and throw yourself into the festive mood – decorate the stable, wear matching Christmas jumpers and buy lots of photos – after all, it’s Christmas.

Good luck!

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‘First and foremost and above all else, these ponies must safely carry a small child’: meet the RIHS plaited mini judge

Bethan Simons — Sun, 22 Jun 2025 15:32:34 +0000

The plaited mini championship at the Agria Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) plays host to some of the cutest and most charming combinations on show all week. Royal International mini judge Mathew Lawrence will be assessing the conformation phase in the lead-rein, first ridden and lead-rein pony of hunter type classes.

So who is he and what will he be looking for? Here’s your guide…

Mathew’s background in showing…

Bristol-based Mathew is a former producer of ridden ponies and horses, now focused on teaching and training.

Mathew was not born to horsey parents, but his aunt had a horse and a good friend at school’s mum ran a riding school, so Mathew worked on a Saturday for a free ride on a Sunday.

His father delivered flowers, and one client was Ro Rennocks of the Rendene Stud who agreed to give Mathew a part-time role at the stud and he started showing there, progressing to winning the Lloyds Bank Supreme final – now the Price Family Supreme In-Hand final – with Welsh part-bred Rosevean Honey Suckle.

At 21 years of age, Mathew started working for Mark Northam producing ridden horses and ponies. He’s since enjoyed a prolific producing career, with winners and champions at the highest level including Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), the Royal International (RIHS) and Olympia – now London International (LIHS) – across a range of types, from mountain and moorlands to coloureds and hacks.

One claim-to-fame is that he rode The late Queen’s Highland pony Balmoral Mandarin.

Mathew sits on several judging panels, and has judged at the UK’s most prestigious shows including at the RIHS, HOYS, LIHS, Royal Welsh and Royal Highland.

He is a passionate supporter of getting new blood into showing and so is a longstanding supporter of talent spotting clinics and of the SEIB Search for a Star series.

What will Royal International mini judge Mathew Lawrence be looking for?

“Way of going is paramount in these classes,” says Mathew, as “first and foremost and above all else, these ponies must safely carry around a small child.”

But when it comes to assessing their conformation, correctness is a key focus for Mathew: “The mechanics of a horse or pony are so important. If a pony isn’t built correctly, then it can’t go correctly.”

Mathew says: “They must have good limbs and I like to see a pony with a good topline, not just in front of the saddle, but through the back and over the loins, too. Sometimes, if they have a hollow way of going, a pony’s back becomes weak and that’s not something I like to see.”

Mathew looks for quality and correctness in type, which means in the lead-rein of hunter type, a scaled down light to middleweight with flat bone.

When it comes to movement, Royal International mini judge Mathew Lawrence says that “straightness should be a given”.

Whilst he’s always looking for a good mover when judging, he says that he won’t want a pony with movement “too big for the child – everything has to be suited for a child to ride”.

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Time to shine: how to nail your individual show to dazzle the judges

Kim Wilson — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 07:34:44 +0000

The individual show is often the most important element of a showing class for horses and ponies. It gives the judge a chance to assess each exhibit in detail, evaluating schooling, manners, and way of going.

At affiliated level, riders perform individual shows in pony and Mountain & Moorland (M&M) classes, while in horse classes, the ride judge typically takes the reins. The hack class is the exception, requiring both an individual show and a ride by the judge.

Preparing for an individual show

For ponies and M&Ms – and those riding at unaffiliated level – the rider typically performs a short show, usually based around a figure of eight, demonstrating walk, trot, and canter on both reins, an extension and then a square halt and salute to finish. Some advanced riders, for example in the intermediates class, may include a serpentine or one-handed canter.

Occasionally, a judge may request a set show, and it is important to be clear on what’s expected.

Paul Cook, British Show Pony Society chairman and experienced judge, advises: “Don’t be afraid to ask again if you are unsure of the set show, especially if you’re first out. No judge minds you asking – they would rather that than see the wrong show.

“The judge wants to see four balanced paces in a correct outline, with smooth transitions up and down through the gears, showing a well-schooled, mannerly animal that moves well.”

Emma Holder, producer of top show ponies and renowned for her supportive work with young riders, encourages riders to watch and plan.

“Watch the class before and see where the judge has the entries lined up,” she says.

Watch and learn: see where judges have lined up horses in other classes, and how the top-placed riders have used the ring to their advantage. (Image credit: H&H Archives)

“Watch a few shows to see how other riders use the space and make your plan, where you’re going to ask for your transitions and where you’re going to extend. When you plan your extension, it’s better not to do it right in front of the line. Visualisation and planning are so important.”

She also advises riders to assess the ring itself.

“If it’s on grass, look at the slope and the surface,” she advises. “Try to avoid doing transitions going downhill.

“If your pony has a stronger rein, showcase that by planning your show to play to your strengths.”

A common challenge in individual shows is anticipation, especially if the routine has been practised too often. Ponies may start rushing transitions or pre-empting movements, which can upset their rhythm.

“At home, don’t always ride the same show,” Emma suggests. “Change it up. Ask for transitions in different places, change the rein in different places, keep them guessing so they stay listening.”

Another issue is cantering on the wrong lead. If it happens, don’t freeze or panic.

“Circle, correct it, and carry on like nothing happened,” says Emma. “Finish your show cleanly and confidently. Judges don’t know what you planned, they only see what you do. A tidy recovery is better than flustered hesitation.”

Over-excitement can also cause problems, especially in younger ponies or on busy show fields.

“Knowing the right amount of warm-up your pony needs to settle is trial and error: you want them bright but not sharp,” Emma says. “Working on your half halt at home is important so you have that tool should you need it in the ring.”

Her golden rule? “A short show, well executed, is far better than something long and messy. Do what you do well, that’s what gets noticed.”

Preparing for a championship and supreme of show

If you’ve just won your class, or placed second to qualify for a championship, your day isn’t over yet. The championship is your next opportunity to impress, and it should be treated as an entirely new class. Even if the judge loved your animal earlier in the day, you can’t rely on past impressions alone – you need to shine again in the final lineup.

Most competitors wear their first or second place rosettes into the championship, although strictly speaking, it is correct to remove them for this stage.

Championships typically begin with a simple go-round, where horses and ponies are shown at walk, trot, and canter on both reins, with the occasional request for an extension. Individual shows are rarely asked for at this point, as the judges tend to be the same as for the original class. The judge will then walk the line-up, assessing each exhibit again before selecting their champion and reserve.

If you’re fortunate enough to be awarded champion, you may go forward to a supreme of show. This might be split into in-hand and ridden sections or run as one final. It’s important to remember that the supreme judges may be different from those who saw you earlier, so you’re likely to be asked for an individual show. It’s a clean slate once more, and every detail counts.

This is your time to impress, but not the time to experiment. Avoid trying anything you haven’t practised thoroughly at home. If your horse is capable and confident, a three-loop serpentine with smooth lead changes, or a balanced one-handed canter with your hand resting quietly on your thigh, can help you stand out.

A crisp walk-to-canter transition or a well-executed rein back can also showcase your horse’s responsiveness and training. But these flourishes should only be included if they are second nature to you and your horse.

One unforgettable example is Craig Kiddier’s supreme working hunter championship win at the Royal International Horse Show on Mulberry Lane, where he boldly jumped the famous Cornishman fence and delivered a gallop the length of the International Ring. While not something most riders should attempt, it illustrates the kind of bold, well-executed flair that can capture a judge’s eye.

Craig Kiddier’s individual show with Mulberry Lane to stand supreme at the 2025 Royal International Show was a demonstration of both quality and flair. (Image credit: Elli Birch/Bootsandhooves)

Consider your ringcraft carefully. Could you salute between flower arrangements for added theatre? If you’re in a lead-rein class, could you switch sides safely to show off your pony evenly? Perhaps you could include a neat 20-metre circle or ride a striking canter transition down the long side.

Small, polished details, when confidently ridden, can make a big impression.

A hot tip? Always have two smart, well-rehearsed shows ready at home: one clean and classic, and one with a touch more flair. That way, whether it’s the championship or the supreme, you’ll be ready to step up and shine.

Final thoughts on preparing horses and ponies for the individual show

Whether you’re stepping forward with a carefully choreographed individual show or riding for the supreme, this phase of the class is your moment to show off the training, trust and partnership you’ve built at home.

A successful individual show doesn’t need to be extravagant, but fluent, confident and suited to your horse or pony’s way of going. Adapt the routine to suit your animal, keep them listening and focused, and don’t be afraid to make subtle changes to manage anticipation or excitement.

Ringcraft, polish and presence go a long way. With thoughtful planning and calm execution, your individual show can leave a lasting impression for all the right reasons.

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‘I don’t belong here!’ Riding alongside our idols can lead to impostor syndrome cramping our competitive ability – here’s how to put those feelings to bed

Becky Murray — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 07:32:57 +0000

Have you ever shared a warm-up with a Whitaker, or perhaps your eventing section includes a British Olympic medallist? Equestrian sport is unusual in that you can find yourself competing alongside your idols, which in one breath can feel awe-inspiring, and in another a curse when that leads to self-doubt. If you have ever found yourself at a show and questioning your right to be there, it could be that you’re experiencing impostor syndrome.

Clinical psychologist Dr Krissie Ivings of Aspire Rider Confidence & Hypnotherapy and author of Tame the Chimp, Shoot the Parrot & Silence the Mouse explains that while impostor syndrome is not a clinical condition, it is a well-recognised experience that can be very common in athletes and certain professions.

“Impostor syndrome is the term used when people do not feel as though they’re qualified to be doing what they’re doing, or a feeling that they’re not in the right place,” Krissie explains. “You might feel like a fraud, or a fake, and that you’re going to get found out.

“In riding it might be that you feel like you shouldn’t be entering a certain competition, or that level. When it goes right you might feel like you’ve fluked it or gotten away with it – but if it goes badly then you feel like you were never good enough in the first place.”

Impostor syndrome can feel like an ongoing negative conversation taking place in your head.

“I use the metaphor of the parrot which sits on your shoulder and says negative things in your ear like, ‘Everyone’s laughing, I’m embarrassing myself, I shouldn’t be here’,” says Krissie.

“Those thoughts are not true, they’re an unhelpful conversation. No one would ever say those things to you, and a rule of thumb to go by is, if you wouldn’t say it to your friend then don’t say it to yourself.”

Dealing with impostor syndrome: “I had to learn to be kinder to myself”

Dentist and successful amateur eventer Jodie Neill has struggled with impostor syndrome. Jodie was competing at CCI3* level and was training towards four-star prior to her mare Quantum Clover Gold (Pops) needing some time out to recover from an injury, while Jodie went on to have a baby.

“I didn’t start eventing until around 25 and Pops was my first horse – she didn’t cost a lot of money and I never really had expectations of getting up the levels,” says Jodie. “But we did, and all of a sudden I was at the big events warming up with Olympic riders and professionals.

“On one occasion at Gatcombe, the cross-country course had caused carnage and I was hearing on the commentary that big names were retiring and walking home. I remember thinking ‘What on earth am I doing here?’.

“Thankfully I had support from my coach James Oakden, because otherwise I’d probably have driven the 10 hours home. I just didn’t believe we were going to be capable, I felt like, ‘If they couldn’t do it, how on earth could I? I’m a dentist, they’re professionals’.”

Rubbing shoulders with top riders in the collecting ring can exacerbate the feelings of impostor syndrome. (Image credit: Sophie Cheeseman)

Jodie says having support around her was key.

“I think without those people in your life, that sort of mentor-type people, it’s really hard because you can get lost in your own head and think you don’t deserve to be there and that you’re going to get caught out,” she says, adding that she also sought help from a sports psychologist and had hypnotherapy.

“I never cured the impostor syndrome, but I felt more comfortable and started to believe that we could do it,” adds Jodie, who is now producing a young horse to event.

“For me, it was having some acceptance that I’m not the same as a professional rider. Someone once said to me, ’Could an eventer go and be a dentist from Monday to Friday?’ – I had to learn to be kinder to myself and not expect to necessarily be able to ride and produce horses the way a professional might.”

Freelance coach Fiona Iszchak competes in showjumping and often finds herself in classes with professional well-known riders.

“I have impostor syndrome regularly, and one of my clients once said ‘But aren’t you a professional?’” she says. “It made me stop and think, ‘Well, I suppose I am’. I hadn’t thought of myself that way because I don’t showjump for a job or have fancy horses.

“You can find yourself thinking I don’t deserve to be here; I haven’t got the big lorry or designer saddle, but you can still go and win the class, so sometimes you need to give yourself a reality check.

“It can be easy to presume you’re the only one feeling like that, but there’s probably lots of people in the same boat as you.”

Impostor syndrome can happen to anyone

Dr Claire Bennett of Riding Mindfully, a clinical psychologist and UKCC level 2 dressage coach, says impostor syndrome can occur in all walks of life and often stems from where there is a pressure to perform.

“The brain perceives the thought of being found out as highly threatening,” Claire explains. “It’s not a choice to feel anxious, but an automatic fight-flight-freeze response.

“Anxiety often feels overwhelming and unmanageable when it arises, so it is more than just pre-competition nerves. This collection of thoughts and intense anxiety continues to happen even when evidence shows that the person is competent.”

Amateur home-producer Olivia Bushell, who has a full-time job in interior design, is no stranger to the biggest stages in showing, competing at Royal Windsor, Horse of the Year Show and the Royal International. And with these big occasions has also come moments of self-doubt.

“There’s times where I’ve felt impostor syndrome,” says Olivia. “It’s hard when you’re doing the horses on your own and you question yourself, especially if you have a bad day at a show.

“At big county shows I’ve gone through the catalogue and I’ve said to my mum in the past, ‘So and so is here, so we’ll just have a nice day out because there’s no point in expecting us to win and qualify’. But it’s about remembering why you do it, and thinking of anything else as a bonus.

“For me it makes those good days extra special too. We took supreme hunter at the Royal Highland in 2022 with my lightweight Double Mocha, and we’d beat all the professionals. It meant so much because I’d had him since he was four and it had been all my own work, and it’s those days you’ve got to remember, ‘I did this’.”

Olivia Bushell aboard Double Mocha. Despite huge success in the show ring, Olivia admits to feelings of impostor syndrome. (Image credit: Nico Morgan Media)

And it’s not just amateur riders that can experience these feelings. Olympic dressage rider Laura Tomlinson recalls struggling with impostor syndrome in her young rider days.

“I had it hugely in my under-21 years, and it was probably Alf [Mistral Hojris] that helped me out of that,” she says.

“I’d had so much opportunity given to me; my parents were able to get me nice horses and I was always supported and had good coaches, so for a long time I felt like that when I did well that, ‘So I should’ – and if I didn’t do well, then I must be a complete failure.

“Alf being the amazing but completely chaotic horse that he was gave me, certainly among my peers, the respect in terms of what we managed to achieve. People saw the journey from the start to where we ended up. That gave me a little bit more ability to put that impostor feeling to bed and like I’d earned my stripes.

“Nowadays it’s a little different in the world of social media and how cruel the internet can be, and I think that can be quite intimidating for riders.”

Practical tips for dealing with impostor syndrome

Dr Krissie Ivings says one tactic to deal with impostor syndrome is to “ignore the parrot”.

“When I work with people with impostor syndrome we identify what it is that they tell themselves,” she says. “Then you’re forearmed and you understand when that thought of ‘I’m useless’ or whatever it might be arises, you’re forearmed.

“You know that ‘Here is that pesky parrot giving me a grief, but I’m just not listening’, and then you refocus on the job at hand.

“Another useful tool is to ‘stop, drop and breathe’. As soon as you notice that you’re spiralling, stop everything you’re doing at that moment. Then drop the story that you’re telling yourself, because it’s just a story – it’s not true. Take a breath and let it go.”

Dr Claire Bennett advises using coping strategies that centre around the body’s “soothing system”. One technique she suggests is breathing in for three seconds, and out for five.

“The idea is that you breathe out for longer than you breathe in, which is really regulating,” she says.

“If we then link it with a proprioceptor activity – anything that uses muscles – like raising your arms while you breathe in, and lowering your arms as you breathe out, those two things together can help calm the nervous system. You can also use proprioceptor activity like pushing or pulling, so push the palms of your hands together or push your hands into your leg muscles.”

Claire also suggests using mindfulness-based activities like focusing on a safe place – and practising techniques away from competition.

“Using imagery of a place that we feel relaxed can help activate the soothing system, the same way thinking of your favourite food can make you salivate or feel hungry for that item,” she explains.

Developing visualisation techniques, such as thinking of a beautiful safe places, can help soothe the mind. (Image credit: Getty Images)

“If you’re in a collecting ring and you start to feel that wave of anxiety, use the breathing technique and focus on that safe place.

“The more we practice these activities in non-stressful situations, the quicker we can train our brain to relax and the quicker the body responds, so when you’re stressed it becomes easier to remember them and they’ll be more effective than if you don’t.”

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How to jump a big, bushy bullfinch to impress the judges

Bethan Simons — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 07:30:18 +0000

Want to teach your horse to jump a bullfinch? First, you need to understand the fence itself. A bullfinch is a brush fence that has greenery, twigs or foliage extending from the top, which the horse should push through, similar to when jumping an untrimmed hedge when out hunting. In this situation, the judge does not want to see the horse jump over the top of the branches and clear the whole fence.

If you’re worried about how to jump a bullfinch or want to improve your horse’s technique over this type of fence, champion working hunter rider Katy Greens shares her advice on how to teach your horse to jump a bullfinch with confidence.

With Royal International Horse Show and HOYS qualifiers often including a bullfinch, not to mention the impressive one at Hickstead itself, many riders will need to incorporate tackling a bullfinch into their training and show preparation.

Why are bullfinches a problem?

“Bullfinches are hard to train for because most of the time you want your horse to be careful and leave all the poles up, but in this instance you are asking them to jump through something,” explains Katy, who specialises in the horse workers, but also competes some native ponies in the larger mountain and moorland working hunter pony divisions.

“It can be hard for the horse to understand when you are training to accommodate one fence when everything else they learn is about clearing the element,” adds Katy. “So when they first see a bullfinch, unless trained correctly, they think that they need to jump over the top and clear it. It’s even harder for the horses who are naturally very careful to understand.”

Ruby Ward and Noble Banksy tackle a bullfinch with ease at Hickstead. (Image credit: Equinational)

How to teach your horse to jump a bullfinch

When training, Katy emphasises that it’s important to take your time. In an ideal world you need an assistant on the ground to help build your bullfinch up steadily without you having to dismount and remount every time you need to change your fence.

“I always take teaching them to tackle a bullfinch really slowly,” Katy says.

1. Set up your fence

To begin you need a brush fence set up, in to which your assistant can poke greenery or soft twigs in the top of the brush.

“To start with, add the bullfinch material to each side leaving a big gap in the middle so that the horse understands it is a fence to jump.”

2. Jump the fence as normal

Approach and jump the middle of the fence as you would normally – aiming for the gap in the greenery.

“As the horse gains confidence and understanding, add a little foliage to the middle – and then a little more – but always keep it lower at the centre so they begin to get the feel of bruising through it and it touching them.”

It’s important not to overface the horse and make them feel they need to jump high to clear the greenery at this stage.

3. Add more brush

“We then add more greenery, little by little, to build into a fuller bullfinch,” says Katy.

Once the horse is confidently jumping through the bullfinch, and isn’t worried by the feeling of the foliage touching their legs, then you can call it day for that training session. But beware thinking that once you have done this, that’s your training done – it’s not.

4. Repeat

To ensure the horse’s confidence and understanding is established, you will need to repeat the process a few times.

“When we come to train for a bullfinch the next time, we restart the process,” explains Katy. “I will very rarely just run a horse at a full bullfinch, especially when they are only just learning about them – it’s fine once they are very established and confident – but at the training stage I wouldn’t.”

Continue repeating the process until you and your horse feel confident and ready to face a full bullfinch in the ring.

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First impressions count in the show ring: why the go-round can make or break your class – and how to ace it

Kim Wilson — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 15:34:01 +0000

The go-round can make or break your showing performance. It’s the judge’s first glimpse of your horse, and that first impression counts. Training at home for the go-round will be fundamental to your chances of success.

Whether you’re preparing a first ridden pony or a riding horse, the go-round is a defining part of the show ring experience. As showing producer and judge Stuart Hollings reminds us: “The go-round in showing is the first time the judge will see your horse, so it’s vital to give a good impression.”

That initial walk, trot, canter and extension in company (depending on what class you’re in) must be composed, confident and in harmony with your horse. The key to success? Preparation.

For many horses and ponies, the go-round can be unnerving at first. From becoming distracted or overly keen to spooking or crowding others, group riding presents a unique set of challenges.

The go-round consists of the whole class walking, trotting and cantering together. The steward will indicate when to change the rein, followed by cantering on the opposite rein. In some classes, you may also be asked for an extension. After this, competitors are asked to walk, and the judge will usually make an initial pull of preference, which will determine the order in which the individual shows will be performed.

Stuart Hollings advises: “When you return to walk, resist the urge to circle tightly around the judge in the hope of being noticed. Instead, position yourself in a clear space where your horse can still be seen. If you end up stuck in a huddle, there’s every chance your animal could be overlooked.”

Training your horse for the go-round in showing

The key to a successful go-round is preparation.

“My best advice is to ride at home with as many people as possible,” says top producer Sara Parrott. “Get used to thinking ahead and anticipating what others are doing around you.”

By replicating the ring experience in your training environment, you can build your horse’s confidence and teach them to focus, even in a busy arena.

Cantering in a busy arena alongside other horses is great real-life practice for the go-round. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

If your pony tends to chase, Sara suggests focusing on “finding ways to keep their attention, for example, half-halts and slight bending exercises that can be used in the ring if needed”.

Maintaining a soft inside bend in corners can also help to keep your horse’s focus on you, rather than on what’s happening outside the ring.

Desensitisation is another key element. Clinics, outings and hacking in company all provide valuable experience.

“Go to lots of different places,” adds Sara. “It helps get them used to new environments.”

This exposure helps your horse stay calm and responsive, even when faced with crowds, banners, noise and unfamiliar surroundings.

Training your horse for the go-round in showing

Ringcraft and rider awareness

For the rider, strong ringcraft can mean the difference between blending into the background and catching the judge’s eye. It starts the moment you enter the ring.

First, don’t rush to go in – make sure you give yourself sufficient space between you and the horse in front.

Paul Cook, British Show Pony Society chairman and judge, reminds riders not to overlook the basics: “Don’t underestimate the power of a good walk. It’s the first impression the judge has; it shouldn’t be held in and tight, but a free walk in a correct outline with purpose.”

The walk is an important pace that the judges will notice, perfect it at home so that it shows purpose and freedom in the go-round. (Image credit: Andrew Sydenham)

In the go-round, your job is to show your horse to best effect, without disrupting others. That means maintaining rhythm and being constantly aware of your spacing.

“If your horse is faster or has a bigger stride, or you feel boxed in, think ahead,” advises Paul. “Turn a circle or cut across the ring to find a gap.”

If you need to overtake, always do so carefully. Ride on the inside without blocking the judge’s view of a fellow competitor and avoid unsettling other combinations.

“It should never feel rushed,” says Debbie Speare, Showing Register coordinator and judge. “You want a relaxed picture in your horse’s natural stride.”

When the steward calls for a canter change across the diagonal, keep it calm and balanced.

“Don’t push your animal out of rhythm across the diagonal between canters,” adds Debbie. “Everything should be smooth and in tune.”

Vicky Smith, a prolific Horse of the Year Show winner, emphasises that polish is what makes the difference.

“Judges want to see a well-schooled, trained animal,” she says. “The judge only sees a short part of you go round, so it should look relaxed and in tune. If you need to give a half-halt or readjust, try to do it on the side of the ring the judge isn’t looking at.”

If your horse becomes sharp mid go-round, ride tactfully. Use subtle half-halts and stay composed. Don’t let a small mistake define your round.

“Keep calm, ride forward and aim to finish stronger,” advises Sara.

Showing presence and confidence in the go-round

A polished picture comes not only from preparation, but also from rider presence.

“Happy ponies and happy people make judges smile,” says Debbie. “You want the judge to think you have the best animal, so rider confidence is important.”

Looking like you’re enjoying the moment, while calmly managing your horse, creates the kind of ring presence that judges notice.

The epitome of presence and polish: Vicky Smith, pictured aboard Royal Windsor 2025 coloured champion Chynas Top Deck, says: “Judges want to see a well-schooled, trained animal.” (Image credit: Elli Birch/Bootsandhooves)

In some classes, combinations may be asked for an extension, sometimes split into two groups. The steward will indicate if the judge would like to see an extension. It’s vital to listen carefully to the instructions from the steward or judge.

As Stuart Hollings points out: “Listen very carefully if it’s a full gallop or simply an extension. Judges are looking for an animal that will lower and lengthen, it should be a gradual move up the gears. Don’t fire off the corner into a messy gallop that isn’t easy to bring back under control.”

When things go wrong in ring

Even with the best training for the go-round, in competitive showing things can go awry. Your horse might spook at the crowd, react to other horses, or take off in the gallop. But don’t panic. Judges are horse people too, and they understand that things happen.

“Through the winter, The Showing Register runs clinics all over the country led by experienced producers,” says Debbie. “Whatever issue you have, they can help you deal with it.”

If things don’t go smoothly at a show, go home and make a plan. That might mean inviting friends to ride with you and recreate a busy ring environment or working with your trainer to sharpen your aids and half-halts.

Practise your extension, slowly building it up to show off the best of your horse’s stride about halfway down the long side, usually where the judge will be standing.

Make a lasting first impression

Mastering the go-round is about more than surviving a few laps in company. It’s about turning that all-important first impression into a lasting one, showcasing the training, trust and composure you’ve built at home.

With calm, consistent preparation, careful exposure, and confident riding, you and your horse can rise to the occasion because in the show ring, blending in gets you nowhere. The winners are the ones who ride with polish, poise and presence, being confident that they own the ring.

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Rewarding or hair-raising? 6 expert tips for preparing mares and foals to be a breeder’s shop window in the show ring

Alex Robinson — Fri, 30 May 2025 15:32:58 +0000

Preparing mares and foals for the show ring can be one of the most rewarding experiences for a breeder.

The judging process typically involves the mare and foal being judged separately, but the pairing of dam and youngster is also taken into consideration by the judges.

To show a mare and foal, both animals should have been trained correctly to walk, trot and stand in the ring on the go-round, in the line-up and in front of the judge. Alongside this, both horses will need to cope with the busy atmosphere of a show, and be confident to load, travel and stand on the horsebox.

There’s a lot to consider when showing a mare and foal, but if the right preparation is done the rewards can be plentiful. These top tips from two of the circuit’s most established breeders are sure to help you if you’re considering prepping your own combination for the ring this term.

Who are our experts?

Jerome Harforth is one of the showing world’s most respected and knowledgeable producers. He also founded the renowned Stanley Grange Stud. Jerome has produced countless Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Royal International (RIHS) winners under saddle, and he is also a highly regarded in-hand producer.

He has won the HOYS in-hand supreme final multiple times, with broodmares such as Pumphill Belladonna, Whalton Heavens Above, Rotherwood Take A Peep, Catwalk, and Crafton Blithe Spirit. In 2024, Jerome secured the title again, handling Evelyn Tate’s riding pony filly, Kirkwood Tabitha Twitchit.

Crafton Blythe Spirit and her foal stand supreme at HOYS in 2018. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Kitty Bodily and her mother, Jill Williams, have been breeding Welsh ponies and cobs for more than 40 years under the Glebedale prefix. The Glebedale Stud has produced several champions with impressive CVs, including 2018 HOYS M&M Pony of the Year Glebedale Mumbo Jumbo, 2016 HOYS M&M first ridden winner Glebedale Jubilee, and 2012 HOYS In-Hand Supreme Pony of the Year Glebedale Ding Dong.

M&M star Glebedale Mumbo Jumbo, bred by the Glebedale Stud (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Their stock has triumphed at major fixtures across the country, from the Royal Welsh to the BSPS and NPS championships. Other stars include in-hand show mare Glebedale Savannah, dual in-hand and ridden stallion Glebedale Jumanji, and mini contender Glebedale Sancerre.

Should I show my mare and foal?

During a class, both mare and foal will be judged and placed individually, although when weighing up whether a pair is suitable to show, the quality, condition and temperament of the mare are usually the priority for breeders.

You need to weigh up a number of factors before deciding whether your mare and foal are suitable for the show ring. (Image credit: Alamy)

“The mare needs to be of show standard, but a healthy-looking foal is very complementary to a mare,” says Jerome. “While the mare is the focus, the foal needs to have certain traits; it needs to look well, and the limbs need to be correct.

“You don’t want to travel and show a foal if it’s over at the knee or down on its pasterns. Wait until they are strong enough and see how he develops.”

Kitty adds: “When picking a prospect show mare, she’s got to have good conformation, movement, and limbs, and also a good amount of depth — all aspects any in-hand pony should have.

“Then, our decision about who to show comes down to the judges who will be judging throughout the year, and what types they prefer.”

Kitty says that the broodmare’s temperament is an important consideration.

“Some mares don’t like the job, and others love it,” she says. “Some of my best breeding mares aren’t always my best show mares, and often, a champion show mare isn’t the pony that breeds you the next champion! You can have the most tremendous mare, but she might not produce one as good as herself.

“It’s often about luck and the experience of knowing which mare to pair with which stallion. I often find that the older a mare is, the better she produces.

“What we all like as individuals, though, is very much down to preference — and breeders all have their own idea of the perfect pony that we’re striving to breed.”

6 expert tips for preparing mares and foals for the show ring

1. Preparing your mare

While foals usually don’t hit the ground until spring time, the Glebedale team begins planning their upcoming show season the winter before. If they like the look of an in-foal mare, they’ll keep her in from November through the colder months with the hope of showing her the following summer.

“We’d feed her so she can maintain her condition — but not excessively, as ponies should never be overdone with a foal,” says Kitty. “We preferably like our mares to foal outside, as it’s more natural for them.

“This year, we don’t have any senior mares to show, but that doesn’t mean we won’t pull one out of the field in July if she’s looking particularly well after a few months of grass.”

Some of your preparation will depend on the level you’re aiming for.

Jerome explains: “If you just want to take your mare and foal to a local agricultural show for a run out, you could likely just pull them out of the field, tidy them up, and go. But if you want to compete on the county circuit, the process requires a lot more attention to detail.”

Jerome agrees that the planning for preparing mares and foals for the show ring begins before the foal has even been born, around Christmas time: “Your mare needs to be stabled in the evening and likely fed two hard feeds per day well before foaling. Once she’s foaled, you won’t be able to ‘furnish and top’ her for the ring, but you can maintain her condition.

“I would never rug her before she foals, aside from putting her out on cold days with a turnout rug. I’d then rug her once the foal is two weeks old, being very careful with rugs that have leg straps and fillet strings, for safety reasons.”

If your mare has been shown under saddle in previous years, she may have an advantage over an unshown or unbroken mare.

“She’ll likely sit up in the bridle more if she’s been ridden,” Jerome says. “A good job for September or October could be working your mare in some tack — a bridle and roller — encouraging her to work in an outline and accept the contact.

“Long-reining and lunging can be very beneficial in helping her learn how to sit into the bridle while moving forwards.”

2. Preparing your foal

When a foal is born, Kitty allows time for it to bond naturally with its dam before introducing any handling.

“We’ll spend time getting them used to humans in the stable, and after a couple of weeks, we’ll pop a foal halter on them,” she says. “Once they’re happy with this, we gradually start walking them out beside the mare until they get used to it.

“I don’t feed my foals until they’re about a month old, as they get everything they need from the mare.”

For the first month, the foal will not need feeding as it gets all it needs from its mother. (Image credit: Alamy)

“Prior to a show, we’ll trim the head — and we’re ready to go. We keep everything basic.”

Jerome follows a similar routine. Within a few days of birth, he begins leading the foal to and from the paddock.

“I’d put a stable rubber around the lower part of the foal’s neck,” Jerome says. “Then I’d place my left hand on the rubber and my right on the foal’s rump and walk alongside the mare.

“I always lead the foal from the off-side of the mare initially. If you lead from the near side, the foal tends to lean into the mare and can trip you up or stand on your feet. From the off-side, the foal stays more upright and closer to the mare.”

Once the foal is confident walking beside the mare, it’s time to begin short periods of leading it independently.

The foal should learn to be led independently of its mother, but this takes practice. (Image credit: Alamy)

Jerome says: “It’s what will happen at a show, so do practise this at home. Around the same time, I’d begin picking the foal’s feet up. Get someone to gently hold or caress the foal while another person lifts the feet.

“If needed, you can also put them in a lightweight, secure rug. At about a month old, I’ll start letting the foal nibble on some foal creep feed.”

Jerome is not a fan of standard foal slips and instead prefers miniature horse headcollars.

“These smaller headcollars, made for miniature horses, are much more secure and substantial on a foal’s head, so I always prefer to use one when training and showing,” he says.

3. Travelling to shows

Preparing mares and foals for the show ring inevitably involves travelling. It’s important to give the pair plenty of room in the lorry or trailer with enough bedding on the floor.

“We’d only ever take the mare and foal, and perhaps one youngster, so there is plenty of space for them in the box,” Kitty says. “Our foals travel loose and when they get to the show the foal needs room to lie down and suckle.

“I’d always take a feed for them in the middle of the day, and I’d ensure that everything is kept as a calm and comfortable as possible.”

Kitty adds: “Showing a foal can stand them in good stead. It gets them used to travelling and standing on the lorry and gets them into the routine of going to a show.

“We never do many shows – perhaps four max per year – with our mares and foals. Some can get stale to it, while others can get cheeky and overly confident. Plus, doing too much puts strain on the mare.”

4. Tips for the ring

Your performance in the ring is directly correlated to the work you put in at home, like with any type or breed of show animal.

“Your foal is going to be more stressed at a show, naturally, so do ensure you’ve done enough leading practice,” Jerome advises.

“Turnout wise, I present plaited horse and pony foals differently. I don’t usually plait a pony foal’s mane until the coat he’s born with has completely grown out. Traditionally, you don’t plait a horse foal’s mare. I like to see foal’s tails plaited but never pulled.”

5. The foal handler

Not every handler is the right person to show a foal and only an experienced show person should be tasked with handling duties.

“It’s definitely not the easiest job and the foal handler is the person most likely to get kicked,” Kitty said. “I’d usually ask family or a very good friend to take my foal, and I’d ensure we’d done enough work at home beforehand.

“Showing a mare and foal is a team effort and the foal handler really needs to know what they’re doing, putting themselves in the right position and being quick on their feet – especially when showing a Welsh breed!”

Handling mares and foals in the ring is a team effort. (Image credit: Trevor Meeks Photography)

6. A shop window

Why might you choose to prepare mares and foals for the show ring? Aside from giving foals valuable early-life experience, Kitty explains her deeper motivation.

“It’s hugely rewarding — seeing your homebreds out there is a feeling I struggle to put into words,” she says. “We love showing as a family; it’s our hobby and the shows are a shop window for us to promote our stock.

“But breeding is our main passion — we’re obsessed. Foaling season is the most joyful and stressful time of the year, and when you see a foal that has that something extra, even after all these years, it’s so exciting. All foals are special, but sometimes you get that extra-special one who you know is going to be a star.

“Glebedale Jubilee is an example — as soon as she dropped onto the floor, I knew she was going to be incredible. But even if a foal isn’t destined to be a show ring superstar, they all have a job to do.”

Jerome equally enjoys showing mares and foals in the ring.

“A mare and foal is a complete package, and in an overall championship, they’re often a very strong contender — irrespective of type, size, or breed,” he concludes.

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Effortless elegance (or so it seems): refine your side-saddle skills to glide to the top of the ladies’ show horse line-up

Alex Robinson — Mon, 19 May 2025 08:24:41 +0000

The ideal ladies’ show horse should exhibit a seamless combination of manners, correct way of going, impeccable turnout, and the all-important presence. The overall impression must be one of elegance personified. The rider, too, is expected to be in perfect harmony with her horse, who should then carry the ride judge through the gears with effortless poise and minimal prompting.

When riding side-saddle, the rider sits with both legs to one side – the left – of the horse. This style of riding, once developed to allow women to ride while wearing long skirts or dresses, has its roots in the hunting field. Today, side-saddle continues to grow in popularity, both in and out of the show ring, as riders seek to expand their horses’ skill sets while honouring centuries-old traditions and challenging themselves in the saddle.

Preparing a horse for side-saddle classes is a considerable undertaking, not least because of the emphasis placed on impeccable manners. While minor indiscretions may be forgiven in other classes, the ladies’ horse must be the epitome of calmness and composure — an exemplary, sensible partner at all times.

You’ll commonly find two main side-saddle classes in showing schedules: ladies’ show hunter, open exclusively to hunter types, and ladies’ show horse, which allows all suitable show horses capable of carrying a side-saddle. At Horse of the Year Show, the final is open to all types of show horse, whereas the ladies’ championship at the Royal International Horse Show is restricted to hunters.

That winning feeling: Jayne Ross and Time 2 Reflect take the supreme title at Horse of the Year Show in 2018. (Image credit: Benjamin Clark Photography)

The leading organisation for the discipline is the Side Saddle Association, which hosts events across the year and stages an annual championship, featuring a packed schedule of classes catering to all levels.

Ladies’ show horse classes: the experts and their stars

If you’re planning to introduce your horse to side-saddle this season, the following tips, courtesy of two of the circuit’s most consistent ladies’ show horse contenders, are sure to provide valuable guidance.

Katie Jerram-Hunnable is one of the circuit’s most respected and successful show horse professionals. Over the years, she has produced numerous champion ladies’ show horses, including the legendary Dunbeacon, who stood supreme at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2010, and also claimed the supreme title at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) during his illustrious career.

Katie Jerram-Hunnable riding Stardust, owned by The late Queen. (Image credit: Trevor Meeks Photography)

In addition to her accomplishments in the ring, Katie is a qualified judge and a dedicated trainer of side-saddle riders. She has mentored many talented jockeys on their path to success in the ladies’ ranks.

Despite his glittering record, Dunbeacon posed his fair share of challenges, as Katie recalls: “He was cold-backed. He came to side-saddle later in his career and, while he became the most beautiful ladies’ ride, I often worried about getting on him at the start.

“To manage this, I always rode him astride to warm him up. Then, we’d put the side-saddle on, and I’d mount him in a safe environment.”

Jenna Tyldesley-Winston has a long-standing passion for ladies’ show horse classes. Among her most famed horses is the versatile Tudor Minstrel, a dual lightweight and ladies’ hunter who claimed both of his respective finals at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2012.

In 2017, Jenna also took top honours in the RIHS ladies’ final aboard Rehy Horizon, adding to an impressive record that includes multiple wins at major county shows, both astride and riding side-saddle.

Jenna Tyldesley-Winston and Rehy Horizon. (Image credit: Steve Dawe)

A respected panel judge, Jenna has officiated at many of the sport’s leading championships. Though she works within the equestrian industry, showing remains very much her passion and her hobby.

Despite his eventual stardom, Tudor Minstrel – known as Billy at home – was never expected to reach such heights.

“I still bring up Dad’s first-ever quote about Billy today: ‘You’ll never do any good with that horse,’” Jenna says.

“We struggled at the beginning, as we were both learning together. We began in the SEIB Search for a Star series and worked our way up through the ranks. Someone once told me that in showing, you have to do your apprenticeship – and that was definitely true in my case. I started at the bottom and kept going. Eventually, we achieved the things we did, but it’s a hard game to be successful in.”

Tips for ladies show horse classes

1. What should I look for in a ladies’ show horse?

“A fantastic attitude, a super mouth, and a natural place for the saddle to sit on the back,” Katie begins.

“I prefer a horse that lifts into the contact for ladies’ classes. If the horse is slightly above the bit or tends to go onto the forehand, it can be much harder to position them correctly when riding side-saddle.”

Katie stresses that, while most horses can be trained to carry a side-saddle with time and patience, it’s crucial to ensure the horse is mature enough.

“I’d recommend they be older than around seven,” she advises. “This ensures their back is mature enough, and they’re also likely to have the mental capacity to handle it. It’s an extraordinary feeling for a horse to have the rider sitting to one side.”

Jenna adds: “The horse must take you forwards, and it must be comfortable to ride. It should be easy to ride and well-schooled. That said, the side-saddle schooling always comes by training them correctly from the start – before you even put the saddle on. They should be straight, but also able to bend without falling in or working crookedly.”

“Also,” Jenna adds, “if you’re looking to start your horse in a side-saddle, do ensure they are physically mature enough.”

2. Getting to grips with the stick

When riding side-saddle, the rider does not have the use of their right leg, so they carry a stick that replaces the function of the leg.

“You must get your horse used to the stick acting as the leg, and it can take time for them to accept it,” Katie explains. “You use the stick in conjunction with your leg, and it can be tricky to initially get to grips with.”

A stick is carried in the right hand to replace the leg. Credit Peter Nixon (Image credit: creditUnknown)

On the left rein, due to the lack of an outside leg, the horse can fall in through the shoulder and become crooked to the inside.

“I ride exercises such as shallow loops and shoulder-in to work on flexion and straightness,” Katie continues. “Your stick acts as your right leg would during these exercises. I never ask for too much when I’m training, though; work should never be too intense. Sitting sideways can be a strange feeling for a horse initially.

“Keep everything simple, smooth, and soft, and gauge whether the horse is enjoying it. I would initially ride side-saddle once per week, gradually building up to twice. It’s a different pressure, so they need time to adjust.”

3. Legging up

“Ensure you have a good legger-upper, especially in the beginning,” Katie advises. “You need someone who will lift you cleanly and efficiently, so you don’t upset the horse.

“In the early stages, I’d find a strong legger-upper to pop you on, with someone standing at the horse’s head so you have someone there while you get yourself into the right position in the saddle.”

“Never get legged up with your stick in your hand,” Katie adds. “It should be handed to you from the correct side – the off-side of the horse – once you’re in position on top.”

Show producer Hannah Horton highlights the importance of training your horse to also stand quietly for the judge to mount in the ring.

“Make sure your horse will stand for the judge while they get on,” Hannah says. “So many horses swing away from the judge while they’re trying to get on. This can be because riders don’t practice getting legged on, but when you’re in the ring, the judge will always have a leg-up, so your horse must get used to it.”

4. Correct attire

Katie emphasises that the turnout of the rider is one of the key elements of ladies’ show horse classes.

“Ladies’ side-saddle is all about the whole picture being elegant, so this includes exceptional turnout of both horse and rider,” she says. “Ensure you have the correct length of habit and stick, the correct colour gloves, a correct spur on the left side, and that you’ve dressed appropriately for the class, the show you’re attending, and the time of day (whether daytime or evening wear).

“A lady should wear a bowler hat with a shirt and tie in the mornings and a cream stock and top hat with a veil safely secured and pinned back in the afternoons. Some shows and societies insist on safety hats so do check the rules prior to attending.”

Evening dress consists of a cream stock and top hat with a veil. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“Always have a handler to dress you and hand you your stick from the off-side.

“Always check the girth is properly secure, too, before starting work. Have your handler check the saddle stays straight as you walk off.”

5. Crookedness during the ride

Jenna’s pet hate when judging is a lack of straightness.

“You can tell as soon as you get on if a horse is crooked or not; the horse will come out of the line-up like a wiggly worm,” she begins. “As soon as you ask the horse to walk off, you want them to walk in a straight line. If they do, they tend to transition into the trot well, and then into canter.

“Basically, if a horse is straight, they generally give a good ride.”

To fix crookedness, Jenna advises working on a circle to get the horse to bend equally on each rein. Practising on the right rein is essential for ladies’ combinations, as the rider does not have the benefit of an outside leg.

“Pop onto a 10m circle and work into a rhythmical trot, using your schooling whip in place of your left leg,” Jenna explains. “Ask for canter and use your schooling whip as a leg aid to encourage the horse to really use their hind leg underneath them. Bring them back to trot, re-establish and repeat.

“These types of exercises improve straightness, but also get the horse to listen to you.”

Katie adds: “When starting out always have a pair of eyes on the ground to make sure you and the saddle are central and straight on the horse through the paces.”

6. Poorly fitting tack

Finding the right side-saddle for your horse can be a challenge, but Jenna emphasises how important it is to do your homework and ask for advice when searching for a saddle.

“Often, the saddles don’t sit correctly because they tend to tip over to the left; they’re not balanced, and you can feel yourself slipping to that side,” she explains.

“Get a saddle-fitter who knows about side-saddles to come and see your horse. I know how hard finding the right saddle can be; we really struggled to find one for Billy as he changed shape so much during his career. Then it was flocked incorrectly, causing him discomfort around his withers. Now, I always go to the same saddle-fitter whom I trust and rely on.

“A lot of side-saddles are also very old – I have two saddles made in the 1920s. But the horses we ride today are so different from those of the early 1900s. They’re much wider and chunkier in build, while the saddles from that time were narrower, with the gullet sitting more on the spine.

“New saddles are best, but they are very expensive, especially when made to measure.”

Master saddler Clare Barnett, who is not only a saddle fitter for side-saddle and astride, but one of the few creators of new side-saddles. Finding the right side-saddle is often a challenge. (Image credit: Andrew Sydenham)

Katie agrees: “The older saddles are narrow and don’t often fit our bigger and broader horses of today. The saddle should sit nicely behind the horse’s shoulder, and you must consider whether it’s comfortable for them.

“Work with an experienced saddle-fitter – the Side-Saddle Association can likely recommend someone.”

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Stand and deliver to stay top of the line-up – why stillness in the show ring matters more than you think

Kim Wilson — Mon, 12 May 2025 14:50:13 +0000

Standing still in the show ring is one of the most overlooked elements, yet it’s one of the most important. Whether it’s for the initial pull, the conformation assessment, or the final line-up, your horse or pony is likely to spend more time standing than doing anything else in the ring. A pony that won’t stand quietly doesn’t just risk losing marks, it could lead to you being asked to leave the ring altogether.

To find out how to improve this often-neglected skill, we speak to top producers and judges to gather their advice on how to make standing still part of your routine and your success.

Why standing still matters in the show ring

Judge Stuart Hollings, with a wealth of experience in the showing world, is clear that preparation begins long before show day.

“There’s nothing more frustrating than a beautiful animal who’s gone foot-perfect in the go-round and individual show, only to start fussing in the line-up and upsetting the other ponies,” he says.

“Stillness must become as natural as walk, trot or canter. Too many riders finish their schooling, pop them back in the stable, and don’t practise the still bits. One trainer once told me, ‘Have a cup of tea and a piece of cake while the horse stands still’. And it stuck with me.”

Standing still quietly needs plenty of practice at home. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Stillness is not just about presentation; it also reflects a horse’s education and temperament. British Show Pony Society chairman and judge Paul Cook stresses how crucial it is during conformation judging.

“The conformation section makes up 50% of the mark,” he says. “A judge has a very short window to assess your animal. If it won’t stand still and square, I can’t see the limbs or body clearly. It’s a missed opportunity.”

Practising this at home is vital. Horses need to accept someone walking around them, viewing from all angles. Without this preparation, they’re likely to swing their quarters or step away just when it matters most.

Training techniques that work

Showing professional Sara Parrott, who with partner Craig Elenor produced last year’s supreme pony of the year at Horse of the Year Show, explains: “It’s incredibly common for clients to come for lessons and the first thing they say is the horse won’t stand still in the ring.

“But I’ll watch a client arrive and see that the pony doesn’t stand still in the lorry, or while being tacked up or being mounted. You can’t expect a pony to understand about standing still in the show ring if you allow it to fidget at home.”

She believes stillness should be taught in every context: grooming, leading, tacking up, standing at the gate.

“Go out on a hack and stop for 10 minutes,” she says. “In the school, halt during a session and just stand. The more normal it is, the calmer the horse will be when it counts.”

Can you ask your horse to stand still for 10 minutes while out on a hack? Your voice or a gentle scratch may help them settle. (Image credit: Emma Herrod Photography)

Standing for the judge to mount is another moment that demands focus and calm. Practising at home with someone getting on and off from a block, being legged up and also just standing close beside the horse, can make the real thing far less daunting.

Prize-giving is another area that’s often forgotten in training.

“The rosette and prize-giving can cause equal problems,” Sara warns. “Many a winner has lost their rosette because they wouldn’t stand for the presentation.”

The ability to stand still in the show ring includes for the rosette and trophy presentation – in a busy and spooky arena, whatever the weather. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Sara recreates prize-giving settings to help horses prepare.

“We use flowers, gates, banners, anything they might see in a championship arena,” she says. “We practise standing next to these things, being handed rosettes or having a sash placed over the body.

“Even a photographer rattling something to get ears forward can spook a horse if it’s not been exposed to it before.”

Troubleshooting common issues

Gayle Holder, successful show producer with her daughter Emma, works with a wide range of clients and believes patience and repetition are key.

“Horses feed off rider energy,” she says. “You want the pony to relax, but that doesn’t mean the rider should slump in the ring. Judges can look down the line at any moment. The rider has to stay sharp too.”

For anxious or fidgety horses, she recommends light physical cues such as scratching the wither or soft voice reassurance to help them settle. But she also warns not to reinforce a behaviour you don’t want.

“If a horse fidgets and you move them on or reward them, that is encouraging them to repeat that behaviour,” she says. “Wait until they’re calm before giving praise. Consistency is everything.”

Distractions in the ring such as other ponies, loudspeakers and spectators all add to the pressure. The more you expose your horse to similar situations at home, the more confident and still they’ll be on the day.

Make it part of the routine

Standing still isn’t just a skill for show day; it’s a skill that should be brought into your horse’s daily life.

“Standing is often overlooked,” says Stuart Hollings. “But it’s a mark of a truly trained horse.”

It’s an important element of a well-rounded show animal, and the consensus is clear: start young, be consistent, reward calmness, and most of all, practise.

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‘Relaxed, in self carriage and covering the ground’: what the 2025 Royal Windsor hack judge will be looking for

Bethan Simons — Sun, 04 May 2025 07:30:25 +0000

With a show to perform as well as a ride judge to impress, the ridden hacks might just be one of the toughest classes to win. There are four hack classes at Royal Windsor Horse Show; the open large, the open small, the novice and the amateur, before first and second of each division goes head to head in a bid to secure the coveted Count Robert Orrsich Hack Championship in the Castle Arena.

So who is 2025 Windsor hack judge, and what will she be looking for?

Meet the 2025 Royal Windsot hack judge

Presiding over the ride aspect this year is Georgina Maywood. Neither Georgina’s grandparents or parents were horsey, but she became the proud owner of two donkeys aged seven, and her first pony followed about two years later.

“I decided that riding a horse would be much easier,” jokes Georgina, who is now a freelance riding coach and enjoys offering showing and pole clinics as well as private lessons.

She proceeded to take part in Pony Club activities, and later moved onto showing. Having shown a variety of types, Georgina now concentrates predominantly on cobs. She currently has a maxi, and a lightweight to bring out next year.

Georgina’s judging career began with Ponies UK – now UK Ponies & Horses – progressing onto the British Show Horse Association panel about 25 years ago, and she has since had some exciting judging appointments including judging at Horse of the Year Show, Royal International Horse Show, the Hickstead Derby Meeting and The Grand Nationals in Australia.

“I enjoy the privilege of riding beautiful horses and like to be able to give something back to the sport,” says Georgina.

Georgina has officiated at Windsor before, and on that occasion, she judged the conformation aspect of the riding horses.

She says: “It’s a special show and I’m very much looking forward to judging again”.

What will the Windsor hack judge be looking for?

With the prospect of riding some of the country’s most elegant hacks just around the corner, what will Georgina be looking for?

“I will be looking for my winner to draw my eye from the moment they walk into the Copper Arena,” says Georgina, adding: “My winner will need to have a good walk, meaning they are relaxed, in self carriage and covering the ground. For me, I’d like to see this way of going continue through all three paces of the go round.”

Unlike riding horses, hunters and cobs, hacks must perform an individual show with their riders, as well as being assessed from the saddle by the ride judge.

Of the show component, Georgina says: “I’d like to see the horses happy, forwards, balanced and in true partnership with their riders.”

Finally, once on board, Georgina says: “I will be looking for a light, mannerly ride with the horse carrying me forwards. I don’t want to be nagging them – I want the horse to enjoy their job.”

Mark Fuller will be joining Georgina assessing the conformation of the animals.

“With Mark’s wealth of knowledge, I’m looking forward to finding the next Windsor hack champion,” says Georgina.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Looking to buy the next best riding horse of the showing circuit? Read this handy guide…

Alex Robinson — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 15:30:47 +0000

If you’re on the hunt for new star for the show ring, then this guide on how to buy a riding horse is a good place to start.

What is a riding horse?

A riding horse is often defined as a type of show horse that fits between a hunter and a hack.

Riding horses fit into two height classes, large and small.

Small riding horse — mare or gelding, four years old or over, exceeding 148cm and not exceeding 158cm
Large riding horse — mare or gelding, four years old or over, exceeding 158cm

According to the British Show Horse Association (BSHA) the riding horse should have quality, substance, good bone, correct conformation, presence and true action.

There are riding horse classes held at most shows across the country. The two most prestigious riding horse titles to win are the riding horse of the year championship at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and the riding horse supreme at the Royal International (RIHS). At unaffiliated shows, large and small riding horses may be shown together in a single class.

During the class, riding horses perform on the go-round before they are assessed by a ride judge and a conformation judge.

Turnout wise, riding horses are shown trimmed with a plaited mane. Riding horses are shown with a coloured browband and the rider should wear a tweed jacket. Spurs should be worn by adults.

What should I look for in a riding horse?

Riding horses are the type between a hack and a hunter. Vicky Smith is a leading show horse producer from Cheshire. She has ridden multiple top riding horses, including the 2023 Royal Windsor and Great Yorkshire champion Royal Illusion.

She says that if you’re looking at a young prospect, you need to be mindful about its height.

“Always be aware of the height restrictions on each of the classes,” Vicky says. “Look at a horse and ask yourself what class it will fit in. These days, a lot of people buy unseen. There is always a risk, especially if you’re buying a youngster, say a three-year-old, that it will be too big for the small class, but too small for the large class.

“In terms of movement, a riding horse needs three really quality paces. They have to move well in trot but be comfortable in the canter when the ride judge gets on. Ultimately, they are going to be judged heavily on their ride once they get into the ring. They should be forward, and cover the ground, but also be mannerly and balanced.

“Type wise, I like a riding horse with good, flat bone, but with plenty of limb and substance. They need a substantial body and be in proportion. A small should be compact and butty with good depth, and a large can be a scopier in body. Riding horses do bridge the gap between a hack and a hunter, which is arguably why there is so much variation in type, probably the biggest you will see across the show horse classes.”

What else can I do with a riding horse?

Many riding horse types can do other jobs. The type of horse that fits into the riding horse category is likely to be scopey and athletic, but also substantial enough to jump, hunt or be a versatile all-rounder. Their movement might also make them a good choice for the dressage arena.

“A riding horse is the ideal type for an amateur who wants to do a bit of everything,” Vicky says. “As well as disciplines outside of showing, they can contend other showing classes, too, such as working show horse classes and intermediates if the rider is of the correct age.

“There are so many opportunities out there; from the new classes at London International, to the Search For A Star finals held at HOYS. If I were a young amateur looking to get into showing but also hoping to do other things, a small riding horse would be my first choice. They’re not as heavy and big as a hunter, but they’re usually not too fine for activities such as jumping and hunting.”

Where should I buy a riding horse from?

Riding horses for sale will be advertised at various times in the season on online platforms, including with Horse & Hound, powered by Whickr.

“It’s worth looking at online sites, but also asking professionals who produce riding horses,” Vicky says. “Riding horses are a type you can also stumble across by chance on all-rounder for sale pages. You can see low level all-rounders that, with a bit of fine tuning, could turn into good riding horses. The type isn’t quite as specific as a hack or a hunter, so they can be discovered if you have the right eye for one and have the confidence to take a chance on it.”

How do I know if the horse is for me?

Ultimately, only you know which horse is the right fit for you, and you should ask yourself a few questions before you agree on a sale. It is strongly advised that you go and view a horse prior to buying it. If the horse is broken in, you should ride the horse, ask to hack it out and see it in various situations, if possible.

If you are looking to keep the horse at home instead of on a production yard, you will need to figure out if it will fit into your routine. Show horses are athletes, many requiring careful training and production to ensure they perform at their best in the ring.

How much should I pay for a riding horse?

As Vicky suggests, as riding horse types can sometimes be advertised under a different guise, you might be able to grab a bargain: “I’ve stumbled across nice horses that have never done anything in the show ring, but that are of a nice type and they’ve just never been considered as a show horse, for about the £5,000 mark. On the other hand, there are beautiful young riding horses of the future going for strong money; it depends if you can find that diamond in the rough.”

What happens when I’ve agreed to buy a riding horse?

When you have found the right horse for you, then it’s time to arrange a pre-purchase vetting, something that is strongly recommended.

The vet will assess the horse with the specific job you want it for in mind, so it’s important to let the vet know prior to the vetting that your main goal is to compete it in the show ring as a riding horse. As you want the horse for showing, the vet should pay close attention to any conformational faults which could impact its future career, even if they don’t impact soundness or performance. Show horses should be clean limbed and have no blemishes either.

“I would always recommend a vetting, for insurance purposes,” says Vicky. “But remember, horses look different on different days. A horse doesn’t have to be perfect, but it’s always good to get the vet to look so you’re aware of anything wrong. The main things to check are the heart and eyes, and I would always get X-rays to ensure the structure of the horse is correct and sound.”

For more information, you can read H&H’s ultimate guide to buying a horse.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘They’ve got to cover the ground and travel’: meet the Royal Windsor show hunter pony performance judge

Bethan Simons — Sat, 26 Apr 2025 15:30:20 +0000

Producer Matthew Ainsworth will be putting show hunter pony competitors through their paces next month as he assesses the performance aspect as show hunter pony judge at Royal Windsor Horse Show. But who is he, and what will he be looking for? If you’re heading to the King’s back garden with a hunter pony in tow, be sure to take notes…!

“I’m Lancashire born and bred,” says Matthew, though he is now based in Gloucestershire. He explains that he moved south to work for renowned showman Robert Oliver aged just 16 years old, and stayed in the area when he set up his own yard six years later.

Hunters and cobs are Matthew’s speciality, with several crackers of both types passing through his hands, including twice Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) winner, heavyweight hunter Dublin Streetfighter.

Although, Matthew admits that while he enjoys showing, he loves the young horses.

“That’s where I get my kicks,” he explains. “Finding young ones and seeing them come on.”

Matthew sits on several panels, and has had the pleasure of judging at the highest level, including Horse of the Year Show.

Show hunter pony judge at Royal Windsor: “They’ve got to gallop”

So what will Matthew be looking for at Windsor?

“The first thing I ask myself when I look at a hunter pony is, ‘if I blew it up, would it make a middle-weight hunter’?” explains Matthew. “Although I’m not on conformation, type and way of going for that type is important.

“The pony should be pleasing on the eye, have short cannons, be low to the ground and workmanlike with plenty of bone.”

Once on the go, Matthew again stresses that they should be true to the hunter pony type.

“The main thing for me, is riders must remember that they are riding a show hunter pony, not a show pony. I’ll want to see the pony cover the ground and travel; I don’t like to see them on the spot and going nowhere.”

He specifically mentions the walk and gallop.

“I was always taught that the walk is the first thing a judge sees, and it’s the last thing they remember, as you begin and end both the go round and show at walk.

“And they have got to gallop,” he adds. “They should lower their heads and travel over the ground, not look as if they’re climbing a ladder.”

Anything else?

“Manners,” he says. “At the end of the day, a hunter pony is still a child’s pony, and I always take into account the go round, too. They have to be well behaved on the go round, and if they’re not, I’ll take that into account when awarding a show mark.”

You heard it here first, so have fun practicing that gallop!

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘Lots of riders disregard the walk – it’s the first and last thing the judge sees’: meet the 2025 Royal Windsor M&M performance judge

Bethan Simons — Sat, 19 Apr 2025 07:30:28 +0000

As well as the prestige of winning, the allure of a bonus ticket to the London International Horse Show’s Heritage Championship means that the open mountain and moorland ridden classes at Royal Windsor Horse Show are hot competition.

This year, competitors will be sorted into line by conformation judge Lizzie Briant-Finlayson and performance judge Stephanie Turner.

While it’s difficult to alter a pony’s conformation, there’s still time to make sure that your performance is on point. So who is Royal Windsor M&M judge, Stephanie Turner, and what will she be looking for?

Stephanie’s had a lifetime’s experience with ponies, having started riding at just three years old.

“My mother rode, and my grandfather worked the land with heavy horses, so it was inevitable that I would,” she explains.

She enjoyed early success in the working hunter pony arena and having left school, she worked on a yard for a short time before setting up her own production yard.

There, Stephanie produced children’s ponies and showed an array of horses and ponies herself. These included HOYS-winning Arabian horse Silver Moonlight, and Olympia-bound Connemara Minsmere Rebel and Welsh section C Templedruid Welshman.

She also took a turn riding Highland pony Mackenzie Dean for fellow producer Julie Barton, meaning she has a range of experiences not only in the ring, but specifically with native ponies.

Followers of M&M classes in recent years will be familiar with her New Forest pony, Ravenstone Fudge, who is the reigning New Forest pony of the year as well as winner of the 2024 performance pony class at London International.

Stephanie sits on a host of panels, including the British Show Pony Society, the Arab Horse Society, Coloured Horse and Pony Society and the British Show Horse Association among others.

“I’m very lucky and very honoured to have judged at most of the more prestigious shows in the UK and internationally,” says Stephanie.

International appointments include shows in Abu Dhabi, South Africa, and Australia. She’s also judged HOYS twice, and this is her third appointment at Windsor having previously officiated over the hack and part-bred Arab sections.

Royal Windsor M&M judge: what is Stephanie looking for?

What will M&M competitors need to do to impress Stephanie at Royal Windsor?

She explains that, first and foremost, she’ll be looking for “a pony that goes true to its type and in the way their breed description recommends.”

On the go round, Stephanie feels that a “lot of riders disregard the walk,” and reminds competitors that it is the first and last thing a judge sees during the go round and in the individual show.

She’ll also be looking for a pony that “looks through the bridle” and is mannerly.

When it comes to the extension, she says: “Some aren’t bred to gallop but for those breeds, I’ll still want to see a change in pace.“

“Basically,” she summarises, “I’m looking for something that I would like to ride myself.”

You heard it here first! Time to get practicing…

To follow all the showing action from Royal Windsor, plus breaking news from other major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘I’m looking for a pony that is going to give a child confidence’: find out what the 2025 Royal Windsor mini M&M judge wants to see

Bethan Simons — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 07:30:51 +0000

The mini mountain and moorland section is one of the most hotly contested of all the showing divisions at Royal Windsor Horse Show. This year, Russell Marks will be putting all combinations through their paces as he assesses performance alongside conformation judge, Tracey Brooks. So who is he, and what will he be looking for?

Russell is a well-rounded equestrian with experience in several disciplines, from travelling on a young riders’ showjumping squad, to being yard manager for Chris Hunnable and taking care of his Olympic event horses.

In the showring, he competed for many years producing Welsh sections C and D under saddle as well as part-breds and driving ponies, but now “I don’t own, show, produce or teach,” he says.

“I’ve been judging for over 35 years and am on numerous panels, but my love lies with our mountain and moorlands” adds Russell, who has officiated at most of the larger shows around the country as well as having had several international appointments.

And what will Russell Marks be looking for on the day?

While Tracey will be scoring the conformation of the ponies, breed type and way of going for that breed will be one of the things Russell will be assessing as he judges. But it’s safety that he cites as a primary concern in both of these classes.

“It’s absolutely paramount and is a must for me. If I see even slightly bad behaviour, I will penalise heavily!” he warns.

In the lead-rein class, Russell’s ideal pony will “travel smoothly and not be too big a mover, thus throwing its tiny jockey out of the saddle.” Overall, Russell will be looking for “a smooth, consistent, safe pony with smooth transitions”.

Ponies who are “over bent and in ‘fixed’ outlines,” will not please Russell, and he has high expectations of the leader, too.

“The leader should be at the pony’s shoulder with the lead rein in their left hand leaving their right hand free if to support the child if needed. They should have a nice, slack lead, but not a huge loop as that, too, can be dangerous! I hate to see the leader pushing the pony’s shoulder all the time; they should not be ‘on top’ of the pony.”

Leaders, you heard it here first: “Let the pony do its job!”

As well as safety, suitability for the rider is again, a key consideration for Russell when judging first ridden ponies. The pony should “not be too big a mover and must not be a complete ‘kick-along’”.

“I do not like to see a child kick, kick, kicking constantly.They should ask the pony once – possibly twice – and the pony should respond.”

To sum it up, Russell’s winning first ridden will be “a pony that you know is going to be completely safe and give the child confidence to improve their riding”.

To follow all the showing action from Royal Windsor, plus breaking news from other major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Know your Shire from your Suffolk from your Percheron: a cheat’s guide to the ridden heavy horse showing classes

Bethan Simons — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 07:30:43 +0000

Anyone who has watched ridden heavy horses in the show ring will know that they are a treat for spectators. Whoever imagined such giants could be as balanced and light-footed as a hack?

Horses aimed at the Heavy Horse of the Year HOYS qualifiers must be registered with the British Studbooks of the Shire, Clydesdale, Suffolk or British Percheron Society. But as you take a moment to enjoy the spectacle, do you really know your Shire from your Clydesdale, or which is the Suffolk and which is the Percheron?

Let us shed some light on each of them so you’re up to speed when you find yourself cheating your way through a chat at the ringside…

The Shire Horse

How to spot a Shire

Shires come in black, brown, bay or grey, though there are actually very, very few greys. The breed standards state that you won’t find large splashes of white on the body of a “good stallion” and they must not be roan or chestnut. It is, however, acceptable for geldings or mares to be roan. The Shires of yesteryear had abundant feather but today’s Shire has straighter, silkier and finer feather.

On average, Shires are between 17 and 18hh, but geldings and mares may be a teeny bit smaller. The Shire and Clydesdale are pretty similar in build, but the Shire is generally slightly taller with horses sometimes reaching over 20hh. Also, the hindquarters might be a little different, with those of a Shire being “long and sweeping” and thighs should be well muscled. In motion, a Shire should be a powerful, straight over, using hocks and knees, with the former close together.

Clues from turnout

An in-hand Shire is a feast for the eyes, with tail ribbons and standing wire flights adding a burst of colour to an already impressive sight. Ridden Shires don’t wear standing flights for safety reasons. Instead, you’ll find a braid in their manes and a ribbon in tails.

How to cheat your way through a ringside chat on the Shire

Originally known as the English Cart Horse, the breed’s name changed to the Shire in 1878. Though they were immensely popular pre mechanisation, industrialisation and the world wars, the Shire’s numbers declined enormously until there were just 16 foals registered in the 1958 stud book, according to the Shire Horse Society. So, just like the other native breeds eligible for competition, the Shire is on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust’s equine watchlist, and is categorised as “at risk”.

Impress your friends with: Did you know, the last three winners of the ridden heavy horse class at HOYS have been Shires? The Shire has a brilliant track record in the ridden heavy horse of the year championship, with Moorfield Nancy being the most recent winner last season – 2024 – under Alice Pimbley.

The Clydesdale

How to spot a Clydesdale

The Clydesdale is, on average, a smidge smaller than the Shire, at a not-so-whopping 17 to 18hh. Some mares will measure slightly smaller, and some geldings and stallions slightly taller. Though a Clydesdale should be strong with good depth, spring of rib and rounded quarters – like any good draught horse – the Clydesdale tends not to be as stocky as the Suffolk or Percheron.

According to the breed society’s criteria, a Clydesdale’s legs should be “set close together” and its hind legs should have a “lengthy” distance between hocks and pasterns “with an absence of a second thigh above the hock”. This gives way to the unique and free action of the Clydesdale.

Like the Shire, bay and brown and roan are most common, but you’ll occasionally happen across a black and chestnut, too. White markings tend to travel further up the legs than on a Shire, and it’s not uncommon to see white legs blend into a roan fleck on the body. A Clydesdale without a blaze is a rare sight.

Clues from turnout

Clydesdales will usually don a ribbon in their tails, and stallions and geldings wear braided manes, but female Clydesdales traditionally don’t.

How to cheat your way through a ringside chat on the Clydesdale

The Clydesdale is Scotland’s only native horse, and it’s always a pleasure to catch the Royal Highland’s bountiful ridden Clydesdale class. It originates in Lanarkshire, Clydesdale being the old name for the district, and dates back to the mid 18th Century when Flemish stallions were crossed with Lanarkshire’s native horses. During the 1970s the breed was considered “vulnerable” by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, but has since increased in numbers to the “at risk” category.

Impress your friends with: Did you know, the Clydesdale also has a really good track record in the Ridden Heavy Horse of the Year championship at HOYS? In fact, the inaugural championship was won by Scottish duo, Virginia Osborne and Kinclune Danny Boy in 2016. A second Scottish duo, Kirsty Aird and Glenside Matthew’s Flower Of Scotland won in 2021.

The Suffolk horse

How to spot a Suffolk Horse

Suffolks are easy to spot. The Suffolk is for fans of fiery red hair, with liver, dark, red, light or bright chesnuts being the only colours allowed. No, that’s not a typo; when referring to the Suffolk horse, the colour chestnut is always spelled chesnut.

“Plain” – for want of a better word to describe this brilliant colour – chesnut is preferred, but according to breed standards, a certain amount of white is acceptable on the face, as is a “scattering” of white or silver hairs on the body. White to the fetlock is allowed, but considered a fault and is not acceptable in stud stallions.

Today’s Suffolk is a little taller than the 15.2hh of the original Suffolk, Crisp’s Horse. According to their breed society standards, a mature Suffolk will be between 15¾ and 17hh. Suffolks are squarer and chunkier in the body than Shires and Clydesdales, with a huge shoulder and proportionally short legs, so they may not have the extravagant knee and hock action of the other three breeds.

Clues from turnout

The Suffolk is shown with a ribbon in a plaited tail. Like the Shire, it wears standing wire flights in hand, but will be found shown with a single plait down the mane and a ribbon at the wither in ridden classes.

How to cheat your way through a chat on the Suffolk horse

According to the RBST, the Suffolk horse is the most endangered of our draught breeds, being the only one in the “priority” category. The Suffolk’s numbers were decimated post WWI by the mechanisation of agriculture, until just nine Suffolks were registered in 1966. Thankfully, they have regained popularity.

Impress your friends with: Did you know that so far, a Suffolk hasn’t won the Ridden Heavy Horse of the Year championship? Richard Telford came a close second in 2016 with Eyke Diamond.

The Percheron horse

How to spot a Percheron

Just like the Suffolk, a good Percheron won’t have much feather. But you won’t find them in “chesnut”. Instead, a Percheron horse is grey or black, with a minimum of white, although the society recognises that colour will tend to lighten in older horses.

Like its chestnut rival, the Percheron is also squarer in appearance than the Shire or Clydesdale. Mares should be a minimum of 16.1hh, and stallions or geldings a smidge bigger, being at least 16.2hh.

Clues from turnout

Rely on colour, because again, manes should be braided irrespective of sex, and tails should be plaited with a ribbon, so not much to go on from turnout!

How to cheat your way through a ringside chat on the Percheron

Though we’re not entirely sure how long the Percheron horse has been on British soil, we know it’s been around a long time, with the first one appearing as far back as William the Conqueror’s invasion of England.

According to the British Percheron Horse Society, it’s also believed that thousands of Percheron-esque horses were imported to Britain from North America during the latter half of the 19th Century for omnibuses and other light draught work in big towns. Nowadays, you may have seen Percherons being ridden by police, including at the late Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral.

Impress your friends with: Although there aren’t as many Percherons competing in the ridden classes as there are Clydesdales and Shires, they are successful. In 2017 fans saw a Percheron win at HOYS – Hales Hector was ridden to victory by Household Cavalry Corporal of the Horse, Jamie Bradbury.

Now just remember to have this guide open on your mobile as you’re watching, and you’ll know what’s what in no time!

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Set your horse or pony up for in-hand showing success by mastering these 8 key skills

Alex Robinson — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 15:24:00 +0000

Showing a horse or pony in-hand can have a multitude of benefits. Training for in-hand showing classes sets them up for the experience of competing in the ring. This prepares younger animals for the atmosphere of a show before they foray into ridden ranks, but it also provides a shop window for breeders to promote their home-bred stock to the public. A few in-hand outings can give a horse valuable life experience, and if they are successful, a strong in-hand CV can increase their price and marketability significantly.

There are in-hand showing opportunities for nearly all breeds and types of horses and ponies. In-hand classes are usually divided into categories depending on breed, age, type and class.

In-hand classes are divided according to breed, age, type and class. Here, a Welsh Section B takes the M&M title. (Image credit: Grossick Photography)

The most prestigious in-hand showing championship in the UK is the in-hand supreme final at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS). Currently, the final is sponsored by The Price Family, so it’s fondly known on the circuit as “The Price”. To qualify for The Price, animals must win their class and section championship at a specific show. The section champions then go head-to-head in a qualifier, with the champion going through to the final at HOYS.

In an in-hand class, the judge assesses the animal’s conformation, type and movement. Manners are important, though how much a judge takes this aspect into account is personal. A top animal should not lose out to one of lesser quality, though ensuring you have put the training in at home will prevent your animal from losing out to an inferior one that has been better prepared.

Setting firm foundations will get your in-hand prospect looking, feeling and moving as well as they possibly can will ensure you present the best package in the ring during the summer show season.

Quality is paramount when it comes to in-hand classes, but manners and meticulous preparation play their part. (Image credit: Steve Dawe)

Training for in-hand showing classes

H&H speaks to two of the showing world’s most established in-hand producers to find out how you can prepare your in-hand exhibit for the up-coming season.

Simon Charlesworth is one of the country’s most in-demand in-hand producers who has enjoyed success with various types and breeds of show animals. He has won the HOYS in-hand supreme final three times during his career so far, his most recent victory coming in 2023 leading Angela Smith’s Tremarl Timber. He is also a HOYS and Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) ridden champion, standing supreme horse in Birmingham in 2012 aboard Sarah Carey’s Pearly King.

John Cutts is a showing professional who has produced multiple HOYS finalists and he’s known for his success in in-hand ranks. John has appeared in the HOYS in-hand supreme final on multiple occasions. He is known for his consistency showing coloured horses and ponies and he’s won the in-hand supreme at the CHAPS championships several times. In 2024, he finished third in the HOYS in-hand supreme final handling Caroline Hamilton’s coloured stallion Lostock Candyman.

John Cutts is renowned for his success with coloured horses, and has won the CHAPS in-hand championship several times. (Image credit: Steve Dawe)

1. Working in harmony

Teaching a horse to walk and trot next to a handler requires consistent repetition, as you go about training for in-hand showing classes.

“I would always begin by walking the horse up and down against the side of a fence or a hedge,” Simon says. “Get their confidence walking next to you, then progress to trot. Always reward plenty while you’re doing this.”

If a horse displays nerves or is unsure about moving next to the hander, Simon recommends working in a training halter, such as a Dually.

“A nervous horse can shoot backwards and won’t go beside you at the start as they feel claustrophobic,” Simon says. “Using a halter with a long lead line takes the pressure off the mouth but you still have control if they shoot off.”

Another common problem is the horse dropping their off-side shoulder and turning or curling around the handler with their head and front. Simon says you can try a few methods to fix this.

“If it’s a nerves thing, I would put my hand in the off-side of the cuplink on the back of the bit; I’d put my index finger and second finger on the right hand side, and my thumb on the left so I can turn the horse away from me; it mirrors what a rider would be doing with their reins.

“I would also change where I attach the chain or leather piece onto the bit; rather than looping it from the off-side, I would put it from the handler’s side across to the off-side so you can straighten the horse more easily.”

2. Standing over the ground

Simon believes that the standing phase of an in-hand class is the most important to get right.

“When I’m judging a horse, I want it to look as big, imposing and striking as possible,” Simon says. “They must stand well without fidgeting. You only get a few moments to show your animal off to the judge, so you want to make as much of an impression as possible.”

Making a striking impression: the standing phase is vital for impressing the judges. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Simon goes against common advice when it comes to standing his exhibits up for the judge or in the line-up.

“It’s very rare for me to ever ask a horse to move backwards if they are stood with a foot wrong – I always bring them forwards,” Simon says.

“When you push them backward, you start to lean forward yourself and putting your hand on the chest is covering the horse, which doesn’t add to the overall picture. Plus, when you watch some horses being asked to step back, they just move sideways and completely change their position.

“I always teach my horses to step forwards from the lightest of touch on their bit or noseband, always off grass, too,” he adds. “When you move them forwards, this also pushes their head up to an extent. They take shorter steps with their limbs, so I find it much more effective at getting them into the correct position.

“Another tip, horse’s legs work off diagonals. So, if you’ve got three out of the four legs correct, but one leg, say the off-side front, isn’t right, I will make them move in the opposite diagonal, so they bring the wrong leg forward and finish in a square halt.

“This usually works every time, though you will need to practice this before you head out to a show.”

3. Perfecting the walk

“Some animals can jog in the ring during the walk, either due to excitement or tension,” Simon says. “The best way to improve the walk is to practise it.

“It’s a vital pace so you need to put the hours in at home, out on the lanes if you can. I’d walk them out as much as I can, stopping occasionally and moving off again.

“If they jog, I’d bring them back to walk, or stop, and carry on again until the sting is out of them. The longer and further you can go the better.”

4. Developing the mouth

John says that as every horse has a different mouth, it’s important to find the correct bit for them, as you would do with a ridden animal.

“A lot of people don’t treat the in-hand job as they would do the riddens in terms of mouthing and finding the horse the correct bit and tack,” John begins.

““Every horse has a different response to a bit, how you lead them and how much pressure you put on them. For example, one horse might prefer the lead attached to the side of the bit while another might respond better to a chain that attaches underneath the chin.”

John advises approaching bitting like you would do with a ridden prospect. He says: “Begin with a slip head and a simple rubber bit. Stand them in the stable initially, then lead them around in it, even letting them eat in it.”

John adds: “Consider how you attach the lead to the horse, too. Each horse prefers it attached in a different way, and ensuring you get it right means the horse can move forward freely at your shoulder, not sitting behind you.”

5. Working in different atmospheres

“I like to walk my horses out on country lanes a lot,” John adds. “If you only practise in the school, the horse isn’t getting used to different noises and environments.

Just as ridden horses benefit from experiencing different environments, so the horse training for in-hand work should be exposed to new sights and sounds, for example being walked out on the lanes. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

“When you’re out on the roads you’ll likely see animals, bikes, cars and people. Let the horse get used to the hustle and bustle so they’re more prepared when they first leave the yard.”

6. Variety in the training plan

Just like a rider would schedule for their ridden horse, a handler should aim to provide their in-hand horse with a training plan that keeps them listening and engaged.

“When I’m training for in-hand showing, I’ll constantly ask the horse to stop, then move off again,” John says. “I’ll make sure I lead from different sides and regularly ask them to bend and turn for me so they become supple. I think all horses should be able to trot a smooth figure of eight in-hand, too. Including a variety of training exercises and activities ensures the horse can cope and is manoeuvrable in whatever size or shape of ring.”

A horse that has been well-trained at home will be able to show off its natural paces in-hand in the ring. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

7. The handler’s confidence

“Often, being able to stand a horse up is a natural gift and I often find that I can stand most horses up pretty easily,” John says. “Make sure you practise at home, so you don’t feel as much pressure when you’re in the ring in front of the judge.

“Knowing what buttons to press gives you confidence. Use some mints or grass, and as soon as you’ve stood the horse up correctly, lift the head up and arch the front to enhance the neck. This improves the overall picture and makes the horse’s angles look smoother.”

8. Building a bond

Training for in-hand showing classes starts months, even years, before stepping foot inside the competition arena.

“Before I even start training for the ring, I begin my partnership with a pony or horse in the stable by grooming them and spending time with them,” John says.

Spending time grooming your horse will help develop a bond. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

“This helps you learn their traits and quirks, and they also learn to trust and respect you. Building that bond is so important and should be worked on from day one.”

Thank you for subscribing to the H&H website. We will be bringing you showing news from major dates on the circuit including Royal Windsor, Royal Welsh, Royal International, HOYS and more, as well as important news that the showing world cares about throughout the year. Stick with us for all you need to know.

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Working smarter, not harder: how to produce a lead-rein pony without riding them

Bethan Simons — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 07:30:55 +0000

We hope that old-fashioned methods such as unsuitable-sized riders working in tiny ponies – or lungeing bright little ponies for hours on end – have been consigned to the history books. There are ways to produce a lead-rein pony ready for their tiny rider that are ethical and put the pony’s welfare first, without putting their young jockey at risk.

Craig Elenor and his partner Sara Parrott have had extensive experience with a wide range of lead-rein ponies, including HOYS and RIHS champions Springwater Tactician and Cadlanvalley Superted, and are the producers of 2024 Supreme Pony of the Year, Derw Dream Boy. Craig shares his tips on how to produce a lead-rein pony working smarter, not harder…

How to produce a lead-rein pony at home

Do your homework

“Doing your homework with a lead-rein is extremely important. We tend to view all interactions with the pony as schooling. What I mean by that is, for example, if I pull a pony out of its stable for a groom or to change its rugs, I expect it to stand still patiently. If I’m leading a pony to the field, I wouldn’t allow it to graze as I open the gate. The last thing I want is a pony that thinks it can stick its head down to graze whenever it wants. This is where I think a lot of people go wrong. Their time to be busy and do what they want is when I am not around, or they are turned out in the field.”

Teach them to steady, rather than go

“With a lead-rein, it’s important that the ride is steady and feels safe for the child. Rather than teaching them to go, you need to teach them to be steady. So, when practising on the lead, instead of letting them trot for extended lengths of time, we teach them to trot for six or seven strides, then come back to walk. If they are bright, we might aim at the corner or fence so that the environment helps to back them up and slow them down rather than pull at them. This can apply at a show, too.”

Long rein

“You can teach a pony to be mannerly and unfazed by its surroundings by long reining it. Weaving in and out through trees in the woods, for example, keeps ponies responsive and used to negotiating their surroundings calmly.”

Teach them to be light and responsive through the noseband

“As your lead is attached to the noseband, it’s important that they respond to pressure through it. So, we’ll often work a pony from the headcollar rather than the bit. For example, we’ll long rein to either side of the headcollar instead of the bit. Or, if a pony is inclined to carry its head too high, we attach a lungeing aid to the noseband as opposed to the bit. This encourages a longer lower outline without pressure on the mouth and without making the pony strong.”

A grab strap is invaluable

“It may seem like I’ve gone off track, but bear with me! If you teach your pony to be responsive on the long reins, they may become unsettled in the mouth if you then have a tot on board who cannot hold their hands still. This is where a strap on the front of the saddle can be invaluable as it helps the child to learn where their hands should be and keeps the pony happy. When they’re a bit older, it’s good to allow children a bit more control before they come off the lead, but to begin with, use a strap! Some will disagree, but that’s the theory we work with and that works for us.”

Allow plenty of downtime …

“All horses and ponies need turnout, but it’s especially important for a child’s pony to have plenty of opportunities to relax and blow off steam in their own time. If we have a bright lead-rein pony, we love to turn them out in the field for the night before a show. It allows them time to relax and stretch their legs naturally. It’s tricker in the spring when the fields are wet, but in summer, it can be a game-changer. We have one lead-rein who is a different pony if he’s out overnight before loading on to the lorry for a show.”

Don’t get them too fit

“Of course ponies need to be worked, but it’s not a good idea to get a child’s pony too fit. We work ours consistently during early spring when the weather is too grim for them to have lots of turnout, but this is probably the fittest they will be all year. We tend to ease off the work during the season so that they are fit enough to cope with the travelling and so on, but not so fit that they are like mini racehorses for children to ride!”

Don’t give tit-bits

“As tempting as it might be, don’t give a lead-rein pony treats if you can help it. There’s nothing worse than a lead-rein who wants to nibble and chew at your hands as you’re going! I’ll keep treats in my pocket on show day from time to time, but only when I feel I need to have an extra tool to hand. A good feed is treat enough.”

Preparing the lead-rein pony at a show

Once you’ve done all your hard work at home, it’s important to have a plan of action for when you get to a show when you produce a lead-rein pony. Some ponies will light up on arrival, and if they do, you need to know how to best get them settled and ready for their small jockey.

Lungeing to work in isn’t always the answer

“Some like to blow off steam on the lunge because they are excited or fresh, and that’s ok if it’s just a short burst. But if a pony is tense and their adrenaline levels are running high, it’s important to reduce it and lungeing won’t work in this instance. Sometimes, lungeing actually makes a tense pony even worse as it allows them to further raise their adrenaline levels. Don’t get trapped into the cycle of lungeing and lungeing – it’s a waste of your time, it’s potentially stressful for the pony, and ultimately, it’s counterproductive.”

Running in circles will only wear you out

“I often see people running around collecting rings aimlessly with a sharp lead-rein pony hoping this will quieten it down. This won’t work. Just like lungeing, you cannot fight with their adrenaline levels in this way. If I have a pony that I think has high adrenaline levels when we get to a show, I’ll find somewhere quieter to work it, with lots of transitions up and down from walk, and just short intervals of trot. The last thing I want to do on a busy show day is find myself running around in circles and wear myself out even more!”

Keep out of high-traffic areas

“Collecting rings can be really busy areas, and this can be stressful for a pony that’s naturally quite bright. Don’t feel you have to settle your pony in this kind of atmosphere as often the ring itself is far more organised and quiet, so it may be best to wait somewhere quieter and allow them to ‘chill out’ until your class.”

Don’t leg up until the pony is ready

“Another common mistake I see keen mums and dads make is putting the child in the saddle before the pony is ready. If a pony is stressed or too bright, it’s bound to result in a stressed parent and a stressed child. Keep the pony and the child separate until the pony is settled. If you get to a collecting ring and find the pony brightens too much, take the child back off while you re-settle the pony.”

Have a sense of humour when you produce a lead-rein pony

“They say never work with children or animals, but Sara and I do both. If, like us, you go showing with a small pony and young children it’s important to keep a sense of humour!”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Interested in showing an American Miniature Horse, but don’t know where to start? We’re here to help…

Bethan Simons — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 16:30:47 +0000

Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) has added a new showing class for American Miniature Horses – the UKAMHS American Miniature Horse of the Year — to its 2025 schedule, in addition to the established Miniature Horse of the Year class at the show. The class will include commentary to help spectators learn more about the breed.

But before you rush to Google “American Miniature horses for sale near me,” grab your notebook as Emma Williams, from Pandoras Miniature Farm, guides us through the do’s and don’ts of buying and showing this breed…

Is the American Miniature Horse for you?

“American Miniature Horses are suitable for anyone,” says Emma, “they can be ideal for children or adults.

“Many owners discover this breed after retiring from showing or riding larger horses, but still have the passion for keeping horses. Miniature horses can be easier to care for than full-sized horses due to their smaller size, and while they still require acreage to graze and roam, they don’t need as as much as their larger counterparts.”

Accessibility is also a key factor in the breed’s appeal.

“They are easy to work with,” adds Emma, “making it possible for people with injuries or disabilities to enjoy showing; a miniature can truly open the door for anyone who wants to give it a shot!”

As well as their physical attributes, Emma explains that the American Miniature Horses have such an inquisitive nature.

“They’re incredibly friendly and love to engage with people, they’re social animals which is what makes them so good as therapy horses.”

Which American Miniature Horses are suitable for showing?

First and foremost, Emma would encourage anyone looking to buy an American Miniature Horse for the show ring to refer to the American Miniature Horse breed standard, and try to find a horse that meets its criteria.

In a nutshell, you are looking for a horse that is “conformationally correct and moves well,” Emma explains, adding that “an American Miniature Horse is a beautiful, small, well-balanced horse that, if size were not a factor, would possess the same conformational proportions of other full sized light breeds.

“In terms of breed type, the American Miniature horse is generally a scaled down version of the lighter show horse category, such an Arabian horse or hack; you’re not looking for a scaled down heavyweight hunter or cob.

“There is also a slightly heavier category for American Miniatures called the stock division. This category features horses that resemble scaled-down quarter horses. These horses are well muscled making them perfectly suited for various purposes, including driving and performance classes, showcasing their impressive skills and versatility.

“It is important to note that, regardless of type, each horse will be judged on its own merit. Any colour or coat pattern is acceptable for showing, as are blue eyes.

“If you want to access the new HOYS qualifiers, then your American Miniature Horse must stand 34 inches or less, and meet the eligibility requirements set out by the UK American Miniature Horse Society (UKAMHS). Additionally, the horse must be nominated for the show year, and you can find out more on the society’s website.”

How much should you expect to pay for an American Miniature Horse?

“Cost can vary,” says Emma. Like any show horse, factors such as breeding and previous performance can impact their price tag. It also depends where you are sourcing your horse. If you decide to import an American-bred horse, you will need to consider the import costs and taxes.

“Generally though, you’re looking to spend anything between £4,000 and £15,000 for a show horse. But of course, you might get lucky and find one for less.”

Where can you buy one?

“To find a show horse, I would suggest reaching out to the American Miniature Horse breed shows or the UK Studbook (AMHCGB) for recommendations of reputable breeders and go from there,” says Emma.

“We always recommend having horses vetted. This not only helps identify potential health issues or conformational faults but may be a requirement for your insurance company.

“Additionally, before you buy, we advise verifying the horse’s registration with the American Studbook to ensure that the horse is a purebred and has been registered correctly prior to agreeing to the purchase.”

What do you need to look the part in the show ring?

An American Miniature Horse should be shown in a simple halter similar to those used for Arabian horses, with a standard chain and leather lead as used for all in-hand showing. In stock type classes, the horses wear stock halters that resemble scaled-down versions of those used for showing Quarter Horses.

Emma adds: “American Miniature Horses are usually shown freshly clipped, as a clipped appearance tends to highlight their features, but you won’t be penalised if your horse has a full coat. Bridle paths are clipped back so that you can show off definition through the neck, although the key is that the clip needs to suit the horse. As with any show horse, you want to enhance the good bits. Tails are generally left natural, but we’d recommend that it’s not so long that the horse can stand on it.”

And what about the handler’s attire?

“The handler needs to be smartly turned out in a jacket or long sleeved shirt and smart trousers,” explains Emma, but before you reach for your tweed, American Miniatures tend to be shown with handlers in a variety of colours, depending on the colour of the horse and the handler’s personal preference.

“Many opt for a western look, featuring western shirts or jackets. Many of the jackets have embellishments and can be quite sparkly,” says Emma, adding, “cowboy hats are also allowed, though hats aren’t mandatory unless you are showing in a stock class, where you must wear a western hat, a long sleeved shirt or jacket, and western footwear. Gloves are not a requirement, and canes are not allowed.”

If, like us, tying a tie leaves knots in your stomach, don’t worry. Emma explains: “Handlers don’t typically wear traditional ties; men may choose to wear one with a jacket, but many opt for a western bolo tie instead. As for women, they typically don’t wear ties, but again, it’s down to the handler’s preference. You really have a wonderful selection of choices when it comes to what to wear.”

We’ll look forwards to seeing sparkly shirts and jackets on show this summer.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Master these 6 key skills to wow the judges in plaited pony classes

Alex Robinson — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 16:28:20 +0000

Training plaited ponies for success in show pony and show hunter pony classes this season requires both your young jockey and their pony to have done their homework over the winter. Meticulous preparation will go a long way in ensuring their success this summer.

Whether your child is moving from a first-ridden onto a 128cm show pony, or they’re foraying into their final show hunter pony height section, refining the pony’s way of going and the rider’s ringcraft and showmanship is key to improve their odds in these highly competitive classes.

Show pony and show hunter pony classes are only open to children and younger riders, with both sections having age restrictions. Show ponies are sectioned in the following heights; 128cm, 138cm and 148cm. Hunter ponies are split into four height categories; 123cm, 133cm, 143cm and 153cm. The main championships for both sections are at the Horse of the Year Show and the Royal International Horse Show, though there are countless opportunities for children to compete their ponies across the country on the local, national and county circuits.

The show pony, also known as the children’s riding pony, must be suitable of carrying a child or young teenager safely in the ring. They must display exceptional manners, quality conformation, elegant yet straight movement and added sparkle and presence that is desired in all show animals. The hunter pony is a more substantial animal in type but must also be suitable for a young person to pilot. The hunter pony must be workmanlike but with quality and must go freely forward but safely and with manners. H&H has two detailed guides on what to look for in show ponies and show hunter ponies.

6 focus points for training plaited ponies

If you have children training plaited ponies in preparation for the coming show season, then these tips from two of the circuit’s most established pony producers are sure to help.

1. Practice makes perfect

Adam Forster co-runs Team Jinks with David Jinks in Cheshire. Adam and David have produced a myriad of HOYS and RIHS winners. In 2024, their charges finished supreme and reserve supreme pony at the RIHS final. Their supreme was 153cm show hunter pony contender Rosscon Copycat (Reise Shakespeare) and their reserve was lead-rein hunter pony Newoak Midnight Blue (Violet Mennie).

Lead-rein hunter pony Newoak Midnight Blue. (Image credit: Alex Robinson)

Adam believes that ensuring a new combination gets out and about during winter is essential.

“A new partnership can initially look out of their depth in the ring, especially if the child is younger and is moving up a class,” Adam says. “They can go into the ring with a feeling of trepidation, not wanting to get it wrong, especially if they’ve had a lot of success in a previous class, such as on the lead-rein. There’s nothing that can really fix this aside from time in the ring.”

Adam recommends using the winter circuit to your advantage.

Winter shows pave the way for summer success. (Image credit: Trevor Meeks)

“Get as many winter and spring shows and clinics in as possible,” Adam suggests for those training plaited ponies. “Go to a training clinic where they will replicate a show situation, such as cantering on the go-round. This gives you a starting point and you can see what needs work.

“If you can’t afford to go to a clinic every week, invite friends over or go to their place. At the weekends we have all the kids to the yard to ride and we’ll often line up and do a show. We all get it wrong, even me! But this is the time to make mistakes – go on the wrong leg, canter too fast on the go-round. Nothing is ever a failure if you learn from it.

“Then, use the multitude of shows we have access to and don’t be afraid to ask for help from professionals, trainers and so on. The only way to overcome the appearance of a novice combination is time in the saddle and repetition. You can read all the books in the world and watch as many classes or demonstrations as you like, but actually doing it is the only way to really learn.”

2. A consistent contact

A pony which is not settled in the head and looks unhappy in the mouth can spoil the picture. Adam says that going back to basics with both pony and rider is the way to move forward.

“You may start a novice and after an outing or two they may go a bit fussy in the contact,” Adam says. “Look at this situation with open eyes. Often, we’ve got our best jockey on so it’s unlikely to be an issue with the hands, but it might be that the pony needs re-mouthing and long-reining for a while.

“At no point in a horse or pony’s career would I say it’s too late to re-mouth,” Adam confirms. “I am always open to popping a pony back in a breaking bit and sticking them on the long reins for a week or two. They can all go a bit wooden and stale, and this softens them, helps them regain confidence in the contact and refreshes things. Long reining helps the horse to engage their core, use their hindleg and come up in front, if done well. Taking things back a few steps can really push things forwards in the long run.”

If the pony is fussy in the mouth, it may need to go back to the basics. Long-reining – as demonstrated by this horse and handler – helps refresh the work routine and give the pony confidence in the contact. (Image credit: Shelley Photography)

Sometimes, a rider’s lack of security in the saddle is the reason for an inconsistent contact.

“If a rider has not developed a strong, independent seat, then this will cause them to have loose hands and consequently they can’t maintain a contact,” Adam says. “In this instance, I would get the rider to ride without stirrups for a period of time. I’d pop them on the lunge with a neck strap for a couple of weeks, I’d get them to put one hand out to the side with the other on the strap. It’s basic stuff, but it really develops that strong, deep seat that is required. If you have a strong and independent seat, you shouldn’t even need the hand and should be able to turn and circle the horse with just the seat and legs.”

Training the young rider is every bit as important as the pony – ridden work while on the lunge can help develop an independent seat. (Image credit: Alamy)

“I tell my jockeys to imagine they are holding a bunch of flowers. Then, take one flower out of that bunch. The amount of pressure you would use to take that flower out is the same amount you should have on the reins – not very much at all.

“I take my own stirrups away a couple of times a month, and my top rider Jack Owen is always riding without stirrups.”

3. Using the neck strap

“I am never too proud to use a neck strap,” Adam says. “A neck strap can be a helpful tool, whether jumping, riding a fresh one or cantering for the first time on a novice, and it can get you out of a million different problems. You can use it for safety in potentially sticky situations, but also for balance so you don’t accidentally pull the horse in the teeth.”

4. Getting the right leg

Rachael Helliwell is based in Cumbria and her show team have produced multiple HOYS and RIHS winners and champions across the sections.

For smaller riders experiencing cantering in the show or on the go-round for the first time, picking up on the right leg on both reins can take time to perfect, especially if their partner is a novice pony.

While it can be tempting to ask the jockey to look down to their inside to check if they’re on the right leg, Rachael advises against this when training plaited ponies and their young riders as it causes unbalance and can become a habit.

“You can teach the jockey how to ‘feel’ if they’re on the right leg by repetition,” Rachael says. “Ask them to pick up, and then ask them to feel it, or change if they’re wrong and feel again. Eventually, they will learn how the right leg feels.

“Some children struggle more than others, and this means that, as a producer, I would work the pony with another rider so he can pick up on the right leg pretty much every time asked. This is established by the pony being balanced and working with the correct bend, though this is obviously a work in progress with a young pony.

“Looking down for the correct leg, as with checking for the diagonal, can become a bad habit. Plus, the child needs to be looking where they’re going! If you repeat the process of correcting the rider yourself on the ground they will get it; it will usually take a child between six months and a year to learn the feel.”

5. Building balance

Rachael credits her location for building her string of ponies’ balance and stamina. Meg Edmondson’s Team Helliwell-based Briarhill Buddy Bolden was a dual champion at HOYS in 2024. His main form of exercise was working on the hills behind the yard.

Briarhill Buddy Bolden, a double HOYS intermediate winner. His producer Rachael Helliwell credits hillwork for his balance and stamina. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“We are very thankful for those Cumbrian hills,” Rachael says. “We do lots of hacking and hill work. We walk up and down, trot up and down, also standing at the bottom to improve manners. At first, youngsters struggle to go down the hill until they build their strength.

“When it comes to canter, I’d always let a pony find their balance first by giving them their head and popping them on a big circle,” Rachael adds.

Team Helliwell out hacking their ponies on the Cumbrian hills. (Image credit: Real Time Imaging)

6. Confidence is key

“Some young riders naturally have confidence, others have less and can go into the ring a bit defeated before they’ve even begun,” Rachael says. “Therefore, we always instil confidence and a sense of sportsmanship and competitiveness in our riders from the very beginning of their careers.”

When training plaited ponies, Rachael teaches “most kids in groups”.

“All of them will come to the yard together and will ride in the same lesson. I find they all immediately up their game trying to impress – they’re effectively competing for attention, as they would be in the ring. Each rider always wants to be the best and get the praise! They get used to riding in a group, too, as they need to be looking ahead for a space and being mindful of others.

“I also ask most of the kids to ride different ponies so they get used to how others feel. This often gives them more appreciation and respect for their own pony! Swapping and changing helps them become more developed riders and they grow in confidence.”

A happy, confident child enjoys the rewards of their hard work. (Image credit: Alamy)

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Time, patience and 8 more vital assets you need to retrain a racehorse to excel in the show ring

Alex Robinson — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:28:13 +0000

Learn how to tell if a former racehorse is right for the show ring, how to approach training and why you simply cannot rush with expert advice on retraining racehorses for showing in this exclusive series for Horse & Hound subscribers on training for different types of show horse

Retraining racehorses for showing takes time, patience and repetition. Not all former racehorses are suitable to go on to succeed in the show ring as their second career as only a horse of a certain quality can reach the highest levels in showing. There are, though, many retired racing stars who have gone onto excel in both specific showing classes for former racehorses and in open show horse ranks.

An ex-racehorse can be a popular choice for many riders as they are often readily available and, in lots of instances, can be bought for considerably less money than their unraced counterparts. Buying an ex-racehorse with the intention of it becoming a show horse is a gamble as even though the animal might look the part, their temperament must be right for the job.

There are many opportunities in the showing world for former racehorses and their owners. Most local and county shows schedule retrained racehorse classes, either unaffiliated or affiliated to Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) or SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse (R2R).

The main showing finals for ex-racehorses are held at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in October, and at the Hickstead Derby meeting in July. The RoR national championships is also a major occasion for former racehorses with the overall supreme being one of the most coveted titles on the circuit. There are also specific classes for amateur and home-produced riders who own racehorses, including at the London International Horse Show. H&H created this extensive guide on showing ex-racehorses.

How long it takes a former racehorse to adapt to showing will depend on the horse’s temperament, breeding and racing history, but sympathetic and well-thought-out training can also go a long way in ensuring they enjoy success in another sphere.

Retraining racehorses for showing: 9 key areas

H&H speaks to two of the circuit’s most established show horse specialists who have won titles with former racehorses in recent years to find out how they approach retraining racehorses for showing.

Jo Bates is a show horse specialist with many championships to her name. She is one of the circuit’s most consistent retrained racehorse producers, having guided several of these horses to the top of their game in the show ring. Jo was HOYS R2R champion aboard Grandeur in 2019, and she is the producer of Katie Dashwood’s history-making ex-racer Minella Rebellion, who was R2R champion at HOYS in his first season before he was crowned riding horse of the year in 2023, becoming the only former racehorse to achieve wins in both open and R2R divisions at HOYS. He is also a multi-RIHS winner. Other stars Jo has ridden include Slightly Trendy and Simbad.

Jo Bates produced Katie Dashwood’s versatile champion, the retrained racehorse Minella Rebellion. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Kirstine Douglas is a leading show horse producer who is based in Dumfries. Her current top middleweight hunter contender, Rich Man Poor Man, was formerly in training with Philip Kirby. He is a dual weight and RoR champion, having stood supreme hunter and supreme RoR at the Royal Highland, and having been to HOYS under both guises.

Kirstine Douglas with Rich Man Poor Man, who took to his new career fantastically well, excelling as a top-class middleweight hunter. (Image credit: Grossick Racing)

1. Time and patience

Jo maintains that the two main ingredients that go into re-training are time and patience.

“Give yourself the smallest of goals to begin with,” Jo starts. “They can grow into big dreams but if you get too ambitious too soon, you’ll likely fry an ex-racehorse’s brain. You need to give them confidence and trust in you, so they know you’re going to hold their hand and guide them through any situation. Thoroughbreds are such people pleasers, and they need to know that you’re there for them.”

Kirstine agrees that rushing a horse rarely produces the intended results.

“I never rush any show horse to get them out into the ring and just because the shows have started doesn’t mean you have to rush to get out,” she confirms. “I might spend time on the ground before dropping a horse down for time to mature, then I’ll pick them back up again. If they’re still not ready, I’ll give them even more time to develop. For racehorses, this implies to mental maturity as much as physical maturity. If you’re patient, a horse will pay you dividends in the long run.”

2. Is my former racehorse right for the show ring?

“The moment I first sit on the horse I must think ‘yes, I can do something with this’ – it’s an innate feeling,” Jo says. “The horse must let you ride them, and they must feel comfy and manoeuvrable.”

One of Jo’s most loved former racehorses was Yvonne Jacques’ grey gelding Grandeur. During his racing career he won almost £600,000 in prize money. As well as being one of the biggest winners on the RoR circuit, he was also a top large hack, finishing second and third on his visits to HOYS.

“I knew he had a certain something special”: Jo Bates on Grandeur, a winner of 10 races before turning his hoof to success in the show ring. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“I first rode him at his most raw stage and as soon as I sat on him, I knew he had a certain something special, the makings of a top show horse with the right training,” Jo recalls.

Roan Prince was bought by Jo’s mother at a sale for £500 before he went onto become a successful eventer and dressage horse. He was later sold to Holland.

“He was another incredible horse who tried so hard and threw himself into anything asked,” Jo says. “Thoroughbreds have unique brains, and I love their attitude to life. They are so keen to learn and can soak so much up.”

3. A full MOT

When a former racehorse lands at her yard, Jo will ensure the horse is given a full health check-up prior to beginning their re-training to ensure they have no physical issues or ailments.

“Producing any show horse, but especially a racehorse, takes a village,” Jo says. “It’s not just down to me as a rider; I couldn’t do it without the peripheral team around me.”

Kirstine confirms just how important it is to let the horse readjust to their new routine once they leave training.

“When I get the horse home I give them a month or two to settle in,” Kirstine says. “We find out their preferred routines, especially when it comes to turnout. One of our current ex-racehorses, Richard Strauss, must be first out in the field in the morning – he’ll stand shouting over his stable door – but he likes to come in the moment he’s ready!

“We scope all the ex-racers, too, as so many have ulcers, even though times have changed on racing yards and most of the horses do have turnout during the racing season. Rich Man Poor Man never showed signs of having ulcers but I knew something was niggling him. Scoping revealed he had grade-four ulcers, which we treated accordingly. Always speak to your vet before any changes to treatment.”

Scoping former racehorses for ulcers is good practice. (Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

Kirstine adds: “Alongside this, we do teeth and back checks and get each horse on a new worming schedule.”

4. Perfecting the mount

Jo says that the focus from the beginning of your racehorse’s retraining is teaching them how to stand when being mounted. As an ex-racer will be ridden by a judge in the ring, it’s paramount that they can stand patiently while someone is being legged into the saddle.

She says: “You cannot overlook this part of retraining. The horses will eventually need to stand still in an atmosphere and the last thing you want is for them to move off before the judge has got on.

The ability to stand still in a busy atmosphere is an important skill to train, as exemplified by the 2018 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Native River, who has transferred to the show ring with aplomb. (Image credit: Hamish Mitchell)

“They’re so used to jockeys just jumping on them on the run,” Jo says. “I spend lots of time with my horses, leaning across them and generally boring them with it. I have steps both inside and outside the stables and I’ll repeat the mounting process so many times until it becomes natural for them. This can take months.

“Initially, I might ask someone to stand in front of the horse, though you can still practise if you’re on your own by standing on a block, putting some pressure in the stirrup and leaning across the saddle. As soon as they move, I ask them to wait. I do it until they get it right; I’m quite fanatical with it.

“I also use treats at the beginning of this process. It’s not something they’ll be used to in a racing yard, but when they’re good or we finish the session, they will get a treat. They then associate being mounted with having a nice time. You don’t want to hold the horse down, either – they need to learn to switch off.

“Be sensible when you first begin,” Jo adds. “Choose the right situation; don’t try on a windy day or when you’re in a rush. It takes hours and hours of repetition, so you need to make sure you’re going to be patient.”

5. Muscling up

When it comes to training in the saddle, Jo strips things back to basics for good reason.

“I ride so many transitions, so the horse becomes more manoeuvrable through their body,” she confirms. “I also ride lateral work exercises such as leg-yielding and shoulder in. The horse learns to use every part of the body while sitting on their bottom and coming up in front. This all takes time and it’s not an instant change you can expect in a couple of months. It takes months and months to re-educate the muscles.

“You don’t have to do loads at one time; 20-minute sessions are great. Achieve your purpose, then move on. Note, though, that you should never end a session on a bad transition. If it doesn’t feel right, I make sure I get it right before I finish, though it can take four or five attempts after riding a bad one.”

Kirstine also takes things back to basics.

“You’re essentially re-backing an ex-racer,” she says. “I’ll do weeks of long-rein and lungeing work before we get on board, and then it’s all about correct, basic flat work done at the horse’s own pace.”

Many racehorses will effectively be re-backed for their their new job, with plenty of lungeing and long-reining before carrying a rider again. (Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

6. Getting out and about

Prior to a first competitive outing, Jo will take her horses to shows to ride around.

“Grandeur used to come to lots of shows with me the season before he came out,” Jo says. “It got him used to standing on the lorry, riding around with others and seeing what a show is all about. He was a worrier and was quite nervous, so this repetition was essential for him. Minella Rebellion and his owner Katie also came to a few outings with us non-competitively.”

7. The right environment

Jo says that finding out what makes the horse tick can take some time.

“It took us a long time to find Grandeur the right stable on the yard,” Jo says. “He didn’t like being on one side of the barn, he hated having his window shut and it also took time us to find him the right equine neighbour. Once we’d found the right space for him, he thrived.

“We also encourage them to eat in their own ways. Some will have a haynet with adlib hay on the floor, others will have a haynet outside of their stable.

“We turnout as much as we can, too. You have to fiddle and faff around to find out what they like and you need to tailor their schedule to what works best.”

Be observant to find out how the horse likes to eat, whether from the floor or a haynet, and what kind of stable he prefers – all these details will help to make him tick. (Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

8. Plenty of variety

“People can ride in the school too much and don’t necessarily realise you can do schooling exercises, such as leg-yield and shoulder-in, while out hacking,” Kirstine says. “It’s so important for horses to have variety in their work, but for ex-racers it’s essential so they learn to cope in different atmospheres and are able to adjust to new atmospheres and settings.”

Jo adds: “I make sure every horse has a lot of variety. We do poles, field work, clinics and even work on the gallops. This helps them be able to work in different environments.”

9. Correct tack for the job

“When the horse starts work, always get the saddle checked and fitted; you can do so much damage with a poorly-fitting saddle,” Kirstine says. “Then, I’d get it checked mid-season again – as little as six weeks later – as the horse will likely have changed shape and put on muscle and body mass as the year goes on.”

The saddle should be checked frequently – and changed if necessary – as the horse changes shape for his new career. (Image credit: H&H Archives)

“Not everyone will agree with me on this, but using an old saddle on every single horse on the yard is quite an old-fashioned way to do things, and horse’s type and build has changed a lot since back in the day. Horses are athletes, so I treat them like they are, so regular physio sessions are important, too.”

Kirstine also advises around bitting an ex-racehorse: “Thoroughbreds can be difficult to mouth and I would never over-bit one. Some will go in a double, whereas others won’t take to it and will require a smaller, simpler bit. I always start mine in a loose ring snaffle and would even go back to the breaking bit with keys in the early stages if required.”

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How to be involved in showing if you don’t have the horse or the time

Bethan Simons — Sat, 08 Mar 2025 16:30:03 +0000

Even if you have a brilliant horse for the job, showing – like all equestrian endeavours – can be hard work, time-consuming and expensive. But it’s also great fun and a fabulous way to make and sustain life-long friendships. So you might be pleased to hear you can still play a part, even if you don’t have the horse, the time or even any spare cash right now. Here’s how to get involved in showing…

1. Grooming

If your plaits are usually on point and your shark’s teeth perfectly symmetrical, chances are friends will bite your hand off – metaphorically, obviously – at the offer of help at shows. This gives you a great way to go showing without even having to pay for the diesel, provides company all day, and gives you a vested interest in the competition. If your plaits make others green with envy, a professional yard will probably be grateful for your skills on their lorry, especially at larger shows when lots of owners are expecting their animal to look tip-top. This might even make you some extra cash.

Be warned though, plaiting and grooming for professionals is not for the faint-hearted as you will need to get cracking very early in the morning and you may not have many chances to watch the competition unfold. Instead, your primary sources of pleasure will be knowing that your turnout skills have helped bag big prizes, and possibly the shared contents of an owner’s hamper!

2. Joining a show committee

Also not for the faint of heart is joining a show committee, especially if you find yourself in a competitor-facing role, such as secretary. But, if you have a sound knowledge of how showing works, or even if you’re just naturally inclined to be organised and are willing to get stuck in, a committee somewhere will be glad of your help. You’ll probably have the odd brusque encounter with a stressed competitor, but seeing the day unfold successfully will give you plenty of satisfaction even before the “thanks” from grateful attendees roll in.

3. Stewarding

If committing to a committee feels too time-consuming, then stewarding could be an option for you. It can be a long day on your feet, but is a very rewarding day’s work. If you’ve never done it before, you’ll learn new skills. If you’re keen to learn the do’s and don’ts of showing, it’s a great way to soak up knowledge from experienced judges and watching seasoned professionals. If you just want to give back to the sport, then what better way than helping a fixture run smoothly? Fabulous lunches are a bonus.

4. Helping your local equestrian centre

As well as society area and show committees, your local equestrian centres will probably be planning a series of events through the year, too, including some shows. If you’re willing to give a few hours to taking entries, making teas or even car-parking, organisers are likely to welcome you with open arms!

5. Judging

If you’re a seasoned showing fan, perhaps with nothing left to prove in the showring, or with once-keen children at university, you may be in a position to consider joining a judging panel. This is another great way to give back to the sport, share your knowledge, and have a lovely day out right at the centre of the action. Just be aware, you can’t please everyone in the ring, but you might just make someone’s season.

6. Assisting with course building

Working hunter fans, this one’s for you. If you’re a long-term follower of the workers ranks, you’ll probably already know that there are a handful of course builders who build tracks week in week out to put competitors to the test. Lugging wings and dressing fences with just the right amount of greenery is hard work and we’re pretty sure that if you’re serious about helping and are willing to pick up poles come rain or shine, they’ll be glad of the help. You’re bound to learn a trick or two about building courses at various levels of difficulty, too.

7. Spectating

It sounds obvious, but spectating at shows is not a bad day out if you enjoy showing but can’t partake in classes. Newbies to the discipline are bound to learn something, and showing geeks can witness the action first hand while also catching up with old friends. Head to fixtures like Royal Windsor, Royal International Horse Show or Horse of the Year Show and you’ll also find plenty of shopping and foodie treats to fill any lulls in competition.

Now that’s your spare weekends sorted!

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Native breed experts pinpoint 6 core skills for your pony to be light, forward and responsive in the ring this season

Alex Robinson — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 16:25:56 +0000

Training for ridden native pony showing classes requires a specific approach to match the type, as well as plenty of practice to stand out in a competitive field. The native classes are undoubtedly the most popular and well-attended on the showing circuit. Today, mountain and moorland (M&M) flat and working hunter classes feature mammoth entries at shows up and down the country.

Classes for native ponies vary from the prestigious open breed finals at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and the M&M Supreme Championship held at the London International Horse Show, to amateur-specific classes for home producers who juggle work with showing.

Some shows offer mixed M&M classes where all breeds compete against each other, while each of the breed societies hosts their own annual shows where you will see a venue filled with examples of just one breed of native.

Mini sections dedicated to M&M ponies are equally strong, with the small breeds often being a parent’s choice for their child’s lead-rein and first-ridden mounts.

With the correct training, many of the scopier and sportier types can make capable working hunter ponies, their native bravery and hardiness helping them fare well in this sphere.

6 key areas for training the ridden native pony

If you have a native pony to show during the coming season, winter and early spring is the perfect time to go back to basics and ensure their way of going is at the necessary level for success. H&H speaks to some of the circuit’s most successful producers who have won at all the major finals about the challenges you might face during training the ridden native pony and some tips on how to solve them.

1. Heavy in the front

Clare Fitch is a showing producer who has enjoyed success training all types of ridden native pony. She was crowned M&M ridden champion at HOYS in 2024 riding Fell stallion Wildhoeve Oki Doki. She also won the Highland pony of the year final in the same day riding Valerock Monroe.

Clare Fitch at home with two of her native ponies. (Image credit: Jon Stroud Media)

Some of the native breeds are more stocky in stamp and type than others. Those that are can have a tendency to work on the forehand when a rider is added, using their head and neck to help them move forward. Clare says that while we don’t want to change a native pony’s natural way of going so it deviates from their breed type, you can make small tweaks so they find ridden work easier.

“Many natives, especially Fells, Highlands and Welsh cobs, have big fronts and they can use their necks against you,” she says. “I do lots of schooling exercises that will encourage the pony to soften through the neck and sit back on their hocks. Polework forms a huge part of my training, whether patterns on a circle, poles on a straight line or in a sequence. Polework really helps them engage their hindlegs and use themselves while lifting in front.

Polework helps heavier breeds to engage and lift. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

“Transitions and leg yielding exercises are also important as this helps the pony soften through the mouth and the neck.”

2. Keeping an open frame

Richard Telford is a Scottish showing producer who has won the M&M supreme title at HOYS and at London Olympia. He is known for his partnerships with the late Bill Ireland’s home-bred Kilmannan Dales ponies and he has also been successful on other large breeds.

Richard Telford with stellar Dales stallion the late Kilmannan Robert The Bruce, who excelled in the show ring and on the hunting field. (Image credit: Grossick Photography)

“Avoid putting too much pressure on a native to be round in its outline,” Richard advises, when training the native pony specifically. “They can be thicker in their jowls and can become too tight in that area so they can’t breathe properly. Encourage them to work forward and in an open frame, not behind the vertical. Hacking helps with this; go on a hack, let them move forward and enjoy the job, especially at the beginning of their education. There’s plenty of time to put the pressure on with the schooling.”

3. Learning to use their bodies correctly

It’s not uncommon for some native ponies to get behind the leg when working under-saddle. Clare says that correct lunge work is beneficial so the pony learns to carry itself without a rider.

“I do a fair bit of lungeing and long-reining,” she confirms. “I find that if a pony is ‘lazy’ then it’s not using itself properly and lunge work encourages them to use their back end and core correctly.”

The reigning Highland pony of the year winner Valerock Monroe is one such pony who has benefitted from lunge work.

“He was really behind the leg during his first season,” Clare recalls. “He went to HOYS as a novice, but didn’t qualify the year after. That winter, I spent months just lungeing him. I didn’t even ride him, I just did poles and transitions on the lunge. He came out a different pony the following season and he’s now a HOYS winner.”

Clare adds: “Transitions and leg-yielding – the basics – are also important. Make sure you’re getting a reaction to the leg, whether moving sideways or forwards.”

4. The role of dressage

Clare has long been a fan of dressage training and she regular has lessons with trainer David Pincus.

“I take what I need from the sessions as, of course, we still want to have that freedom of action and all the native pony characteristics in the way of going,” Clare explains. “But the discipline and preciseness has helped both the ponies and my riding.

“It can be easy to just ride around in circles in show rider mode, but David pushes me to think about what I’m doing and how the pony feels. ‘Does that feel as good as you could get it’ he’ll ask, adding ‘are you getting 100%, or just 80%?’ Usually, I can make something a little better!

While a native pony is not expected to move like a pure dressage horse, disciplined training on their flatwork will pay off. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

“Dressage teaches me to not be complacent and it helps me get the best possible outcome, not just covering things up or trying to disguise problems.”

5. Response to the leg

Sam Roberts is one of the circuit’s leading producers, with specific expertise in training the ridden native pony. She is a three-time London International Horse Show M&M supreme winner and she has also won at HOYS and the Royal International Horse Show numerous times, both on the flat and over fences. She has been victorious on all breeds, small and large, and she has been particularly successful with Welsh ponies.

Sam Roberts is renowned for her success with Welsh ponies, such as the multi-garlanded Welsh B, Colby Silver Sprite. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“Often, native ponies can be more laid back, sometimes lazy, which is why we enjoy them – they’re not as sharp as blood horses,” Sam says. “But, even if your pony is more chilled out you need to make sure that he’s listening to the aids.

“An exercise I recommend is riding trot to walk transitions with few just a steps of walk in between. Trot along in a good rhythm, then ask for walk, walk three or four strides, then ask for trot again. Repeat until the horse becomes more responsive to your aid – the aim is for them to pick up trot as soon as you ask. Initially, the horse may take a couple of strides to pick back up into trot so you can always ask for more walk strides – say eight or nine – before reducing the number as the horse becomes more responsive and the transitions are crisp and clear.

“This exercise is also good for sharp ponies as it breaks up the work and helps them focus. Plus, you can ride this anywhere – in the school, out hacking or even on a hill.”

Sam explains that this exercise can aid your show ring performance: “When you’re in the ring, you could be asked to pick up walk, trot or canter in a specific spot during your show.”

5. Strengthening the canter

Many native breeds were not bred to canter so the pace is initially unnatural for them to maintain. Sam recommends working on a circle to help the pony engage the hindleg more.

“Some of the heavier and larger breeds can find canter quite hard,” Sam says. “To begin, put the pony into canter before riding a 20m circle. This engages the hindleg while keeping some bend through the body. Then, push the pony in using your outside leg so the circle is more like 15m. You can work smaller, say on 10m and 12m circles, as the canter improves. Then take gradually push the pony back out again on to the bigger circle.

“When you ride around the edge of the school in canter, the pony can fall through their shoulder and lean on their forehand. I would only ride this circle exercise a few times in each session, perhaps three times in and three times out, as it’s physically challenging.”

Sam Roberts riding Welsh Section D Synod Rumpus, demonstrates his athletic canter. (Image credit: H&H Archives)

6. Improving straightness

Sam advises not to overlook the basics when working with young ponies.

“As a judge and trainer, it’s so interesting to see how many ponies are not straight when they walk away and trot back to you,” Sam says. “During the winter season and in first-ridden classes, combinations are required to walk away and trot back towards the judge as there’s no strip section, but so many ponies drift to the line or trot back like a snake all bent wrong.”

Practise riding straight lines – a foot or two in from the outside track – to train straightness. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

“Find a fixed object, ideally a tree, and practise walking away and trotting back towards it. Come off the corner and ride super straight without letting the pony wobble about.

“I ride this exercise on all my novices, and you can also do it in the school, coming a foot or two off the track and riding straight down the line. It sounds so basic but it’s surprising how many ponies struggle to trot in a straight line.”

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‘The hardest class to master’: how to achieve the calm perfection judges want to see in a sparkling show hack

Alex Robinson — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 16:28:57 +0000

The show hack is the most refined type of show horse. Training the show hack to demonstrate its elegant movement, while providing a comfortable, mannerly and super smooth ride, is the ultimate in schooling for the show ring. The picture of a hack and rider should be one of calm perfection, with contained sparkle and the all-important presence that all successful show horses possess.

According to the British Show Horse Society (BSHA), the ideal show hack is of thoroughbred type and should be capable of carrying an average adult. The hack must be a pleasure to ride and have excellent manners. The hack should perform in self-carriage and be light and soft to ride – it should also have correct conformation with the emphasis on quality and elegance. The latter stems from a well set-on head and neck combined with a good length of shoulder. The movement should be smooth and graceful with a true pointing of the toe. To achieve these qualities the hack must be extremely well-schooled.

Hacks are shown in either small or large divisions depending on their height. In some classes, such as novice and amateur, small and large hacks will be judged together. The small hack should exceed 148cm, but not exceed 154cm. The large hack should exceed 154cm, but not exceed 160cm.

Hacks are judged on type, ride, manners and conformation. Judges are recommended to use the following percentages when judging: ride 40%, conformation 40% and individual show 20%. The compulsory individual show should not exceed 1½ minutes and should include walk, trot, canter, rein-back, halt and obedience to the leg. Judges should penalise lack of manners.

The hack is arguably one of the hardest types of show horse to master given the refinement that is required in each phase. However, when presented correctly, a quality show hack is exceptionally hard to beat in mixed show horse fields and in supremes.

Training the show hack to impress the judges

H&H speaks to some of the showing world’s most successful producers to find out how to prepare your prospective hack for the ring this season.

1. Encouraging lightness in front

Danielle Heath is a leading show horse producer who has been hack champion at both Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and the Royal International (RIHS). She was supreme at HOYS in 2023 riding Guy Mears’ large hack Forgeland Hyde Park, with whom she was also champion at Windsor and Hickstead on multiple occasions.

Balance and lightness: Guy Mears’ Forgeland Hyde Park, who has been crowned champion at many major shows. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Danielle says that the hack must give a light ride. If the horse is leaning on the hand, he will be penalised by the judges.

“The schooling of a hack needs to encourage them to work lightly in front while maintaining balance,” Danielle begins. “A hack should not be heavy in the hand. This can impact the judge’s ride as well as your own show as you will struggle to get that even collection and to nail key elements such as the canter serpentines.”

Danielle says that being mindful while schooling is essential: “I do lots of lateral work and circle work on the 20m, getting the horse to sit back onto his hocks so he doesn’t run through his bridle. It can be very tempting to just put your head down and ride the whole way around the school constantly, but the horse will only get lower and lower and heavier and heavier. Pop on the 20m circle, half-halt and get him sat back on the hocks so he’s really using himself and learns to balance.”

2. The right bit for training

“To achieve lightness in front I would avoid gadgets,” Danielle continues. “If you give a horse something to lean on, he will lean on it, so keeping it simple is always better in the long run.

“When training the show hack, I tend to ride my horses in Tom Thumb or three-ring Happy Mouth bits at home. You can put the rein on the most suitable ring, moving it up or down as needed.”

3. A picture of elegance

“A hack must be elegant,” Danielle says. “Consider everything about the picture; the hack needs a finer bridle compared to other types. Don’t use an overly thick numnah under the saddle – show the horse off as much as you can. I also don’t like to see a heavily bitted hack – there’s nothing worse than seeing a pretty hack with a big, strong bit in its mouth. This is off-putting as a judge, too, as you should be able to ride a hack one-handed.”

Danielle says that it’s important to be open-minded about type, too. Just because you bought a horse with the intention of showing it as a hack doesn’t mean that it will stay in the category for the duration of its career.

“Our three-time RIHS riding horse champion and 2024 HOYS winner Times Square III was shown as a hack during his four-year-old season before he matured into a small riding horse,” Danielle days. “He matured in both his way of going and conformation; you must be open-minded when working with these youngsters. There’s a fine line between a hack and a riding horse; the hack is light on its feet and elegant, the riding horse still attractive but more forward and ground-covering.”

The prolific champion riding horse Times Square III started his competitive career as a hack – it’s a fine line between the two types. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

4. Keep it simple

Hannah Horton is a show horse producer who has ridden several RIHS and HOYS winners during her career and she also ride judges.

“Simple really is best,” says Hannah on training the show hack. “I was always taught that if you can’t pull something off to perfection, then don’t even attempt it. You’re better doing a simple yet perfect show, rather than trying to do something fancy and not pulling it off perfectly.

“Rein-backs are an example. Riders ask for a rein-back in the middle of the ring and the horse goes all crooked, or it looks like the horse is having its teeth pulled out. To practise a rein-back, I would always start by standing between two poles, before progressing to asking for a rein-back by the wall of the arena. If starting from scratch, I would also ask someone to stand in front of the horse. They’d ask the horse to back up and I’d give the correct aid. I’d start with just one step, then two, and so on.”

“My hack Imagine FW, BSHA supreme hack of the year, has a brilliant rein-back. He’s as straight as die, though Richard Ramsay and I have spent a very long time working on it. He never used to do it well, then one day it just clicked, as we were consistent with his training.”

5. Preparing for the ride judge

“People often forget that the horse needs to feel different riders on his back before a judge gets on,” Danielle says. “I’d ask at least three people to sit on your horse prior to his first ride judge experience so it’s not totally alien to him. Ask your trainer to have a ride at the end of your lesson or ask your friend to have a sit on. The judge only has two minutes to assess your horse, so they don’t have time to let the horse settle. A new jockey getting on needs to be a natural, commonplace experience for your horse.”

6. The finer details

Hannah advises that you must focus on the detail when training the show hack for his competitive appearances. The extra effort will pay dividends as there is little margin for error in this section.

“Make sure your horse will stand for the judge while they get on,” Hannah says. “So many horses swing away from the judge while they’re trying to get legged on. It can be because riders don’t practise getting legged up and always use a mounting block at home, but when you’re in the ring the judge will always have a leg-up, so your horse must be used to it.

As the hack will be ridden by a judge, practise leg-ups at home so that your horse can be relied on to stand completely still in the ring. (Image credit: Emma Herrod)

“When I’m ride judging, I can tell which horses have been schooled leaning on the arena fence,” Hannah continues. “If a horse is crooked, it will get marked down so to fix this I would make sure that I’m riding away from the track when in the school. I would also ride lots of leg-yielding exercises off the outside leg and not just off the inside, so they learn to move off both legs. Don’t just go round and round!”

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Train your riding horse to be a champion in the show ring with these 5 simple steps

Alex Robinson — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 16:28:54 +0000

The riding horse is a popular type of show horse that is categorised between the show hack and the show hunter. The riding horse is required to move freely and forward, like the hunter, but still showcase the lightness and elegance of the hack. Training the riding horse well will ensure that he encapsulates the perfect show horse; well-mannered, exceptionally schooled and capable of doing jobs outside of the show ring.

According to the British Show Horse Association (BSHA), a riding horse should have quality, substance, good bone, correct conformation, presence and true action.

Riding horses can be shown in two categories, small or large. The small riding horse is a mare or gelding aged four years or over exceeding 148cm and not exceeding 158cm. Large riding horses exceed 158cm. It’s more commonplace for riding horses to be shown in separate height categories, though at local and unaffiliated level there may be just one riding horse class.

In riding horse classes, judges are required to ride the exhibits to assess their way of going. The concept of the perfect riding horse will mean something different to every judge, however ensuring your performance is polished, your turnout is exemplary and your horse is generally looking, feeling and going the best he can will undoubtedly boost your results. Winter is the ideal time to knuckle down and put the work in at home ahead of the upcoming season.

Training the riding horse: five key issues

H&H speaks to some of the circuit’s most successful show horse producers to find out how you can solve common show ring problems while providing extra tips to give you that edge.

1. Crookedness and hanging to the fence

Hannah Horton is a show horse producer who has won major titles on all types of show horse. She was riding horse champion at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) in 2021 riding Buriana Larkrise and she has also won at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) several times, including in 2024 with lightweight show hunter Tigbourne. She is also a respected ride judge.

RIHS riding horse champion Buriana Larkrise, ridden by Hannah Horton. (Image credit: Trevor Meeks)

“When I’m ride judging, I can tell which horses have been consistently schooled alongside an arena fence,” Hannah begins. “You walk away, ask for trot and the horse immediately leans onto the fence or towards the line-up. This shows that the horse has been schooled using a fence line, only goes round and round the edge or is mainly ridden on one rein, their ‘good rein’.

“To fix this, when training the riding horse, I would be riding off the track when in the school. I would be making the horse work independently so he’s not so reliant on the rider’s hand. When a horse hangs towards the fence, this is also often a sign that he’s falling out from the shoulder. I would therefore ride lots of leg yielding exercises off the outside leg – not just off the inside leg – so they learn to move off both legs.

“I had a side-saddle horse who was crooked and would swing his quarters to the right, which was even more of an issue given that you don’t have your right leg while you’re riding sideways! I worked on lots of leg yielding to make him straight and encourage him to use his own core, posture and muscles correctly. It took time and patience, but he eventually gave a lovely ride.”

2. Rushing the paces

Danielle Heath is a show horse specialist who has ridden many champion riding horses during her career, including multi-RIHS champion Times Square III, and Whittaker’s Prince, HOYS riding horse champion in 2012.

Danielle Collins and her multi-garlanded riding horse Times Square III: “Show off the natural quality of the horse’s paces, which means letting him find his own stride,” says Danielle. Credit Peter Nixon (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Danielle believes that under the pressure of competition, it’s easy to push your horse out of its natural rhythm.

“You want to show off the natural quality of the horse’s paces, which means not rushing, going steady and letting him find his own stride,” Danielle says. “There’s nothing worse than watching a lovely mover being pushed out of its own rhythm and balance, especially in riding horse classes as the picture is very important.

“To work on a horse’s rhythm, I like to incorporate pole work. I place out six poles in a row and walk and trot through them. This helps both you and the horse find that natural stride. Transitions – walk to trot and trot to walk – are also important to practice.”

3. Perfecting the gallop

An exceptional gallop is not just an element hunter judges are looking for; a riding horse must also showcase a flawless acceleration, both in the class and in the championship.

Hannah says that the gallop is the pace that can look messy and unprepared as riders often don’t pay enough attention to it during training so knowing how to teach your horse to gallop at home is key.

A riding horse must gallop well, smoothly lengthening and travelling across the ground. (Image credit: Elli Birch)

“A riding horse still has to gallop,” she confirms. “But they must come around the corner and travel; I don’t like to see horses fired off the corner like a bullet out of a gun. It looks messy and the horse can become sharper for it, especially as the season goes on and they begin anticipating it. The horse must travel, lower and lengthen into the gallop, so it looks smooth.

“Riders can also have a habit of only galloping halfway down the length of the ring, but the gallop should cover the whole side.

“At home I ride lots of transitions within the canter pace, including both working and medium canter. Circle work is very beneficial, too. Riding circles in canter helps the horse learn to keep his balance. The rider also learns to balance and be mobile in the saddle so you can trust yourself during the gallop not to switch onto the wrong leg because the pair of you are unbalanced.

“I believe it was Buriana Larkrise’s gallop that won him the RIHS riding horse supreme title. He was able to come off the corner and accelerate the full length of the Hickstead main ring. That arena rides on a curve anyway but he absolutely flew around the bottom half before galloping like fury. We were both winning the championship that day, so we had no option but to gallop like champions!”

4. Repetition counts

Richard Telford, a Scottish showman who has ridden many star show horses and has won titles at HOYS and London International during his career, maintains that repetition is essential when you’re training any type of horse, whether for the show ring or for another sphere.

“When you’re training the riding horse and you give a signal, you’re only getting a reaction to that request,” he says. “Horses are not being good or bad when they respond to a signal. It’s your job as the rider to listen to the reaction and then respond accordingly. If you don’t get the desired reaction right away, keep going until you do get it, and then praise. Then do the same process again. In the early stages of training, this repetition is needed to make a horse supple and to help them understand what the leg means.

“If you get the wrong reaction, you should not chastise the horse or bully or get forceful. This, among other things, can lead them to get overly tense and stressed, which is difficult to combat. Working in a calm and kind way will always be best.”

5. The judge’s mount

The riding horse class is made up of three main phases – the go-round, the ride and the conformation. However, competitors should drill down into the specifics when preparing for each section. Hannah says that one aspect often overlooked during the ride phase is when the judge is getting onto the horse.

“So many horses swing away from the judge while they’re trying to get on,” Hannah says. “If a horse is fidgeting at the beginning, you’re already thinking ‘oh crumbs’ as a judge. It can be because riders don’t practise getting legged up; it’s more convenient and easier for them to use a mounting block at home. When you’re in the ring, though, the judge will always have a leg-up, so your horse must be used to it.”

Practise the leg-up at home, so that the horse is well prepared for the ride judge, (Image credit: Andrew Sydenham)

“While training the riding horse at home, you can practise with a pole on the off side of the horse so it learns that it can’t swing its quarters away every time someone is being legged up. You sometimes see a canny groom mirroring this in the ring by standing alongside when the judge is getting on, though some shows won’t allow this.

“Some horses just aren’t very good with leg-ups, so you need to practise regularly. It’s a small thing but it really matters.”

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Horse and rider training

Horse & Hound — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 21:11:59 +0000

Horse and rider training

Welcome to Horse & Hound’s training hub. Whether you are looking for techniques to improve your riding skills, insight from top trainers and riders on how to prepare your horse for a specific sport, or tips to help solve specific problems, you will find useful advice from experts to help.

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10 little-known rules of showing etiquette you need to swot up on before the season

Bethan Simons — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 09:30:05 +0000

To the uninitiated, showing can be a bit mind-boggling, but to help ensure you won’t make an embarrassing faux pas when it comes to showing etiquette this season, Katie Jerram-Hunnable runs through some of the weird and wonderful finer details.

1. You have just bought a new hat. It has the correct safety standards and looks just like the one you saw your favourite producer wearing last week. Now it’s time to adjust the “tags” – the ribbons on the bow at the back.

Katie explains: “Unless you are a hunt servant, such as a master or a whip, you should not wear your hat tags down. An easy way to fix this is to simply use sticky tape, or better still, a needle and thread, to secure them up at the back of your hat.”

2. As well as a new hat, you’ve splashed out on some brand new boots, but the garter straps are confusing. Why is one side white?

“Straight top, black boots with a black garter strap are correct for lady and gentlemen riders in all classes,” says Katie. But here’s where it gets a little more complicated: “It’s acceptable for men to wear brown-top boots with their evening, championship attire. In which case, the garter strap should be white”.

3. Hoping a hunt button will give you extra points in a hunter championship? Think again.

“This is not correct,” says Katie, adding that “unless you have been awarded your button for services to the hunt, you should not wear a hunt button. However it is correct to carry a hunting crop with leash in a hunter championship.”

4. You spotted a beautiful stock on a shopping spree at Hickstead and couldn’t resist it. However, you’ll have to wait for the right occasion before pulling it from your kit-bag.

Katie clarifies: “Stocks are only worn when evening dress is required. In other words, only in championships at our most prestigious royal or championship shows. This is why you’ll see riders who ordinarily wear tweed and ties – such as on hunters – donning navy or black jackets with stocks in championships at shows such as Royal Windsor and the Royal International Horse Show.

“Horse of the Year Show and the Rising Stars classes at London International are different as evening dress is used in all horse classes and all championships for ponies and horses. A plain stock is always best, and preferably in white for a gentlemen rider and cream or ivory for a lady rider. ”

5. Men and women riders alike can wear top hats in some championships requiring evening dress. But be careful.

“A lady’s top hat should be 5 ¼ inches in height,” warns Katie. “Not everyone adheres to this, but this is what the correct etiquette is.”

6. “Lady riders should beware their lapels, too,” says Katie. “Your rose should be worn on the left side. Ladies should also only wear a buttonhole with a navy jacket, so in ordinary classes, this means riders in hack and show pony classes. If in evening dress – in other words, when you’ve changed into navy for a championship – a button hole can be worn on riding horses.”

7. Side-saddle habits can be expensive and difficult to source. If you go to the trouble of sourcing a beautiful habit, don’t overlook the details.

Katie says: “Gloves are one aspect often overlooked. They should always be cream chamois leather.”

8. Once your outfit is sorted, it’s time to get in the ring. Katie’s advice is to “always be polite and look out for your fellow competitors.”

“When I’m riding, I’m always on the look out for ‘dangers’ – something a horse might spook at or something that will cause us a problem in the ring. It’s also very impolite to overtake another horse in front of the judge.”

9. In classes that require a ride judge, it’s customary for the judge to ask permission before they mount your horse.

“The judge will ask you, ‘may I ride?’ This often takes new competitors by surprise,” states Katie. “Just respond politely; a simple ‘of course’ or ‘please do’ will suffice.”

10. If it all goes wrong and you really want to get out, make sure you ask first.

“It’s bad manners to leave without permission from the judge,” says Katie. “Go to your steward, explain why and ask to leave. They will usually grant permission, but it’s always polite to ask.”

Worried you’ll never get it right? Katie is reassuring: “Don’t worry; you won’t be eliminated if you don’t follow tradition exactly, but do always make sure you check the rules, especially in the case of hats as there may well be a safety standard you must adhere to.

“And don’t worry if you’re not sure whether it’s tweed-and-tie, or if you need a stock. If you’re not sure what to do, ask a professional. We’re always happy to help if we can.”

Just remember to say please.

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Little steps for big results: lead-rein producers share their winning formulae for the show ring’s budding stars

Alex Robinson — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:28:28 +0000

When perfected, the lead-rein trio is hard to take your eyes off. And when a young jockey gets their first taste of success on the lead-rein, the odds of them becoming star show riders or equestrians of the future increases tenfold. The winter months are an ideal time for training the lead-rein pony, with the time to build confidence, iron out any kinks and develop relationships without the pressure of going before the judges.

Lead-rein classes are a young rider’s first experience of competition and while they are designed to build confidence and support a rider’s development with a handler to help, lead-rein competition is red hot, with a huge amount of work going into the production of the circuit’s most prolific ponies. Lead-rein classes are often the largest on the county show circuit, especially in those assigned to the native breeds, though show pony and pony of hunter type sections are just as strong in their own right.

Training the lead-rein pony for success in the ring must take several elements into account. The pony must remain calm and polished in any situation – totally unflappable and the perfect guide for their tiny rider on top. The picture of pony, rider and handler must be one of harmony, with the latter part of the trio there simply as a guide.

The lead-rein trio: handler, pony and little jockey. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

H&H speaks to some of the showing world’s leading lead-rein pony producers who have won all the major titles on the circuit and have led ponies to win supremes at the biggest shows in the country.

Training the lead-rein pony for success in the ring

1. The right type

The ideal lead-rein mount is well-mannered, quiet and safe, but is also of a certain type with correct conformation and a contained sparkle which gives them an edge, an essential trait in a class which often boasts 40-plus entries. Many ponies which are not appropriate as first ponies off the lead, though, can do well as lead-reins; the presence of a handler takes away the pressure of trusting a pony to take sole care of a small child.

Sarah Newbould (née Emmerson) is a leading producer who has won HOYS and the RIHS with multiple lead-rein ponies during her career. Her father, Peter Emmerson, is an equally regarded pony producer who led lead-rein hunter pony Charn Secret Legend to the HOYS supreme title in 2010.

“When looking for a lead-rein, I like a good front which the child will sit behind nicely,” Sarah says. “If the front is good, it’s very likely that the pony will ride well, will sit up into the bridle and will perform in a better contact. On the contrary, if a pony is built downhill, it’s more likely to ride on its forehand, something which is very hard for a small child to fix.

“I’d look for a pony with a nice big eye and that generally has a happy disposition with its ears pricked. This little bit of sparkle is so important in show animals.”

Pricked ears and a bit of sparkle – vital traits for a lead-rein pony. (Image credit: Anthony Reynolds)

“When I see a pony trotting out, I’d look for a balanced rhythm. The pony must sit back onto its hocks but also have a flick of the toe.

“Our top hunter pony Joebex Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, HOYS lead-rein of hunter type champion in 2013, was the most perfect example of a lead-rein pony. We just knew he had what it takes from the moment we saw him. He had the right amount of limb, he flicked his toe and his hocks went underneath him.

A “perfect example” of a lead-rein pony: Joebex Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, champion at HOYS in 2013. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

“Another example was Jonika Whistles The Wind who was on our team when the lead-rein of hunter type class first came out. We first saw him on an allotment but again from the second we went into his stable Dad said we had to have him. He won a lot of titles during his career, but he was so to type for the class. So often is the case that when you know, you just know!”

From an allotment to the winner’s enclosure, Jonika Whistles In The Wind – an ideal type. (Image credit: H&H Archives)

2. Standing solid

Sara Parrott and her partner Craig Elenor have produced many HOYS and RIHS-winning lead-rein ponies in both the plaited and native divisions. In 2024, Craig led Sienna Clay and lead-rein show pony Derw Dream Boy to stand pony supreme at HOYS.

“Lead-rein ponies must stand still and this aspect can often be overlooked outside of the ring,” Sara beings. “The pony must stand perfectly still before they trot out on the go-round, when they come out for the judge, while the judge walks around the ponies in the line, while they are assessed for conformation and during the prize giving. Lead-reins are judged on manners all the time and you must be able to put them where you want easily as a handler, too.

Training the lead-rein pony to stand still is a vital skill. (Image credit: Helen Revington)

“Handlers often don’t realise that you can train a pony to stand all the time, not just when you’re in the school with the jockey on top. When I have people come for lessons, for example, I notice that ponies are often fidgeting at the bottom of the lorry ramp, eating grass while they’re being tacked up. Then, the rider gets frustrated when the pony won’t stand in the arena. But how does the pony know the difference? Be meticulous about manners all the time, not just when you feel like it!

“When you’re walking the pony to the field, ask him to stop for a beat. When you’re tacking up or grooming, cross-tie him so he’s not constantly moving around. Ask the pony to stand still quietly while you put his rug on. It’s something you can work on every single day and it doesn’t take any extra time.

“Sometimes, ponies don’t stand because of tension and not a lack of manners. In this instance, you must go the extra mile to settle them. We’d walk or hack to the woods and ask them to stand and relax for a good length of time, maybe while having a phone call. The more often you can do this the better; you often don’t realise how long you must stand in the ring for. We’d even do this with the bigger ponies and horses who are anxious.”

3. Bonding pony, rider and handler

Sharn Linney is one of the circuit’s leading producers of mini ponies. She has won HOYS and the RIHS with various lead-rein ponies, also finishing supreme pony at HOYS a few years ago leading Welsh section A Thistledown Van-Der-Vaart.

“Get to know the pony and build your own bond,” says producer Sharn Linney, pictured leading her HOYS supreme champion Thistledown Van-der-Vaart. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Sharn believes that first and foremost when training the lead-rein pony, the handler needs to establish a relationship with the pony.

“Get to know the pony without the jockey on board and build your own bond first,” Sharn says. “This will you give you confidence and will ensure that you can establish how to get the pony to go alongside you exactly how you would like. While working with the pony, ensure you use your voice and that your body language is clear. This all helps the picture look a lot smoother. If you practise two or three times, you will notice a difference when you pop the jockey on; everything is usually a lot calmer, and everyone is so much more confident and happy.”

4. Moving freely forward

“When I watch lead-rein classes one of the biggest things I notice is ponies not going forwards and that they are set in an unnatural outline,” Sarah says. “You can tell which lead-reins are constantly stood and trained in side-reins as they tend to go in stilted outlines and snatch the reins out of the child’s hands. They can look tight and tense, too.

“When training the lead-rein pony, I make sure that all mine are worked off the rein at home. This means they learn to sit in self-carriage and can go freely forwards. I might practice on the lead once or twice a week but otherwise they are worked off it, both in the school and while hacking out.”

5. The jockey’s confidence

As well as the pony’s way of going, the young rider’s confidence and ability also needs nurturing. Sarah recommends working on the child’s balance in the saddle and enjoyment first; the pressure of riding for the show ring can come at a later stage.

A young jockey’s confidence and ability needs nurturing. (Image credit: Helen Revington)

Sarah explains: “Firstly, we’d concentrate on the up downs while holding onto a strap on the front of the saddle. Don’t worry about them holding the reins in a contact early on, especially if they can’t even do rising trot yet. If they’re holding onto tight reins not only do they stop the pony going forwards but they just lean forwards out of the saddle – they’re not strong enough in their seat yet.

“Get the child confidently rising first, ideally while trotting on the road so again they learn what forward feels like. When they’re confident holding a strap you can introduce the reins but put knots in them which sit on top of their fist. This is not only more comfortable for the child, but it also means that the handler can glance across and see if the reins are in the correct position – if the knot is on top, you can see they are holding the reins correctly.

“I would never ask them to gather the reins up until they have their balance in the saddle. Also, don’t use reins which are too thick as this can hurt a child’s hands.

“We only get our children to ride for 10 minutes or so at a time, too. It’s about little and often, so they get as many short bursts in the saddle as possible. We like all our young jockeys to do Pony Club stuff, including games, to improve their balance. Try and make it fun – no shouting if you can avoid it – they must enjoy what they’re doing!”

Gymkhana games are a great way for kids to develop balance – and have fun. (Image credit: Alamy)

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7 homework lessons for first-ridden combinations to build confidence and success for the new season

Alex Robinson — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 08:32:56 +0000

Winter training for the first-ridden pony – and their rider – will pave the way to confidence in the ring come the summer shows. Learning to ride off the lead rein is arguably one of the biggest leaps a rider will make in their equestrian journey. This year, a new batch of mini showing stars will be making the transition from lead-rein jockeys to first-ridden riders, foraying from the safety and security of a handler by their side.

The choice of pony will be one of the most influential factors in determining how successful a child’s adjustment will be, but ensuring that the pair enters the ring with plenty of preparation under their belts will be equally important. Consistent flatwork training, repetition of the class structure and consideration of the overall picture should all be considered when preparing your first-ridden combination for the season ahead.

First-ridden classes can be found in most show schedules across all levels, and they’re among the most competitive showing classes as young riders’ talent in the saddle continues to advance. At major shows and on the county circuit, there are separate first-ridden classes for show ponies and for M&Ms. Show hunter types do not have a first-ridden class at major finals, but some shows do accommodate them.

At major and county shows, M&M and show ponies have separate first-ridden classes. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Under British Show Pony Society (BSPS) rules, first-ridden show pony classes are open to riders who have not attained their 10th birthday before 1 January in the current year. M&M first-ridden ponies can be ridden by a rider who has not attained their 12th birthday before 1 January in the current year. No cantering is allowed on the go-round, only in the individual shows.

To provide younger jockeys with an initial experience of riding off the lead rein in the ring, some shows hold Tiny Tots sections. The Tiny Tots first-ridden class is open to riders who have not attained their eighth or ninth birthday (depending on whether it’s show pony or native classes) before 1 January in the current year. In the go-round, ponies will not be asked to change the rein. In their individual shows, ponies will be expected to walk up, trot back; cantering is optional, but no figure of eight or change of rein is required.

In the mini championships, first-ridden contenders will perform alongside the lead-rein combinations.

First-ridden pony training: 7 key lessons

H&H speaks to three of the circuit’s leading mini pony producers about training the first-ridden pony and child so that they are well-prepared for the upcoming show season.

1. The right pony for the job

First-ridden show ponies are some of the hardest to source given the need for them to be quality and super-safe in equal measures. Sara Parrott and her partner Craig Elenor run Craig Elenor Equestrian, a leading showing team specialising in producing ponies for the show ring. They were the producers of this year’s HOYS supreme pony winner, the mini show pony champion Derw Dream Boy and they have trained many champion first-riddens over the years.

“You can often tell if a pony has the right temperament very early on,” Sara begins. “Ultimately, if a pony is really sharp it’s likely going to be unsuitable and it needs a different job, even if it’s beautiful. There is a lot for ponies to deal with at those bigger shows, so they really need to have the brain to cope with the atmosphere; they need to be unfazed by most things.

“Our first-ridden show pony mare Seamoor Lady Derby, who won at HOYS in 2022, is totally unflappable and doesn’t care about anything. While she was very well started on the lead-rein by Oliver Burchell, she knows she’s a queen and therefore never feels the need to spook or be silly. She does, however, have her own set of rules which we must follow, and we do play by them to the letter. But she thinks she’s too important to be bothered about anything in the ring!”

Show pony Seamoor Lady Derby was started on the lead-rein by Oliver Burchell, but has proved equally adept as a first-ridden, produced by Sara Parrott. (Image credit: Anthony Reynolds)

Sharn Linney is a leading mini pony producer who has led and produced HOYS and RIHS champions. In 2024, Sharn was responsible for producing the RIHS M&M mini Heritage champion Thistledown Princess Letizia. Sharn agrees that if the pony has a can-do attitude, it has strong potential as a first-ridden mount.

“If a pony is sane and isn’t too sharp, nine times out of 10 they can be taught the job,” Sharn says. “The main things I would look for is ensuring a pony isn’t too headstrong or sharp, but otherwise most ponies can make great first-riddens, even if they’ve had other jobs previously. The show pony Hollybush Enchantment gave me the first HOYS win of my career as a lead-rein, but she later went onto be successful first-ridden, even finishing second at HOYS.”

“Most ponies can make great first-riddens,” says Sharn Linney, giving the example of Hollybush Enchantment, a HOYS winner on the lead-rein and reserve as a first-ridden. (Image credit: Steve Dawe)

2. Overcomplicating the process

With the show season approaching, it might be tempting in your first-ridden pony training sessions to push your mini rider to the maximum to try and perfect everything before their first show ring outing. This is a mistake, as Sara explains.

“So many people overcomplicate the process and this is where the problems come; they try to get the new first-ridden jockey to do too many things at once,” she says. “I always teach three things initially – go straight, go at a ‘speed of five’, and use all of your ring. In terms of straightness, I tell the child to think of a straight line through the ‘ears and shoulders to the tail’.

“To begin to work in a consistent rhythm and speed, if you tell the child to think that one is slow, and 10 is fast, they consider five as middle speed, which is about right for a first-ridden class.

“Then, if they use all of the ring, even when they go wrong in their show they can usually pull something together as they’ve got enough space. Giving more than three aims at once can overwhelm a young rider. Once these basics are in place, you can fine-tune the rest.”

Sarah Newbould (née Emmerson) is one of the circuit’s most consistent mini pony producers. Sarah and her father Peter have produced many HOYS and RIHS winners and they also run a popular riding school. Sarah recommends that, if possible, a child can benefit from having a fun pony to ride off the lead rein before the move onto their competitive first-ridden ride so they can find their balance and refine their technique.

“My children ride the riding school ponies a lot and it means they can learn the ropes without the pressure,” Sarah says. “Of course, not everyone has this luxury, but if they can ride something else alongside their beautiful first-ridden pony they can really benefit.”

3. Sat-nav errors

“Most of our time in winter is spent learning and practising shows,” says Sarah of first-ridden pony training. “And we teach the shows in trot initially before we even consider adding canter. We have two shows for our jockeys to learn – Sarah’s show and Peter’s show. One show is going towards the line-up and the other away from it. Then, when we’re at a show we can tell the children to ride either Sarah or Peter’s show depending on where the line-up is.

“We also get the parents to video their shows in training so the children can go home and practise on foot in the kitchen or garden – it really helps!”

4. Staying consistent

Establishing consistency in speed and rhythm can be tricky for young riders to grasp when they first fly solo, though keeping them on the ball in training will eventually follow through into the ring.

“During lessons, I will get the jockeys to ride loads of circles, changes of rein, figures of eights, and I’ll also get them to ride off the track, rather than just staying on the edge of the arena,” Sharn says. “It sounds simple but getting them to change direction helps the pace become more consistent as they’re constantly having to think about their riding.”

5. Working in a contact, while staying light

“The main thing is to get the rider to establish how to go straight and to go forwards,” Sara says. “Then, you can ask them to take a little bit more contact down the rein. I usually find that asking the rider if they can feel the same down each rein is a good way to work on straightness. If they ride at that speed of five while keeping the same feel down each rein, they begin to understand how to ride into the contact.

“When this is solid, I would slowly add in transitions, while again encouraging the child to keep the rein contact the same down each rein. If you can nail the rhythm and straightness, you can add the rest on easily.”

A first-ridden pony champion listening to their rider. (Image credit: Trevor Meeks)

6. Coping with nerves

“It’s so important to make sure the jockey is happy and that they don’t have too much pressure on them when they first start out – they’ve got to enjoy it,” Sharn says. “Problems are going to crop up on those first few outings, especially sat-nav issues, and it’s not going to be perfect straight away. Give yourself those first shows to make mistakes and ensure the combination gets a positive start to their partnership.

“Practice makes perfect, so even before you go out showing, get the pair out of their original environment at arena hires and to clinics.”

7. Finding the brakes

Sarah finds that when a child has been on the lead-rein for so long or have become accustomed to riding quiet ponies, they can struggle to move on to the more refined pony earmarked for the show ring. Training them to ride a first-ridden pony will require plenty of work on their seat security and position.

“Often, a child will have only ridden a pony who is super quiet and need kicking along,” Sarah says. “Some of these good first-riddens are like little Ferraris and consequently the child doesn’t know where the brakes are and they can’t stop them. Plus, early on, a child is unlikely to have a very strong seat and they tend to perch on the pony, which also makes it harder for them to stop.

“Dad will work on getting the children secure in the saddle while they’re standing still on their ponies, teaching them to keep their heels down and feel down the rein while sitting down and back. While I’m teaching, I will get the children trotting around before suddenly asking them to stop. They must learn to sit back and use their seat to stop. It’s so important they can pull up; I’ve seen so many ponies do the wall of death around the school and it’s frightening.”

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How to prepare your horse for a ride judge so they make the best possible impression

Bethan Simons — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 07:00:50 +0000

The prospect of seeing a ride judge legged up on to your horse can be daunting, and there’s nothing like watching a novice horse perform – or not! – with a judge on board for testing your nerves. But the right preparation can go a long way to alleviating the pressure on you and your horse.

Here we find out what a ride judge expects of your horse and how the professionals manage to make it look so easy.

Producer and panel judge Vicky Smith’s first step when preparing a horse for a ride judge is to make sure that they are used to being ridden in a host of different environments.

“I would start off by hacking, going to different arenas, going to dressage or showjumping competitions and so on, so that the horse is unfazed by what’s going on around them when a judge gets on and is more likely to give a good ride,” she explains.

Fellow producer Robert Walker also advises leaving your arena: “I do a lot of education out hacking or in the field to avoid arena boredom. The horse learns to move forward with its ears pricked and I then add some leg-yield, also working on softening him in the hand. The horse accepts these instructions yet still has the freedom to go forward.”

Vicky explains that she builds show-day requirements into everyday routines. “We always expect horses to stand patiently to be mounted, and practise getting on with a leg-up rather than a mounting block or a step whenever possible, as a judge will always be legged up by a steward,” she says.

Robert adds that “time spent on this is never wasted, at any age. The last thing a judge wants is for an animal to walk off before he or she is settled in the saddle. We make sure we have someone standing by the horse’s head when we mount and insist the horse stands for a few moments before being asked to move forward.”

Some horses can be reluctant to move forwards out of the line-up. To remedy this, Robert suggests: “Assemble a row of horses in the arena at home and ask the horse to move away from the line. If he is reluctant, have somebody stand behind him and gently tap a stick against their boot to encourage him. The aim is to encourage, not alarm.”

Once on the move, Vicky says that “it’s important that the horse is soft down the rein, but it also needs to be off the leg.”

This is something that experienced ride judge Michelle Underwood also stresses, and encourages riders to go without spurs at home as ride judges never wear them: “I know if I see a rider on the go-round who is kick, kick, kick, that horse is going to be dead to my leg when I get on without spurs.”

With this in mind, both Vicky and Michelle advise doing your homework on your judge. Try to find out if they will want a more forward or a quieter ride.

“I like to not kick and for a horse to really take me forwards, so you’d probably present your horse a bit sharper for me than some other judges,” says Michelle.

Both also emphasise that in preparation for ride judges, it’s important that your horse is used to different riders.

For Michelle, this is one of the most common problems she experiences, especially with amateur riders: “They are often the only one who rides their horse, so when a completely new person gets on board, the horse doesn’t always like it. This can happen with young horses, too, who are used to just one person. So, it’s really important that you ask riders of a variety of different sizes, heights, weights and styles to ride your horse – some who like to hold on and some who like to use a lot of leg.”

If your horse does have a tendency to be anxious with a new rider, Robert recommends you “assemble a line of people in the school and ask each one to approach the horse and rub him until he gains confidence. Then repeat the exercise and leg each person up onto the horse and ask him to move away at a walk. Repeat until he accepts this calmly.”

How to prepare your horse for a ride judge: do your homework

Finding out about your judge also helps with tack preparation.

“If I know I’m going to be judged by a tall man for example, I know I need to ensure that my stirrup leathers go long enough for him, and that my irons will be big enough to accommodate his feet,” states Robert. “Likewise, if I was a tall gentleman rider with a petite lady judge, I’d make sure I had leathers and irons that would be comfortable for her.”

Michelle agrees: “I don’t like having to put twists in leathers. If you don’t know, take a hole punch or a spare set of stirrups with you.”

While riding without spurs is good practice, riding with a stick is equally important in preparation, as ride judges always carry one.

“I sometimes get asked not to carry a stick when I am judging,” says Vicky. “But that isn’t fair on all of the other horses that I will ride in that class. It’s important show horses get used to you carrying one at home.”

Riding in a longer mac or jacket at home is also advisable.

“It’s a trend, particularly among those coming off ponies, to wear short jackets,” explains Michelle, adding: “This means that when a ride judge gets on with a longer jacket, the horse can be unsettled when the jacket tickles its back, whereas horses used to the feeling don’t react.”

Though you should always make sure that your bit is within the rules, both advise not following trends when it comes to bitting for the judge.

Michelle says: “I just like to see a happy horse. Don’t use a double ‘just because’, especially in novice classes. Use what your horse goes well in.”

As someone preparing novices season after season, Vicky recommends a rubber pelham as a good choice if you have a horse who is green or sensitive in the mouth.

Finally, always make sure that your tack fits the horse correctly.

“Just checking and maintaining tack before you set off for the show can make such a difference; when I judged at Balmoral one year, two side-saddle overgirths broke in one class,” says Michelle. “Remember some side saddle tack is over 100 years old so it needs to be maintained correctly. But whatever you do, don’t polish the seat of a side-saddle. It’s like riding on an ice rink!”

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Be ready to win with expert tips on last-minute planning and polish to ensure a successful show ring debut

Kim Wilson — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 16:28:03 +0000

Over the past few weeks, you’ve worked hard to transform your woolly mammoth into a sleek and polished show animal. Your prep has paid off, and now it’s time for the final countdown to show day – your first big event of the season. This stage isn’t about making big changes; it’s about fine-tuning your plans, perfecting the little details, and ensuring that both you and your horse are set up for success.

Here’s your week-long guide to getting show-ready, complete with a handy checklist and expert advice to help make your first outing of the season as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Final countdown to show day

The week before: planning and polishing

Pack the lorry or trailer

Packing in advance is key to avoiding last-minute stress. Follow our handy checklist to make sure you have all the essentials on board.

Pack up the horsebox with plenty of time to spare. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Final touches on your horse’s turnout

This isn’t the time for drastic changes but rather subtle refinements.

Tails: tidy the length and rake to achieve a polished look.
Trims: neaten chin hair, fetlocks, and stray hairs in line with the rules you are showing under. Avoid excessive trimming at this stage.
Shoes: ensure your horse’s shoes are in top condition. A quick check with your farrier earlier in the week can avoid unpleasant surprises

Checking shoes are in good condition will help avoid an unpleasant surprise. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Riding practice

Balance is key during this week. Avoid drilling your show routine every day – it can lead to anticipation or tension in your horse.

Instead:

Vary your workouts: combine hacking, pole work, and exercises to maintain fitness and suppleness.
Focus on position: use this time to fine-tune your own posture and apply any tips from recent training sessions.
Confidence boosters: if you’ve attended a clinic or practice show, revisit the advice you received to reinforce both yours and your horse’s confidence.

The day before: polish and prep

The day before the show is all about finishing touches and making sure everything is ready for a seamless morning.

Bath time

Final prep the day before the show. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Products: use whitening shampoos for socks and light-coloured areas, and conditioning treatments for a glossy coat.
Drying: ensure your horse dries thoroughly with a drying rug or heat lamps to prevent chills.
Protection: use tail bags, leg bandages, rugs, and Lycra hoods to keep your horse clean overnight.

Plaiting perfection

A well-plaited mane can transform your horse’s appearance.

Plaiting should enhance a horse’s topline, so make the most of it. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Measuring tips: mark your plaiting comb with a band to ensure even sections.

Adjust for proportion: add a few extra plaits to give the appearance of a bigger front or position them slightly on top of the neck for an illusion of more topline.

Use plaiting spray or gel to tame flyaways and practice using thread for a neat finish. Invest in a stitch picker to unpick plaits without damaging the mane.

If you plait the night before, cover with a Lycra hood to keep everything clean and secure.

Plan your journey

Route check: use a sat nav or map to plan your journey, accounting for traffic and unfamiliar routes.

Review the show’s information pack for details about stabling, parking, and collecting numbers. If bedding or hay is required, confirm where to collect it.

Ensure your lorry runs safely, MOT and tax are up-to-date, and you have valid breakdown cover.

Show day: calm, confident, and ready

Start the day right

Fuel yourself: don’t skip breakfast – a substantial meal will help you stay focused.

Don’t skip breakfast! (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Stay calm: early-season shows can be nerve-wracking, especially with big qualifiers. Create a “show morning” playlist to keep you calm and motivated.

Familiarise yourself with the showground. Arriving early gives you time to get your bearings. Walk around to locate the rings and warm-up areas. If possible, watch a class in your ring to get a feel for how it’s run and where key points like line-ups and individual shows are likely to happen.

Warm-up routine

Every horse has a different routine that works best.

If your horse is excitable, a quick lunge or groundwork session may help them settle before tacking up. If you prefer to warm up under saddle first, ensure your grooming and plaiting are spot-on beforehand, but have someone on hand for the last minute pre-ring polish.

Personalise your routine, so that you adjust your warm-up to match your horse’s temperament and the conditions of the day.

The final polish

Minimal product use: judges love a natural shine but will be put off by a horse dripping in oil.

Quarter marks: enhance conformation with clean, precise marks. Apply a holding spray and add marks at the last minute if it’s cold to prevent rubbing off.

Quarter marks add a final polish to your horse’s appearance. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Baby wipes: keep these handy for last-minute spills or stains.

Enjoy the day

Most importantly, remember to enjoy yourself! Stay positive – even if things don’t go exactly to plan, every show is a learning experience. The ultimate goal is to enjoy the partnership with your horse and celebrate your hard work.

Don’t forget to record the moment. Ask someone to video your class so you can review your performance and cherish the memory.

Big smiles – remember to have fun! (Image credit: Hamish Mitchell Photography)

By following this guide as your final countdown to show day and and staying organised, you’ll be ready to step into the ring with confidence. With all the prep work done, it’s time to shine. Good luck, and may your season be filled with success and fun!

Competition kit checklist

All set for departure. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Travelling

Travel boots/bandages
Tail bandage
Clean headcollar and rope (pack a spare rope in case one snaps)
Travel rug or Lycra bodysuit if your horse travels in one
Haynet for the journey

Ready to travel, with a hood protecting the plaits. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Lorry/trailer essentials

Horse water
Water buckets (for drinking and washing)
Spare hay
Muck skip and fork, brush
Sponges and sweat scraper
Mounting steps
First-aid kit (human and horse)

Grooming kit

Brushes (dandy, body, face)
Curry comb
Mane comb
Plaiting bands/needle and thread
Tail brush
Detangler
Make-up or gloss
Shine spray
Trimming clippers
Baby oil
Baby wipes
Ear plugs
Quarter mark spray and tools
Fly spray
Hoof pick
Hoof oil and brush
Leg whitener (if needed)
Hole punch
Scissors
Towel or cloth

Tack and horse kit

Show saddle
Show bridle
Bits
Curb chain & lip strap
Numnah
Girth
Working-in tack (if different from show tack)
Martingale and breastplates (if needed)
Lunge line
Spare stirrup leathers and reins
Working-in boots or working hunter boots
Tack cleaning kit
Cooler rug
Waterproof sheet
Fly sheet
Bandages and wraps

Rider clothes

Riding hat
Jodhpurs/breeches
Shirt
Tie and collar pin
Bows or scrunchies
Hairnet
Boots
Spurs (if necessary)
Jacket
Gloves (and spares)
Body protector (for working hunter classes)
Schooling whip
Show cane/whip
Number elastic
Evening performance outfit (if required)
Overcoat/waterproof

It’s not all about the horse’s polished appearance. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Paperwork

Horse passport
Lorry/trailer breakdown insurance documents
Entry confirmation (and horsebox pass)
Society membership cards
Copy of the schedule and timetable
Catalogue (if sent beforehand)

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Look at me, judges! Expert tips on preparing your show horse to stand out in the ring for all the right reasons this season

Kim Wilson — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 08:32:56 +0000

Set yourself up for success this season by preparing your horse for the show ring, so that each part of your performance is slick and confident both in and out of the saddle. Once your horse is fit and ready for more refined work, this is the perfect time to lay a solid foundation for you and your horse.

From reacquainting your horse with busy environments to perfecting routines and addressing weak areas, careful preparation can make all the difference. This guide focuses on three key areas: the go-round, the individual show, and the conformation section.

Preparing your horse for the show ring

Both the ridden aspect and the conformation phase deserve equal attention. As experienced producer and judge Stuart Hollings explains: “There is nothing more frustrating than a beautiful animal being badly stood up in front of you, refusing to stand properly, or needing to be dragged to walk away and trot back.”

Teaching your horse to stand correctly is one of the most important skills for the show ring. Show producer Sara Parrott highlights how groundwork plays a crucial role.

“The conformation stage accounts for 50% of the judging, so it should be given as much attention as the ridden phase,” she says. “I often hear clients say they can’t get their horse to stand in the ring, but when I see them unloading from the lorry or tacking up, the horse is already fidgeting. Horses and ponies need to learn to stand still whenever you work with them, or it will be very difficult to get them to listen in the show ring.”

Build skills such as learning to stand correctly into your daily routine, so that the horse or pony learns to do it naturally. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Sara suggests building standing exercises into your daily routine. For example:

When bringing your horse in from the field, take a few minutes to practise standing them up before going through the gate
While hacking, incorporate standing correctly when you pause to rest or when waiting to join a new road
Around the yard, lead your horse as you would in the show ring, ensuring they remain obedient and attentive

Whenever you lead your horse, do it correctly so that it becomes second nature to both horse and handler. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Sara adds that it’s equally important to practise the walk-away and trot-back phase.

“Your horse should be forward and straight,” she says. “Practise this regularly – either before or after your schooling sessions – so they are comfortable and confident in this critical aspect of showing.”

You can prepare your horse at home to walk and trot well when led, as if in front of a judge. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Tips for standing out in the conformation section

Judges often spend significant time assessing a horse’s conformation. Beyond standing still and in a good frame, focus on these areas:

Manners: a well-mannered horse that stands politely for their handler leaves a lasting impression
Preparation for inspection: practise leading your horse confidently and presenting them to the judge with clear, controlled movements

Preparing for the go-round

The go-round can be one of the most daunting parts of showing, as it tests both your horse’s schooling and their ability to remain calm and composed around others.

Show producer Vicky Smith advises: “Get your horse used to riding with others, especially during faster work, to ensure they remain calm and don’t get excited or start chasing the other horses.”

To replicate the atmosphere of the show ring, Vicky recommends introducing your horse to scenarios they will encounter.

“Ride with other horses in the arena so your horse becomes familiar with horses trotting and cantering in front of and behind them,” she says. “Practise standing in line with other horses to familiarise your horse with this part of the show. If possible, simulate a show environment at home with other riders to prevent your horse from feeling overwhelmed on the day.”

Riding in company – especially in the faster paces – will help your horse become accustomed to others in the ring. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Dealing with common go-round issues

Chasing : if your horse is tempted to chase others, use your schooling to reinforce half-halts and control transitions
Crowding: practise riding in groups at home or at clinics, finding a space and focusing on keeping a safe distance
Anticipation: regularly vary your schooling sessions to prevent your horse from anticipating the next movement

The individual show

Good schooling is vital for the individual show phase, whether it’s being assessed by a ride judge or performed independently.

Producer Kirstine Douglas warns against over-repetition: “Don’t just practise your individual show repeatedly, as your horse will begin to anticipate it – a pet hate of many judges.”

Instead, Kirstine suggests incorporating variety into your training programme.

“Incorporate exercises like shoulder-in, leg-yielding, and transitions into your schooling,” she advises. “Use pole work and raised poles to improve balance and engagement. Vary your activities, such as hacking through woods or practising standing still, to build suppleness and responsiveness.”

Mix sessions up, with a variety of activities such as polework to improve balance and engagement. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

By keeping sessions diverse, Kirstine notes that “you’ll ensure your horse stays engaged and listening to you”.

Key components of a polished individual show

Smooth transitions: ensure transitions are seamless, with clear upward and downward aids
Balance and engagement: your horse should carry themselves correctly, demonstrating lightness and impulsion
Flow: plan your show to flow naturally, avoiding overly complex or disjointed movements

Simulate performing your individual show in front of other horses, so that it’s no big deal in the ring. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Preparing horse for the show ring: get out and about

Once you’ve prepared thoroughly at home, taking your horse to local shows or arena hires is invaluable for reintroducing them to busy environments. For novice horses, ponies, or child riders, this step helps build confidence and familiarity.

Producer James Knipe shares: “There is great value in small winter competitions for new combinations, novice ponies, or riders lacking confidence. It’s a perfect opportunity to practise your routines, check your lorry is packed correctly, and get your horse accustomed to working in new places.”

Getting out and about helps build confidence and familiarity. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

In addition, many showing societies run winter clinics where participants can work with top professionals in a group environment. These clinics often replicate the structure of a show, providing opportunities to practise the go-round, individual show, and conformation section.

When it goes wrong

Early shows are a fantastic opportunity to identify and resolve problems, but perseverance is key. Top producers share their advice for overcoming common issues:

Overexcitement

The first show of the season, with all its strange sights and sounds, can put even experienced horses on edge. Vicky Smith advises considering your pre-show routine.

“Could you turn your horse out the night before? Do they need more working-in time?” she asks. “Would a quick spin on the lunge at the show help? Or do you need to adjust their feed to reduce energy levels? The show season is a constant process of brainstorming and problem-solving to get each horse right on the day.”

Spooking

Sara Parrott highlights how preparation at home can help minimise spooking: “Use props in your arena or at arena hire sessions – banners, flags, flowers, jump wings – anything you might encounter in the show ring. Don’t always work in a quiet space. Let them get used to kids, dogs, and loud music, as these are all part of the show field. If needed, consider earplugs. While they might not work for every horse, they can muffle loud noises and help some horses feel more settled.”

Your horse can be well prepared with props at home to cope with flowers and other spooky objects he may see in the ring. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

The wrong leg

Striking off on the wrong leg is a common issue, but Kirstine Douglas explains it comes down to basic schooling.

“Balance, straightness, and responsiveness to your aids are the foundation for success,” she says. “The more consistent your schooling is, the better prepared your horse will be in the ring.”

Learn from mistakes

Every rider has a show they’d rather forget, but the key is to use those experiences as learning opportunities. Seek advice from your coach, attend a clinic, or review your performance with a critical but constructive eye.

Vicky Smith encourages riders to reflect and make a plan: “Rewatch videos with your riding coach, list positives as well as areas needing attention, and set a timeframe to address issues. Plan to enter another show to chart your progress. Don’t give up – nothing worth having comes easy.”

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Expert tips to turn your hairy horses into showing stars ready to impress the judges

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Catch the judges’ eye – when to clip, trim and hot-oil to create a great first impression in the show ring

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Be ready to win with expert tips on last-minute planning and polish to ensure a successful show ring debut

Catch the judges’ eye – when to clip, trim and hot-oil to create a great first impression in the show ring

Kim Wilson — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 16:36:26 +0000

Preparing your show horse for the ring isn’t simply a case of getting it ready the night before. Like your fitness and training, the overall appearance is integral to the finished product, especially in this discipline. A polished look is just as important as ensuring your horse is fit and ready to compete. First impressions count, and attention to detail can set you apart in the judges’ eyes.

Proper preparation starts well before the season begins and requires careful planning and consistent care. From clipping and grooming to gear inspections, a thorough approach will help ensure you’re ready to shine when show day arrives.

Preparing your show horse for the ring

When to clip

When preparing your horse during colder months, clipping is essential to not only maintain a tidy appearance, but to ensure the horse can work in comfort without a thick winter coat causing excessive sweat and a risk of catching a chill while drying off afterwards. However, timing and technique are crucial to achieving optimal results.

The timing and technique of clipping is a delicate decision. (Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

There is often debate about the practice of clipping after January, as some believe it compromises the summer coat, but most recommend you focus on the welfare and workload of the horse.

Producer James Knipe advises: “Never clip the little ponies too soon; they can become sharp. The priority is to have a happy, confident child. Waiting until the better weather makes it much easier.”

Vicky Smith, an experienced horse producer, starts with a bib clip: “For the initial back-to-work programme of hacking, a simple bib clip is adequate. Then, choose the type of clip to match the workload and the individual animal.”

Producer Emma Holder emphasises the impact of changeable winter weather: “The old rule of never clipping after January is outdated. The weather varies so much now, so we wait until the winter coat starts to break.”

Show producer Sara Parrot agrees: “We rug and groom the ponies as they come in from the field, but we only clip once the winter coat starts to moult. Within a week, we have a summer coat.”

Maintaining a clipped coat helps keep the skin clean and conditioned. (Image credit: Andrew Sydenham)

Maintaining a clipped coat is equally important. Scottish-based show producer Kirstine Douglas highlights the significance of skin health: “A healthy coat comes from healthy skin. Feeding oils in the diet helps, but it’s also vital to keep the skin clean and conditioned. Using hot oil or hot washes to remove impurities keeps the skin supple and gives the best summer coat, regardless of clipping timing.”

Kirstine recommends a good hot cloth or wash after work to clean and condition the coat. Hot clothing with water as warm as you can handle, combined with baby oil or coat cleansers, leaves the coat looking and feeling its best.

Manes and tails

A well-groomed mane and tail enhance your horse’s overall presentation when preparing a show horse for the ring. Timing is everything when it comes to pulling or trimming, as well as knowing how to pull or tidy a horse’s mane. Planning these tasks to match your show dates allows for natural regrowth and avoids an uneven appearance.

Experienced producer and judge Stuart Hollings explains: “Trimming is an art. When done correctly, it can enhance an animal’s overall appearance. Always work in stages. Watching how the horse moves and holds its tail can help you trim to showcase its best features. Keeping a tail too long may draw attention to conformation faults rather than hiding them.”

Trim tails according to the horse’s movement and posture to showcase his best features. (Image credit: Philip Barker)

Maintaining cleanliness is crucial.

“I’d never work with a dirty mane or tail,” says Kirstine Douglas. “A good scrub is essential before trimming or tidying after the winter holiday.”

Kirstine also advises scissor-cutting thin manes and cutting tails to hock length before winter turnout to prevent breakage.

There’s also a shift away from traditional tail-pulling practices. Sara Parrot explains: “Craig never pulls tails. From a welfare and safety perspective, we use razors and rakes to achieve a neat, polished look without pulling.”

Razoring or raking the tail can achieve similar results to pulling. (Image credit: Philip Baker)

Regular maintenance – trimming and conditioning – prevents breakage and rubbing.

Finally, grease build-up on rugs can cause rubs. Washing hoods regularly or avoiding them entirely can protect manes.

“I prefer an extra rug rather than a hood to safeguard manes,” Kirstine adds.

Whiskers and ears

Trimming whiskers and the insides of ears has become a significant welfare consideration in recent years, with many shows implementing rules against these practices, in line with a ban in horseracing, and the FEI disciplines. The Great Yorkshire Show, for example, prohibits competitors with trimmed whiskers, reflecting a broader move towards prioritising equine welfare.

At present, only the National Pony Society has banned the trimming of whiskers for all breeds. Other societies may not penalise competitors for trimming these areas, but it’s important to check the rules of your governing showing society to ensure compliance with their rules.

Sara Parrot shares her approach: “We’ve left whiskers on for the past few years. They naturally wear down, and letting them grow avoids the thick, stubbly look that trimming creates.”

Rider preparation

Preparing your show horse with a polished appearance for the ring isn’t the end of the story; rider preparation plays a significant role. Fitness, nutrition, and conditioning ensure you’re ready to perform at your best.

Fitness coach and accomplished equestrian Katie Parry-Evans, of Gympony, offers key tips for riders:

Set goals and stay accountable: work with an equestrian fitness coach to set short, medium, and long-term goals. Regular check-ins and tailored plans help you stay on track.
Fuel your body: just like your horse, proper nutrition is essential. A diet rich in protein supports muscle repair, while hydration aids overall performance.
Consistency and recovery: fitness progress takes time, so stick to your plan and allow your body time to recover with rest days and adequate sleep.
Tailored exercises: incorporate core work for stability, unilateral exercises for balance, and mobility exercises to improve flexibility. Cardio activities like running or cycling enhance cardiovascular fitness and endurance. Katie says, “Core work promotes stability and allows you to feel more secure in the saddle. Core-strengthening exercises such as planks, dead bugs, and renegade rows are super for improving this area.”

Core exercises such as “renegade rows” improve your stability and strength. (Image credit: Maridav/Alamy)

Katie provides excellent advice: “We spend lots of time thinking about horse fitness, but rider fitness is equally important. Riding requires good cardiovascular fitness, core strength, stability, leg strength, and mobility. Incorporating transferable exercises into your gym routine will help you excel in the saddle and benefit your horse’s way of going.”

Preparation checklist

Early preparation ensures you’re not scrambling at the last minute or facing unexpected expenses. Use this checklist to stay organised:

Tack: inspect for wear and tear, ensure proper fit, and clean thoroughly
Rider gear: check show jackets, jodhpurs, and boots for fit and condition
Horse gear: ensure rugs, grooming tools, and boots are clean and in working order
Extras: stock up on grooming products, first-aid supplies, spare reins, and other essentials
Transport: double-check trailer or lorry condition, including brakes and lights

By starting your preparations early, you can avoid the stress of last-minute purchases and focus on the excitement of the season ahead.

A polished appearance reflects the hard work and dedication you’ve put into your horse and your partnership. By paying attention to details such as clipping, grooming, rider fitness, and gear preparation, you set yourself up for success in the show ring. The effort you put in now will pay off when you step into the spotlight.

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Expert tips for building up your show horse’s workload ready for the ring – with useful fitness timeline and warning signs

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Look at me, judges! Expert tips on preparing your show horse to stand out in the ring for all the right reasons this season

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Be ready to win with expert tips on last-minute planning and polish to ensure a successful show ring debut

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Best horse clippers for taming every type of winter coat

(Image credit: Hamish Mitchell Photography)

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Expert tips for building up your show horse’s workload ready for the ring – with useful fitness timeline and warning signs

Kim Wilson — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 08:38:12 +0000

The winter break offers a much-needed rest for both horse and rider, but as the New Year rolls in, so does the responsibility of getting your show horse fit and ready for the season ahead. For many, this process can feel like balancing on a knife’s edge – progress too quickly, and the risk of injury looms; progress too slowly, and you may struggle to meet your goals.

Rebuilding fitness requires a methodical approach. Walking forms the foundation, but when should you introduce trotting, canter, or hill work? What about the controversial topic of roadwork – should it remain a staple of conditioning programmes, or is it an outdated practice? Here, we’ll unpack these questions, explore the essential steps to take, and share insights from top professionals on best practices for bringing horses back to work.

Laying the foundation for getting a show horse fit: the walking phase

Walking may seem mundane, but it’s an essential first step in any fitness regime. This phase helps restore muscle tone, improve joint health, and engage core muscles, all while minimising strain on tendons and ligaments. For horses that have enjoyed a holiday turnout period, walking also provides a mental reset, allowing them to settle back into the rhythm of work.

The golden rule when planning a walking programme is to dedicate at least half the duration of the horse’s time off to this phase. For example, if a horse has had six weeks off, aim for three weeks of walking under saddle or in-hand before progressing to faster work. This calculated approach reduces the risk of soft tissue injuries and builds a solid base for the next stages.

Producer Vicky Smith believes six weeks of hacking is the best start to the season.

“Once they’ve had their holiday, I treat each horse like a blank canvas. Six weeks of hacking on the road is vital to slowly introduce them to work. I’d give them a bib clip and then, after a week, have shoes put back on. Once we’ve had the full MOT on each horse — backs, teeth, and saddle all checked — we increase the workload slowly.”

A bib clip is ideal initially as you gradually step up your horse’s workload. (Image credit: Nigel Baker/Alamy)

How to structure the walking phase

Week 1: begin with 20 minutes of walking per session, sticking to flat ground and straight lines. Gradually extend the duration by five minutes every few days.
Week 2: increase sessions to 30–40 minutes. Introduce changes in terrain, such as gentle inclines or uneven surfaces, to activate stabilising muscles.
Week 3: Build up to 50–60 minutes, adding basic lateral work like leg-yielding to enhance suppleness and coordination.

Walking is also an excellent opportunity to observe your horse closely. Are they moving evenly? Do they seem comfortable under saddle? Early detection of any stiffness or imbalance can prevent setbacks later.

Animal chiropractor Lucy Willis Fleming reinforces how important this stage is: “A good, energetic walk has many benefits. When every limb is engaged, it’s the gold standard in fitness. When I say walk, I mean engaged and marching out, not slopping along on a loose rein while you’re on your phone. It’s a really useful cardiovascular workout while giving gentle concussive stimulation to the body.”

The roadwork debate: outdated or essential?

Roadwork has long been a cornerstone of traditional fitness regimes, valued for its ability to prepare tendons and ligaments for more strenuous work through steady exercise on a consistent level surface. However, its place in modern conditioning is increasingly debated. Some vets warn of the potential for repetitive strain injuries caused by prolonged work on hard surfaces, while others argue that short, controlled sessions remain beneficial.

Roadwork – prolonged or high-speed sessions should be avoided, but there are benefits. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Proponents of roadwork claim it helps prepares tendons and ligaments for harder work by exposing them to controlled, repetitive strain. And working outside the arena offers mental stimulation for horses, particularly those bored by arena work.

Critics, however, point to risks such as concussion injuries from excessive work on hard ground, and increased wear and tear on joints, particularly in older or heavier horses.

Ultimately, the decision to include roadwork should depend on your horse’s individual needs. Lucy Willis Fleming advises finding a middle ground: “Short road hacks during walking phases can be beneficial, but avoid prolonged or high-speed sessions on tarmac. Consider other terrains like beaches or woodland tracks, which offer variety without the same risks.”

Progression: introducing faster work

Once your horse is has had sufficient time walking under saddle, the next step is to incorporate trot work. Like walking, this phase should be approached gradually, allowing the horse’s muscles, cardiovascular system, and soft tissues to adapt to the increased workload.

When to start trotting

Begin trotting after your horse has completed at least two to three weeks of consistent walking, provided they are moving freely and showing no signs of discomfort. This is where knowing your horse well is key to deciding when to increase the pace. Start with one to two minutes of trot, interspersed with walking, and build up over several weeks.

Key tips for trotting progression:

Focus on straight lines initially to reduce strain on joints and tendons.
Gradually increase the duration of trot segments, aiming for 10–15 minutes of total trot work per session by the end of the phase.
Avoid small circles or tight turns until your horse is sufficiently conditioned.

Start trotting for short periods initially and in straight lines. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Introducing canter work

Canter should only be introduced once the horse is comfortably handling at least 15–20 minutes of trot work. Like with trotting, start with short bursts in straight lines or large, sweeping turns. Canter encourages the horse to work harder through its hindquarters and to release its back muscles, but a horse can easily become sore if it is overused when the horse is not physically ready so proceed carefully.

The early canter work is ideally done out hacking, however many people do not have suitable bridlepaths or ground. Allowing the horse to find its natural balance is key. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Vicky Smith suggests starting canter work out hacking: “I find that introducing canter while hacking allows the horse to find their natural balance. From there, we build up to incorporating beach or farm rides, which provide more space and allow the horse to find their natural balance.”

Building strength: hillwork and polework

Both hillwork and polework are invaluable tools for improving strength, balance, and coordination. Incorporating these elements into your horse’s routine adds variety and targets different muscle groups, making for a more rounded fitness programme.

Walking uphill engages the horse’s hindquarters and core, while descending carefully strengthens stabilising muscles. Start with gentle slopes and short sessions before progressing to steeper gradients and trotting uphill.

Key tips for hillwork:

Begin with walking sessions lasting 5–10 minutes.
Gradually introduce trotting, but avoid cantering uphill until the horse is fully conditioned.
Allow plenty of rest breaks to prevent fatigue.

Polework promotes proprioception and engages the horse’s core. It’s also an excellent way to break the monotony of flatwork.

Sample polework exercises:

Walk poles: start with four poles spaced evenly for your horse’s natural stride length (3-3.5ft for most horses). Raise them slightly over time to encourage more lift.

Trotting poles: space poles 4.5–5 feet apart, depending on your horse’s stride. Introduce variations like fan-shaped or zigzag patterns for added challenge.

Polework adds variety and a challenge to your regular fitness work, as well as improving proprioception and engagement. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Top show producer James Knipe adds: “Polework gets your horse thinking and helps keep their mind fresh. Exercises that improve strength while staying in the lower gears are ideal for long-term soundness.”

Tack: vital details for getting your show horse fit

Time off can lead to changes in a horse’s condition, so it’s important to reassess your tack. A poorly fitting saddle or bridle can cause discomfort, leading to behavioural issues or even injury.

Susan Wilkinson, owner of Fylde Saddlery, highlights why a saddle check is essential after a winter break: “If a horse has been stabled, he may have gained body fat, but his muscles could have softened with lack of use. On the other hand, if he has wintered out, he will likely have lost weight to keep warm and lost muscle tone due to the time off.”

Keep an eye on your saddle fit – your horse may have changed shape while he was not in full work. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Susan explains how different horses can experience unique challenges during a break.

“Older horses can struggle to maintain their weight and often develop muscle wastage, especially in the trapezius muscle, which can make the wither more prominent. For young horses, growth spurts can make them temporarily croup-high.”

It’s important to watch for changes in how the saddle sits.

“Keep an eye on your saddle. Watch for movement – maybe it’s sitting to one side or moving forward – and check for any change in contact and clearance of the withers,” Susan advises.

For these reasons, Susan recommends regular saddle checks.

“I would suggest getting your saddle checked twice a year by a competent saddle fitter, but, ultimately, listen to your horse. He’ll tell you something’s not right with a change in behaviour, such as resisting being tacked up or ridden.”

Prevent girth rubs on unaccustomed skin by using padded or sheepskin girths. Gradually tighten the girth in stages. Keep girths clean and free from debris that could cause irritation.

A fluffy girth sleeve is helpful in preventing chafing on unaccustomed skin. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Susan recommends regular checks during the initial stages of training, particularly for horses returning after a break: “These simple steps can prevent discomfort and ensure your horse is happy to get back into work,” she says.

Get your show horse fit safely by recognising signs of overtraining

Overtraining can lead to physical or behavioural issues. Being attentive to these signs is crucial.

Physical signs:

Swelling or heat in legs
Stiffness or reluctance to move forward
Weight loss or dull coat condition

Behavioural indicators

Increased resistance under saddle
Anxiety or sourness during work sessions

Scottish equine vet Andrew Miller stresses the importance of knowing your horse: “Regular checks are essential with any changes in workload or feeding. Build up gradually and adapt when necessary—there isn’t a one-size-fits-all programme.”

The road to fitness after the Christmas break is one of careful progression and constant observation. By laying a solid foundation with walking, thoughtfully introducing faster work, and incorporating strength-building exercises, you can ensure your horse is ready to tackle the season ahead. Above all, remember that patience is key – every horse is an individual, and listening to their needs will always pay dividends.

Read the rest of this exclusive series for H&H subscribers…

(Image credit: Philip Barker)

Expert tips to turn your hairy horses into showing stars ready to impress the judges

(Image credit: Philip Barker)

Catch the judges’ eye – when to clip, trim and hot-oil to create a great first impression in the show ring

(Image credit: Philip Barker)

Look at me, judges! Expert tips on preparing your show horse to stand out in the ring for all the right reasons this season

(Image credit: Philip Barker)

Be ready to win with expert tips on last-minute planning and polish to ensure a successful show ring debut

Expert tips to turn your hairy horses into showing stars ready to impress the judges

Kim Wilson — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 16:40:55 +0000

Knowing how to bring a show horse back into work after a well-deserved break requires patience, planning, and attention to detail. Whether your horse has spent the winter holiday out in the field or enjoyed a lighter schedule, preparing them for the upcoming show season is about more than just fitness – it’s about ensuring their overall health, happiness, and readiness to perform at their best.

In this five-part series, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the key stages of transitioning your horse from holiday mode to show-ready. From managing their return to the stable and adjusting their diet to rebuilding fitness systematically and addressing essential health checks, this series offers practical advice and expert insights for every stage of the journey.

The aim is to help you set your horse up for a successful, safe, and enjoyable season ahead, all while promoting their long-term wellbeing.

The importance of the winter holiday

The winter holiday is a cherished tradition in the showing world, offering horses and ponies a chance to unwind and recharge after a demanding competitive season. For many, this period is not just a break but a crucial opportunity to safeguard their long-term physical and mental well-being. As renowned show producer Vicky Smith explains, “Horses are herd animals, and we often take them out of their natural environment, stabling them and travelling with them. It’s important for them to switch off.”

However, transitioning a horse back to work after a break requires careful planning and patience to ensure their health, well-being, and long-term performance. Vicky adds, “I feel strongly that people need to be educated about bringing horses back to work correctly. It’s not a race – it’s a slow process. If you rush this stage, you’ll be on the back foot all year.”

If you have given your horse a decent break and are feeling daunted by the road ahead, rest assured that the holiday was worth it. For Stuart Hollings, a British Show Pony Society (BSPS) judge with over 50 years of experience in the show world, the benefits are clear.

“The winter holiday is important because good ponies shouldn’t be rushed, especially early in their careers,” he says. “They become switched off and don’t want to play. Some ponies need time to mature, and the winter holiday can make a difference, especially between the novice and open year. I’ve seen so many good ponies burnt out by continuous showing.”

A winter holiday has many benefits, allowing the horse to relax and mature, avoiding the chance of burnout from constant pressure. (Image credit: Alamy)

As the new season looms, the challenge becomes how to transition horses safely and effectively from their holiday back to work. This process requires careful planning, gradual adjustments, and a deep understanding of the horse’s individual needs.

How to bring a show horse back into work: first steps

The first stage in bringing your horse back into work involves reintroducing routines gradually to minimise stress. Horses who have spent weeks turned out need time to acclimatise to stabling, handling, and grooming.

“Suddenly bringing a horse straight off grass into a full stable routine can cause unnecessary stress,” Vicky Smith advises. “Start with short periods inside and increase them gradually. Keep their stable environment calm, clean, and inviting, with plenty of forage to mimic their outdoor diet.”

Transitioning from full turnout on grass to hay should be done gradually. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Even if your horse remains living out, most working horses will have changes to their diet. Transitioning from grass to hay should be done carefully to avoid digestive upset. Hard feed should be introduced gradually, starting with low-energy, high-fibre options and adjusting if needed as their workload increases. Scottish-based vet Andrew Miller BVMS MRCVS emphasises the importance of pacing: “Slowly introduce feed to match the workload. Good haylage may be enough to start with, avoiding the risk of overexciting the horse with energy-rich food.”

Grooming and handling also play a key role. Light grooming preserves the natural oils in the coat, which provide essential protection during cold and wet conditions. Handling sessions should be calm and consistent to help the horse settle back into their routine.

Light grooming in the early stages of the horse’s transition from the field will preserve the body’s natural oils. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Care and checks: the essentials

Before embarking on ridden work, it’s vital to ensure your horse is physically ready for the demands of the upcoming season. A full “MOT” is essential.

Feet

Farrier and top producer James Knipe offers valuable advice on hoof care during and after the winter holiday.

“I’d either suggest taking the shoes off and giving them a nice edge if turned away, or if they are still part-stabled and it’s a stony yard, maybe just take the back shoes off. It very much depends on the pony’s feet,” he explains.

When bringing horses back into work, James recommends starting with normal shoes for the first couple of sets.

“They give more support to the foot,” he says. “Then, when my clients start showing, we transition to aluminium plates. However, aluminium plates all summer can start to break the foot up, so I advise my clients to keep these on for the shortest possible time.”

James also highlights the benefits of a winter holiday for hoof health.

“The break is great for the feet. Bacteria can get into the nail holes, but the holiday allows natural new horn growth. Very rarely do you get problems with natural feet out in the field — issues like thrush are more common with bedding.” For barefoot horses, James advises trims every month to maintain hoof balance and health.

“A healthy diet is the most important factor for strong, healthy feet,” he adds. “I recommend feeds with biotin for growth and a good hoof moisturiser to prevent brittleness, especially if black show stains have been used during the season.”

Teeth

A dental check is essential before reintroducing a bit, as even minor issues can cause significant discomfort during work. Equine dental technician Chris Warren explains, “Your horse’s teeth play an important role in maintaining a healthy gut. Their teeth are constantly changing, and left untreated, they can become extremely sharp. This can cause varying degrees of discomfort, especially when eating or being exercised, which in turn can lead to behavioural problems. A thorough check from a qualified dental technician after the holiday, along with regular follow-ups, is crucial to keeping your horse’s mouth healthy.”

Backs

Keeping your horse’s back healthy will enhance his performance by ensuring he is pain-free. The timing of this depends on the advice of your horse back specialist. Some prefer to check before work begins, while others recommend an assessment during the first few weeks.

Making sure the horse’s back is healthy and pain-free is important as their workload starts to ramp up. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Animal McTimoney chiropractor Lucy Willis Fleming explains, “Getting your horse back to work after the holiday takes careful preparation. Getting this bit right sets the tone and foundation for going forward. It takes about two months for the cardiovascular system to get back to pre-holiday capacity. Depending on the lifestyle and age of the horse, it can take another month for the musculoskeletal system to be ready and stress-resistant.”

Body condition

Monitor your horse’s weight and muscle tone weekly. Horses often lose topline during their break, so adjust feeding and workload accordingly.

Weekly measuring with a weigh tape will help you monitor condition. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

“Time in the field allows the body to relax, but it’s important to rebuild strength slowly,” says Vicky Smith.

Clipping

When to clip depends on workload and coat condition. Vicky recommends starting with a bib clip during early fitness work.

“Fully clipping too soon can make some horses sharp in the cold. Wait until they’re working consistently,” she advises.

Weeks of hot oiling and grooming can help prepare the coat for clipping and maintain its quality.

Elbow grease: grooming and hot oiling will prepare your horse’s coat for clipping. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Timeline for how to bring show horse back into work

The time it takes to bring a horse from field condition to show readiness varies, but most require 8–12 weeks to reach show fitness. Vicky Smith outlines her process: “Once they’ve had their holiday, I start them like a blank canvas. Six weeks of hacking on the road slowly introduces them to work.”

Hacking is ideal for bringing horses back into work, allowing them to strengthen up and adjust to the new routine. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Week 1–4

Bringing a show horse back into work is about building up incrementally. Begin with 20–30 minutes of hacking daily. This allows tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues to adjust to a gradually increased workload while allowing the horse to mentally adjust to their new routine.

Show horse producer Collette McGoldrick advises, “Hacking is the best way to bring your horse back into work. We hack out for a few weeks before we start any schooling. If you don’t have access to hacking and only have a school, don’t ask them to do too much too soon. Just ‘hack’ them around the school in walk. Make sure your walk has a purpose, focusing on symmetry and rhythm.”

Week 4–6

Introduce short trot sessions, progressing to longer durations. Increase the trotting by roughly 10% every day. For example, if you are trotting for 10 minutes, increase to 11 minutes the next day. Add gentle hillwork to your hacking. When you feel it’s time to start schooling, keep it light and varied, introducing polework to improve strength and suppleness.

When trot work is introduced, increase by about 10% each day. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Week 7–9

Incorporate canter work and increase schooling intensity. At this stage, lateral work can help build balance and engagement. Focus on your warm-up and cool-down routines. This is especially important as muscles are developing and it significantly reduces the chances of injury. Consider using different terrains such as grass, road, hills, and beach to continue your fitness work.

Riding on different surfaces helps to develop muscle tone and can improve the horse’s proprioception. (Image credit: Alamy)

Chiropractor Lucy Willis Fleming explains, “The wider your foundation, the more solid your base is. By training on different surfaces, you strengthen and engage all the smaller connective tissue, which in turn supports the bigger muscles and makes your horse stronger.”

Week 10–12

Focus on fine-tuning fitness and preparing for the challenges of the show ring. By this point, your horse should be in full work and ready to compete. This is a good time to start looking at some smaller, local shows or arena hires for valuable pre-season preparation. Working in different venues can help your horse adjust to new environments and regain confidence in the ring.

Make sure your paperwork is up to date

January is an excellent time to ensure all your paperwork is in order. Renew memberships, check vaccination records, and book any necessary Joint Measurement Board measurements. Taking care of these administrative tasks early will save you time and stress as the show season approaches.

The off-season is an ideal time to check all your paperwork is up to date. (Image credit: Phil Barker)

Final thoughts

Knowing how to bring a show horse or pony back to work after a winter break is about so much more than just physical fitness. It’s about ensuring their health, happiness, and longevity in the sport. With careful planning, patience, and expert guidance, you can set your horse up for a successful showing season.

“Good preparation in January is the key to a winning season,” Vicky Smith reminds us. By taking the time to transition gradually and addressing every aspect of your horse’s care, you’ll be well-positioned to shine when the show season begins.

Read the rest of this exclusive series for H&H subscribers:

(Image credit: Philip Barker)

Expert tips for building up your show horse’s workload ready for the ring – with useful fitness timeline and warning signs

(Image credit: Philip Barker)

Catch the judges’ eye – when to clip, trim and hot-oil to create a great first impression in the show ring

(Image credit: Philip Barker)

Look at me, judges! Expert tips on preparing your show horse to stand out in the ring for all the right reasons this season

(Image credit: Philip Barker)

Be ready to win with expert tips on last-minute planning and polish to ensure a successful show ring debut

Perfect your working hunter pony’s performance with solutions to 7 common problems

Alex Robinson — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 12:16:03 +0000

Without the pressure of high profile competitive outings on the immediate horizon, winter provides the perfect opportunity to hunker down and get some working hunter pony training hours in the bag. While the off-season provides a chance to take a break, if you have ambitions of jumping any of the circuit’s most challenging rustic courses this year, then you’ll need a training plan in place. With up-to-height fences, challenging lines and spooky obstacles to tackle, riders need to do their homework if they want to mix it with the best in working hunter pony classes.

Training for working hunter pony classes requires a three-pronged approach. As well as a fault-free and stylish jumping round, combinations must then perform an equally impressive show on the flat, before the pony is presented for the conformation phase.

Under British Show Pony Society (BSPS) rules, working hunter classes are scored out of a total 100 marks. During phase one, 50 marks are awarded for a clear jumping round, with 10 points being deducted for a knock down, 15 for a first refusal and 20 for a second refusal. A third refusal results in disqualification. A total of 20 marks are then awarded for style and manners while jumping. In the second phase, 20 marks are on offer for manners and way of going during the indvidual show, and 10 for conformation, type and freedom of action.

Success in working hunter pony classes does not just come from a clear round, as in showjumping; style during the jump phase is essential and ponies must then retain their manners and way of going on the flat, which can be a challenge for some.

Working hunter pony training: common problems

H&H chats to some of the showing world’s most consistent working hunter pony riders and producers to gather training tips designed to solve some of the most common problems seen so you can ensure your winter programme is finely tuned ahead of the upcoming season.

Georgia Darlington is a leading working hunter pony rider who has won at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) on multiple occasions. She was M&M working hunter pony champion at HOYS in 2015 on Tynwydd Good Friday (Smartie) and she also won the intermediate final there in 2022 on Jara. She has also won the RIHS twice as well as multiple BSPS and county show championships.

1. Bullfinches

“If a pony is going to be spooky, it’s usually at a water tray or a bullfinch,” Georgia explains. “A bullfinch can cause trouble if you’re on a particularly careful horse as they think they must go over the top of it. They will often jump it too big first time and worry themselves, or they simply don’t understand what you’re asking of them from the off.

The aim is to jump through and not right over the bullfinch. (Image credit: Trevor Meeks Photography)

“At home, I would start by opening the brushes up really wide on each side of the jump so the horse can see their way through the middle, gradually moving them in each time they go over it. Then, I’d fix the brushes so they gently skim the underneath of the horse. I’d work it up until they’re confidently jumping a full bullfinch.

“I’ve had a few ponies who always wanted to jump over the top of a bullfinch. Both Smartie and Jara would leap it as they are such careful jumpers. Though once they knew there was a path through, there was no problem.”

2. Water trays

A water tray is often the bogey fence of the course and, as Georgia explains, some horses never become fully confident with them. Learning how to jump a water tray should be a key part of training for working hunter pony classes.

Jump as many water trays as you can at home, or all sizes and shapes. (Image credit: Jon Stroud Media)

“My worker Lisa’s Dream can be cheeky with them, and I can still never completely trust her with one, even at 18 years old,” she says. “Some never get better and you must always be ready for them to spook in the ring, though you can put the practice in at home. Before every single show, Lisa will jump a water tray the day before, and when I first go into the ring to jump, I will trot past the water tray so she can see it and knows it’s there.

“When training, it’s important to try and jump as many water trays as you can, of all sizes and shapes. At home, we have a water tray which is made up of four separate squares, meaning you can start with two squares under the jump but pulled apart so the horse can go through the gap in the middle. Then, we’d put a pole over the top so the horse pops the gap but over something. You can build it up to putting the squares together to make a full tray before adding water.”

3. Being unsettled during the show

“Many riders can overlook the show section of a working hunter pony class, which is just throwing away marks,” Georgia says. “Some ponies can be buzzy after jumping so ensuring you do enough flatwork at home can help. A pony needs to realise that they must settle back down after they jump.

“My top 14hh worker, Conan Spartacus, was particularly buzzy after his round. So, after practising his jumping I’d always do some flatwork on him, mimicking the situation as if I was coming out of the ring. Also, I’d make sure I started my show quietly, never pushing off into trot too fast and consequently hyping him up.

“My flatwork schooling is never overly exciting, just lots of basic work; lots of leg yielding, including circles, pushing out onto a bigger circle before leg yielding back in again. This works on suppleness as well as ensuring they’re always off my leg, which is vital.”

4. Lacking straightness

Amy Canavan-Smith is one of the circuit’s most consistent native pony specialists. She has produced ponies to the top on both the flat and over fences and she’s also a popular trainer. She has won HOYS and the RIHS several times and has been champion at both. She has also been champion at Royal Windsor and has won all major M&M working hunter championships on the circuit. Her most prolific worker ride is Connemara Laburnum Richard.

“The biggest issue I see in ponies I haven’t started myself, irrespective of breed or type, is a lack of straightness,” Amy says. “It’s so important to consider, especially when you’re jumping some of the courses built by the likes of Lisa Kelly and Graham Barclay, which always have offsets in them. If you’re coming around the corner and the pony throws a shoulder and has too much inside or outside bend, it’s going to make getting the right line 10 times more difficult.

“I would be improving straightness by working away from the side of the arena and riding plenty of transitions while staying off the track. I notice that, especially during indoor winter training clinics, that many ponies turn on the inside bend and stay on that same bend down the side.

“I would, therefore, be working down the three-quarter line and adding in transitions, walk to canter, and canter to walk. It’s discipline work but it’s also keeping them moving between your hand and your leg. The more you take with the hand, the more a pony throws its hindquarters out, too.

“The heavier breeds are harder to straighten. My former 133cm contender, the Highland Aigas Of Achnacarry, was a pocket rocket, but he was on the front end. If someone less experienced had got him, they might have put him in a stronger bit, but it wasn’t just a case of lightening him in the mouth, he needed bringing up from the leg. Initially, he would dive into the bottom of a fence, just going faster when you put your leg on him. He would turn from his head, not his body, so I’d do lots of work on a straight line.

“In the collecting ring, I would jump a fence, keep him straight and ask him to halt. It’s very tempting, while warming up at a show, to jump and get into the rat race with the others and constantly stay on a turn.”

Amy Canavan-Smith’s working hunter pony contender Highland Aigas Of Achnacarry, who benefited from lots of work in straight lines. (Image credit: Trevor Meeks Photography)

5. Walking the course

“I cannot stress how important the course walk is,” Amy says. “So many riders walk the course but only to learn the route. In workers, it’s all about style and how you jump your round. Of course you want to go the right way, but you want it to look as smooth as possible.

“Take your time while walking; you can socialise with your friends later! Look at the angles to each fence and consider which approach will work best. It’s not just jumping fence one, two, etc, it’s judged as a collective. It doesn’t always go to plan, but if you go in with a plan at least you’ve given yourself the best chance of success.”

6. Uneven rhythm

Kelly Ward, a leading working hunter rider who has won HOYS, the RIHS and Windsor as well as all other major shows, has some useful advice on rhythm. As well as her own achievements, she has also trained and produced combinations to win at all major championships and finals. Her daughter Ruby Ward is a star working hunter pony rider, who has also reigned at HOYS, the RIHS and Windsor on various heights, plaited and M&M. In 2022, Kelly and Ruby’s 133cm contender Noble Peppermint was supreme at HOYS after winning the working hunter pony of the year championship with Elsie Lynch.

“A lot of riders think that they must work on their rhythm around a course of fences, but there’s no reason why you can’t begin by nailing your rhythm and flow around a set of poles on the ground,” Kelly explains. “If you can canter around six poles on the floor with ease in a good rhythm, then you can move up to a course of cross poles, then add the fillers, and so on.

“Improving a pony’s canter will also improve the rhythm over jumps. If a pony can’t canter in a good rhythm on the flat, you can’t expect it to produce that around a course of fences. A good exercise to improve the canter is working over poles on related distances. You can also work on lengthening and shortening the canter on the flat, pushing on and then bringing it back. This will make it easier to collect within the pace when needed in a tighter arena, but lets you push on when needed if jumping in a big open space.

Cantering over poles on the ground is a great way to develop rhythm and ultimately a better jump. (Image credit: Lucy Merrell)

“Ruby’s current 143cm working hunter pony Lady Dublin Of Corderry, who was champion at the RIHS and a winner at HOYS this year, struggled with her canter when she arrived. We spent a lot of time on lengthening and shortening her up. She’s a very forward pony and would struggle with collection at times.”

7. Riding on different surfaces

Kelly says one common problem she notices is that younger riders don’t have experience of riding on enough different surfaces, a symptom of modern day showing where so much takes place on artificial surfaces.

Getting out of the arena to ride on varied terrain when conditions allow will stand combinations in good stead for success in grass rings. (Image credit: Emma Herrod Photography)

“Years ago, you’d be riding on grass week in week out, but today most shows are held at equestrian centre on surfaces,” she says. “Therefore, come summer, some jockeys won’t have jumped on grass, causing them to panic, especially over the bigger tracks at shows like the RIHS final at Hickstead.

“Riders aren’t used to jumping on uneven ground with inclines, and they get a bit lost without the railings around them. They then forget everything else they’ve learnt! My advice is to practise on grass as much as possible, so you’re prepared once you get to some of the lovely county shows which have big grass rings.”

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How to apply perfect quarter marks with Jayne Ross

Carol Phillips — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 07:30:35 +0000

In our exclusive video, top showing producer Jayne Ross demonstrates how to do quarter marks and explains how to choose the right quarter marks to enhance your horse’s hind quarters.

Jayne says: “Quarter marks are normally the final thing that are applied before riders go into the ring.

“Hunters are meant to be a free and easy forward going horse, that has scope and fluidity. So the quartermarks should be big and bold, like the horse itself, and follow the contours of the horse’s hind quarters.

“Riding horses should be similar, but the strokes don’t need to be as broad and bold, so they require a bit more precision. As the riding horses sit between hunters and hacks, the design shouldn’t be too technical or fussy.

“With hacks you can be more artistic. Some people use stencils, but we still use the traditional chopped up comb to make a chequerboard patten. We use a slightly larger comb for large hacks than small hacks, while tiny combs can be used to produce hundreds of little squares on show ponies. We tend to go with what fits on the individual horse’s backside without looking too busy.

“Remember that quarter marks are supposed to enhance the appearance, not be a distraction.”

Top tip: how to do quarter marks on a horse with weak hindquarters

Jayne adds: “If you have a horse that is slightly lacking in the hindquarters – perhaps a little immature or not as ‘made up’ as you’d like at the beginning of the season – don’t overdo the quarter marks. Less is often more, so don’t try to be too busy and put too much there.

“Put two stripes down rather than three and space out your sharks teeth – don’t put four or five, use three. You’re trying to encourage the person looking at the horse to think they are looking at a bigger area than they really are. If the horse is lacking topline on the hind quarters, then make sure all of your lines are very rounded too.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout the Paralympic Games, Burghley, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘What could I do to be a bit different?’: how taking a risk helped this rider secure his first RIHS supreme title

Alex Robinson — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 15:30:16 +0000

Winning a supreme at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS) is a dream for most riders and producers who compete in the show ring. This year’s horse and pony showdowns were as spectacular as ever, with each competitor putting on the performance of their lives in the hopes of capturing the three judges’ eyes, and earn their highest scores.

Craig Kiddier and Sue Tennant’s Mulberry Lane qualified for the horse supreme after winning the working hunter championship for the second year on the bounce. The pressure was on for huntsman Craig as he came forward for the supreme 12 months ago aboard “Obi” and the pair finished reserve, one mark off the title.

Obi, a nine-year-old sired by OBOS Quality, has been Craig’s ride for several seasons, though 2023 was the first time either of them had jumped at the RIHS before.

“Last year was the first time either of us had done the workers here, so to win and go champion was a dream come true,” said Craig, when he chatted to H&H’s showing editor Alex Robinson on episode 152 of The Horse & Hound Podcast. “The pressure coming back this year was immense.”

Earlier in the week at Hickstead, Craig and Obi also finished second in the middleweight hunter final, providing the pair with their first of three spins in the iconic main arena.

In the supreme, they were fifth to perform before the three judges, Philip Hilton, Joy Hall and Frances Youngs. Craig’s stand-out moment in his show was when he turned and headed towards the first fence of the Hickstead Derby course — a solid stone wall.

Craig explained how he planned his performance: “To be honest, I am a bit of a worrier in some ways, so the night before I was lying there thinking what could I do to make my show a little bit different. Last year, Obi did the most beautiful show, though I wanted to jump something this time. I spoke to one of the stewards about going up the bank and he said absolutely not, but I could go through the water. I thought that was a big ask for Obi to go from the grass, onto the rubber and into the water.”

At the last hour, the stewards conferred and said Craig could jump the wall if he wished.

“It was all very last minute and I hadn’t really planned where I was going to go; it kind of just happened. I galloped up the front, turned to the wall and I really didn’t get the best stride to it! But Obi said he could do this and he was just incredible. It was an amazing moment.”

2024 Royal International Horse Show supremes: pony winner Rosscon Copycat

Reise Shakespeare and Rosscon Copycat, pony supremes at the 2024 RIHS final. (Image credit: Elli Birch/Bootsandhooves)

In the pony supreme just moments later, history was made when producers David Jinks and Adam Forster of Team Jinks fielded both the supreme and reserve. Reise Shakespeare and show hunter pony champion Rosscon Copycat took the supreme, with Violet Mennie and mini supreme Newoak Midnight Blue, a lead rein contender handled by Adam, the reserve.

Both 19-year-old Reise and Violet and Adam finished their shows on scores of 26/30, prompting a rare ride-off. In the end, it was Reise and six-year-old Copycat who took the crown.

Adam also spoke on episode 152 of The Horse & Hound Podcast when he recalled going head-to-head with his teammate: “It was so special. It was a situation that may never be repeated again. Obviously we’re all incredibly competitive; Reise wanted to beat me and I wanted to beat Reise, but ultimately it’s coming back to the same yard.

“Reise has ridden for us since he was out of 12 handers and he’s come right up the ranks with us. I was very, very proud of him, and for producing both animals. Reise made me laugh after the supreme; he said ‘thank god you were running and we weren’t riding against each other as the result probably would have been very different’.”

To hear more from the stars of the 2024 Royal International Horse Show listen here to episode 152 of The Horse & Hound Podcast or search “The Horse & Hound Podcast” in your favourite podcast app.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout the Paralympic Games, Burghley, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘Practice makes perfect’: how to impress the judge when showing in-hand

Rebecca Haywood — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 12:00:09 +0000

Whether you’re a dab hand at showing or considering doing it for the first time, the following expert advice on how to show a horse in-hand from judges and producers will set you up for success.

If you’re showing a specific breed or a youngster, there are in-hand classes for all types of horses and ponies.

“There’s probably a class for every breed or type if you look at schedules,” says Emma Edwards-Brady, a judge for the British Show Horse Association (BSHA), the British Show Pony Society (BSPS) and the British Skewbald and Piebald Association (BSPA).

“Youngstock can be shown in hunter, hack and riding horse classes as well as sport horse breeding sections. Native breeds are also shown in-hand, as are foreign breeds, miniatures and veterans too,” adds Emma, who has successfully shown youngstock in-hand from her family’s Runnon Stud.

Why show in-hand rather than under saddle?

You may want to try something new with your horse, or the start of a breeding programme will lead you to the show ring.

“I think it’s a good idea to show youngstock in-hand a few times, even if it’s just to get them prepared for when they come out under saddle,” says Emma.

In-hand showing is also a useful shop window for promoting a specific breeding line.

“As a breeder you’re promoting your stud and other youngstock,” adds Emma. “With good results it will hopefully lead to getting better prices when you sell them on. Plus there’s not many age restrictions for showing in-hand so it attracts children through to grandparents alike.”

How to show a horse in-hand: five ways to prepare for the ring

1. Do your homework

“Your horse or pony must be used to being led in walk and trot in a nice outline,” says Emma. “Some horses naturally come on the bridle, but others need a little help. You might need to long-rein and/or use a roller and side-reins to encourage them into the correct outline.”

2. Making sure you are leading your animal correctly is imperative, stresses producer Jack Cochrane, who has won the prestigious in-hand championship at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

“You should be at the shoulder and have him in front of you,” explains Jack. “If the horse is strong, use a bridle to keep him in check. If he won’t go forward, have a long whip to keep him moving. This should be done daily when leading to and from the field.”

3. Should you find your horse keeps moving away from you while being led, Jack recommends doing the following training.

“Take him into a school or stand him up against a wall or hedge and lead him from the near side, but on the left rein so that he can’t move away from you. Gradually move away from the wall until you can trot him up and he stays straight. Then gradually change the rein until you have him going in a straight line.”

4. Make sure your animal is exposed to spooky objects in training so that they are less likely to react in the ring.

“If you’re doing a sports horse class make sure your horse is used to walking and trotting around poles and flower pots as they can sometimes look very scary, especially to a spooky, young animal,” says Emma.

5. Practice makes perfect

“Your animal shouldn’t be trying to rub, bite reins, looking for treats or fidgeting as it spoils the overall picture,” says Emma, who advises getting a friend to act as a judge.

“You need to get your horse used to standing still while the judge looks around him. Practice standing your horse square and make sure the judge will be able to see all four legs,” advises Emma.

How to stand your horse up correctly

When the judge is at the side

“The inside front leg should be slightly ahead of its other fore leg, and its outside hind leg should be slightly stretched back from the other hind leg, but the cannon bone should be vertical,” says Emma. “This should only be fractional so that the horse is still square and vertical.”

When the judge moves to the other side

“Move your horse forward or back a stride so it stands the same the other side. Make sure your horse’s legs are pointing straight — it’s very easy for a horse to stand pointing a toe out or in when stood up,” adds Emma.

Stand square

“Make sure there is a nice distance between the two front feet and the two back legs. You don’t want your horse to be to narrow, nor do you want to be able to push a wheelbarrow between its front legs.”

How to show a horse in-hand: top tips for the day

1. Carry a stick

“To help keep your horse straight when in the ring carry a smart stick and have it in front of you and up level with the horse’s nose,” says Jack. “If he tries to bend his head to the left, lift the stick towards his nose to help to keep him straight.”

2. Look interested

“Try to get your horse to prick his ears and look interested in life so that it shows off their front,” says Emma.

3. Keep out of the way

“When the judge stands in front of your horse make sure you stand to the side so the judge has a good view of your horse’s front,” adds Emma.

“Walk away and trot straight back passed the judge. I like to keep trotting until the judge has stopped looking, but always be aware of the line up of other horses in the ring,” noted Emma.

4. Turn correctly

Jack advises that the handler should walk straight away from the judge for about 20 yards and turn the horse away from you to the right. “The horse is then on the inside of the turn before you trot straight back towards the judge.”

5. Consider the terrain

“If the ring is on a slight hill try to walk down and trot up,” says Emma.

6. Stay straight

“Stand your horse on the flat as best as you can. Practice makes perfect so make sure your horse gets used to trotting towards someone in a straight line, some horses will be naturally cautious of trotting towards a stranger.

“A straight line might sound easy, but it still amazes me how many people can’t do it. Look up to see where the judge is before you start trotting. You don’t want to make your judge run around because you haven’t looked up to see where they are standing.

“The main aim is to have the horse straight. If his body is not straight, his legs will not move straight,” adds Jack.

7. Stay focused

“Remember at all times when in the ring the judge could be judging you,” states Jack. “Even when standing in the line-up, while the judge looks at the other horses, make sure your horse is standing up properly. The judge could keep looking back at your horse to compare it to the one in front of him at the time.”

8. Remember your manners

“Remember to always be polite and happy when in the ring – manners, both from horse and handler, go a long way,” concludes Emma.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

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