Taking your horse to their first show- practical tips for a calm debut

Heading from the practice ring into the competition arena can feel daunting, but with patience and preparation your young horse’s first show can be a positive experience. Here are practical tips to help you both enjoy the leap.

Take your time — don’t expect anything

• Avoid putting performance expectations on a horse that has no idea what’s coming.

• If the warm-up isn’t going well, give them more time or opt out of the test rather than forcing it.

• If a class or round goes badly, take your horse back to the warm-up, calmly regroup, then dismount and reward. Teaching them they can relax at shows is priceless.

Prepare well in advance

• Plan your first show weeks or months ahead so you have time to desensitise them to groups, noises and different routines.

• Practice riding around other horses so the busy warm-up won’t feel overwhelming.

Allow plenty of time on the day

• Arrive early and be organised. Rushing increases your stress and your horse will pick up on it.

Ensure trouble-free loading

• Practice loading on float or truck well before the show. A calm, cooperative load sets the day up to succeed.

Choose a suitable first show

• Pick a small, friendly venue you may already know or have practised at. Smaller entries and a sensible warm-up area reduce pressure.

• Let your horse walk the grounds on arrival to absorb the atmosphere.

Use familiar tack and routines

• Stick to equipment your horse knows. Avoid introducing new bits, spurs or gear at a show.

• If you plan to plait or use different tack, practise it at home so it’s familiar on the day.

Accept mistakes and respond calmly

• If your horse becomes unsettled in the ring and is affecting others, politely ask the steward or judge to be excused. Smile, thank them, and return to the warm-up to re-establish calm.

• Praise and reward any correct responses; early shows are about building confidence, not perfect scores. Get back out again soon, regular exposure is key.

Use groundwork, lunging or a hack if needed

• A short, controlled lunge or a walk/trot around the venue can help a buzzy horse settle before you mount.

Final thoughts

Be prepared, stay calm, and keep expectations realistic. Young horses need experience to mature, and their best shows are often ahead of them. When things go wrong, learn and move on — those days are some of the most valuable schooling you’ll get. Good luck and enjoy the journey.