Saddlebrook's Show Team is a group of dedicated riders who would like to show.  We go to local shows and host shows at Saddlebrook.  We attend shows such as:  Bridge Acres, Pleasant Hollow, Ludwig's Corner, 4-H shows, Penn Jersey Horse Shows and many more.

A great way to prepare for show season is to ride, ride, ride! As much as you can! If you do not own your own horse, why not lease one for a month or two? This way you can ride several times a week and be able to practice more often.

Some good leg exercises:

Ride for five minutes per session in jumping position.
Riding without stirrups at the posting and sitting trot. Remember to keep your leg in the same position as it would be if your foot was in the stirrup! Don't relax those legs down too long!
And toes up!

Some other exercises:

Take a 1/2 hour lesson. ON THE LUNGE! No matter HOW EXPERIENCED you may be, a lunge lesson will not only be tough, but also fun!
If you feel insecure cantering to jumps, try cantering over a ground pole first. Get the feeling of your horse going over a small obstacle before intimidating both you and your horse and asking them to jump when you're not completely secure.

What classes are you riding in?

Pleasure classes: The horse is judged on how much of a pleasure he looks like to ride. Do you look like you're working to ride him, or do you make it look easy? If you can make it look easy, you'll do better!

Equitation / Horsemanship classes: The rider is judged on their position, how they control the horse and how they make riding look effortless (although we know it is hard work!)

Halter classes: The horse's conformation and way of going are judged.
Showmanship classes: How well the handler can maneuver / handle their horse. Precise movements, turns, and jogging.

Gaming classes: Fun! Fun! Fun! How fast can you go? Make sure you follow the patterns!

Make sure you have the correct equipment for specific classes:

Martingales for jumping classes if your horse needs one.  Can not use for flat in a show!
Breastplates for all western saddles, especially for gaming.
Barrel reins for gaming classes.
Polo wraps / Splint boots to protect your horse's legs during gaming. (If you're just starting out, and only trotting the barrels, it's OK to go without the wraps. When you get up to cantering / loping / galloping, wraps are a good idea)
A nice halter & lead rope for Halter / Showmanship classes.

Check List        What to get