Is the schooling show right for me?

Although we are still patiently awaiting the start of the “big” shows in the PNW, the schooling shows have begun – and in our desire to hit the show circuit, riders are jumping on the schooling show wagon and signing up – however, before you send in that form, you need to double check and see whether or not the schooling show is for you.

1. Cost – although the schooling show costs less than a “real” show, they do still cost money. If your barn has an “in-barn” show, the cost will most likely be minimal, but if you are to include hauling, day fees, schooling and stall costs, it adds up quickly. If you are on a limited budget and are hoping to try and aim for a nicer show later in the summer, check with your trainer before committing to the schooling show – your cash may be better left in your bank account. A schooling show can cost upwards of $500 – if you don’t have that as extra income, save it toward the show you really want to do.
2. Your Horse – a lot of riders think “green horse + schooling show = perfect!” But the reality is this is not always the case. In a lot of situations a schooling show can be a scarier experience than a longer show. A green horse really benefits from the opportunity to be able to have several days to get accustomed to their situation – the schooling show is generally a one or two day flurry of activity which can make a green or nervous horse anxious. The only time a rider should consider taking a greener horse to the schooling show is if the rider is experienced – taking a green horse/green rider combination to a show where there isn’t much room for schooling or warm up, can be a less than perfect combination.
3. The Rider - for the experienced rider a schooling show is an opportunity to stretch out after the winter and shake off the dust before hitting the bigger shows. This is great if you have the funding for it and can be beneficial if you have a horse that needs a little more exposure who can handle the chaos of the smaller venue. The schooling show can also be a great place for the beginner rider looking to do smaller divisions. It is expensive to go to the bigger shows for walk/trot (and a lot of them don’t offer it), so if you are showing below 2’6”, the schooling show may be a good fit for you – however, keep in mind that your horse needs to know their job. Do not go to a schooling show with a green horse/rider combination and expect it to be flawless. A green rider needs a horse that has at least some experience in order for you to both have a safe trip – again, the schooling show can actually be more intense and chaotic, so don’t oversell you or your horses’ abilities.
4. The Venue – not all schooling shows are created equal. Some shows put on a nicer more organized event, some shows offer schooling and overnight stabling, and others have a large variety of classes. Know what you want/need out of your show experience and aim for the show that best suits you and/or your horse. If you have the chance, ask someone who has been to a show: Is it busy? Well run? Are there warm up rings? Can I lunge my horse? Can my trainer ride in a class? How are the stalls? All of these questions will help you know which schooling show to pick.

As always, check with your trainer. There are trainers who don’t go to schooling shows and others who prefer them – but the emphasis on show choice should be based on you and your horse – if you talk with your trainer you have a chance to find out what shows they think you should aim for and why and then you can make your plans after that. With good planning and fingers crossed, you have a great chance at a wonderful show experience for both you and your horse.

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