Ring Etiquette
A show only happens because people make it happen. Family, friends, show committees, judges, sponsors, coaches, your fellow competitors, and the horse carrying you around the ring. Ring etiquette is really just remembering that.
In the ring
- ●Questions go through the steward or ringmaster, never straight to the judge.
- ●Look up. Watch where you're going and you'll avoid most of the awkward moments.
- ●Not sure of the ring order or when lunch is? Ask the organising committee.
- ●Getting to the right place at the right time is your job. If you miss a class, that one's on you.
Your horse
- ●Water and feed throughout the day, every day.
- ●Never take your frustration out on your horse. They weren't going around with an empty saddle.
- ●Whatever the result, you take the best horse home.
The people around you
- ●Congratulate your fellow competitors, and mean it.
- ●Thank the sponsors and the committee. Without them there is no show.
- ●Look after whoever came along to hold your gear, horsey or otherwise. You'll want them next time.
- ●If someone's struggling, offer a hand or a quick word before their class.
- ●Be generous with younger riders and anyone new to it. Everyone has an off day, horses included.
- ●Park considerately. Nobody has ever made a friend by parking on top of someone.
When it doesn't go your way
- ●Smile anyway. Especially when you're certain you had it won.
- ●Take your ribbon graciously. If you'd rather donate it back, have a quiet word at the secretary's office afterwards.
- ●Keep it off social media. Nothing good has ever come from posting about a judge, a competitor, or the small child with the balloon.
- ●There is always another show.
Above all, enjoy the day
You are there to show off a horse you are proud of. Shows are good for catching up with old friends, and even better for making new ones.