Ring Etiquette

It bears repeating: we need to appreciate the people who make our shows possible. That includes family, friends, show committees, judges, sponsors, coaches, our fellow competitors, and most of all , our horse.

• Smile — yes, even if you lose.
• Congratulate your fellow competitors.
• Be polite.
• Be nice.
• Do not address the judge — any questions must be directed through the steward or ringmaster.
• "You get what you get and don't get upset" — refer to the first two points. Yes, even if you "deserved" the win.
• Make sure your horse is offered water and feed throughout the day.
• Never take out your frustrations on your horse — they weren't going around with an empty saddle. The fault lies with you.
• Don't refuse ribbons or prizes — if you wish to donate them back, do it after the event and approach the secretary's office to do this. Be discreet so as not to appear ungrateful or "holier than thou".
• Thank the sponsors — drop a short note to the sponsor and organising committee. Without them, there is no show.
• Do not park on top of other people — a sure-fire way to make enemies and cause accidents.
• Do not jump on social media (Facebook and Instagram) or the old grapevine and trash the judges, competition, show committee, or the small child with a balloon that upset your horse. Suck it up. It's called dignity.
• Look up — watch where you're going to avoid "domestics" in the ring.
• Appreciate it if your horsey (or more likely non-horsey) mum, friend, significant other or aunty came along to support you. Treat them well or next time you won't have any help at all.
• Above all, enjoy the day and remember you take the best horse home no matter the outcome.
• Have fun. You're there to show off how awesome your horse is, so relax and enjoy yourself. Shows are great for catching up with old friends — but also for making new ones.
• If you see someone struggling, offer to help — even if it's just a quick pep talk before they head into their class.
• Be encouraging, especially to younger riders or people who are new to showing. Everyone has bad days and so do horses. If it happens to you, that's okay — there's always another show.
• Do not throw a tantrum if you miss a class. You are responsible for getting yourself to the right place at the right time.
• Clarify the ring order, timing of lunches, etc. with the organising committee if you need to. But if things change and you miss the class, don't take it out on them.