August 17, 2001, Newsletter Issue #51: In The Ring at Trophy/Medal Shows

Tip of the Week

Okay, now we are at the Show. You basically want to give the Judge(s) NO REASON TO ELIMINATE YOU FROM BEING CHOSEN FIRST. Tack, Clothing, Horse in full repair, clean, neat and looking polished and perfect in presentation! This does not cost $$$ but does cost "elbow grease, preparation and time!"

Number One, your Ring Entrance does make for great points thereafter! Take your time, make your place! Wait until there is a lag, and then enter the ring, making sure that before you enter, that you can see in advance when the Judge is looking at the entrance when you decide to come through (even if this means having someone there to signal to you when to enter)!!! Smile, have your horse at his best...whether that be at a walk, trot, animated Trot or whatever is your entrance gait, make sure that you have done your homework to give this your BEST SHOT!

Take each way of the ring, and each gait individually. Do NOT anticipate in Championship, Trophy or Medal shows. Have a mental blueprint of what should follow, but be prepared at all moments for the unexpected, and take each moment for itself. Try to find your points on the rail to show your horse at his best at that gait. If he is not particularly good at a gait, then try to hide in the crowd at that gait, finding an empty spot on the rail during his best moments.

When you reverse, don`t think, "ah it is half over, think rather I have just begun!" (the second half!)

Always line up under the spot lights and either half a horse infront of, or behind the horses on each side. Make yourself seen and noticed. Stay smiling, poised, calm and relaxed. You have either won or not, but do at every moment as though you have won the championship and are honored for such; and want the best for your competitors, knowing that they have their chances next week or next year!

Next week: We will discuss recovery after mistakes during the class.

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