What is the Ranch Riding Trail Class?

Ranch riding patterns include obstacles such as poles to sidepass, logs to drag, poles to trot or lope, and segments of extended trotting. The class requires horses to move at slow and fast speeds—and always to listen to their rider’s directions.

“In the ranch riding trail class, there are obstacles where you need your horse to focus and go slow, and times when you want to show that your horse can move out,” Crow says. “It’s important to plan your warmup time so that you can bring the fast horses down to the speed you want and make sure they are patient for the poles or gates. With slower horses, you’ll need to know you can pick up their speed when you want an extended trot.”

Warmup for the Energetic and Speedy Horse

Crow says that many horses labeled “too fast,” “too much,” or “high strung” may need some longeing as part of their warmup, but they will definitely need a warmup that helps activate their brain.

“It’s old school mentality that you go lope them for an hour to wear them out,” says Crow. “Instead, what you need is to get the horse’s brain working with downward transitions, turns, stops, and backs. Otherwise, their bodies are tired, but their minds are busy, and they won’t pay attention to you.”

Focus on trotting and walking transitions, Crow advises.

“Loping can escalate some horses, and makes it harder to get their brain focused on you,” he says.

If competing, Crow advises that once you have warmed up an energetic horse, make sure to go straight to the show pen for your ride. Don’t warm up and then stand around watching others. If busy and energetic horses get a long break, they may need a whole new warmup.

You may also consider starting the night before. If your horse will be stalled overnight, you may choose to longe him when you arrive. Allowing him to move out will help wear off the adrenaline from travel.

Turning for Attention

At a show, begin your warmup about an hour before your scheduled ranch riding trail class so that you have time to work your horse’s body and mind. Crow likes to work his fast horses in a box formation. He trots straight ahead, then if he feels the horse being strong or going faster than he asks, he makes a sharp turn while continuing the trot.

“Pick up your reins and redirect the horse in a square maneuver,” says Crow. “This takes away the forward motion and asks him to focus on your direction.”

Work your horse in the middle of the arena and avoid going around the entire outside. Trot ahead four to five steps, then pick your reins up and to the side to direct your horse on a new straight line, creating a box or square. Move ahead again and turn when you feel your horse wanting to go faster.

Be careful not to pull on the reins to keep your horse slow. Instead, the box formation will teach your horse that he needs to pay attention, and he will be redirected when he speeds up. When your horse is going at the speed of trot you want, place your hand down in front of the saddle’s horn and allow him to move without interference.

“As soon as I make that square turn, I’ll set my hands down and let my horse go straight again,” says Crow. “If he stays focused and I have his attention, he’s earned the right to just keep going forward and I will leave him alone. If I lose his attention, I pick up and redirect, turning on a new line of the square.”

Crow says if a horse looks around and doesn’t settle in, he’ll pick up his inside rein to tip the horse’s nose in as he also applies leg pressure to encourage a bend. He will walk small circles with his horse’s nose tipped in to one side, then the other. Then he’ll repeat the box pattern again.

When it’s time to warm up at the lope, a “go” horse may pick up speed again. Crow says if you have spent time warming up at the walk and trot, the lope should be manageable, too.

“I do the same thing at the lope that I did at the trot,” says Crow. “Do your square turns and keep your body balanced.”

At the lope, Crow says many riders turn too sharply, using inside direct pressure to pull the horse’s head inside. This can cause your weight to shift to the outside, making your horse scramble to regain his balance. To avoid this, keep him straight through his body and open your reining hand up and out to guide the horse through the turn.

Mix it Up

Instead of just riding around the arena at a walk, trot, and lope and then being done, mix up your warmup.

“Bringing your horse up in speed and then back down is really important,” says Crow. “Some horses are just wired to keep that adrenaline going once they move fast. [Going up and down in speed] keeps them going strong and doesn’t wear them out. If you allow them to move from the trot or lope back to the walk, they realize how tired they are. When you ask for speed again, you aren’t fighting the adrenaline and you seem to get their minds engaged much more quickly than just running full out.”

Warmup for the Slow Horse

If your horse is known to be slow or needs to be pushed to move out, your plan needs to help boost his energy.

“With a slow or lazy horse, our goal is to get his focus and make sure he moves out when asked,” Crow says. “I’ll walk in a straight line and use a direct rein to turn the horse and drive him around in a small circle with my outside leg pressure. I want to get his feet moving.”

Crow says asking for sharp turns can help the horse know that you’re requesting a quick response. He says to be careful and not allow the slower horse to pause after you’ve asked him to move his feet.

“I want these horses crisp and sharp,” he says. “You don’t want a lag between the moment you give the horse something to do and when he does it. You don’t want to have to nag to follow up. If you have a horse that’s too dull and lazy, you can see that the rider is having to beg this horse to step forward or to move his feet. That’s not a good picture in the show. We need to sharpen up those cues.”

If your horse is on the slow side, adjust your warmup time so that you only warm up for 10 to 15 minutes before going into your class. Make sure not to use up all his energy. Instead, warm up just enough to remind your horse that he should respond quickly to your cues.

After walking for a few minutes, it’s time to get the slow horse to work. Ten minutes before the show, Crow says he will ask a slow horse to extend at the trot and the lope.

“I’ll give the horse a verbal cue and then go to my legs for a cue,” says Crow. “I will really get that horse moving and sharpen him up.”

Keep in mind, it’s all about efficiency. You may only be able to cue a horse for speed once or twice. If you warm up too much and ask for speed over and over, you may wear out your horse and not get the speed changes you want in the ring.

If you feel like you need more practice time than your horse does, run your patterns in your mind or practice the key obstacle. Don’t wear out your horse because you feel like you need more practice.

“It’s all about knowing yourself and your horse,” says Crow. “When you know how much practice you both need, you’ll go straight to the pen in good shape.”

A few notes of caution for riding the slower horse: Make sure you don’t pull back on the reins when you’re loping. Some horses will look for any excuse to slow down. Don’t train him that it’s OK to break gait because you inadvertently pulled on the reins. Also make sure you aren’t micromanaging your horse. He should go at the speed and in the direction you choose without having to hold him there. Make sure your reins aren’t tight and that you allow your horse to move out.

“If you tend to tighten up your reins too much in the extended lope because of your comfort level, remind yourself to look up, straighten your arm and put your hand down,” says Crow. “Make sure you aren’t the reason your horse is slowing down or learning that it’s OK to be a little lazy.”

Having a riding buddy or coach remind you to look up and reach forward when you ask your horse to move out can help you be in the best position and keep your horse moving.

Show Plan

Crow advises using the time that you have to walk the trail pattern to think about the body position and cues you’ll need to help your horse go the speed that you want.

“You get to walk the trail course first,” he says. Make sure you plan how you’ll ride, where you’ll look, and how and when you’ll cue your horse. Having a plan and knowing your horse’s habits—and your habits—will help you know what to do if your horse speeds up or needs a push.

“The goal isn’t just to complete the pattern, it’s to have a confidence-building pattern for your horse so he’ll come back better next time,” says Crow. “From the moment you start warming up until the moment you’re done with your trail class, your main goal is to keep building that horse up so you’re both successful and can keep going and enjoy the ride.”

This article about the ranch riding trail class warmup appeared in the August 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Ranch Riding Trail Warmup for Any Horse appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

While this article is specifically about showing sport horses in hand, many of the basic concepts and potential benefits also translate to showing hunter horses on the line, in western halter classes, or presenting a horse for ground jury inspection in eventing.

In-hand work also provides the basic framework for later at-liberty training and will certainly make it easier if a horse needs to be shown to a veterinarian for a pre-purchase or lameness exam.

“For me, the basis of in-hand work starts with groundwork; this leads to desensitizing, the concept of boundaries, and responsiveness to pressure or aids—all things that translate to a more well-adjusted horse and are hugely beneficial to any horse once starting under saddle work,” says Quinnten Alston. Alston is a professional rider and handler who runs his own breeding program at Quantico Sporthorses in Southeastern Pennsylvania, which has produced an impressive string of breeding class champions at prestigious shows, such as Dressage at Devon. He is also an in-house rider and sales manager for Iron Spring Farm, a successful sport horse breeding facility in Coatesville, Pa.

Purpose & Process of Showing in Hand

The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) rules for Dressage Sport Horse Breeding lists the purpose “To encourage the breeding of horses suitable for dressage and to provide an opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of breeding programs.”

Horses are judged on their conformation and movement and are given a “general impression” score (which may be influenced by the behavior of the horse, turnout, and other factors). The handler’s job is to present the horse in a way that can show his best qualities.

An important consideration is that the handler must be able to keep up with the horse in order to show him well in competition, so be honest in evaluating your capabilities. If in doubt, ask someone to video you working with your horse to see if you are negatively restricting his forward motion. If you aren’t physically able, it may be better to hire someone else to show your horse.

Each animal is presented one at a time in the ring (except for group breeding classes, such as “Produce of Dam” or “Get of Sire,” where related horses are shown together). The handler walks the horse into the ring for examination by a judge. The horse is first stood up for conformation evaluation; the judge walks around the horse looking at him from both sides as well as from the front and back. Next, the horse is walked around a triangle pattern, followed by trotting the triangle. Finally, the horse is set up again for evaluation before exiting the ring.

The judge stands at the apex of the triangle. He or she observes how “true” the horse travels, looking first from the back as he goes away down the first short side and then from the front as he returns on the other short side. The judge evaluates the horse’s more extended gaits as he travels on the long side of the triangle.

Getting the horse to move in a straight line is very important.

“The judge is analyzing the correctness of the gaits, which is harder to do if the horse is not moving on a straight line to or from the judge,” says Alston.

Getting Started with Showing a Horse in Hand

The aids a handler may use to communicate with the horse in hand include the handler’s body language, gentle touch-pressure applied to the body of the horse, guidance from the reins or lead, voice commands, and encouragement or direction (not punishment) using a whip.

Alston says he starts teaching a horse groundwork as early as he can, many when they are foals, after they are familiar with leading.

“Small introductions to moving away from pressure is the foundation,” he says.

The lessons start with responding to pressure applied to the front and hind end. Then, once the horse progresses on to walking and trotting in hand, he asks the horse to do both gaits on zig-zag lines. This helps the horse learn to change direction and teaches him to be more in tune with Alston’s body movement.

He also uses “square” drills: walking in a straight line, turning a 90-degree angle, continuing on a straight line again, and repeating until a square has been created. This teaches the horse to be respectful and to take into consideration where his handler is and will be going.

Alston advises that it’s easiest to have help from a whip person walking behind the horse the first couple of times so that the horse can figure out confidently walking and trotting in hand. He explains that some young horses may not understand the first time you ask them to trot in hand, but once they have a clear understanding of that, it’s as simple as asking them to be adjustable within the gaits.

“I use the terms ‘big walk/big trot’ and ‘small walk/small trot,’ but you are essentially asking the horse to cover more or less ground based on stride length,” says Alston. “I will also change my own stride length to match the horse. To accompany a bigger walk by the horse, I make my stride bigger, not faster. I always want to have the feeling that the horse is marching within his gait if I am asking for more ground cover. The movement has purpose and energy.”

Teaching your horse to stand in an open stance, then to stand square with front and back legs, and finally to go back to an open stance on the other side, is important so he understands the concept, according to Alston. However, since most of the horses he shows are young, and shows can be busy environments, he doesn’t get too focused on whether the horse is always standing perfectly in front of the judges.

He advises keeping training sessions short, 15 minutes or less, especially with younger horses, and to always end on a good note.

Equipment & Attire

USEF rules state that foals, weanlings, and yearlings may wear a leather halter with lead, but starting at age 2, horses must wear a bridle. Alston says he knows some handlers who use a bridle for yearlings, but he doesn’t until the horse turns 2. Regardless, he stresses that the halter or bridle should be well fitted to the individual horse.

“If in a bridle, the bit should be appropriate in size for the horse,” he says. “Every part of the bridle should be fit to the horse: noseband, flash, throatlatch, browband. The bridle should be practiced in prior to the show. Nothing is worse than a horse’s first introduction to a bridle being at the show.”

According to USEF rules, handlers and/or assistant handlers are allowed to carry either a dressage whip or longe whip to help direct the horse. Although Alston chooses not to carry one when he is showing, he does use a trusted assistant handler moving behind the horse with a longe whip at shows and inspections.

“I don’t always need a whip person at home, but you want to practice having that second person before you go to a show,” he explains. “If you have a horse that isn’t confident or is less forward, having a whip person while practicing can definitely be advantageous.”

The USEF rule book directs “conservative sports attire and a helmet” for handlers. Beyond that, Alston advises that the helmet be well-fitted and to wear comfortable running shoes. He doesn’t wear gloves, but knows some handlers prefer to.

For more tips from Alston and a list of USDF learning resources, visit our Introduction to Showing Sport Horses in Hand.

The post Showing Horses in Hand appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

There’s only one place in North America where you can experience top international horse show competition combined with all the best a great state agricultural fair has to offer: the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. It really is something that anyone who loves horse shows and/or state fairs should not miss. Read on to find out what the 2024 Royal Winter Fair has in store.

The Uniqueness of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair

Think back to a time when the pomp and circumstance of VIP box seats and glamorous evening wear were a part of the spectacle at almost all of the large fall indoor horse shows around North America. Such was the case with the old National Horse Show in Madison Square Garden in New York City, among others. While the National still exists and is a great show, the venue has changed to the Kentucky Horse Park, and gowns and tuxes in preferred seating at Madison Square have given way to blue jeans and riding attire parked in the stands of the Horse Park’s Alltech Arena.

One key indoor show stands alone now, combining this historic charm and ambience―the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair held every November in Toronto, Canada. There really is nothing like the “Royal.” It spans ten days and has been held at the same location for over 100 years. It still features a horse-show audience in formal wear watching a mixed program of various breeds and disciplines performing each evening (although tickets are available for those who wish not to dress in evening wear). The horse show, combined with daily livestock shows, entertainment, educational events and more, makes the Royal a unique and fun-filled event that all may enjoy.

This year’s Royal Winter Fair runs November 1-10, 2024, at the Canadian National Exhibition grounds situated along Lake Ontario in Toronto. It is the 102nd renewal of this iconic event.

More About the Royal Winter Fair

The Winter Fair, which began in 1922 and has run almost continuously since that time (with only brief pauses for World War II and COVID-19), is billed as the largest combined indoor agriculture fair and international equestrian competition in the world. Approximately 300,000 visitors from a number of countries go through the doors over the ten days. Fairgoers can see everything from the daily horse show to other livestock and agricultural product exhibitions to entertainment, shopping, dining, and educational displays.

The Royal’s shopping choices are extensive, with offerings from tack, riding apparel, horse care products and horse trailers to Canadian-produced food (yes, there is maple syrup!) and gifts, clothing, home décor, health and beauty products, to Royal Fair logo sportswear, and more. It’s a great place to do your holiday shopping.

Dining options are varied, too. Attendees can indulge in the ever-popular homemade apple dumplings or variations of the Canadian dish poutine (cheese curds, gravy and fried potatoes with the option of topping it with bacon or pulled pork), plus a wide variety of Canadian and international foods. Samples of various Canadian-grown foods are often available in the shopping area, too.

On any given day, in addition to the horse show, attendees can watch dairy and beef cattle, sheep, goats, hogs, alpacas, rabbits, cavies (guinea pigs) or poultry being shown. They may also tour the displays of competition winners for garden and agricultural crops, wool fleeces, jams and jellies, pickles, honey, meats and cheeses, and other farm products. The butter sculpture competition is another thing not to be missed. Every year, artists carve amazing figures chosen to match a theme that are crafted from huge blocks of chilled butter. The results are truly amazing.

There is also daily live entertainment on the OLG Entertainment Stage which also features a square dancing competition on the final day. Visitors may sign up for only $20 to participate in cooking classes conducted by professional chefs or tour the University of Guelph’s “The Future of Food” walk-through exhibit. Children will enjoy activities designed just for them (Royal Petting Farm, Spirit of the Horse, Dairy Education Center, Farm & Play Zone and more).

The Royal Animal Theatre combines education with entertainment to the delight of both adults and kids. Appearances by the Global Pet Foods SuperDogs and demonstrations by birds of prey and handlers, sheep herding dogs, Double Dan Horsemanship, and a number of equestrian groups fill the calendar for the Royal Animal Theatre. The Royal Canadian Horseshoeing Classic competition takes over the Theatre on November 5 when the audience will witness hot-forged blacksmithing.

Royal organizers designate an animal ambassador each year and this year’s picks are two alpacas named Dawson and Pacey, from All In Alpacas, owned by Derek and Lindsay Stoltz and their teenage daughters in Rockwood, Ontario. Over the last several years, Heartland television show star Amber Marshall has made frequent appearances at the Royal, too; she’ll be there again this year appearing during the horse show and emceeing the Royal Rodeo on the final Sunday.

The Royal Horse Show

In today’s specialized horse-show world, it can be difficult to find an event where many breeds and disciplines are showcased at one venue, but the Royal offers that chance. There are two show arenas, one in the huge Royal Horse Show Coliseum and the other a smaller competition ring in the center of the two-story stabling barn called the “Horse Palace.” All competing are vying to win a red ribbon, which in Canada signifies first place. To get a glimpse of all of the action at the Royal Horse Show watch this preview of the 2023 Royal.

Canadian and international jumpers, hunters, fast-paced indoor eventing, and dressage musical freestyle share the same coliseum arena with massive draft horse hitches, zippy roadster ponies, high-stepping fine harness horses, Welsh Pony driving classes, and elegant antique coaching. While over in the Horse Palace, breed classes take place for Belgian Drafts, Canadian Sport Horses, Clydesdales, Hackneys, Percherons, Sport Ponies, Thoroughbreds and Welsh Ponies. Most of these classes are open to competitors from anywhere in the world, not just Canada. The Royal Rodeo on the last Sunday is the final equestrian event each year.

The Royal also stages two classes for 3-year-old sport horses in the coliseum, the Governor General’s Cup (an in-hand conformation line class) and the Lieutenant Governor’s Cup (in-hand line and under-saddle classes combined to name one winner). These are important showcases for Canadian-bred sport horses and entries must have qualified earlier in the year to compete. Even though contested at 7:30 a.m. on the final Saturday of the Royal, they attract a large audience.

A fan-favorite event held during the international jumper competition is the K9 Equine International Challenge class which combines a horse and rider jumper duo with a human and canine dog agility pair. Held on the final Saturday afternoon, the fastest combined time from the horse/human and canine/human pairings wins. See the 2022 Royal K9 Equine International Challenge competition here.

In jumper competition, the first four days of the Royal involve Canadian jumper classes with a Canadian Championship capping the series. Then, four more days are devoted to international jumper classes including the McKee Family International Challenge, the Mad Barn Big Ben Challenge International Challenge (named for Canadian Olympic rider Ian Millar’s famous horse), the International Speed Challenge, and finally the $250,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Toronto, the next-to-last North American League leg of the season’s FEI World Cup qualifying series (for next spring’s World Cup Final in Basel, Switzerland).

At the end of the Royal jumper classes, a Leading Rider, Leading Lady Rider, Leading Canadian Rider, and Leading Canadian Horse are crowned. Find a video spotlight of one of the Canadian jumper riders, Sean Jobin, talking about his road to the 2024 Royal Winter Fair here.

Track the results from the 2024 Royal Horse Show here.

How to Purchase Tickets or Watch Online

Tickets to the Royal Winter Fair may still be purchased online or at the door. Entrance to morning and afternoon matinee Royal Horse Show classes is included with Royal Winter Fair general admission tickets. Evening Royal Horse Show and Royal Rodeo tickets require a separate purchase. For more ticketing information, visit here.

If you can’t attend in person, you may watch the 2024 Royal Horse Show online (subscription required) via this livestream.

You may tune in on FEI TV via ClipMyHorseTV to watch the $250,000 Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping Toronto. A subscription to ClipMyHorseTV is required; go here for more information.

Regardless of whether you attend in person or watch online, don’t miss the action of the 2024 Royal Winter Fair, a one-of-a-kind horse show!

The post 2024 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Preview appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

W. Springfield, Mass. — Wondering what’s waiting for you at the 2024 Equine Affaire? Horses, horses, and more horses! For more than 25 years, Equine Affaire has proudly served North America as its premier equine exposition and equestrian gathering for equestrians from all corners of the industry. Join us at the Eastern States Exposition in W. Springfield, MA, on November 7-10, for four days of educational and fun clinics, seminars, and demonstrations; exciting competitions; hands-on activities; a sprawling trade show; and lots more, including Fantasia, a thrilling nighttime show that combines music with the beauty and grace of horses to create magic for horse lovers of all ages.

If you love horses, Equine Affaire and Fantasia are can’t-miss entertainment! Tickets for both events are on sale now via equineaffaire.com and the Western Edge mobile app for iPhone and Android. Whether you purchase your tickets online or through the app, you’ll receive them in your email – but make sure you keep the app on your phone! Through Western Edge, you’ll have all the event details available at your fingertips, including a venue map, the event schedule, exhibitor listings, and much more. Stay up to date on all things Equine Affaire with Western Edge and enjoy some exciting surprises along the way!

General admission tickets to Equine Affaire are $18/day for adults or $55 for a four-day pass; children’s tickets are available for $10/day for children ages 7-10; and children six and under are admitted for free. Bring the whole family and enjoy access to the trade show, theme pavilions, the Versatile Horse and Rider Competition, the Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge, the Breed Bonanza, and all clinics, seminars, and demonstrations, as well as a variety of immersive activities. Hours for the show are from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. While you’re buying your general admission tickets, don’t forget to buy your Fantasia tickets! Review the seating map in the app to select the right seats for you and your friends. Tickets for Fantasia range from $16-$27.

Sponsored by Equine Medical and Surgical Associates, Fantasia will take place for three nights only on November 7, 8, and 9 in the Coliseum. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. each evening.

What to Expect at the 2024 Equine Affaire Event

◆ NEW! The Breed Bonanza, sponsored by Sentinel by Kent and Blue Seal, is a brand-new competition coming to Equine Affaire on Sunday, November 10! Featuring both a Youth and an Adult section, this unique under saddle rail class will showcase all three gaits (or equivalent for gaited horses) in both directions. A carefully curated panel of three judges, consisting of a breeder, a horse show judge, and a professional trainer, will bring their unique backgrounds and perspectives to the ring as they select and crown the inaugural Breed Bonanza winners. Make sure to attend and cheer on these horses and riders! They’ll be dressed in their Sunday best and ready to shine.

◆ Equine Affaire is home to the largest horse-related trade show in the east. Browse acres of booths sprawled across multiple buildings – and while you shop, support your favorite trade show exhibitors through the Best Booth Award contest. On Thursday afternoon of the event, the Equine Affaire staff will tour the show to select the top five finalist booths based on a selection of criteria, including innovation, creativity, and visual interest. These booths will be photographed and then posted on our official Facebook and Instagram profiles so that fans can vote for their favorites until Saturday, November 9 at noon. Keep an eye out for the winning announcement on Saturday, then visit the winner’s booth on Sunday to congratulate them!

◆ Brimming with horse breeds ranging from the familiar to the exotic, Equine Affaire’s Breed Pavilion is home to dozens of horses who serve as friendly and beautiful ambassadors for their breeds. Visitors can walk through the Breed Pavilion any time during the event and take selfies with the horses, meet their owners, and learn more about their registries and associations.

◆ Looking for a new horse? Visit the Horse & Farm Exhibits in the C-Barn and find the Adoption Affaire! Featured in partnership with the ASPCA Right Horse, the Adoption Affaire showcases healthy, adoptable horses of a variety of ages, breeds, and disciplines from multiple rescues and sanctuaries. You can meet the horses, go on a test-ride with the appropriate releases, and apply to adopt.

◆ Like winning free stuff? Don’t forget to enter Equine Affaire’s free online raffle! Enter online or through the Western Edge app for a chance to win any number of fabulous prizes from companies like 100X Equine, October Design Equestrian Decor, Triple Crown Nutrition, Kelly Cosby Photography, US Equestrian, Zesterra by Pro Earth Animal Health, State Line Tack, and Equine Affaire. Click here to enter.

◆ Want to compete at Equine Affaire, but you don’t have a horse? No problem! The Great Equestrian Fitness Challenge, sponsored by Boot Barn, is a competition that’s free to enter for all Equine Affaire attendees, no horse required! Happening Saturday, November 9, at 3:00 p.m. in the Young building, the GEFC will feature a barn chores marathon and a bouncy pony race. To sign up, visit the announcer’s table outside the GGT Arena in the Young building prior to the competition. Prizes will be awarded to the top ten participants in each event. Flex your hard-earned barn muscles and have a great time, or just come ready to cheer on your friends and enjoy commentary from our master of ceremonies, Coach Daniel Stewart!

◆ NEW! Enjoy a leisurely drive in regal style around the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds in a gorgeous stagecoach, drawn by two beautiful Percherons. Stagecoach rides can accommodate up to six people and will be available each day of the event for an extra fee. To sign up, visit the Whispery Pines Percherons’ stalls in the C-Barn during Equine Affaire. Stagecoach rides will begin on the south side of the Coliseum.

◆ Speaking of Percherons, the highly popular Drive a Draft activity is back! Hosted in partnership with the Whispery Pines Percherons, attendees can learn how to ground drive a draft horse or a pair of draft horses under the supervision of expert drivers Sam and Kellie Rettinger! This activity is free with the price of admission, but sign-ups will be required at the event. Drive a Draft will take place on Friday, November 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Saturday, November 9 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. To sign up, visit the Whispery Pines Percherons’ stalls in C-Barn on the morning of the activity.

There’s even more waiting for you at Equine Affaire, but you’ll have to visit to experience it for yourself!

Please note that the Eastern States Exposition charges for parking. Single-entry parking passes and four-day parking passes will be available for purchase at the gates. You can also purchase a four-day parking pass in advance by visiting the link here. Upon purchase, you’ll receive a QR code which you’ll present at the gates to be scanned and redeemed for a 4-day hanger.

 — Edited Press Release | Source: American Horse Publications

The post Equine Affaire 2024: A Celebration of Equestrian Excellence appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The 2024 World Show is already underway in the Will Rogers Coliseum, continuing from September 20 through September 28. The youth competitors are first up, showing their Mini Horses through Wednesday, September 25. Open and amateur classes will close out the final four days of the World Show.

Nearly 300 classes will be contested at the AMHA World Show, with competitors showing their Miniature Horses in a variety of classes and disciplines—among them halter, showmanship, hunters, jumpers, and various types of driving classes.

The AMHA World Show returns to Fort Worth each year, just 30 miles north of the association’s headquarters in Alvarado, Texas. Founded in 1978, the AMHA is the world’s leading Miniature Horse registry with more than 240,000 registered horses and upwards of 6,000 members across 38 countries and provinces.

The event is open to the public, with only a parking fee required. All AMHA World Show classes can be viewed in the historic Will Rogers Coliseum.

The post The American Miniature Horse Association World Championship Show is Underway appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Once you’ve been rattled, it’s hard to calm down and refocus on why you’re there, sometimes in both the short-term (the day of the show) and the long-term (showing in general).

What Is Causing Your Horse Show Anxiety?

Most horse-show fear falls into two categories: fear of getting hurt and fear of making a fool of yourself. While one may strike you as easier to deal with than the other, fear in any form can be crippling.

No matter where your fear stems from, there are multiple ways you can head off anxiety overload. Preparation is key, both mentally and physically. Here are some ways to be as prepared as possible next time you have an off-farm adventure.

Physical Preparation

1. Create checklists. While you need not carry around a physical sheet of paper (having it on your phone is fine), knowing exactly what you need before the show and confirming that it’s in your trailer can ease a lot of showing anxiety.

Keeping everything in its designated place in the trailer ensures you know exactly what’s missing at a glance. Other things to keep on hand for last-minute questions and clarification include rulebooks, dressage tests, patterns, and courses.

2. Schedule like you’re leaving on vacation. Preparing for vacation can be time-consuming, but the result is always worth it. Plan your show day like you plan a trip, working backward from your ride time. Knowing when you need to be in the ring will allow you to plan when to groom, tack up, get dressed, get on and warm up.

Physically writing it all down lets you have a focused plan and quiets the mental chatter and doubt, according to Jessica Bollinger, a licensed clinical social worker who assists athletes from a variety of disciplines. Consider posting your schedule on your stall so it’s easily accessible. Rushing creates stress and is something you want to avoid.

3. Fuel up on quality foods. While nerves can make eating anything iffy, it’s crucial that you take in enough calories to prep for a long show day. Eat a healthy breakfast and pack nutritious snacks. Avoid sugar, which may give you a brief uptick in energy, but will leave you crashing later. Also ensure you’re hydrated.

“Water gives you a clear mind and focus,” says Bollinger.

4. Practice tapping. Take your dominant hand and tap side-to-side at your sternum with your middle finger and thumb for a few minutes at a time, says Bollinger. This rhythmic pressure on specific acupressure points on the body have been shown to lessen anxiety and reduce stress. This can be done before you get on or while you’re astride—any time you feel your anxiety ramping up.

5. Activate your vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is part of your parasympathetic nervous system, which controls your heart rate, digestion and immune system. Taking a long, deep breath and a long exhale when your heart begins to race activates this nerve and helps slow your heart and respiratory rates.

“Whenever a thought enters [your mind] that triggers your anxiety, take that long, deep breath,” Bollinger says. It will help to calm and relax you.

6. Hang loose. Unfortunately, anxiety causes you to tense your entire body, making it a rigid form that your horse must work against. According to Bollinger, your horse feels everything you feel. Tension can cause you to raise your shoulders, lock your arms and clamp down on your horse’s sides, none of which helps you relax.

One of the easiest ways to loosen up is to let your jaw flop—literally. It may feel strange at first, but you can’t clench your jaw if your teeth aren’t together, so breathe through your mouth and let your chin wag!

Mental Preparation

7. Find your focus. This can tough to do, especially when our brains tend to go into overdrive during a show. It’s important to focus on what you can control; don’t worry about the weather or what you think your horse will spook at or anything else that’s out of your hands.

If you can’t let go of a particular thought (“Is he going to spook at that tent at the end of the ring?”), create a plan to get your horse’s attention back and redirect his energy. Bollinger suggests using positive thoughts and positive visualization (“Inside leg!”).

8. Break it down into bite-sized goals. Though we all want to walk into the show ring and own our course, pattern or class, sometimes you need tangible things to do to feel a sense of accomplishment. But just something might be small doesn’t mean it won’t add up to big results in the end.

Sitting tall, not looking for your lead or riding deep in your corners are all important keys to allowing you to (one day) go in and nail every jump or movement.

9. Visualize. Ride your pattern or course by closing your eyes and taking long, deep breaths, says Bollinger. Add in tapping while you visualize for an added effect.

Though many people visualize watching themselves ride from the sidelines, use the perspective from the back of your horse like you’re actually riding your course or test.

10. Be grateful and positive. Don’t forget how lucky you are to get to show! You get to be outside with your four-legged best friend, surrounded by people you enjoy.

To help remain focused on these things, Bollinger suggests gratitude and positive manifestation journaling. Think about and write down the answers to these prompts either the night before or the morning of the show: “What I am grateful for? How will the day culminate in a positive way?”

Extra Tips for Calming Horse Show Anxiety

11. Be present. This one is tricky, as it’s easy to think ahead (When will we get home?) or behind you and obsess over what went wrong. To remind yourself to stay in the present, focus on something very specific, like rubbing your horse’s ears and feeling how soft his coat is or listening to your horse’s footfalls beneath you.

12. Take some quiet time. It’s OK to take some time for yourself, even if your cheering squad is there to celebrate your time in the ring. A few moments to gather your thoughts, run over your pattern, and pat your horse will help you give it your best shot.

13. Give yourself an escape. This doesn’t mean you don’t try; it means you give yourself an out if things start to go sideways and you can’t correct your course.

This means thinking, “If after 20 minutes of warmup he’s still spooking at everything, I’ll scratch,” instead of, “He’s going to be bad, I know it. I’m not even going to get on.” Once you give yourself permission to leave, you won’t feel as trapped.

This article about how to calm your horse show anxiety and nerves appeared in the June 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Calm Your Horse Show Anxiety appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Like horse shows in general, halter classes can range from small-scale classes at low-level shows, where multiple breeds of a certain type may show against in each other in a catch-all class like “English Type” or “Western Type,” to breed-specific classes at larger shows. So what exactly is the judge looking for in a halter class? In general, good basic conformation—overall balance, correct legs, strong hindquarters, et cetera—and movement. In breed-specific situations, the judge is comparing your horse to the breed association’s official breed type description; in some cases very minute details (size of the eyes, for example) will be considered.

Many halter classes can be broken into two phases. One is the inspection phase, in which the judge examines one horse at a time and analyzes conformation and type while checking for any disqualifications. Each horse is also judged at the walk and trot in order for the judge to evaluate movement and way of going. The second phase involves returning to the “line up,” where each horse and handler wait while the other competitors are inspected.

Different horse shows and classes will have different pattern requirements for halter classes. Some might want you to walk in for inspection and then trot away, some might require that all competitors come in trotting and then line up along the rail before inspection. Read and understand any posted patterns, watch any classes that are before yours, and listen carefully to instructions from the ringmaster or announcer.

Learn the specifics on how to show your breed or type. Some breeds, like Arabians, for instance, are shown in breed-specific tack and are positioned in a special way when standing in the ring. Some breeds are expected to be groomed differently than others (braiding, etc…) Find out what’s typical for your horse’s breed. Also, find out what you are expected to wear—it too can vary from breed to breed.

Like all horse show classes, grooming is important, but it is particularly important for halter. While the judge isn’t necessarily “judging” your horse’s grooming, if all things are equal and two horses are both excellent examples, the one with the better grooming job just might edge out the other. Give yourself enough time before the class to bathe, groom, polish hooves, braid, or whatever is required.

Remember, you and your horse are being judged during the entire halter class! Don’t stop showing just because you’re in the lineup of a very large class and other horses are being inspected.

Do you enjoy showing your horse in halter classes? Do you at compete at breed shows, or open shows? Let us know in the comments below.

This article about showing horses in halter classes originally appeared in Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Tips to Polish Performance

Quinnten Alston is a professional rider and handler who runs his own breeding program at Quantico Sporthorses in Southeastern Pennsylvania, which has produced an impressive string of breeding class champions at prestigious shows, such as Dressage at Devon. He is also an in-house rider and sales manager for Iron Spring Farm, a successful sport horse breeding facility in Coatesville, Pa. Here are his top tips for polishing your performance.

◆ When I am moving with the horse, I may start with smaller strides to make sure the horse is “with” me or to collect before the corners so that the horse knows a turn is coming, but otherwise, I show the horse’s gait to the best of its ability.

◆ Although some handlers may, I do not stop to collect at each corner of the triangle. Sometimes the horse will break into the canter (from trot), but I just make a small correction back to the trot and we continue on. Often, the first few steps of trot after a canter can be high quality, so I don’t worry about them breaking gait too much.

◆ The most important thing is to keep yourself relaxed, with the hope that the horse will respond to the energy you provide. If I have a horse that won’t quite stand still, sometimes I need to let them move around so that I can direct the energy in a productive way. It is not so much about “behaving” as it is about helping that horse make the best choices in that moment.

◆ Practice, but not too much. Sometimes too much can make a horse dull. Watch professional handlers at the breed shows or inspections and study their individual nuances. Most important, be bold and have fun.

◆ Everything I do is body language. I use pressure to move the horse to or away from me. I do not use my voice much other than to offer praise to the horse or direction to my whip person.

◆ I think the turnout of the horse is the most important factor of presenting in hand. The horse should be bathed and groomed thoroughly. If he has white markings, they should be as such. Manes should be braided neatly (if you can’t do it, get a professional), tails should be brushed through and preferably banged (trimmed off square on the bottom). Never skimp on grooming presentation; this is the judge’s first impression of the horse!

Safety First

The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) rules require that handlers and assistant handlers wear protective helmets while showing horses in hand. Beyond that, being observant of the horse’s mindset and of others in the ring is very important. Alston says he rarely takes his eyes off of the horse he is presenting, and he does not handle horses in the show ring that he hasn’t worked with before.

“This is the best way for me to read the horse and to know what might come next―how he is responding to the environment, if he needs more or less pressure, and so on,” says Alston. “This is also why it’s important to have a rapport with the horses you’re working with, so you have an idea of what to expect. I am hyper-vigilant of the space we are occupying, as well as the space of my fellow handlers.”

The USEF rule book directs “conservative sports attire and a helmet” for handlers. Beyond that, Alston advises that the helmet be well-fitted and to wear comfortable running shoes. He doesn’t wear gloves, but knows some handlers prefer to.

Meet the Trainer

Quinnten Alston began riding at age 5 and has developed a successful career as a professional horseman. He has a special passion for studying pedigrees, horse breeding and development of young horses. Before being hired by Iron Spring Farm, he began his career at Mo Swanson’s Rolling Stone Farm in Slatington, Pa., in 2009. Within a few months, he was handling horses at breed shows and inspections under the guidance of Bob Orton.

After Rolling Stone, Alston spent three years polishing his skills at Hilltop Farm in Colora, Md. Thus far, he has presented five Grand Champions and multiple class winners at Dressage at Devon, as well as breeding and showing many top-scoring horses at breed inspections. He was named Best Handler at Dressage at Devon in 2011.

He keeps his eye on the industry by making regular trips to Europe. He enjoys working with professionals and amateurs alike, teaching them how to confidently present their horse and show it to the best of its ability.

Learn More

The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) offers several great learning resources on showing in hand here.

Two videos, in particular, are very helpful:

◆ “Showing Your Sport Horse In Hand” by J. Ashton Moore, Willy Arts, Robin Koenig, and Dietrich Felgendreher

◆ “Introduction to Sport Horse In Hand Classes” by Michael Bragdell

It is also useful to review the rules from USEF.

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A recent study has shown that judges tend to favor pudgy ponies over their more-svelte counterparts in the show ring. This is despite the fact that carrying extra weight may predispose these horses and ponies to such health conditions as an increased risk of laminitis or founder, and adds additional strain on joints, hooves, heart and lungs.

Equine health professionals assign a Henneke body condition score (BCS) to objectively determine the amount of fat cover on a horse. This system evaluates the amount of fat on a horse’s neck, withers, shoulder, ribs, loin and tailhead, and offers an overall score between 1 (thinnest) and 9 (most obese). The ideal body condition score is about a 5, where the ribs aren’t easily seen, but can be felt.

Case in Point

Shannon Pratt-Phillips, Ph.D., an equine nutrition professor at North Carolina State University, and a team of researchers visually evaluated 337 ponies at the 2021 United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Pony Finals, presented by Honor Hill Farms. Pony Finals is the year-end championship event for qualified pony riders from across the country; competition is grouped by pony height (small, medium and large), show experience (regular and green), and rider age.

The scientists evaluated each of the ponies as they prepared for the model (in-hand) phase of competition, which evaluates the pony’s conformation and physical blemishes, but also takes into account handler and pony turnout and presentation.

The two researchers evaluating the ponies had extensive body condition scoring experience and were also experts at cresty neck scoring (CNS). CNS is a 0 to 5 scale used to measure the accumulation of fat along the top of the neck. The amount of fat found in this area can be disproportionate to the amount of total body fat; a score of 3 or higher could signal an increased risk of equine metabolic syndrome and laminitis.

The CNS and the BCS from both evaluators were averaged and compared to the model scores from the three Pony Finals judges. The scientists found that the medium ponies were fatter and crestier than the large ponies. They also found a positive correlation between BCS and the model score from judges in the large ponies, suggesting that Pony Finals judges prefer a heavier pony in the model.

These findings concerned the researchers, who reported that the additional weight the ponies carry could affect their health and longevity, as well as their performance. They recommend that efforts be made to encourage judges to reward a more ideal body condition.

It’s important to remember that USEF Pony Finals judges are some of the top judges in the nation; many have judged for decades and are considered the best in their field. The findings beg two questions: How can judges be encouraged to reward non-chubby ponies, and more broadly, is there truly a pony weight issue at all?

How are Judges Trained?

U.S. Equestrian is the national governing body for most horse sport in the United States. This organization issues licenses for all hunter and jumper judges (and others), which qualifies them to judge at U.S. Equestrian-sanctioned competitions.

However, U.S. Equestrian does not provide the materials the judges can study from to pass their licensing exams; these are provided by the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA), a national affiliate of U.S. Equestrian that represents all levels of hunter and jumper participants. Material for the clinics is sourced from the U.S. Equestrian Rulebook and the USHJA Officials’ Education Committee curriculum, according to USHJA Officials’ Education Committee (OEC) members.

To become a U.S. Equestrian-licensed judge, one must apprentice under established judges at multiple licensed competitions, and one must have positive evaluations from the experienced judges.

Applicants must also attend a clinic. Ongoing education for carded judges is required: Each judge must attend a clinic to maintain their license every three to five years, depending on the license level.

Would pony weight and condition ever be addressed in formal settings like rulebooks? Not likely, says the USHJA OEC.

“This is an example of a topical issue addressed formally in clinics [and] in forums, as well as informally between licensed judges,” committee members say. “Topical issues, such as rule changes and more nuanced trends are addressed in the USHJA clinics.”

The OEC hosts periodic forums geared toward licensed judges and course designers, where a panel leads an in-depth discussion on current issues. Additional ways the “weight issue” could be addressed is through OEC-produced webinars.

The OEC points out that equine weight is not addressed anywhere in the U.S. Equestrian rulebook, but both U.S. Equestrian and USHJA have multiple, extensive best practices efforts in place. Many committees, such as the USHJA Horse and Rider Advocate Committee, work to educate membership on a multitude of equine management topics such as equine weight and wellness. Additionally, USHJA members can always contact committee members with questions and concerns on topics that fall under their purview, the OEC reiterates.

“Ultimately, the job of equine management broadly—and equine weight management specifically—does not fall on licensed judges. Their job is to pin the class based on performance in the competition ring in that class on that day,” the OEC says.

A Judge’s Perspective on the Pony Weight Issue

Kathleen Stamps, a licensed “R” judge with 15 years of experience judging some of the best hunters, jumpers, and hunt seat equitation riders in the nation, concurs.

“While data collection is a good tool to evaluate and interpret, it’s not the way the ponies are being judged,” she explains. “Judges are looking at the whole picture of the pony and placing that pony in accordance with the rest of the ponies in the class.”

The model class, where the researchers saw the ponies (but did not touch them), is judged with one goal in mind: “The best body wins in the class,” says Stamps. “The super fat pony could be first or last, depending on what other ponies are in the class. There are so many factors to consider, including issues that can’t be overlooked, like crooked legs, bad feet, a bone spavin [and other conformational issues].”

The pony may not be stood up well or may not jog or just be having a bad day; things happen that have nothing to do with weight, Stamps reiterates. This is why it’s difficult to correlate the scientists’ scores with the judges’ outcome in the model.

Though this study suggests a significant relationship between pony weight and Pony Finals model placings, it’s critical to remember that more than just how the pony looks was being judged: It’s the overall picture the pony and handler presented, on that day, in that class, under those judges. Horse showing is, after all, subjective.

This article about judges’ preference of weight in ponies appeared in the April 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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As equestrian sports continue to grow in popularity, there are more and more exciting competitions taking place around the world in every discipline. While it is impossible to attend all of these events in person, we now have a virtual front row seat thanks to livestreaming. Horse & Country (H&C), the leading international equestrian sports network, specializes in sharing premier horse show livestream coverage with a worldwide audience. Read on to see how the H&C team translates raw camera footage into an engaging production that puts you right in the action from the comfort of your couch.

For the past three years, the prestigious Dressage at Devon horse show has highlighted the H&C fall livestream schedule. Held at the historic Devon Horse Show grounds in Devon, Pa., Dressage at Devon features many of the nation’s most impressive horse and rider combinations, as well as numerous breed classes. Throughout this year’s six days of competition from September 26 through October 1, 2023, H&C captures every moment from both the Dixon Oval and the Wheeler Ring. Not only are thousands of viewers treated to exceptional live sport, but H&C’s coverage is also available to view on demand. In addition, H&C will offer two special highlight programs from the event.

“The whole Dressage at Devon experience is incredible,” says H&C Content Producer Helen Murray, who has led the H&C on-site production team since 2020. “It is such a unique and historic venue, so it is always a pleasure to produce and stream this iconic competition. From the Breed Division classes to the various Performance Division classes, there are so many top-class horses and riders. There is nothing like the Saturday night Grand Prix Freestyle with so much atmosphere and buzz. The crowd is incredible, and we really enjoy bringing that experience to our viewers.”

Preparing for a Horse Show Livestream

When scoping out a venue for the first time, the H&C team works with show managers and organizers well in advance of the competition to figure out the best setup location for the production trailer, which serves as the team’s base camp and the heart of the operation. The most important element for success is a dedicated internet connection to support the stream. The team also ensures that the production trailer will have the necessary access to power and a good vantage point to observe the competition.

After the preliminary site inspection, the production team doesn’t return until a day or two before the competition gets underway. For Dressage at Devon, that means at least a full 10- to 12-hour day of setup activities. Once the production trailer has arrived, is powered up and has connected internet, the audio and video cables must be laid, cameras are placed, and microphones (or “mics”) are set out. The day wraps up after everything is tested to make sure all systems are ready to go first thing the next morning.

“If you can think of it, we probably have it in the production trailer,” Murray says of the necessary production equipment. “We bring everything from the switcher to the commentary booth setup, as well as the HDTV-quality cameras, audio and video cables, power cables, internet modem, extension cords, and gaffe tape.”

H&C’s on-site production team consists of seven to nine people serving the roles of executive producer, producer/director, engineer, streaming engineer, audio engineer, video engineer, and at least four camera operators that also can be utilities and support the operation as needed. For Dressage at Devon, H&C uses three cameras: two for the Dixon Oval competition and a single camera for the Wheeler Ring. In order to keep things running smoothly, all camera operators wear headsets so they can communicate back and forth with the production unit in the trailer, who are also on headsets.

“Just like with riding, when working on production, you can have the best laid plans, but something can always change,” Murray says. “It’s important to be nimble and ready to make an adjustment very quickly.”

Inevitable Challenges

Fortunately, the H&C team hasn’t run into too many logistical challenges at Dressage at Devon, but there are aspects of the horse show that must be carefully considered in order to produce a successful livestream. Simply put, with two competition arenas, the team must be able to handle the technical complexities that come with two streams. The streams from each arena have a unique player so they can be seen individually. These streams and players are all managed by a streaming engineer stationed in the production trailer, which results in viewers being able to watch live coverage of either ring.

As with many outdoor equestrian competitions, weather contingencies must be part of the planning process. The typical Pennsylvania fall weather can range from beautiful clear skies to rain, so the H&C team must be ready for various conditions.

“As we all know, dealing with inclement weather is part of horse showing!” Murray says. “Our entire crew is always prepared with all-weather gear to handle whatever is thrown at them. Additionally, we have rain covers for all cameras and cabling, and all other equipment is weather-proof.”

Dressage at Devon’s evening classes are another unique part of the event. While there is no difference in the streaming process between daytime and evening coverage, the magic of being able to see everything clearly regardless of ambient lighting happens in the production process. A video engineer “paints” the cameras, meaning they manage the iris and color temperatures of each camera to account for strong sunlight, shadows, or arena lights so all the footage is sharp no matter what time of day.

Finally, professional commentary provided by respected athletes and announcers is the cherry on top of the ideal horse show livestream. The commentary can actually be done either onsite or remotely. In both cases, the audio engineer mixes the commentary with the ambient mics so the audio is incorporated into the production simultaneously.

When all the pieces come together, the result is a livestream that brings the online audience ringside for the competition’s most thrilling moments. While Dressage at Devon is certainly a must-see show, it is one of just many exciting equestrian sporting events available to watch on H&C. With a quality livestream, it’s easy to forget the horse show action is miles away, perhaps even in a different time zone, but that is what H&C aims to achieve with every production, bringing the horses we all love closer to us.

“We have a great team and have become great friends over the years, which is always fun and rewarding,” Murray says of the H&C crew. “It is great to watch world-class competition and, as a producer or director, tell the story of the competition to the whole world.”

In addition to top-notch livestreamed competition, H&C also offers engaging programming such as Masterclasses with the pros, Barn Talks behind the scenes, and fun equestrian shows, and compelling documentaries. For more information about Horse & Country and to tune into future live events, visit horseandcountry.tv.

This article about Horse & Country’s work behind the scenes of a horse show’s livestream is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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