Show Preparation

I find it necessary to have lists!

The first list I have is everything I must pack to take to a competition and I print the spreadsheet off each show, and tick off when I have put an item in the car or horse float.

The second list I have is for the items I need to purchase before the show. It's a good idea to add these onto the pack list so you don't accidentally leave them at home. Items might include a product that has run out at the last show, like shampoo, hoof black etc., or horse feed.

The third list is for the things I must do such as 'oil gear', 'clip horse', 'wash show rugs' etc.

If the competition is for a few days or a week such as State or National Titles, make sure you order feed to be delivered to the showgrounds or arena stables where the competition is on. This amount of feed, sawdust, hay etc. is better not to take up room and weight in your car or float and easier if it is delivered to your stable for when you arrive.

Ensure you are organised and the tasks that can be done before show days are done then as you won't have time on the morning of the competition. These are jobs like trimming your horse's legs, ears etc., having the plaiting or banding done, having your clothes ironed, boots polished and all horse tack clean.

Examples of jobs to do the day of the competition:

• Painting hooves (I only use this hoof black that is shown in the video)

• Putting in a false tail

• Plaiting/banding the forelock and tail (they might come out overnight)

Note: I purchase my false tails from Equine Image. You can find them at this link: https://www.equineimage.com.au/ or you can find them new and second-hand on Facebook groups such as False Tails For Sale Australia or Show Horses Australia or Western TACK & CLOTHING Buy/Sell/Swap AUSTRALIA only.

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Collation of Photos of Successful National Champion Show Horses

Photographs by Author with the Exception of Top Right Photo - ©Tania Hobbs (Used with Permission)