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Time to shine: how to nail your individual show to dazzle the judges

The individual show is all about highlighting your horse or pony’s best assets and using them to your advantage to wow the judges. It requires not only ringcraft on the day, but plenty of preparation at home. In this article exclusive to H&H subscribers, we ask the experts how to make the most of the opportunity
Kim Wilson Kim Wilson

    • The individual show is often the most important element of a showing class for horses and ponies. It gives the judge a chance to assess each exhibit in detail, evaluating schooling, manners, and way of going.

    At affiliated level, riders perform individual shows in pony and Mountain & Moorland (M&M) classes, while in horse classes, the ride judge typically takes the reins. The hack class is the exception, requiring both an individual show and a ride by the judge.

    Preparing for an individual show

    For ponies and M&Ms – and those riding at unaffiliated level – the rider typically performs a short show, usually based around a figure of eight, demonstrating walk, trot, and canter on both reins, an extension and then a square halt and salute to finish. Some advanced riders, for example in the intermediates class, may include a serpentine or one-handed canter.

    Occasionally, a judge may request a set show, and it is important to be clear on what’s expected.

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