Horse Showing
Valley Ridge Farm, Inc – Morgantown, WV
Horse Showing and Coaching
Competition in horse shows is a wonderful way to exhibit all of the hard work you and your horse have put into your training, as well as meeting and enjoying the company of great people. We offer professional training, show coaching, and comprehensive horsemanship programs at Valley Ridge Farm, Inc. If you are approaching your first show, you may have some concerns during this exciting time or you may feel a bit intimidated. It is important to remember that even the most experienced riders were once beginners, too.
If you are interested in learning more about training and showing, please contact Valley Ridge Farm, Inc at: 304-849-6860.
Showing In the Western PA and USEF A-Rated Circuits
Valley Ridge Farm, Inc shows in the local Western Pennsylvania Circuit, as well as the United States Equestrian Foundation’s A-rated Circuit showing in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Maryland, Virginia and Ocala, Florida. Our facilities at Valley Ridge Farm South, LLC in Ocala are available to lease for your convenience while showing in the local Ocala circuits.
How to Prepare For and Have a Rewarding Show Experience
The best way to alleviate concerns and be ready for your show is to be as prepared as possible. Review the following information to have the most rewarding show experience.
“When should my horse and I be ready?”
You and your horse should be completely ready two classes ahead of your class, depending on how much warm up your horse needs. (You should ask before the day starts).
Remember, classes are often cancelled during the day. Listen to the announcements and adjust your preparations accordingly.
“What do I do to get my horse ready?”
In a nutshell, wash your horse and clean your tack the night before your classes. After schooling, wipe tack again. Before your class, spot clean, brush your horse, and detangle the mane and tail, groom completely – no dirt or stains, polish their feet, tack them up, and make sure you remembered to dress yourself (know where your number is), warm up your horse and win the class! What could be easier?
-Always keep in mind that your horse is a living being. He has needs. Give him plenty of quiet time and make sure he always has fresh water. Check on him to be sure he is eating his hay and grain. This way he will be ready to perform for you.
-If you are one of the younger riders, you will have a groom or helper to get your horse ready. Once you arrive at the horse show you will find your group and trainer and find out where and when you need to get ready. There is a lot of waiting that will happen as the show can go faster or slower than anticipated.
– Bring a chair, drinks and snacks. There is usually a food vendor, but it always nice to have your own stuff.
– Bring a check or credit card with you. All fees are due the day of the show.
“How am I expected to behave at shows?”
You are a representative of Valley Ridge Farm, Inc., and as such, you are expected to refrain from loud, disruptive, and/or offensive behavior. This means no horseplay, no profanity, no fighting, no temper tantrums, no arguing, etc. You are expected to say please and thank you. You will treat your horse, your parents, your friends, your trainer, and your groom with respect.
-Do not take out your frustration on your horse. Riders of Valley Ridge Farm will not be seen abusing their horses! You will not jerk on your horse’s mouth or beat him with your crop. Pat your horse after every ride with a smile on your face. This shows all other exhibitors that excellent horse people train at Valley Ridge Farm.