Dahlgren Dressage is lucky enough to be located in central Virginia where there are a lot of local riding clubs that put on inexpensive, casual dressage and combined training shows. We typically have at least one winter show series as well, which is nice as that can help with winter blues and staying motivated (see other blog post here!). Additionally, we are in the heart of USDF Area I and there are recognized shows just about every weekend to pick from.
So how do you pick what is the right show for you and your horse? There are several factors to explore here, and we will start with cost.
Expense is usually the hard line when it comes to all aspects of life- if something is over your price range or budget then it is not possible to do or buy at that time. Recognized showing can rack up the bills lightning fast while local shows cost significantly less. An average day at a recognized dressage show will probably cost you anywhere from $100-200 for show fees alone. Schooling shows are typical $30-60 for show fees. They both depend on how many tests you do. In order to compete at a recognized show, you also need to have your USEF and USDF memberships (and your horse’s registrations with those organizations) active which also adds to the cost of showing if you add it up annually. Additionally, most schooling shows you don’t have to braid so you can go without or you can use them as an opportunity to practice your braiding skills whereas a significant amount of people pay to have a braider do their horse’s manes at recognized shows. This ensures an exceptionally polished look if you are not a great braider. Another thing to think about in terms of cost is trainer coaching fees. At unrecognized shows, it is usually fine to go without a trainer if you feel comfortable doing so. Sometimes we just need to get out and ride the test to get an idea of how we measure up to others or just for the experience. Generally speaking, most people tend to have their coaches work with them at recognized shows – partially because the costs are higher and messing up is a bigger deal than if you are only paying $30 to go to the show, and also because the atmosphere at some recognized shows can be electric and you may need your coach to help you work your horse through that.
Which brings me to my second point: experience. Whether you are riding a young horse, a green horse, or are new to the sport yourself (or coming back after a hiatus), sometimes you need to work through show jitters and do it in a low key environment where you aren’t spending a fortune to show. Young and green horses need a lot of “socialization” and schooling shows are excellent, inexpensive ways to get them out and about and see the world. However, schooling shows are not going to fully prepare you for recognized shows. Again, the atmosphere is typically more electric or more intense then at a small farm 15 minutes from your barn. There are hundreds of competitors instead of tens and usually you stable at least one night which means your horse doesn’t get turnout like normal. These are all factors that can make the experience of a recognized show that much more fun and exciting, but also challenging. You can try out recognized shows without worrying about placings or your horse’s public show record by entering classes as a non-compete horse. This means you still get a signed test back from the judge with a score and comments but you are not entered in any awards/placings and there is no published score. This is a good way to test the waters to see if you and your horse are up for the pressure of a bigger show.
Another thing to think about is goals. If your goal is to get your USDF Bronze Medal or qualify for championships, then you will need to show in recognized competitions. A lot of riding clubs offer end of year awards for show series, or a championship schooling show, so there are definitely ways to get “swag” without forking over the money for a recognized show. Most clubs offer a discounted rate at their shows if you are a member, so that is something to consider at the beginning of the year as well.
Finally, management. While local shows do their best and are absolutely great, recognized shows tend to be better managed. This is simply due to the fact that recognized shows are restricted by the rules that USDF has set and many of the show staff tend to do their job professionally and manage or work multiple shows throughout the year. It is nice to have a formal process for appeals and complaints at recognized shows, however at local shows sometimes you have more of an opportunity to talk to the judge if you have questions and things tend to be more casual and therefore you don’t necessarily need a process for appeals.
Whether you determine recognized showing, schooling shows, or a combination of the two is the best option for you and your horse…Good luck and have fun!
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