With summer competitions just around the corner how can you maximise your chances of heading the line? Remember that preparation is the key to being placed.

From schooling and correct feeding to plenty of grooming, what goes on behind the scenes is vital. Senior hunter judge Linda Brudenell, who judges classes around the world echoes this: "Preparation is as, if not more, important than the performance on the day. It's always a good idea to invest in some lessons on your horse when leading up to a show to create a strong bond, that way you'll appear natural and at ease with each other," she said.

On the day of competition the horses that head the line are sure to be the best mannered, with rider, judge and other horses. It's crucial that schooling sessions promote exceptional manners. Linda said: "Your horse needs to be well mannered with absolutely everybody and you must take this into account when preparing for a show.

Try to cover every eventuality. Your horse needs to be used to working in the show tack, around other horses and those entering ridden classes must be used to a variety of riders. It's a good idea to allow different people to ride your horse - men, women and children."

When entering a show the most important thing is to be in the correct class for your horse. All too often people compete in the wrong class meaning all the hard work comes to nothing. "You are totally wasting your time if you aren't in the correct class, you can have the most fantastic horse but if it's in the wrong class it will end at the bottom of the line," said Linda.

As well as schooling, you must also take time to ensure you and your horse are immaculately turned out. Sally Hanley who has judged at local shows for many years said: "There is nothing worse than a competitor who just hasn't made the effort. All the judges and stewards make sure they are correctly turned out and are often giving up their time to allow the show to go ahead, so there really isn't any excuse for a poorly turned out horse or rider. It's like turning up to a job interview unprepared; you wouldn't expect to get the job."

And it doesn't have to be an expensive effort. "There is nothing wrong with good old soap and water! A clean, well shod horse with the correct tack should be a given," Sally added.

The Horse

Few horses are perfect, but a lot of work can be done to emphasise the good points and hide the less perfect ones.

* Plan shoeing dates around competitions. It is not advisable to have your horse shod the day before a competition.

* Manes and tails should be pulled, feathers trimmed and your horse clipped if necessary.

* Putting a drop of baby oil to the water when shampooing is a great way to add shine to the coat.

* If the mane is to be plaited it should be washed a few days prior to the competition as it can be difficult to plait a freshly washed mane.

* Washing the tail is essential, a good tip is to leave the shampoo on the tail for a few minutes before rinsing to help lift any stubborn yellow stains.

Tack

* Tack should be brown not black

* Practice riding in your show tack, you're asking for trouble if you introduce your horse to a Pelham or a Double Bridle for the first time the day before a show.

* If in a ridden class remember to have adjustable stirrup leathers to cater for judges of all sizes.

* Saddles must fit the horse, show off the conformation and be comfortable for rider and judge.

* Numnahs should not be used but if you really can't manage without it ensure that it is trimmed down to fit under the saddle so not to be seen.

The rider

To complement your perfectly groomed horse you must make sure you have the right gear. Again, this doesn't have to be as expensive as you might think. Both Linda and Sally advised that what all judges like to see riders wearing correct, clean, well-fitted gear. Sally said: "It's not about the price tag on your hacking jacket, but about the fit and the presentation of it."

Beg or borrow your gear. You can be perfectly turned out whatever your budget, she said.

Clothing required for different classes can vary, so it is worth checking with your local riding club or organisation for the exact requirements. However, there are some basic guidelines that should be followed:

Never wear a stock, always a shirt and tie; always wear a well-fitted tweed jacket; breeches should be buff; plain black or brown boots with garter straps; gloves should be brown, preferably leather, never white; your hat should be velvet, don't use a silk cover; it is important to wear your spurs in the correct manner following the line of your boot - if your horse doesn't react very well with spurs you can wear dummy ones; no hair accessories should be worn other than a hair net; no earrings; and ensure that the groom that accompanies you is properly turned out with hat and jacket.

In The Show Ring

So after all the preparation the day has arrived, how should you go about making sure your time in the show ring is as effective and successful as possible?

"Judging starts for the moment you enter the ring," said Linda. "It's worth watching and learning from professionals and how they handle themselves in the show ring. They often enter at the start or the end of the line and always ensure that they have adequate space around them. First impressions certainly count and a good, strong initial walk is vital to catch the judge's attention."

You must also remember that as one of many in the class it is quality not quantity that counts. Linda said: "If you are required to do a show keep it short and sweet and be 100pc alert at all times."

Probably the most important thing to remember when in the show ring is to show respect for the judge and their decisions at all times. Each judge is different and may have slightly different things that catch their eye; use this to learn from each showing experience. Most judges welcome the chance to give feedback to the riders after the class, as long as you wait for a convenient time. Linda said: "It's great to offer feedback to people about their horses; its how everybody learns and moves forward. Become a good loser before you become a good winner!"

Showing is a discipline that requires patience and dedication and by expecting perfection straight away you are setting yourself up for disappointment.

Published: 03/06/2005