Setting Up at a Horse Show

Setting up at a horse show is an enormous job and a great experience for someone like me who wants to understand all aspects of the horse world.

Since Beacon Hill is a large show barn, to be properly prepared for the start of a show, several people must travel early to be ready for the arrival of the horses and to unload tack trunks and supplies from the trucks and trailers. Initially, they also must make sure the bedding and feed has been delivered to the temporary barn site and the water buckets have been hung up, so the stalls are ready for when the horses come off the truck. Horse safety and welfare are the priorities. After the truck arrives, the horses are unloaded from the trailer and brought to their stalls, where their leg wraps and halters are removed.

Another part of setting up is putting together the tack room so items are easily accessible for the riders and the grooms during the show. Then, we check with the show office to review changes in the show entries and schedule. In the evening, the work list is prepared. It specifies when lessons are going to be given, class involvement and designated schooling times for each horse. When we are finished, we usually talk about what needs to be done to prepare for the next day.

Talk to you soon!
Maria Schaub