Thrifty Horsekeeping: Horse Shows And Training

Horse Shows and Training

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orse ownership often extends far beyond the care and companionship of an animal. We want to learn new things, reach goals, put our skills on horseback to use. Bi-weekly lessons become semiweekly lessons; buying a young horse warrants professional training; and before long, a trip around the ring at a local schooling show has you chasing points on a national circuit. Lessons, training, and showing can develop into the most expensive parts of owning a horse, so this chapter addresses ways to save some money while still being competitive.

and breed and discipline associations that offer educational activities at a reasonable price. Otherwise, if you currently pay for semiweekly or weekly lessons, try switching to biweekly lessons. It will positively affect your bank account, but chances are it won’t affect your riding — just be sure to get the most out of each lesson. Audit clinics and lessons and take notes (or have someone tag along and do the scribing for you). Do your homework so you can practice productively at home. “Spend your training money wisely,” advises Bryant. “Keep a training journal. Have a friend videotape your lessons and clinics so you can review your rides and reinforce the lessons learned. Take advantage of Web-based training opportunities such as (for dressage riders) DressageTrainingOnline.com. Rent, borrow, or buy training DVDs and read equestrian books and magazines.” Equestrian magazines can hold a wealth of training information, but there’s no need to splurge for subscriptions. Gather a group of boarders or equestrian friends and each subscribe to a different magazine to share among yourselves. Also take turns videotaping each other to review your riding between lessons. It’s a great way to visualize what you feel and what you don’t feel when you ride, and to track your improvement between increasingly infrequent lessons. Another way to gain valuable experience without shelling out more cash for one-on-one training is by offering to exercise other horses. If you’re a good enough rider or board at a large barn, inquire about exercising horses in exchange for, say, a lesson on one. If nothing else, riding different horses is an invaluable learning experience.

Lessons Unless your horse falls under the category of pasture ornament or trail companion, chances are you will want (and need) some riding lessons. Private lessons are, naturally, going to cost more. Consider taking lessons with a group, and save up for a private lesson once every month or so if you have specific goals or issues you want to work on with a professional. Furthermore, group lessons offer you a chance to learn from what an instructor is telling other riders, and develop skills you wouldn’t necessarily develop riding alone. Professional help is key to improving your riding skills, but ask yourself if you really need all the training you’re paying for. Sometimes we become too dependent upon our trainer’s guidance, and it doesn’t hurt to veer away from the mindset that you can’t work on something yourself. At a show, “it is nice to have a trainer warm you up, but riders need to learn enough independence to be able to work their horses on their own,” says Jennifer Bryant, editor of the United States Dressage Federation’s USDF Connection magazine and author of Olympic Equestrian: A Century of International Horse Sport. “This is why always riding under a trainer’s tutelage can be counterproductive. Even if your trainer can come to the show, there may come a day when he/she has a conflict with another student who’s competing at the same time as you, and you’re going to have to do it on your own.” If private lessons are beyond your financial reach, or if you’re looking for ways to supplement your current costly instruction, turn to local groups such as 4-H, Pony Clubs,

Creative Training Bryant offered suggestions for cost-free learning meth1

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chusetts equine lawyer and head of the Equine Business Institute. “In this climate, trainers and stable owners need to stay alert and be aware of which clients are under financial or other stress.” To maintain a good working relationship with your instructor and to help facilitate some less-costly training alternatives around the barn, discuss ways he or she could offer more options for clients feeling the financial squeeze. Clarke suggests such things as discount lessons for students who pay a certain number up-front, incentives for bringing new clients into the barn, or fun events for clients cutting back on horse shows. “Plan an in-house schooling show where the ‘entry fee’ is a dish for a pot luck afterward, so clients save money while they’re working on skills to succeed with less mileage away from home,” says Clarke. “Make sure riding stays a sport and an escape from other pressures rather than an additional pressure.” In a slow economy, clients and trainers need to maintain good communication and approachability before they both become “stuck.” Clarke’s recommendation to instructors: Even if it means helping a client move to a lower-cost provider, or figuring out other ways to reduce their costs, you’re much better off if it happens before bills go unpaid. Talk to clients who are even just a little late in paying and be willing to offer alternatives regarding how services are purchased.

ods, but you can also take a hands-on route to training. If you keep your horse at home or don’t board at a large, upscale facility, try building your own practice jumps or arena markers. Some cheap, unbreakable cones from a large discount store such as Wal-Mart can be used to mark patterns. Your basic arts and crafts supplies will do the trick for arena markers and dressage letters. A little PVC pipe, paint, wood, and some tools will allow you to build your own jumps. You can also pick up a few bunches of artificial flowers at your local dollar store to school over at home before facing them at shows. If your home-made jumps end up a bit ugly (albeit still safe), then who cares? At least it will serve as great preparation for your horse before encountering the embellished jumps at horse shows. If you fail as a jump engineer, check out discount jump retailers such as NextDayJumps.com.

Anne M. Eberhardt

Work With Your Trainer Less frequent and less expensive training may improve your cash flow, but there’s one fundamental element of the picture that’s going to be negatively affected: the trainer. These professionals are also trying to get by in the horse

Don’t become dependent upon frequent, private lessons. world, so you may need to brainstorm with your instructor about cost-saving training trends that will benefit you both. “While clients cutting back on regular lessons will impact trainers’ income, those trainers offering creative options for clients needing to cut back may prevent an even greater loss of business,” says Elizabeth Clarke, a Massa2

Planning Ahead At the start of the year or the show season, sit down with your trainer (or your bank statements) and lay out a schedule of which shows you want to compete in and where. Set realistic goals based on what you can afford, try to stay close to home, and determine which cities are less expensive or which showgrounds have lower fees and expenses. Deborah Boeh, dressage trainer and judge based out of Cincinnati, Ohio, conducts a barn meeting early in the year with her boarders and students to plan out their horse show schedules. “We discuss each person’s yearly goals and what shows will help get them there. We plan on what tests are the most suitable for their horse and allow them to show at their best. We plan the ones close to home, if possible, to limit some of the traveling and lodging costs. Some of my students are beginners and need confidence and miles — they can go to the local circuit doing one-day shows. They have a year-end award for these series so they

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Anne M. Eberhardt

feel a sense of accomplishment and yet haven’t spent all of their money.” Location and lodging will factor into your decision, so if possible, try to stay close to home and avoid overnight stays. If you don’t need to chase points this year, save some money, soak up the experience of showing locally for a season, and then reevaluate your goals and finances the following year. “Schooling shows are a great way to gain experience without the expenses of sanctioned events,” says EastmanLawler, eventing instructor and owner of Apple Tree Farm in Hollis, New Hampshire. “Try day tripping versus staying overnight if a competition is only a few hours drive.” Also plan ahead to determine whether you will compete enough to warrant paying for the various memberships associated with “recognized” or “sanctioned” horse shows. “Nonmember fees add up,” says Bryant. “If you plan to enter more than one or two shows per year, it’s less expensive to become a member of those organizations than to keep paying the nonmember fees along with your show entries.” Once you have determined how many shows you can afford this season, it pays to be picky when selecting the ones you will attend. Choose quality over quantity. Browse

Bypass warm-up classes and spend more time schooling. the prize lists to determine who is judging or managing each show — a preferred judge or efficient show manager may weigh heavily your decision. If you can afford a horse show sponsorship, as they are often the backbone of an enjoyable event, pick and choose wisely which competitions or classes you want to help sponsor, and which offer the

most perks or bang for your buck. “Look at past show records to see how many entries were at each one,” advises Lorelei Menke-Ross, an American Quarter Horse Association exhibitor. After 15 years of showing, she has discovered several ways to save on show entries and get the most out of an AQHA or APHA competition. “Some shows reduce entry fees for entering multiple divisions. Or you may get a free halter class entry, for instance, if you show in a performance class. Most importantly, look at what prizes are being given away. AQHA shows are great for nice prizes such as blankets, coolers, bridle bags, saddles, chairs, hay bags, cash, and so forth.” Many competitions offer so-called “schooling” rounds to practice in the ring before your division. Bypass these classes, as tempting as they may be, and pocket the $20 entry fee it would have cost you. Spend more time in the schooling ring and try not to rely on a professional to have your horse warmed up and show-ready. “As for classes at the horse show, does your trainer really need to ride your horse in the low class before you every day or does it just make you feel better and is something you have always done? Ride in the class yourself and get more mileage and experience,” says Sally Collins, trainer and owner of Collinswood Farm, a hunter/jumper facility in Stanwood, Washington. “Do you ride well enough to do some catch riding? Sometimes we don’t need a trainer to ride; we just need someone to kick the school horse around, take one on a trail ride, help with the early morning hacks at the show, or jump one to see if it is quiet enough before the less experienced owner gets on.” If you’re an experienced rider, picking up extra rides and exercising other horses will not only lighten your trainer’s load, but may allow him or her to knock a few dollars off your bill. Also go the extra mile to find out if there are horse show volunteer opportunities (such as ring stewards, scribes, tabulators, event volunteers, office help, etc.) available to discount your show expenses. “Call the office and ask if there’s something you can do to help the show in exchange for reduced entry and/or stabling fees,” says Clarke. “Show managers and secretaries are always overworked, and you won’t know unless you ask.” Transportation and Lodging As if division entries, ground fees, and show fees weren’t enough, there are still transportation and lodging

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If you’re willing to go one step further in horse show thriftiness, try camping out in a more literal sense. “I have been able to cut down on travel costs by sleeping in my trailer or pickup when I overnight the horses, and stopping at a truck stop, like Flying J, for a shower later in the day. Usually they will charge you around $10, and if you fueled up there, sometimes it is free. Many show facilities and fairgrounds will have campgrounds and showers available on-site as well,” says Loretta Grosset, western performance horse breeder and owner of LL Appaloosas in Burns, Wyoming. But if you’re planning for an overnight stay and need to book a hotel room, choose your accommodations wisely. Find a place that serves complimentary breakfast and doesn’t have a hefty cancellation fee if your horse goes lame or you scratch from a day of showing. Also, if you have hotel points with a particular chain, plan accordingly for horse show destinations where you will be able to use them. Another cost-effective lodging alternative, particularly at shows than span multiple weeks, is renting a house. “See if there is a house to rent for the week near the horse show where you could offer rooms to other competitors,” says Collins. “Turn it into your own equestrian bed and breakfast if you cook! You can charge enough to stay (and maybe eat) free and make friends in the process.” Regardless of your competition level or riding discipline, you should be able to find creative ways to travel for less.

Anne M. Eberhardt

costs — for both you and your horse — to consider. More and more of today’s competitors are learning about the financial benefits of ride sharing and trailer sharing. The United States Equestrian Federation has even instituted a ride share program to help exhibitors carpool and trailerpool to equestrian events. Through www.ClubEquestrian. com/tools/rideshare, people can search for and post information about open trailer spots and rides to a horse show. However, the old-fashioned method of postering flyers at local tack and feed stores can work just as well. To consolidate rides to horse shows and clinics, Clarke advises exhibitors to call the show secretary and ask if a barn, vanning company, or individual travelling from your area is looking for or has an open spot in their trailer or car, and would be interested in splitting fuel costs. If possible, trailer in the day of the show, rather than a day or two before, to avoid excess overnight fees — both in stalls and hotels. “Buddy up and find someone to compete with if you don’t travel with a barn,” says Eastman-Lawler. “Then don’t be afraid to pack people into hotel rooms, and share beds, trailers, or RVs.” If you don’t have access to a trailer with living quarters, find out if someone would be willing to let you “camp out” in theirs and help pay the showground fee, rather than paying for a hotel room. This will also al-

Trailer pool to horse shows and split fuel costs. low you to more easily check on your horse and do feeding and cleaning duties yourself. Trailering in your own hay, shavings, and grain is also more cost-efficient than buying them directly from the horse show. 4

Show clothes and accessories Before stepping into the show ring, you make sure your boots are shining, all your buttons are buttoned, and there are no flyaway hairs on you or your mount. You look great, but you’ve spent an arm and a leg on show clothes and accessories to achieve that look. Some careful shopping, however, will spare you from spending any more than necessary. First and foremost, educate yourself in the art of comparison-shopping. Resist the temptation to buy the first item you come across, and check with other retailers both instore and online to see if they offer the same thing at a lower price. Pay attention to sales, coupons, and fliers advertising discounts or bargain prices. Even better, search for lightly used clothing and tack at consignment shops. “Go through your closet and check out the consignment shop,” says Collins. “Update your wardrobe with ‘new’ shirts and jackets and trade in some you have. Many tack shops that

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to show shirts and jackets. If you do need to buy something, hold out until the end of the year or the show season when many items will be discounted. “Contrary to what many believe, you do not need to invest in white breeches, a black frock coat, a top hat, etc., to show, especially at schooling shows and even lower levels of recognized competition,” says Bryant. “USEF rules (online at www.usef.org) regarding rider attire are not nearly as restrictive as one might imagine. Many times, those boots, hunt coats, breeches, and gloves worn in another discipline will do just fine as long as they’re clean, in good condition, fit well, and boots are shined.” Also remember that although it’s nice to be in style, you don’t need the newest, hottest items on the market. Don’t buy trendy show clothes and accessories, but ones that will last you a long time. “You don’t need to go to a tack shop and buy a designer polo shirt when you can get essentially the same thing for a few dollars at a store such as T.J. Maxx,” says Eastman-Lawler. Another economical practice when buying show clothes is to look for those that are machine-washable. Increasingly more brands are producing clothes that can easily be washed at home, rather than racking up dry-cleaning bills after every event. And finally, while at the horse show, avoid the lure of vendor’s row and make sure you have everything you need before arriving at an event. Vendors’ prices are typically much higher at shows, and the equestrian brands they carry will be more expensive than a generic version of the same item. A foolproof way to avoid excess spending and resist temptation is to not carry much cash or a credit card while strolling around. See chapter 4 for more cost-saving advice about tack and equipment. Anne M. Eberhardt

follow the show circuit take in nicely used breeches and jackets you can then use as credit to buy something else you need. Helmets, however, should always be purchased new and fit by a professional.” Consignment shops are also a great venue for schooling equipment. A few good pieces of schooling tack will reduce the wear and tear on your nice show tack, prolonging its lifespan. If there is a particular item of clothing or equipment you know you will need, ask around to find out if anyone has a lightly used one they would be willing to sell. “You don’t need the most expensive tack, bridle, girth, or stirrup leathers, but you also don’t always want to buy the cheapest — it’s a safety issue,” says Eastman-Lawler. It’s wise to invest in a nice, classic set of show clothes or equipment if you plan on showing regularly or marching up the competition ranks. A quality product will cost more, but will last far longer than it’s cheapest counterpart. If you’re a casual competitor who won’t put as much wear and tear on your belongings, it’s a safe bet that you’ll get by just fine with a much less expensive product. Eastman-Lawler also emphasizes the practicality of sharing show clothes and tack when possible. If within a

Own one set of tack and share some items with friends. barn or group of riding friends everyone has a different bit, bridle, set of spurs, etc., share amongst each other and own only one set of tack. It will be easier on your wallet, easier to care for, and easier for preparation at the horse show. Keep in mind that the start of a new show season doesn’t equate to a need for new clothes and accessories. Reuse everything you safely can, from saddles pads and polo wraps 5

Do it yourself There are countless luxuries and services you pay for at the horse shows. You can save a lot of money, however, by making doing some of those tasks yourself — many of which you may not even realize you are overpaying for or could learn to do. One of the most basic things you can take over is the grooming, care, and exercise of your horse, rather than paying a groom or trainer to provide the services for you. “Especially if you’re cutting back on the number of shows you’re attending, take turns with friends and other boarders at the same barn grooming for each other at shows,” says Clarke. “Clean your own stalls and barn and

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- Baby wipes from the local dollar store are a quick and easy touch-up tool for horse and rider. - A safe hand cleaner or sanitizing wipe such as Gojo will remove manure stains. - If you don’t have easy access to clippers, a disposable razor will touch up a hairy muzzle. - Use dryer sheets to wipe dust from a horse’s coat before entering the show ring. - A light touch of baby oil on the muzzle will leave it shiny and soothed. - Talcum powder and water will prevent dust from dirtying white markings. Merely brush off before going into the ring. - Are you creative enough to make some of your own clothes and accessories? A dressage dickie, for example, can be made with about $2 of white cotton fabric and a little handiwork. - An affordable coat sheen recipe requires just ¼ cup baby oil, 2 cups water, 4 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and maybe a dash of hair conditioner.

Anne M. Eberhardt

you will also get enough extra exercise to save on your health club membership.” If you’re paying a professional to help you at a horse show, think about where you can cut back. Bryant saves on show expenses by doing almost everything herself. “It’s great if a helper can hold the horse, hold the coat, wipe the boots, apply fly spray, and so on, but it is not necessary if you’re showing only one horse. You just get completely dressed with your coat before you get on, and you forego the leg boots or polo wraps in the warm-up.” Along with grooming, feeding, and mucking out stalls, learn to body clip and braid manes. Not only should this save you several hundred dollars, but it’s a great bartering tool or a way to put some extra cash in your pocket. Furthermore, the quiet time alone with your horse before you ride is priceless. If you don’t want to learn to braid, or your skills aren’t up to show standards, you may still have valuable services to offer your trainer or use to barter for reduced fees. Collins has discovered several creative ways her students can help out at shows for some extra savings: “Offer to repair and paint jumps, water and drag the arena at home, haul all the equipment to the show for your trainer and set up the day before, landscape or fill out the tack room display, or offer ‘housekeeping’ services at the show by keeping the tack room or other area neat.” Another service sure to slowly drain the cash out of your pocket is the professional photography and video offered at shows. As proud horse owners, we can never have too many pictures from a good performance or too much evidence of a winning trip. A cheaper alternative to purchasing from a professional, however, is to invite someone you know who has basic video or photography skills and a nice camera to photograph you and your friends and barn mates. If they even charge a few bucks to send or email the pictures, it will still cost you less. On the whole, forego the expensive and often unhealthy horse show concessions by packing a cooler of your own food and drinks. If you often rent a golf cart to cover more ground at large events, try bringing a bike next time. If your horse loses a shoe at home, but it’s still in good condition, carry it with you to the show — you never know when you may need a quick replacement. Try these additional quick grooming and care tips before heading into the show ring. They cost less than brandname products:

Braid, bodyclip, groom, and muck out stalls yourself. Much of what we do, and hence pay for, with our horses is based on human desires. Competing at horse shows is fun and exciting, but during tight financial times you may have to make decisions about which expenses are worth paying for. The dollars and cents you save by doing more things yourself and through bartering services can help continue to make horse showing a reality.

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