Equitation class for child - what do they need to do.

[paddlinglikehell]

My dd (nearly 8), has been asked if she would like to go to a small riding club show this weekend, with a friend who has a space in her box. We loan the pony and the lady is perfectly happy for us to go and the pony went along to another show (as a companion)just before we took her on and was really calm and well behaved. Classes are also held in little post and rail arenas, so no huge fields to disappear across (am I being a tad paranoid?!), which makes me feel a bit more comfortable.

DD has only been to a show to watch and is desperate go. After the Mum mentioned it, I said I would chat it over with dd and Otherhalf and I had a look online at the schedule, well it would be a shame not to do anything if we do go! There is a vetran class 8 years and Under (on or off lead rein) and also a turn out - although our tack isn't in the best condition (saddle cantle a bit scuffed), there was also Equitation (also on or off lead rein, attached to noseband).

First, what do they do in Equitation? Does it involve canter? only she has only just started cantering in the school and the pony was a little hard to bring back to trot, so don't want her doing anything like this at a show until she has a bit more experience. Also do they literally mean attaching the lead clip onto the leather part of the noseband?

I am a little giddy about it and would love her to go, I spent many happy days when I was a kid, doing local shows on a very scruffy, unpredictable pony, spending most of my time heading out of the ring (involutarily!!), but the precious parent part is also thinking what if this happens to her (the owner has assured me it won't!).

WWYD?

From what you have said about your DD and the pony, I would put her on the lead rein for the show. You would attach it to the back of the noseband. Some ponies can find the atmosphere at parties very exciting indeed so better safe than sorry!

For an equitation class off lead she would need to canter-it's sort of a best rider from what I've seen.

Maybe have a chat to the owner/other parents about what is involved with this show. Like Marialuisa I'd definitely keep her on the Lead Rein given her age/experience.

The veteran class sounds ideal if your pony is of a suitable age (and looks good for it).

We don't do turn out classes but it will be tame (just walk usually) so will give your daughter confidence.

Not sure about Equitation classes. The advantage is that they are judging the rider and overall performance rather than the quality/confirmation of the pony. In some you have to do a small jump but they usually mention this in the schedule.

Is there a Lead rein class as well? In for a penny....

Don't forget that if you're leading her you'll need to look smart with a hat etc. Ideally try and borrow a leather lead rein rather than a lead rope/clip. They buckle to the back of the noseband. Also you would normally carry a show cane but unless you can borrow one I wouldn't worry too much.

Just go and have fun and it will be good practise for next year!

Your outfit is far more important than anything else!

Just to add that in anything other than a lead rein/first ridden class you normally have to canter in a group which can be pretty intimidating, especially if you have a range of sizes of horse and pony in the same ring.

Good point Marialuisa. That is why a class such as "novice rider" may sound appealing but could include adults cantering round out of control on big horses.

Stick to Lead Rein until she has confidence and then seek out First Ridden classes. These are for children, usually up to 12, where they just walk and trot together and only canter in their individual show (and they don't gallop ever).

A hat!!!!! How exciting Butkin - I could be one of those pony mums with matching outfit with dd's ribbons, although she would be mortified! I always wanted to be one of those lucky children with beautiful show ponies.

There were lead rein classes in all of these for 8 years and under and I think I may feel happier doing that, not sure dd will be so keen to be back on the lead though. I just remembered, I have a nice leather lead rein with a little brass chain at the end, which I used when I showed my Section A, need to find that.

Thanks for the info. Marialuisa, I don't think we will worry about equitation if we do go, just be happy to go and come back without any drama. First ridden sounds ideal.

I had a chat to the owner today and she said the pony would be fine, is so thrilled someone is doing something with her and is bringing her 'sunday best' bridle in. Apparently she is very steady at shows, only gets a little keen if doing a jumping course, but has never run off or done anything silly - she is 17 - the pony not the owner, so ideal for veteran.

I see the Mum with the box tomorrow and will find out more before Sunday, but it seems that it is a very small riding club event, sometimes only five or six in the classes. Sounds ideal for first time.

Off to search the garage for show cane and lead rein - thinking about the dark mauve trouser suit, or black trousers!!!