Advice about showing young horse in hand

[Action42]

First off, let me say that I am completely inexperienced in the world of young horses and breed shows, so pardon any ignorance I display.

I have a 2yo GOV gelding that was purpose bred to event. I have had him since he was 9m old and he’s really turning into an exceptionally lovely young horse. In an effort to get him some exposure to horse show situations, I am considering showing him in hand at an upcoming USDF show. Let’s assume, for the purpose of the discussion, that he is sound, worthy of being shown at this time (ie not awkward, quality gaits, etc), and ready for the experience. I am not a breeder so this horse’s ultimate use will be as my personal riding horse.

The show is technically 2, 1 day shows over the weekend. As such, I can pay the handler per run or per show. He could have as few as 2 or as many as 4 runs per day if he qualifies for the championship classes. Per run it is $75, for the whole day, it would be $275. While I am not made of money, I did expect to spend some for the weekend, but did not expect $600 for the weekend in handling fees alone. Let’s assume the handler is good and comes highly recommended, and this money does include the handler schooling the horse ahead of time to help make sure he shows his best.

In light of this and the horse’s age, would I be better served to show him only 1 day? Or given his quality should I suck it up and show both days? I have no Devon aspirations, but would like some show results for him that will help my case for increasing his value on his insurance.

I realize you all have to just trust me on the quality part as I do not have video of him at this time, so I appreciate any thoughts more experienced folks may have.

[ablibby]

Could you just run the horse yourself?

[MCF1991]

$75 a run is a pretty good deal especially if they work with them ahead of time. Let me tell you that in hand sport horse shows are FUN when you are winning stuff. I say that if you know he is a good quality horse, then go for the one day and if he wins then do the second day? Be prepared. I don’t know what area you are in, but where we show our youngsters in northern VA, the competition is stiff. If he doesn’t have mind blowing movement and more than decent confirmation, don’t expect to win…in northern VA at least. Either way it is great experience for the young ones. Good luck.

[Tory]

If you are going to event why not do the FEH classes at a horse trials?

I did one a couple months ago. It was great experience for my not quite 2 yr old.

[alibi_18]

@ablibby

Could you just run the horse yourself?

It sure could be done BUT showing in hand is not as easy as it sounds/looks.

And not everyone is capable of running next to a 2yrs old + being able to show off the horse at full capacity!

[Katona]

Personally, I would rather do a couple one class entries first. But, the people around me who show tend to start them very young (Year of classes, etc.). I feel like two days/8 runs is a lot for a 2-year-old that hasn’t been doing the show circuit.

I would 100% have someone experienced do the handling. It’s lovely as an owner to be able to sit back and watch. With very few exceptions your horse will work better with a pro.

[Action42]

Thanks everyone for your input.

Alibi nailed it, I am not capable of running fast tnough to show this horse to his potential, he is almost 17.0hh at this point. Plus I have zero experience showing in hand so I feel that if I’m going to enter him, I want to give him the best chance so a handler it is.

I don’t expect to win, but he is quite nice, so hopefully it will pay off!

Tory, I’d love to do FEH, but the only one near me is Seneca Valley. 5 points is not offering it this year. If I have the opportunity though, we will go that route as well.

[sixpoundfarm]

If its a YHS, its worth the handling fee. If your horse does well, he could possibly earn back some of the entry fees too. Its a nice environment for a youngster. Low pressure and supportive exhibitors.

[Fairview_Horse_Cente]

Pay for the handler to show him in the class only. If he qualifies to go on, pay per run.