First AQHA Show

[King_Creole]

UPDATE: SEE HOW IT WENT IN POST #17

Though I’ve owned my QH for 7 years, I’m just dipping my toe into the world of AQHA showing.

We will be attending a local circuit show (nothing big like Dixie or Congress) and I am hoping my wonderful fellow COTHers can give me a little insight. I’ve facebook stalked the club page and there are very few English pics and maybe 1 over fences pic.

I will be showing in Level 1 Amateur and Level 1 Green classes. Right now, planning on Level 1 Green and Am HUS, Hunter Hack, and Level 1 Green Working Hunter and Level 1 Am Eq and Hunter o/f.

First question:

My trainer has done AQHA shows, but it’s been awhile. My guy is not a AQHA HUS mover but she says we should do it anyways for the experience. I don’t really want to spend money on one of those shaped number pads if I don’t have to though. Here’s what I found in the rule book:

SHW310.3 Saddles must be black and/or brown leather of traditional hunting or forward seat type, knee insert on the skirt is optional. Saddle pads should fit size and shape, except when necessary to accommodate numbers on both sides, for which a square pad or suitable attachment may be used. Saddle pads and attachments shall be white or natural color with no ornamentation

Does this mean that I can use a square white pad and pin the numbers on both sides??

First Question Part B: I typically show in a halfpad (I have a short flap saddle and it just looks better than the fitted pads which are too long under the flaps). Is this ok for the o/f classes? Or should I just use the fitted pad? I have one that shrunk that might work…

Second Question: To braid or not to braid?

Third Question: Amateur Card

When I joined AQHA, I did so as an amateur (which I am). My membership card says “Amateur Member” but then the rule book has all this stuff about declaring as an Amateur and paying fees. I honestly can’t remember when I joined if I filled out the ammy application…though I think I did. Well, I filled it out again and sent it in via fax last week in case I didn’t. I haven’t received anything from AQHA since then. I guess I could email or call and check but this has just gotten me confused. Since my card says “Amateur Member”, does that mean I’m good?

GEN116.1 The amateur applicant may convert a current AQHA 12-month individual membership for a fee of $10, upon verification of amateur status. The expiration date for this membership will coincide with the membership being converted. Individual 12-month amateur membership is available for $10 to a life member in the same individual identification number as the desired amateur membership designation

Fourth Question: Should I cross post on Western Board even though this is English-related?

I think this is it for now…if I think of anything else I’ll add it.

THANKS YALL!

[findeight]

Go watch first. Judges impressions of Hunters, Hunter Hack and Horsemanship are subjective-it’s all the opinion of the judge. You do NOT want to be the only one with a square pad or anything else nobody else has. You have a solid record of winning everything in sight? You could set a new trend if you wanted. As a newbie with much to learn? No.

In Jumpers you leave the rails up and make the time. Period. No style points or judges impressions count, only you did that or did not. And the square pad is preferred.

Again, both you and your trainer should get an idea of current trends in the classes with a style component and subjective judging. That does not mean you have to spend a fortune on new stuff, just not be the only one with something obvious. Bet you can borrow a shaped pad somewhere until you learn the ropes.

[bugsynskeeter]

AQHA can email you confirmation of your membership, stating your Amateur status.

No one really shows in square pads. Do you know anyone that has one you can borrow?

If you don’t braid, band.

[sahqueen]

#1-see if you can borrow a “number” pad for the HUS and Eq on the flat. Using a square pad is one of those grey areas…some judges may not notice, some may kill you for it.

#2-yes braid, unless you are also doing a western event such as horsemanship or showmanship then you could get away with banding…but even in that case is the horse is more of a hunter type you would tend to see braids in those classes rather than the horse banded in the English events.

#3-as long as your membership card is current and says Amateur Member you’re all set. The show secretary may have you fill out a form regarding your Level 1 status. It’s actually not a bad idea to print the sheets for you and your horse that shows your Level 1 and Rookie eligibility and have on hand if there is any question about what classes you can enter. You can search that info on the AQHA website.

#4-probably not necessary

If you have any other questions feel free to PM me…long time AQHA amateur exhibitor and certified AQHA show manager.

[ChasPonyCat]

@sahqueen

#1-see if you can borrow a “number” pad for the HUS and Eq on the flat. Using a square pad is one of those grey areas…some judges may not notice, some may kill you for it.

#2-yes braid, unless you are also doing a western event such as horsemanship or showmanship then you could get away with banding…but even in that case is the horse is more of a hunter type you would tend to see braids in those classes rather than the horse banded in the English events.

#3-as long as your membership card is current and says Amateur Member you’re all set. The show secretary may have you fill out a form regarding your Level 1 status. It’s actually not a bad idea to print the sheets for you and your horse that shows your Level 1 and Rookie eligibility and have on hand if there is any question about what classes you can enter. You can search that info on the AQHA website.

#4-probably not necessary

If you have any other questions feel free to PM me…long time AQHA amateur exhibitor and certified AQHA show manager.

Quoting this to concur with all of it. I bolded answer number to to specifically concur. It’s been a while since I’ve done AQHA shows and I did showmanship but horse was always braided as our riding events were all English.

In regards to point number one, even if a square pad would technically not break the rules, I have never seen one used at an AQHA show…it would definitely stick out.

[HP_sblueskyenterprise]

Keep in mind that headsetwise the AQHA Hunt Under classes are more “Wenglish” the headset is going to be parallel or slightly above the withers and not much higher than that.

[MintHillFarm]

I really dislike those number pads, but I guess there is no choice?

Please update how your show day goes! And good luck, have fun

[bugsynskeeter]

@MintHillFarm

I really dislike those number pads, but I guess there is no choice?

Please update how your show day goes! And good luck, have fun

They are standard in the AQHA hunter ring right now. You really don’t see anything else.

[sahqueen]

Make sure you print out a copy of your horses record to show that he has earned the appropriate ROM to be eligible for Performance Halter…and let us know how it goes!

[Coeur_de_Cheval]

@sahqueen

Make sure you print out a copy of your horses record to show that he has earned the appropriate ROM to be eligible for Performance Halter…and let us know how it goes!

If this is the first time your horse has been show, he’s probably not eligible for performance halter (must have a ROM). But anyone can enter the regular halter! Lots of people do that before the horse has an ROM, even if they are a performance horse.

If you can’t find a number saddle pad, it’s not going to be the end of the world. I’ve seen a couple of square pad at small AQHA shows, but they definitely aren’t popular.

A consistent performance with a willing, responsive horse will get you a long way in HUS classes even if your horse isn’t the best mover or the slowest legged!

Best of luck!!

[King_Creole]

And this is why I ask you guys these questions! I did not know this. He hasn’t done a single AQHA show so I guess that means no halter for us which is fine.

Make sure you print out a copy of your horses record to show that he has earned the appropriate ROM to be eligible for Performance Halter…and let us know how it goes!

@CoeurdeCheval thank you as well for your advice as well!

I’m starting to feel better about this!

One more question.

Obviously coming from h/j world, I ride more forward at the trot and halfseat at the canter for undersaddle classes. Do I really need to ride in a chair seat like it seems most HUS riders do? Is that going to affect judging? I won’t get the best movement out of my horse if I ride that way, I know that. It’s not an eq class, but I don’t know if the judges will consider it unconventional or something. My trainer says I should…I say no.

[MHM]

Just FYI. Before you rearrange your style or your horse’s style, ask if the judge is a USEF judge. Some AQHA shows now hire USEF judges for their hunter classes. So don’t change anything until you know who the judge will be.

[mrs_beasley]

I’ve shown AQHA a little bit, even did The Congress with my horse (he has mostly done USEF stuff in the Hunters and Eq).

A number pad really is the way to go, but if you only plan to do this one show, don’t sweat it. A square pad isn’t a deal breaker at a small show.

Braiding is unfortunately essential if you don’t band well. Additionally, and I’m surprised nobody has mentioned it, a fake tail is key, even if your horse has a nice tail. My horse has a long, full tail that is the envy of a lot the people on the rated circuit, but I use a fake tail with him to make it more “quarter horsey” when we do AQHA stuff. I am glad I did buy one, because those tails are INSANE, and it is just expected that you use one to create a finished look for the show ring.

Loose reins are your friend in a flat class, and they tend to ride with longer irons as well, but do what is comfortable for you and have FUN! It’s a learning process but it’s easy to get the hang of if you hang around and observe a little bit or go check out a different show to take mental notes before your big day.

Most of the female riders will have a full face of makeup…bright lipstick not excluded. I was SHOCKED and also highly entertained when I learned that at The Congress (and also at the other big QH shows), many HUS, Western Pleasure, Equitation, and even Halter Participants hire professional makeup artists to get them ready for the show ring. I wish I was joking. I felt inferior with my drug store beauty supplies!

[Chuckles]

Good luck and have fun!
You could show in a square pad, but the number pads are more conventional. You might find an inexpensive one on e-bay. Check the rulebook for the HH rules as far as the pad. I am not sure, but I think you need the numbers on both sides because it has the rail portion of the class.
I don’t think it will be a big deal to show in the half pad for OF classes.
Do braid,. More people are braiding tails, but that is perfectly optional. I don’t braid the tail.
The amateur card is all that you need. Your horse must have a performance ROM to show in the performance halter class. You can download proof of your horses ROM from the AQHA members section of the website.
Ride however you like, but if you would like, but a half seat and a forward canter may leave the impression that you are aiming for a hand-gallop in the flat classes. We remain seated at the canter, so the half-seat would be more unconventional.
There is a specific protocol for walking in and then trotting in the halter classes. Make sure to take a little time to check out the rule book ahead of time so you feel prepared.
Have a great time!

[Plumcreek]

The judges were the ones who wanted the number pads to be standard, as they cannot see numbers pinned on backs while standing in the ring. No one uses the strings to shift the number side to side like USEF. If you have a week and a half before this show, I just checked and eBay has some number pads for ~$45. incl shipping.

Your half pad looks fine for the fence classes. And your horse’s frame in the photo is fine for the HH rail and Eq class, where heads are higher than HUS. Eq is all about nailing the pattern and good rider position, I have watched quite a few Big Eq medal classes and in the flat portion, they sit pretty straight also. Good judges will not ding you for a higher head position in Eq. . HUS has become sort of a specialty class, heads/necks sometimes are actually lower than the Western Pleasure (WP at the better shows). I have seen people 2 point the canter in HH rail and win big, no problem, but not in HUS (use a discreet half seat), and not in. Eq. One reason for the vertical riders (not too far from a dressage seat, really) is people push hard with seat and legs to get the longest leg swing with collection.

Do not be afraid say it is your first show and to ask questions about procedure from trainers and competent looking amateurs. The nice people will be glad to have new exhibitors. . .

[ellem]

Agree with most everything - except depending on how small it is, you might be able to get away without braiding for the fence classes. HUS will all be braided with fake tails, but fence people get away with a bit more - although you won’t see the crazy shirt colors in the fence classes that you do in the under saddle, and I’ve never put a even a dab of makeup on before jumping. Half pads are fine for fences as well. Just ask questions and try to have fun!

[King_Creole]

Ok everyone. Horse show was this weekend.

Quick Summary: It was a success and a fun time!

Full Summary:

First off…showing on just one day was kind of super nice. We hauled over Saturday afternoon around 3 and got settled into our stall then watched the show for a bit while cooling down (it was blazing hot over here). Schooled around 6. Nice and relaxed since I was the only one in the ring

I used my white square pad and pinned my numbers on it. No issues with judges. Our HUS classes weren’t that great since (as I’ve already said) he doesn’t have the movement/headset they are looking for and they were in the indoor. We do show at this facility all the time, but never in the indoor and he was just a little more “up” which was not what we wanted! LOL but one judge out of the four did like him enough to give us 3rd in Level 1 Green HUS and Level 1/Novice Am HUS. We actually weren’t last in the HUS classes either! Not that it mattered since I wasn’t expecting anything, but it was a nice surprise. Oh, and I ended up in a half seat b/c he wasn’t relaxing with me sitting. I don’t ride him in a deep seat normally. He knows that when I sit deep, I’m asking him to move up and with him already not super comfortable in the ring, it wasn’t pretty. As soon as I got out of the tack, he relaxed. Also, why doesn’t anybody canter when they ask for the canter? I’m sure it was a faux pas but I immediately cantered…and passed two horses that were still walking in one class.

Level1 Green HUS - out of 7 - 3rd, 5th, 6th, 6th
Level 1 Am HUS - out of 7 - 3rd, 5th, 6th, 6th

Next up we had a break and then the over fences classes. Milo was happy to be back in his element! The only bad part about the over fences is that since the classes were so small, we had basically zero time to catch our breathes. It was in the 90s and humid. The only good thing was there was a drizzle while we were showing.

Level 1 Am Hunter Hack - out of 4 - 1st, 2nd, 2nd, 3rd (we added in the line…oops! ha)
Am Hunter Hack - out of 4 - 1st, 1st, 1st, 2nd
Open Hunter Hack - out of 4 - 1st, 1st, 2nd, 2nd
Level 1 (Green) Working Hunter - we were the only ones so all 1st
Open Working Hunter (there was only one in the Novice Am and Am so decided to save him b/c he was hot and getting tired and filled the open class instead) - out of 3 - 1st, 1st, 1st, 1st

We ended up Circuit Champion (which I also needed explained to me! ha) in Am HH, Open HH, Novice Working Hunter and Open Working Hunter. They had a table of prizes set up that I was able to pick from. Really nice items too.

Everyone was super helpful and the other girls explained what to do in hunter hack since I wasn’t sure how it went. It really was a good experience and it being a small local show made it easier and less stressful for our first QH show.

I did speak with one judge after our o/f classes. It was the judge that liked him in the HUS classes. She was very kind and gave me her thoughts about Milo. She said his headset is great at the trot and he just needs to drop it closer to wither level (but not below the wither. She was definitely more “new school” than the other judges who like the Wenglish look). She also called Milo “safe.” I can honestly say that has NEVER popped up in my ways to describe him before!! LOL…she didn’t see him at the show last month during schooling w/ him bucking after every fence being a goober.

I used the same white square pad set up for the o/f classes since there wasn’t time to change and everyone just stayed in what they had. I won’t be able to make their next show since I’ll be out of town but as of right now, I’m planning on attending more next year. I’ll go ahead and get the shaped number pad then.

Again, a HUGE THANK YOU to you guys that answered my questions and gave me advice. It definitely helped me feel more prepared and less stressed out. COTH is the best!!

PS…added a “waiting for our first class” pic. Yall. My horse always hangs out. He’s just super proud of it I guess and has zero shame. At least he picks it up when its time to work, right?!

[MintHillFarm]

You guys look great! And thanks for the update, I was wondering how it all went!

[roseymare]

Yay! Glad you had a good time. People tend to worry too much about crossover. A good judge can see a good horse!

[bugsynskeeter]

Congratulations!!!