Years ago, my barn once did an end of season party where we gave each other amusing awards. I got a ‘sticky buns’ award (prize was a caramel roll or cinnamon bun type thing!). My young mare at the time was…uh… a little wild at shows that year. Someone who went off course a few times got a compass to help her find her way.
As someone pointed out above, I think awards that you have to tally over the course of the day (‘best’ anything - turnout, tail, hands) are going to be more hassle than they’re worth because people don’t stick around after their ride. But you could probably think of a few small things that anyone who accomplished XYZ could be awarded when they pick up their test. Plus then the awards are more fun and less competitive.
Some ideas that came to mind:
*Definitely some sort of award for anyone improving more than X% on the first and repeat tests - that’s what schooling shows are all about!
*Sticky Buns - a cinnamon roll for anyone who needed some extra sticky buns that test.
*20m donut award - have the judge/scribe make a mark for anyone who impressed them with round circles - get a donut when you pick up your test
*Picture frame (you can get small frames for less than $5 at Walmart) for anyone competing in their first dressage show.
*A small prize for anyone who gets 7 or above for rider position?
*EncourageMINTs (put peppermints in a small bag with a fun label) for any horses/riders at their first horse show (or any other criteria).
