Going to compete in the ranch riding classes at an aqha show in a few weeks for the first time. I know they want a very natural working ranch horse look, no bands, fake tails ect. Does it matter that my horse has a short mane? We show in other disciplines and I’ve always kept the mane short and realized looking at pictures of ranch riding horses the other day that all of them are long maned. Will my horse look out of place?
I show an all -arounder in a short mane in the RR.
Pictures don’t necessarily reflect what " everybody" does. Just don’t put a bunch of glop on it to make it slick and shiny. Not everybody loves a long mane on a working horse.
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In my area, a lot of ranch horses cross over into other disciplines, including western dressage. And it’s a growing sport, so many people are new to it. It takes years to grow a beautiful long mane, and if your horse was doing wp or hus or all around, then you have to just go with the short mane. My horse’s mane was short, and he did extremely well in ranch, including halter. You will see such a large variation in attire and tack - which I love - and the judges do not seem to be holding anything against anyone.
I am going to be showing AQHA for the first time this year too. However, my horses do have a natural mane. (so I’m going to have to figure out what to do for showmanship!!!)
Focus on your performance. If another competitor’s performance is 100% equal to your, they might have the “edge” because of looks. But ultimately, if your performance is better, then the judge should place you accordingly.
Thanks everyone! Glad to hear I’m not the only one! Had briefly considered letting it grow for future shows but honestly I don’t think a long mane would flatter my horse anyway so we’ll be sticking with the short style
