What goal to set for showing? (Dressage newbie)

[AEliz]

Thank you all so much for your thoughtful advice. I truly appreciate it!

I totally hear what some of you are saying about focusing on the process instead of the specific levels or awards. I am already so focused on my training, my own riding improvement and the improvement in my horse’s way of going, and I find that to be the most rewarding part of the sport. That’s why I never bothered to pay attention to how to move up the levels in showing until I registered for my first schooling show recently. I came here in the hopes of learning more about how the show system actually works, and I definitely understand a lot better now after reading all of your comments.

Our show is on Tuesday, so my very short term goal is to just get through the experience and see what a dressage show is actually like! And then take it from there Thanks again to everyone who weighed in!

[J-Lu]

One of the best things I did over my life was to scribe at recognized shows. Especially at the low levels, you get to see the ride and records the judge’s comments (it gets harder when the movements are more close together at the upper levels). You get such a good understanding of what the judges are looking for when scribing. And most judges I’ve encountered will ask you about your horse and answer questions between classes as a conversational jumping point.

Pretty much, if you can afford it, the best way to calm your nerves and develop a show strategy is just to show. See what works and what doesn’t. I love showing, it’s a great place to hang out with your horse and your friends and avoid mundane “home” tasks for a weekend. It’s also a great place to meet new people. I have offered to feed other neighboring horses in the morning for people traveling distance and I made good friends. Dressage people are generally very helpful to each other.

[Alterration]

I love that idea, thank you! I’m not the OP, but I’m always looking for more learning and didn’t think of this as an option.

[Djones]

I second this! I used to be intimidated about scribing but now I really enjoy it. I’ve learned a ton and it helped me learn the tests and their purpose.