Advice for showing in hand

Chris24

Hi, looking for some advice, Ive never shown before and Ive entered a welsh yearling pony and a pony stallion in a class at a local show this week, I was wondering if anyone knew what colour bridle is best BLACK OR BROWN? the pony stallion is cob type with lovely long mane, does this have to be plaited? and what type of clothing should I wear? riding gear? do you need to wear a hat? if so which type? and do you have to carry a cane? Completely new to this so any advice GREATLY appreciated like whats expected and so on, Cheers in advance...

convert

A dark brown or black bridle would probably look best, regardless of the colour of the pony/horse.

For pure bred in-hand classes, such as Connemara and Welsh classes, horses tend not to be plaited. The longer manes look nicer than shorter ones, especially when washed and combed out well the day before. Then all that's needed is a quick comb/brush on the day. Same goes for the tail.

For the dress of the handler: Guys tend to wear a suit, and often a bowler hat, but if you don't have a bowler, don't worry! Girls tend to wear a show or hacking jacket with trousers. Some girls wear hats. But long hair tied up is a necessity! Gloves would look better, and if you did have a cane, it would look well, too, but a normal dark whip would be fine. Tho, if you'd prefer not to carry a whip, then don't.

If you take a quick look on the internet and look for photos from some of the big shows you'll get an idea of what's worn.

Best of luck!

finbarrk

You can still show the ponies without having all the fancy gear, it's up to yourself really.

skink

native breeds do not have to be plaited, and as long as you neatly and appriately dressed(no mini skirt or high heels) you should do fine, most people use schooling or dressae whips for in hand.

Chindato

Brown tack is correct for showing.
M&M breeds should be shown unplaited.
Dress yourself neatly, NB shoes you can run in.
Show cane is correct, but any stick or none at all is acceptable.