Any pointers for getting to 4-H states?

Question

I ride english and this year is my last year (and im selling my horse at the end) I'm hoping to get to states this year. I've been to districts a million and one times and always place. just not in the top 3. I'm actually a good rider, i just need tips to make my horse stand out from the crowd. (shes a 14.2hh grullo POA)

Answer 1

Practice, practice, practice.  Errors can't happen if you want the state trip.

Also, ride confidently.  Chin up, shoulders back, a little bit of make up, clean and nice attire.  A shirt that isn't white under your hunt coat can get some extra attention.  On the collar instead of a pin, a lot of girls are glueing on rhinestones.

Horse should be clipped and have it's mane put in braids.  Hoof polish a must.  Vaselien or other shiner on muzzle.  Grooming is important to be at the top of the class.

The toklat pad (that hunt pads with the number pockets on them) can also really help you to stick out and look extra professional.

If you don't already takes lessons, consider taking a lesson or two before your district show just to finalize everything and get some last minute tips for your horse and you.

If your POA is registered - consider going to some POA shows because you'll see what the top people are doing and compare what you need to change and work on.  Also, if you can win at the POA show you ought to do very well at your district show.

Finally - just practice, practice, and practice.  Either way, have fun and enjoy the day.  Judges love to see kids that love their horses and are having fun.

Answer 2

I have a POA, about the same size.  Watch the others who win or place in county and district levels, and see what they do to catch the judges eye.  Maybe use a different blanket, or put some glitter in Horsey's mane and tail.  If it's a pattern class, practice the pattern a million and one times before you go in the ring.  If its a class where all the horses are going at once (name escapes me...), make sure you find your own space, as far away from the others as possible.  And, of course, have correct position, and do your best.  Good luck!

Answer 3

almost always keep your eyes on the judges and smile

for her i would shine her up with baby oil for her hinnd end and wd 40 for her mane and tail i kno that sounds weird but trust me 6 years in competing wd 40 will work wonders and do your best groomin session you'v ever done haha

Answer 4

Watch people that win  in other classes. try your best and have fun with it. smile! Go to some clinics or lesson to make sure your  doing things correct. If you get a pattern practice it many time before you go in and act like your the best. If you mess up act like it never happened. after the class. ask what the judge what you did wrong. Good LUck