One talent that many of our top show horse and pony producers seem to possess is the ability to turn something seemingly average into the next show ring superstar. They are able to spot that 'diamond in the rough' and after months of correct conditioning, training, trimming and polishing, they manage to take it to the top of the line-up at some of the country's most prestigious shows.
Seeing a horse or pony's potential can be a tricky business when you're just starting out. When a horse is young, or is out of work, mooching around at the back of some field, it can be hard to imagine what they could look like one day. On top of that, you are often competing against other buyers- whether they are looking for themselves or are professional trainers searching on behalf of a client. Everyone is keen to find that 'undiscovered future champion.'
Seeing a horse or pony's potential can be a tricky business when you're just starting out. When a horse is young, or is out of work, mooching around at the back of some field, it can be hard to imagine what they could look like one day. On top of that, you are often competing against other buyers- whether they are looking for themselves or are professional trainers searching on behalf of a client. Everyone is keen to find that 'undiscovered future champion.'
It can even be difficult to see the potential in your own horse if you are new to showing and are unaware of all the tricks and techniques you can use to get your animal looking his absolute best (not just good- we're talking HOYS standard, movie-star gorgeous!)
The first thing you need to do is make sure you know as much as possible about how a horse should be put together. No amount of mud or lack of condition can cover up correct conformation. Looking at lots and lots of different horses, preferably with someone experienced by your side will help with this. It's also worth investing in a good book on conformation (I recommend this one- I have a copy next to my bed and open it at a random page at least every other night! lol)
Secondly, you need to know your types inside out. If you want to do well in the ring, there is no point buying a horse that is not a specific 'type', no matter how good the conformation. Something that the judge looks at and can't really decide whether it is a hack or a hunter will never reach the dizzy heights of showing. Voluteering as a steward is a great way to learn what is required from each class.
Secondly, you need to know your types inside out. If you want to do well in the ring, there is no point buying a horse that is not a specific 'type', no matter how good the conformation. Something that the judge looks at and can't really decide whether it is a hack or a hunter will never reach the dizzy heights of showing. Voluteering as a steward is a great way to learn what is required from each class.
Remember, when looking at a possible show horse, whether it is in your own paddock or you are thinking about buying, there are things that can be improved. Muscle can be built up in certain places with correct work, clever trimming can make a big difference (for example, if your horse is light of bone do NOT go crazy with the clippers down the backs of the legs!) and tack can also make a horse look much better (even the biggest, plainest head in the world can be made to look handsome with a good quality but substantial bridle with a flat, wide browband).Amazingly, action can also be improved upon. A horse or pony that is untrained, unbalanced or is being presented on deep, unsuitable going will often look like it can't move properly. Legs will be going in all directions and the overall picture will be horrendous. This is why you must always have a horse trotted up in front of you and also observe it moving at liberty in the field.
There are probably dozens of could-be show horses and ponies languishing in paddocks around the country. So, go have another look at your hairy thoroughbred outside or take a second look at that scruffy, doesn't-look-like-anything pony on TradeMe. You never know....underneath all that fluff, it could be the next HOYS champion!
Take a good look at the pictures throughout this post. Could any of these be your next ribbon-winning show horse or pony....................?
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