Horse Show Organizer Tips #2: Location, Location, Location

The Strider Horse Show Organizer Tips series features best practices from equestrian organizers who host a combined total of over 50 horse shows annually.  Hear from:

  • Anna Mitchell of Mitchell Dressage Series
  • Miranda Kettlewell of Commonwealth Dressage & Combined Training Association
  • Liz Erwin of Potomac Valley Dressage Association
  • Cynthia Brickley of Elysian Hills Training Center

1.) Select the Right Space

If you own/ rent a facility and are promoting your business, choosing a venue is easy.

If you’re a GMO or Independent Show Manager, that might require some consideration. In any case, remember that incoming riders may need a hand navigating your space.

#StriderShowHack: An annotated facility map sent to all riders ahead of the show does wonders for logistics.
Make sure it’s a .jpeg or .pdf that can be easily accessed on their phones.

2. Learn How The Facility Handles Logistical Flow During A Horse Show

“Learn what works and doesn’t work with your facility. The first year [of Mitchell Dressage Series] we set up the dressage arena  with the judge’s booth at the opposite end to the manager’s booth. While this was great for getting a ton of Fitbit steps, it ended up wasting a lot of time!” -Anna Mitchell

Things to Consider:
  • Is there adequate parking for trailers of all sizes?
    • If folks feel that parking might be tricky, they’ll avoid bringing more horses to your show.
  • Is there a convenient water location for horses?
  • How many competition areas will you have? Will this be a one-ring show, or is there space for two?
  • Is there a safe space for riders to lunge horses and warm-up without feeling cramped? Remember, schooling shows can be a first experience for many developing horses and riders. You will want to ensure that you’re providing a positive experience by allowing for adequate warm-up space.
  • How is the footing? Will you potentially have to cancel your show if it rains buckets the day prior?

3. Have A Backup Plan for Weather. 

 Manage rider expectations prior to the start of the event  if there is weather inbound. Post on social media, or reach out via email to your subscriber list.  This will save you HOURS on the phone answering questions about your plans.

Stay tuned for more of our #StriderShowHack Series!