If you are planning on doing some in hand showing this season you may find the following hints and tips useful.

Make sure that you and your horse are turned out as clean and polished as possible. Ensure that your tack is spotless as well of course.

Bathe your horse and trim the mane and tail as per the class requirements. If you are going to use hoof polish put this on just before you go into the show ring for maximum effect.

If you’re female don’t wear too much make up. You will just appear flashy and unprofessional.
Warm up your horse before you take him in the ring so that he looks on top form as soon as you enter.

Practice your in hand show and gait transitions before the show. You want your horse to walk and trot instantly on command.

Make sure that you also practice standing still with your horse. There’s no point doing a fantastic show then your horse blows it at the end by not standing for the judge in the final line up.

Whether or not you win a rosette, as you leave the class do so with the same presence that you entered the ring and the judge will remember you for your professionalism.

Above all remember to enjoy it. It’s not just about rosettes and trophies. It’s about spending quality time with your horse.

A packed audience of 8000 people were on the edge of their seats watching a huge class of 23 compete in Saturday nights Puissance event at HOYS.

After 5 rounds only two riders, Robert and Ellen Whitaker remained. The wall stood at 7′ 3″ and Ellen Whitaker tried her best to clear it but unfortunately knocked a brick out.

Her cousin Robert however cleared the big wall and was crowned HOYS Puissance Champion 2008.

Earlier the same day Robert’s uncle, Michael Whitaker won the Xerox Special Event Service Cup speed class on Fairviews Mirabelle D’or .

Yet another great day for one of Britains best loved show jumping families.