Professional producer Vicky Smith, who recently stewarded at the London International for the British Show Horse Association’s Rising Stars classes, offers key advice for amateur riders aiming to enter affiliated showing competitions. She emphasizes that at this level, the horse’s presentation and performance matter far more than perfect attire or specialized tack, encouraging riders to focus on their horse going well rather than worrying about wearing the exact jacket or saddle. Vicky also shares practical tips on grooming, such as clipping cobs a few days before shows and trimming tails to the hock, while advising riders on managing hot horses by ensuring adequate exercise and using ear plugs to reduce noise stress.

Vicky highlights the importance of proper preparation time at shows, noting that competitors often underestimate how long it takes to get from the yard to the ring and to warm up their horses appropriately. To stand out in the ring, she recommends mastering the go-round by finding space to show the horse off best, using collected paces in corners, and avoiding poor etiquette like overtaking other competitors and blocking judges’ views. Overall, her guidance aims to help amateur riders confidently step up into affiliated showing with a focus on horse welfare, preparation, and smart ringcraft.