You Can Change Equestrian Sport Yourself
Heels Down Mag asked adult amateur riders to tell us how they would change equestrian sport. Our editorial team selected five finalists’ essays, which are being published this month. One winner will receive an Ecogold Secure saddle pad of their choice ($170-250 value).
By Kimberly Watts
I am an amateur and have been riding my whole life. I began riding dressage in 1990 and have been competing for over 28 years. I have gone down centerline over 220 times at USDF shows and probably half again as many times in California Dressage Society shows. I am a board member with my local chapter of CDS.
Although dressage is my focus, I think much of this applies to horse sports in general. Whereas my assessment is more anecdotal than statistical, I believe it to be relevant due to the information I received from riders in various regions of the country, along with my own history. Some of the discussions:
Forward transitions. Life happens and things like marriage and kids can put a crimp on show dollars. Also, new horses and levels can result in a decrease in showing.
A good man or woman is hard to find. Lack of approved or adequate judges geographically close to make it financially feasible has some clubs cutting back.
The high cost of… well, everything.
No one wants to work for nothing. Grammar aside, spending a large sum of money only to be told you don’t qualify for a prize due to not enough entries completing the test.
Not all ammies are created equal. Some people feel like those with big budgets for horses and training make it difficult to justify the cost of showing for lesser budgets.
Thinking outside the sandbox. We all love our horses and some want the
challenge of competition. Events like Working Equitation are getting more
interest since it’s not as much about the ‘fancy gaits’.
Ch-Ch-Changes
USDF has recognized some of the issues and this year has started The Regional Schooling Show Awards Program. Points can now be earned in four divisions and six levels.
Another idea I would suggest to USDF is to offer a judge travel fee subsidy aimed at small and growing GMOs to help offset the costs of bringing in judges to different areas.
Additionally, USDF could offer a loan to club startups that are affiliated with a GMO. While they are not-for-profit organizations, it takes money to get the needed items to get a club up and running to ensure its success.
Many shows have green horse or green rider and master (over 50) classes. Maybe they could consider a non-traditional breed division. Horse show management could be more creative in awarding prizes. Buying in larger quantities, taking advantage of sales and outside the box awards.
Be involved
Okay ammies, you want changes? Be part of the change. Some of the high cost of showing is because shows take people. If shows can’t get enough volunteers on a regular basis, management is forced to pay for it. And that is passed on to the riders.
Volunteering can be a few hours to help set up or tear down, so you can still compete. Or make a bigger commitment by volunteering for a local board or GMO.