I used to be a groom for a Morgan show horse barn back when I was a teenager and in college. So I know all about how to pack up trunk after trunk, bussles, sheets, blankets, bridles, saddles, hay, grain, supplies, jog carts, and stuff them all into a horse van.
But.
It's been a few years since I've shown and had to pack for one. Like since 2007. I am really nervous that I am going to forget something really basic when I take Hampton to his first show next Saturday. I mean it's only a one-day show, but still. I feel rusty!
So I'm making a list. It's mostly for my own purposes but feel free to borrow and copy it if you want. :) Oh and if I forgot anything really obvious for a schooling dressage show, please for the love of God let me know.
For the rider (me):
• Helmet
• Hairnets
• Riding gloves (just going to wear my school gloves at this show)
• Tall boots w/ spurs
• Garment bag (which already contains bobby pins, hair ties, boot pulls, knick-knacks)
• Will dress in the a.m. and just put sweats over my warm beeches so no changing needed at show
For the horse:
• Old towels for grooming
• Groom bucket (already contains brushes, combs, curry, hoofpick, etc.)
• Braiding supplies (if I do not braid him first at home)
• Saddle
• white show pad
• Bridle
• Side reins
• Lunge line
• Lunge whip
• Riding whip
• Sponge
• Polos for schooling
• Cross ties
• Water bucket
Misc:
• Video camera
• Nikkon D50
• 4-5 flakes of hay to last the day
• Cooler (the horse kind)
• Cooler (the human kind, for drinks)
• Folding chair
• Show bill w/ ride times
This list will be much larger for a recognized show where we would likely travel far enough to have to spend the night. And all Hampton's paperwork (Coggins, etc.) has already been submitted. I'll probably bring an extra copy just in case.
Anyone else have any packing tips, tricks or funny forgetful stories? :)

Looks great to me:) I haven't shown in, oh, about 10 years either.
ReplyDeleteDo you use Show Sheen/Cowboy magic/face highlighter/hoof polish at all? Makeup for yourself? A decent mirror? First aid for you and pony?
That's all I got:) Good luck and have a blast!
I don't see girth on that list...
ReplyDeleteTake extra copy of Hampton's papers - you never ever know.
I take breath mints and actually am sucking on one while I warm up before the actual test.
Have FUN !
I always bring water from home, in case the horse is being picky and won't drink on site.
ReplyDeleteYour list plus the things Sarah and Jeni listed sounds like you will be set. The great thing is that everyone I have ever met at CAF has been so wonderfully helpful that if by any chance you did need something there would be people to offer help. It is so fun to show there LAZ is awesome!
ReplyDelete