Maximize Your Horse Show Dollar
In today’s economy it is imperative that you show smart. Many people are trying to decide how to continue to show with a smaller budget.
The first thing to do is determine if you want to be a weekend warrior or point to a few prestigious shows. Make a decision and stick to it. The other determining factor is points. Do you need just a few more points to finish a Register of Merit or Superior? If your horse in enrolled in any breed or specialty incentive funds or state programs such as the Quarter Horse Incentive Fund or Kentucky Breeders Incentive Fund (KYBIF) every point your horse earns puts money in your pocket. It also increases the value of your horse should you ever wish to put it up for sale or if you own a stallion increase the stud fee.
If you enjoy showing every weekend perhaps you look at some of the local saddle club shows as they have payback classes that can help pay for expenses. You also can offer to band or braid other horses. This will not hurt your Amateur status and can help pay for your show. Y
Find other Amateurs and split a hotel room, bring a cooler full of sandwiches and drinks. If you are adventurous bring a cot and sleep in the tack stall. You can save a ton of money and stretch your dollar.
Also take some time to look at the trends of a show. If a show is 100 miles away but has cheaper fees and more horses it is probably a better show for you. Some shows are now offering discounts or free meals. Again this can help you squeeze that extra show into the schedule.
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