How to Ride With Mini Stirrups

One of the best things about showing horses is that horse shows provide friendly competition for riders of all ages and abilities, from the youngest and most inexperienced to those at the highest levels of the sport. One way horse shows do that is by providing a number of different divisions; each has its own rules that specify who may compete and what they must do. The mini-stirrup division is reserved for riders 10 years of age and younger; the division requires riders only to walk and trot.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle
  • Bridle
  • Lead shank
  • Hunt coat
  • English riding shirt
  • Breeches or jodhpurs
  • Hunt or jodhpur boots
  • Helmet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make a list of the equipment your son or daughter will need to compete in the mini-stirrups division. Safety is a paramount consideration in all horse shows, but even more so in the mini-stirrups division. You need to equip your young rider with an ASTM-approved helmet and proper riding attire, which includes a quality riding shirt, breeches or jodhpurs and an appropriately sized hunt coat. Your young rider also needs well-fitted hunt or jodhpur boots. The horse needs a saddle appropriately sized for the young rider and a good bridle. As the handler, you'll need a quality lead shank for the lead-line classes.

    • 2

      Find a small horse show in your area. If your son or daughter takes riding lessons, the instructor should be able to help you find an age- and ability-appropriate show. You can also find flyers for upcoming horse shows at tack shops and feed mills.

    • 3

      Read the show bill and prize list carefully and select your mini-stirrup classes. If you enter your son or daughter in the mini-stirrups, you may not be able to cross-enter into any other divisions. Check the rules carefully, since some shows have specific regulations and requirements. You may, for instance, be required to submit a health certificate for your horse when you submit your entries.

    • 4

      Practice at home as much as possible, focusing on building solid riding ability in the mini-stirrup rider. The mini-stirrups division is focused on building the riders of tomorrow, with an emphasis on safety and proper horsemanship. Do not focus on the show as much as on making your son or daughter a confident and competent rider.

    • 5

      Prepare your horse for the show by giving it a bath and grooming it well. Prepare the rider for the show by making sure the riding clothes are clean and pressed, and that everything is adjusted properly.

    • 6

      Go to the entry stand when you arrive at the show. Talk to the people running the show and let them know that your son or daughter is competing for the first time. Ask what you need to do, from making your entries and getting your number to entering the ring. Follow the instructions of the ringmaster and judge, and above all, have fun.