06/09/2026
Have You Ever Added Up the Real Cost of Showing?
Most of us know showing costs money.
But have you ever added up everything?
Even when you know the numbers, it can still be shocking.
For me, attending a sanctioned breed show often means a 1,000–1,200 km round trip. Fuel alone can easily be $600–$725+, depending on diesel prices, wind, road conditions, and how hard the truck has to work.
Even a show that is “only” 2.5 hours away is still a 500 km round trip, and for many rural riders, that’s considered close.
Using real posted fees from a recent sanctioned breed show, an Amateur/Open exhibitor entering 4 classes could be looking at:
Class fees: $264 (4 classes × 3 judges)
Office/processing fees: $95
Horse stall: $150
Tack stall: $150
Shavings: $30–$50
Camping/power: $120–$180
Fuel for 500 km: about $300
That’s already $1,100+ before the extras, and that’s before meals, memberships, warm-ups, extra supplies, time off work, chore help, and truck/trailer wear.
If your trip is closer to 1,000–1,200 km, the cost climbs even higher.
This isn’t a criticism of live shows. Their costs have increased too.
Live events matter. They offer atmosphere, community, and the chance to test yourself in a real show environment. They’re valuable.
But the truth is:
Most riders never add up the full cost.
They pay for entries one day, fuel another day, stalls another day… and it doesn’t feel like one big bill, but it adds up.
Even local shows or small fairs still require fuel, time, preparation, and often a truck and trailer. You may still need meals, help at home, and a full day or weekend out of your schedule.
And then there’s the weather.
If you live where I do, you might be dealing with 36°C plus humidex, emergency weather alerts, and winds strong enough to make you wonder if you and your hat are leaving the grounds separately.
It’s all part of the adventure.
⭐ Why the RR&More Virtual Show Series Has Real Value
For many riders, virtual showing is the difference between participating… and sitting out.
For example, you can enter:
Option 1
Ranch Conformation: $15
3 regular classes, score only: $60
Admin fee: $10
Total: $85
Option 2
Ranch Conformation: $15
3 regular classes with scorecards & feedback: $75
Admin fee: $10
Total: $100
No fuel bill.
No stall.
No tack stall.
No camping.
No hotel.
No hauling.
No 5 a.m. mornings.
No long show days waiting around.
No time off work just to travel.
No truck and trailer required.
Yes, you still need to set up your pattern, video your ride, upload your video, and submit your link — but that process is valuable too.
When you set up your own pattern, you start to see it differently.
You notice transitions, spacing, preparation points, and where your horse needs more support.
That’s part of the learning.
Make it a barn day.
Invite friends.
Set up the patterns together.
Video each other.
Cheer each other on.
Order pizza or have a potluck.
Turn it into something fun.
If you’re part of a small riding group that would love to bring in a judge but can’t justify the cost of travel, facility fees, or minimum numbers, this may be a fantastic option.
You still set a goal.
You still get scored by an accredited judge.
You still get feedback, if you choose it.
You still get a way to measure progress.
You still get a reason to ride, practice, and improve.
Virtual showing isn’t here to replace live shows.
It’s here to support riders, build confidence, keep people involved, and make the live show opportunities you do take part in even more meaningful.
Try the virtual show — you might find it’s a fun, motivating option.
Ride. Learn. Improve.
