07/30/2026
Dr. Purdum has been busy judging local fairs this summer and has some tips and advice for youth showing equine at the fair.
1. Present your horse/pony to the best of your abilities - clean the horse and present yourself in clean clothes and tack - first impression do count with the judge.
2. Be proud of your project, you've worked hard to get here.
3. Smile when you enter the arena, it doesn't have to be a "cheesy" smile, just a pleasant acknowledgement of happiness to be here.
4. Never stop trying in a pattern class, each element counts in the "scoring" system and the judge is looking for the good.
5. Be courteous to the other competitors. Petty battles do not belong in the show arena.
6. Be thankful to the judge, volunteers, and your family for this opportunity.
7. Have fun and be that kid that helps others, judges do notice those little things too, we are always looking for the "good".
