What is a virtual horse show?
A virtual horse show is precisely what it sounds like! It’s a judged equestrian event hosted online. Virtual online shows provide an opportunity for horse owners interested in competing in events in a new and fun way. Virtual shows can also be a great marketing platform for a sales horse, as spectators can scroll through and watch any entries.
Virtual horse shows have been around for a while. Of course, throughout the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many traditional horse shows were postponed or canceled. Horseback riders who competed regularly were suddenly faced with no events to attend. As a result, virtual horse shows have become increasingly popular.
How does a virtual horse show work?
Virtual horse shows may sound complicated, but they’re quite simple:
- Find a virtual show you’re interested in
- Pick a class to enter
- Film yourself completing it
- Submit the footage to the judges within the given time frame
An appointed judge will judge the entries in each class against each other and award prizes for the top places. Many virtual horse shows will mail out real ribbons and cash prizes.
Virtual Horse Show Advantages
Virtual horse shows have many advantages. Traditional horse shows can be stressful. But in virtual horse shows, you have time to fix any problems in a stress-free environment. The flexibility of virtual horse shows is also a significant advantage, as many will let you choose the day you compete.
The financial impact of traditional horse shows can be enormous. But that’s just another reason to give virtual shows a try! You do not have to pay for gas, stabling, hotels, or other miscellaneous expenses.
Virtual horse shows also give you ample time to memorize the patterns you will perform. The judges who review your footage will provide helpful, constructive feedback. You’ll also be able to re-watch your ride as many times as possible. And best of all, they allow you the opportunity to become a better rider and gain some confidence doing so!
Virtual Horse Show Drawbacks
Of course, this type of horse show isn’t perfect. There are some drawbacks to virtual horse shows. For example, the logistics of virtual shows can be daunting. You’ll need to find someone to help you film your ride and a good place to film it. Also, technical difficulties can be a significant disadvantage. What if you have the best ride of your life, and the camera never started recording?
Another drawback of virtual horse shows is that you may over-practice to get the desired result. And that just takes the fun and spirit out of horse showing altogether!
Find the Virtual Horse Show for You
There are many virtual horse shows designed for different riding disciplines and breeds. North American Western Dressage offers a variety of virtual shows in groundwork, long-reining, ranch horse, trail competition, classical dressage, and all-around freestyle. No matter what kind of showing you’re into, there’s a virtual horse show for you!
