It's almost time for the annual Show in the Snow, an annual event in Fort Collins which always is a good time for horses, riders and spectators.
The show, set for Nov. 5 at the Colorado State University Equine Center's B.W. Pickett Arena, offers a great chance to show at low cost. Classes are only $6 apiece if you pre-enter by Oct. 31, and $8 per class for entries received Nov. 1 or later.
It's a great chance to take green riders or green horses to a show for experience without having big expenses. The show offers Western, English, hunters and trail classes as well as “Ride a Buck” for fun.
The hunter classes start at 9 a.m. with the 18-inch division and progress to the 3-foot division. Next come the hunter-under-saddle classes and probably a lunch break because Western classes will not start before 1 p.m. These start with a showmanship class, followed by pleasure and horsemanship classes.
The equitation classes, both English and Western, are divided by age so all riders get a chance to win ribbons and compete against their peers. Reining and trail classes also are divided into age groups.
The “Ride a Buck” class is good entertainment for both riders and spectators. Riders sit on their horses bareback and attempt to keep a dollar bill under their leg.
While this is a schooling show, proper show attire is mandatory. Helmets are required for English classes. Western classes require either a helmet or a western hat. Proper show attire for English includes a white shirt, jacket, light-colored breeches, and tall boots. For Western, a button-up shirt, pressed jeans and possibly chaps are expected. Dress is especially important in equitation classes and can be used as a tiebreaker in close classes.
Show in the Snow is a great way to tune up a horse during the offseason or to get a horse some experience before shows start again in the spring. The show tends to be low-key and a fun experience.
It can be cold and also may be snowy, so be prepared for the weather. The B.W. Pickett Arena is indoor and heated, however, so the show can be held even in inclement weather.
Participation in the show supports the CSU Equine Sciences program and provides valuable experience for students in the Event Management class. The entry form and other show information are available at www.csuequine.com. You can also RSVP to the show on Facebook.
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