Competing as a do-it-yourself rider can be extremely frustrating, but when the stars align and everything comes together, it can also be the most rewarding feeling in the world. While I was very fortunate as a youth rider to have a trainer to rely on at home and at the horse shows, a majority of my adult career has been entirely DIY. Over the years, I’ve picked up a lot of practical DIY horse show tips—hard-earned lessons that help me balance training, prepping, and competing on my own.
It Starts at Home
When my horses were in full-time training, I could rest easy, knowing they were getting the consistent work they needed—even if I could only ride a couple times a week. Now, that responsibility falls entirely on me. If I don’t put in the time, my horse won’t progress.
I aim to ride five days per week, which means building a schedule that fits around my work and making the most of weekend time in the saddle.
Even though I’m a DIY rider, I still lean on the guidance of nearby trainers. I try to take two lessons a month, using each one to create focused homework so I can keep improving between sessions. Every ride brings us one step closer to our goal of getting in the show pen.
Ready Your Trailer
Another lesson I’ve learned? Always keep everything you might need in the trailer. Because the one time you don’t pack it is exactly when you’ll need it most. Before I haul my mare, I always go through a checklist. Do I have NSAIDs, ulcer medication, and electrolytes? Water for both horse and human in case my truck or trailer breaks down? Enough hay pellets to get me through however long I am going to be gone? (This is especially important since my horse can’t digest hay after her multiple colic surgeries.)
Then it’s time to double-check that I have all the gear I need to compete. Saddle blankets, under pads, clean
polo wraps, plus my snaffle bit and correction bit are just a few of the must-haves on my list.
And that doesn’t even include the most important part: making sure my trailer is physically ready for the next adventure. I always do a quick tire check and use a Bluetooth tire pressure sensor so I can monitor the trailer tires while I’m on the road.
After every trip, I clean out my trailer to protect the floors. Once a year, I strip the mats and power wash everything thoroughly, and I also schedule a visit to a trusted trailer shop for a full inspection to ensure everything is still in top shape.
Find Your Friend Group
The hardest part about being a DIY rider? You’re on your own. While my husband happily steps in to help at shows, it’s also a huge relief to have a supportive group of friends around you. These are the people you can haul with to split fuel costs, stall with to share tack stalls, and count on to video your runs. But more importantly, they’re the ones cheering you on. And you’re doing the same for them.
One Ride at a Time
Being a DIY rider isn’t always glamorous. It’s early mornings, late nights, and a whole lot of planning. But every ride, every checklist, and every supportive friend gets me one step closer to my goals. Whether you’re just starting out or grinding toward your next big milestone, I hope you find joy in the little wins, confidence in your preparation, and strength in your circle.
—H&R—
