I’ve judged a few 4-H shows this year, and most recently their State show. I always offer advice at the conclusion of the shows in case any of the kids are interested in why they placed the way they did. This year I was surprised to hear how many kids told me they could not afford to get any lessons. I have a few thoughts on that.
Lessons Should Come With A Horse
First of all, horses are expensive. I totally understand that. However, you should not expect to own a 1,000-pound animal and not learn how to handle that animal to the best of their ability. If you own a horse, lessons should be included in the care for that horse. Parents need to understand that their child shouldn’t own a horse unless they can provide them lessons. Sometimes kids have the opportunity to lease a horse from someone. However, they still need lessons in riding. Either from the person they are leasing that horse from, or they need to find someone else to get lessons from. Again, if your child is riding a horse, any horse, they need to be able to get lessons from someone!
Trainers Can Be Flexible
Second, many people don’t understand that not all trainers are that expensive! There are so many options out there, and maybe not too many people realize it. There are young trainers who are just getting started that are cheaper and willing to travel to your place. Or, there are a lot of trainers out there, myself included!, that will happily trade some work hours for a lesson. I have a hard time finding kids that will work these days, and I have a lot of grooming and cleaning that needs to be done on a daily basis, as I’m sure many other trainers have as well. We also remember what it’s like to be young, broke and horse crazy. If a kid is a hard worker, we will easily find ways to work around the financials of things.
Clinics Are An Option
Third, there are often clinics out there that are cheaper for kids to join. It just takes a little bit of research to find clinics in the area and inquire as to a kid rate. The Arizona Versatility Ranch Horse Association actually has a clinic before each of their shows and they have a great rate for kids! With everything on social media these days, it would be easy to make an inquiry as to what clinics are going on in the area that would be kid friendly.
Reach Out!
I want every kid to be able to progress with their horse. Not only is it hard on the child when they don’t progress or get stuck placing last in the show ring over and over; it’s also hard on the horse to have a child who doesn’t understand them! I would love nothing more than to see these kids have a better relationship with their horse. If your child is having trouble with their horse, or they’re just wondering how they can place better, please come see me! There are options, please reach out to me so we can discuss them!
