Presentation Steps:
1. Position yourself in front of the horse and hold one rein in each hand.

2. Place the horse with its left side to the judge (immediately in front of the judge, but not too close) in “open” position (the far front and hind legs perpenicular, the near front slightly forward, the near hind leg shifted slightly back), so that the judge will be able to see all four legs.

3. When the judge steps in front of the horse, take a step to the side, so that you will not block the front of the horse.

4. When the judge continues on to view the other side of the horse, place yourself in front again, and reposition the horse so it’s “open” side once again is towards the judge.

5. When the judge asks you to show your horse at the walk, you should lead it by holding the reins in your right hand, but with the excess reins in your left hand.

6. When the judge asks you to show your horse at the trot, place all of the reins in your right hand, turn to the RIGHT and move off, allowing the horse to trot.

7. The reins may not be held too close to the bit, and the horse’s head may not be held too forcibly.

8. Train your horse to lead with a straight neck, in walk as well as in trot.

9. If you feel that you must use a whip, do so very carefully! Otherwise, the horse will tend to travel on two tracks. If the horse does not go forward properly, it is permissible to have an assistant with a whip, who should then be positioned behind the horse, and always on the same side as the handler.

10. Weanlings and yearlings should be shown in halter, two year olds and up in a snaffle bridle.

11. The handler should dress in a presentable and practical manner! It is traditional to dress in white.

12. Keep in mind that an unrestrained or undisciplined horse, presented by a nonchalant handler, will not do itself justice. On the other hand, correct and well planned presentation will emphasize its strong points.