September - the last shows of the season

Keighley 3rd September; this is a good one.  A large agricultural show, with all the trimmings.  This should be on anyone's calendar, if you are within easy reach. The Keighley show boasts five classes for Shetlands, with several championships awards and trophies on offer.
Stokesly Show, 17 September; our first time at this show, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I can recommend this for next year. There was a good selection of trade stands, including some good refreshment stands, an enormous and very popular country clothing marquee, and huge marquees for the small animals, vegetables etc.  Classes are for Mountain and Moorland, divided in to small and large breeds, with no separate class for Shetlands, but still there was a strong showing of Shetlands in the small breeds classes.
And finally, as always, Nidderdale, held at Pately Bridge on Monday 19th September.  We don't usually go to midweek shows, but we always make an exception for the Nidderdale, even though there are only three classes for Mountain and Moorland, and no separate Shetland classes.  As well as the horse and agricultrual events, the Nidderdale features a large dog show, and a good standard of professional main ring entertainments. The venue is in a picturesque area, and the lovely village is only two minutes walk away.
And that's it for this year, except that we attended another Hanlith Hall show in September, and may consider joining in the monthly tournament next year, we enjoyed these friendly little shows so much.  My next blog will follow the Hanlith Hall presentation ceremony at a Masquerade Ball in Skipton.

August Shows

August showing began for us with the surprisingly entertaining Tockwith Show.  This is an unaffiliated show for Shetlands, but was well supported, with a good entry over several classes. Unfortunately, no pony-accompanied spectators were allowed at ring-side, so I missed our pony's first win, and best result so far for us.  I can recommend this show particularly for the quality of handcrafts, being demonstrated on the spot by crafts people.  Giftware and other products were also of a noticeably high standard.  A very large show to look around.
Ripley Show again offered another great day out.  There is a good variety of livestock at this show, in extremely picturesque grounds, although there were only two classes to choose from for Shetlands.  Interestingly, this is one of the few shows that offers a class for unregistered Shetlands.
Gargrave Show was affiliated, so well supported by the serious Shetland fraternity.  Plenty of classes, a nice sized ring, and some quality Shetlands made this a very interesting day.
Bank Holiday Monday is always the day for the Epworth Show.  This is quite a large local agricultural show, with several mountain and moorland classes, as well as open classes for coloured, young stock and miniature horses and ponies.  Quite good entry numbers, considering the large number of classes, and a good, sizable venue. 
September begins for us at the Keighley Show.  This will be a good Agricultural Show, with lots of livestock, entertainments, trade stands, and of course, Shetland Ponies.

Malton Agricultural Show, Shetland Pony Breed Club Show, Huby and Sutton on Forest

Three great shows.  The Malton Show is held at Scampston Park - picturesque grounds, overlooked by a lovely House.  Just 3 classes of in-hand Mountain and Moorland, with an unusually large number of competitors in each, but still a nice day out, with lots to see at the Show.
The Shetland Pony Stud Book Society Breed Show was a different sort of show altogether.  The location was an enormous equestrian centre in Falkirk. Many ponies stayed overnight in the stables, and the Society held a ceilidh on Saturday evening.  There were approximately 400 ponies at the breed show, and what an array of beautiful quality ponies.  The venue was ideally suited, and the show was very well run.  I can particularly remark upon the friendly welcome extended to everyone by the hard working committee members.  It is certainly well worth the effort to travel to this show, and a real experience to see so many fantastic Shetlands.    
The Huby and Sutton Agricultural Show is a well run, enjoyable show.  Lots of livestock and other classes, and particularly good horse classes.  We were able to enter the Mountain and Moorland, and the Shetland classes, as they had separate specific timed starts, so no worry about paying the entry fee and then finding a time clash. We saw a lovely display of carriage driving, and the weather was very hot.  This show is well worth a go, with some top Shetland ponies in attendance.

North of England Shetland Pony Show

As expected, this was a very interesting show, with lots of top Shetlands competing.  A new venue, farther north than last year, but a nice spacious field, with easy access from the M6 or A65. Definitely one for the serious Shetland showing enthusiast. Just a shetland show, this, with minimum refreshments and barely a trade stand in sight, but a lovely day and worth the trip.

NEXT SHOW - MALTON
We've decided against the North of England In Hand and Mountain and Moorland Show on 17th, in favour of the Malton Agricultural Show.  Malton will be a much less serious show for Shetlands, but I think we can be sure of an entertaining day out.

An Unexpectedly Large Show

The North Yorkshire County Show was amazing - it was absolutely huge.  Horse boxes as far as the eye could see, and five large show rings, in addition to show jumping and Heavy Horses.  Apart from the Horse Show, the Agricultural Show was the largest I've ever seen, with classes even for pet rats!  We gained another fourth, in a class of small breeds Mountain and Moorland.  There were some very nice breeds there, which made for an interesting day.  This show was certainly well worth while, and one to look out for next year.

More Shows for June, July

We managed to scrape a 4th at Hanlith Hall, with a very badly behaved pony!  Never mind, it was a lovely morning, and we just got finished before the rain.
At the last minute, I discovered the North Yorkshire County Show, on this Sunday, 19 June.  It looks like it could be a lively agricultural show, with lots to see, so I've put in a late entry.  As the Shetland classes are at 1.00pm, it won't be an early start, which is a plus.
For July, I've discovered the Malton Show, clashing with the Mountain and Moorland In Hand on Sunday 17th July.  It looks like a good agricultural show, and will be much closer for us, so we are favouring that one.  Entries close 30th June, www.maltonshow.org.

July Shows -Don't miss these

Lots of shows on in July, but specifically, North of England Annual Shetland Pony Show on 3rd July - a difficult one to track down, this, as there is no website, so the contact is Mrs Warwick, Tel 01524 825110.  Entries close 13th June, and no late entries are accepted. Don't miss this one if you are within easy reach. It's a bit out of the way for some, being in Cumbria, but it's a really good show.  Lots of serious shetland people there, and good ponies.  A really strong showing of Black ponies, and the opportunity to meet some of the top shetland breeders.  Last year was my first at this show, but I thought it was well worth it, despite persistant Lake District rain! No trade stands as such, but there is catering (by Jan's Pantry).
Alternatively, there's the Arthington show (www.arthingtonshow.co.uk).  This has changed weekends since last year, so I won't be going, but it looks like it has potential.  Classes for mixed in hand, and also mountain and moorland split in to small and large breeds.  Entries by 25th June, or on the day.
The other show I'm hoping to attend is the North of England In Hand Mountain and Moorland Championship Show.  I can't comment on this one, as I haven't been before, but it's on 17th July in Grantham.  Entries by 29th June.  Find the schedule at www.northofenglandshows.co.uk.
This year I'm trying the Shetland Pony Stud Book Society Breed Show, which is in Falkirk, on 24th July.  This is quite a long way, so will be a major trip for us.  I think this may be quite a prestigious event.
Then there's the Huby and Sutton on the Forest Agricultural Show on 31st July.  This is a good local agricultural show, with lots to see, in a very nice stetting. Entries by 15th July www.hubyandsuttonshow.org.uk.

What's on in June

The Otley Show came up to expectations - we were pleased to get a 3rd place against stiff opposition, and we spent an enjoyable hour or so taking in the many and varied entertainments on offer at the show.  Unusual highlights were a blacksmiths competition, and a display of mounted games.
June is fast approaching, however, so what's on?  We have attended the South Kirkby and Moorthorpe Civic Sunday pony show for the past two years - an interesting little show in an unusual location on a sports field in the middle of a housing estate!  This year, we may give this a miss and revisit Hanlith Hall on the second Sunday in June.  The Three Counties Show, at Malvern, is on 17th to 19th June, but entries have already closed for this - it's necessary to plan ahead to enter these big shows, as the closing dates can be as much as 6 weeks before the show.  Cheshire County is another big one, but this one is midweek, on 21st to 23rd.

I can greatly recommend the Crowle Show on 26th June.  This is a good local agricultural show and country fair, with lots to see and buy - a good selection of trade stands, and both mountain and moorland and shetland classes, with a good attendance.  It's not far from Goole and easy to find. Schedules and entry forms can be found on www.crowleshow.org.uk and entries are taken in advance by 18th June, or on the day.

White Rose show - Temple Newsam

white rose pony show

We had a great day at Temple Newsam.  The weather was bright and breezy, with no rain.  I find the ponies can get a little over excited if it's breezy while they are running, but we didn't have too many problems this time. It's so nice to go to a local show, and have the extra support of your friends and neighbours, with the added bonus of a family photographer!  Our ponies were very well behaved, and achieved some really encouraging results.  Our new pony came well up to expectations, and we were thrilled to gain a second, a junior reserve champion, and a reserve champion rossette.  Even our old ponies did well, and at last we managed to buy a suitable head collar for our standard.  We wanted a finer one, as the one we had looked a little bulky in the ring, and in the end we chose an in-hand show bridle, in a narrow leather, so I hope this will improve her appearance for our next show, at Otley.  I am looking forward to a good day there, as there are always lots of interesting events and livestock.  There will be a good number of trade stands, where horse paraphenalia, clothing etc can be perused. For details of what's on at Otley, look on their website, www.otleyshow.org.uk .

Trouble with Headcollars

Does anyone else have trouble finding suitable headcollars for showing Shetlands?  I've used the same nice traditional dark brown leather headcollars for my miniatures from day 1, but now, faced with the 'should be simple' task of procuring a headcollar for our new Standard, I have struck a catalogue of difficulties.  Firstly, I found one, size 'Shetland' online.  Great - I ordered it promptly.  No, sorry, out of stock, discontinued.  The supplier referred me to the manufacturer.  I rang the manufacturer, they were unable to comment on the actual size of their headcollars, as they didn't know what they measured!!  Undaunted, I tried a local supplier - out of stock, awaiting new supplies from France (8 weeks and counting).  So I went to a saddler's, armed with the lilac webbing headcollar I use for everyday.  The assistant measured the headcollar briskly against a leather one, and said it was suitable.  Unfortunately, it wasn't.  It was too big.  I returned, it, but they didn't have a smaller one, so they ordered one.  That was too small, so they made an extra hole in the large one, as I needed it urgently for a show.  The headcollar was clearly still too big, so I tried one on ebay.  It was too small, so I am currently awaiting a further supply of a larger one.  Is it just me, or is this altogether too complicated???

Hanlith Hall Horse Show

What a lovely day at the Hanlith Hall show!  This is a really picturesque location, tucked away down winding roads between Gargrave and Malham. Not a serious show for Shetland ponies, as there is no specific Shetland class, although there are eleven in-hand classes, including youngstock, best condition, and mountain and moorland, so most shetlands would be eligible for at least two or three classes, not counting the novelty classes at lunchtime.  Judge was really helpful, and gave out lots of well received advice. Many different types of horse, pony, and competitor enthusiastically taking part, and a great venue for a picnic.

Shows in May

There are a lot more shows to choose from in May.  I have my eye on three:

May 8th, White Rose County Show, a 'real' pony show, BSPS Area 3B. There are classes for in-hand and ridden shetlands, and the last time I attended (2008) there was a good entry, with the added bonus that year of several Falabellas - a minature horse breed not seen very often.  This is in the lovely and convenient location of Temple Newsam, in Leeds. Closing date 25th April.

May 21st, Otley Show, a good traditional agricultural show, well attended with lots of livestock classes, trade stands, and entertainments.  A small number of classes for Shetlands, also the Glynn Greenwood Mountain and Moorland classes.  A good day out.  Entries close 16th April.

May 30th, Warrington Horse Show, the real deal so far as horse shows are concerned.  Serious horse riding going on, but usually a good entry for Shetlands, and a great show to see lots of good horses.  A selection of trade stands, and a well run show. Closing date 5th May.

Yorkshire Shetlands Spring Show

This was a show with an unusual venue.  It was held at the York Livestock Centre, and this turned out to be an auction centre, so there was a small field for showing livestock, and then a very large area of metal buildings housing sales halls, and stabling.  There seemed to be various 'car boot' type sales taking place at the same time in some of the halls, and the whole area was crowded with people attending these various events.  It was very noisy inside the stables, due to people, animals, and the general noise levels that come from busyness within metal buildings.  My ponies were a bit frightened by all the commotion, and one was definitly unhappy to be left alone.  Apart from this 'industrial' ambiance, it was quite conveniently laid out, with the stables being very near the showing ring. 
It was a pleasant day as there were many lovely Shetlands present, and lots of familiar faces.  Tip for this show - leave your picnic outside the stable, unless you like your sandwiches trampled a bit.

Hanlith Hall Horse Shows

Last year I went to a very enjoyable show at Hanlith Hall, near Skipton, which was one of a series of shows leading up to a Trophy show for the overall winners in September.  The series is running again this year, beginning on 10th April, and thereafter on 2nd Sunday in the month until the Trophy Show.  This was a really nice show in a lovely location.  Hanlith hall is steeped in history, and surrounded by extremely picturesque countryside.  Lots of keen competitors there and a really nice friendly atmosphere in a very well run show.  Classes are for Mountain and Moorland rather than specifically Shetland, but there was a good entry, and some really nice ponies there.  A strong class of black ponies, and an interesting display of coloured horses of all types.  There were no trade stands, but a little cafe run by the organisers to supplement your picnic.  Well worth a look, in a lovely part of the country.

Yorkshire Shetlands Spring Show

This year I will be attending the Yorkshire Shetland Pony Group spring show, at the livestock centre in Merton, York.  I am told this is a good show, in a good spacious location, with the added benefit of stables to hire for the day, where your pony can be left in safety and comfort while you enjoy the rest of the show.
As this is a specialist Shetland Show there should be a good attendance and the opportunity to see greater numbers of Shetlands than would be present at a local agricultural show.  There are classes for ridden, young handlers, veterans, and miniature ponies.  The centre features restaurant and bar facilities.  I am looking forward to this show as the first of the season and a chance to catch up with friends and competitors from last year.  If you would like contact details for the organisers, leave me a message.

Yorkshire Shetland Pony Group luncheon

On Sunday 20th February I attended the Yorkshire Shetland Pony Group luncheon at the Bridge Inn at Walshford, near Wetherby.  This was another very pleasant afternoon, where we all enjoyed the carvery lunch, and then were treated to a most enlightening and interesting talk on the voluntary Stallion evaluation scheme by Mr David Gibson.  Mr Gibson accompanied his full account of this scheme by some lovely photos of Shetland ponies taking part in the evaluation scheme in the Shetland Isles, where he had recently had the honour of being one of the three judges giving their opinion.  A lively question session followed his talk, and we all had ample opportunity to ask Mr Gibson about the ethos behind the scheme, and to air any concerns as to its' viability.  The luncheon meeting was once again a very pleasant opportunity to meet other Shetland pony enthusiasts in a social setting, and continue friendships formed over the summer showing season.

Willbeck Silver Mist 'Tony'

I can recommend this group as a great way to extend the Shetland pony showing experience.  The joining fee is very reasonable, and everyone is friendly and welcoming to new members.  If anyone is interested, send me a message and I will put you in touch with the organiser.  Likewise, schedules for their first show of the year will be out very soon.  Send me a message for the contact details.

A Diary of Shetland Pony Showing

For the last few year's I have competed my miniature Shetlands in a fairly casual manner in various pony shows and agricultural shows.  This year, prompted by the difficulty of actually finding any shows in my first two years, I have decided to do a 'Round the Show Circuit' blog, with personal views and reviews about the shows I attend during the year.  Hopefully, this will be of interest and use to the beginner at in-hand pony showing.  I must emphasise that the shows I will attend will be those suited to in-hand showing of Shetlands, or Mountain and Moorland, to widen the category, and of course, this is a very different thing to actual pony shows, where smartly dressed children compete with dazzling bravery over small jumps and the like.  No, we will restrict ourselves to trotting around the ring, pony in hand, enlivened occasionally by the odd burst of life when pony decides to simulate the gait of a bucking bronco.
So, to start with, a word of advice in preparation for this year's show calendar - Do Not Do Anything!  Your pony will almost certainly be too muddy.  Come back in a few weeks, and if the ground is firmer, perhaps you could begin to get your pony ready for the show ring by accustoming him to walk and trot on the head collar, and stand still when required.  In the case of my ponies, the difficulty is in encouraging the pony to trot without fear that he will set off at  a pace somewhat faster than my little legs can cope with.  For small beasties, they can really run!
The first show of the year that I will be attending is the Yorkshire Shetland Pony Club show, held at York on 3rd April 2011.  More of this later. Happy Showing.