With the show season in full swing and Trinity Eventing going to about two shows a month, and many more schoolings & clinics, reviewing our competition prep and packing process is in order!

The more you are prepared and organized, the more focused you’ll be in a competition environment (and the more likely you will have fun!).

Jennifer at the West Coast YEH Championships in 2020 with Bruce Hill!

Trim and pull your horse’s mane 7 - 10 days before your departure date. This is one less thing to worry about the week of the show as you’re busy with other prep and packing. Outlets are also scarce at most shows, and there are a lot of other things to be doing at a show that cannot be done ahead of time.
Check out Riding Warehouse for grooming essentials, including pulling combs and clippers.
Check the weather forecast at the venue location. This will help you figure out what to pack so you and your horse stay comfortable while away from home.
Clean, organize and pack your equipment. Cleaning and organizing your gear is another item you can do ahead of time so that you can focus on caring for your horse, learning your courses, braiding, etc. at the show. Put together a list of items so nothing you need gets left at home (a good start to your list is below!).
Riding Warehouse also has a wide selection of tack cleaning and conditioning options.
Prep your horse for shipping. We electrolyte load for a few days earlier in the week if our departure date is later in the week. There should be a day or two in between giving electrolytes and departing so your horse isn’t overly thirsty during a haul. We also recommend omeprazole paste/UlcerGard before traveling to help prevent ulcers.
Platinum Performance manufactures our favorite electrolyte & trace mineral formula.
Check your ride times when they are posted and start forming a plan for when you’ll leave for the show, walk your courses, bathe and braid your horse, etc.