2008 Calendar

Please note that there will be a three horse minimum to go to these shows.

Possible Recognized Shows:

Clinics at First Choice

We are very honored to have some wonderful clinicians come here to First Choice. They usually offer private and semi-private lessons, but if you feel that you aren't quite ready for that yet, auditing is a great chance to learn something new from the experts.

Our students should discuss whether they are ready for a particular clinic with their trainer. If they do attend, we ask that they dress appropriately - please see What to Wear for Clinics.

Check out Hoofpicks to find out more and to sign up online.

Shows

We offer the ability to enjoy horse showing at a variety of levels. Whether you are ready for the entry level competition or more, we try to provide all of the options. Not only do we travel to away shows in NH, VT, MA or NY, but we hold our own in-house competitions too. Become part of the excitement of not only your own success, but that of the entire First Choice family! We encourage a feeling of teamwork at home and away. Feel the pride as you post your ribbon up with those of the seasoned riders. Whether you have the show of your life or an off day, you'll always be part of the team.

Horse show riders will always need the proper attire, a white fitted saddle pad, and a clean grooming kit of their own for shows. See What to wear for shows for more information.

Show prep is always a busy, yet fun time. When First Choice goes to a show, we want all eyes on us, so the prep is key: black horses need to be black, grey horses need to be silver/white, braids need to be neat, tight, and uniform, and tack needs to sparkle. We start with show prep after 1 pm the day before the show with horses being schooled, then bathed and braided. The great part about this time is that you see the magic of the barn with the older kids helping younger kids, horses standing tolerantly, and the overall buzz about the show to come. The kids can expect an impromptu inspection from a trainer to be sure the goals of a good turn out are being met. Many times you will see a trainer suds up a horse to display the "art of scrubbing with elbow grease" to produce a shiny clean horse. In the aisle, you'll hear, "Will you braid my horse if I clean your tack?" Or "Does anyone have any clippers?" Preparing as a group strengthens the continuity of the "team" that goes out to the shows.

Parents laugh because many show prep days fall on Fridays, which is Pizza Party Day for summer camp and barn rats at lunchtime, but when the kids are asked what they want for dinner at the farm, the unanimous answer is "Pizza"!

If show prep does not fit into your schedule, we do offer a show prep service to prepare your horse the day before a show.

All riders need grooms and so we ask that those who are showing, do at least one show as a full time groom.

First Choice Home Shows

Our home shows have something for everyone. All ages and abilities are welcome. Come and have a lot of fun while showing all that you have learned.

Check out Hoofpicks to find out more and to sign up online.

Show Fees

Show fees include transport and coaching.

*If a show is more than one day, then add $45 for coaching each additional day.

Please note that these are package fees for coaching, transport, and horse use. If you would like to have a coach at a show and you own your own horse, the coaching fees are as follows:

• Dressage Show - First test $45, Second test $30, same plan for day two, $34 for half hour lesson day before show
• Horse Show - $70
• Event - $90

If there are shows or rides that you would like to go to, and you don't own a horse, and you can not arrange a coach that doesn't mean you cannot go. We will allow certain horses off the property with more advanced students for a daily fee of $100.

If you would like to go somewhere and you need transport, please feel free to contact Bob.

If you would like to participate in a show and you are unable to prepare your horse for show, that is not a problem. We will prepare your horse: bathed, trimmed, and braided for $75. If you need someone to braid your horse, we can provide that as well for $25. Please provide the specific products that you would like used on your horse.

See you at the show!

Beach Ride

Spring Beach Ride - April 14

We will be leaving the farm at 9:30 am. Transport for horse to beach is $140. If you need a horse we have one for you! The horse use fee is $30 if you clean and oil tack and $50 if we do.

Fall Beach Rides - October 26 and November 9

We will be leaving the farm at 10 AM. Same fee schedule as April. The second date is only for those who have been before and don't mind a wilder ride. Heidi will not be going on that trip, so it is limited to 6 horses.