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If your child has decided that horses are her passion, sooner or later she’s likely to want to try showing. I say “she,” because your horse crazy kid is probably a daughter, for reasons that are debated by everyone from poets to psychologists. In the Pleasure classes, which are the focus of this book, at this age the girls generally vastly outnumber the boys. So bear with me as I use “she” and “her” throughout the book more often than I refer to “he” and “him.”

Your child may already be taking lessons in horseback riding. Maybe he or she is already at a barn with a trainer, preparing for a show. But if at this point you’re saying, “Barn? Trainer?” then you’ve got a first step to take: finding the right people and environment to prepare your young rider for the show ring.

The first thing your son or daughter will need to do is learn the basics of riding. It’s not necessary for your child to learn to ride at a barn that also shows horses, but it is a good idea if showing is her ultimate goal. So how do you go about finding a trainer? A little research is in order.

Check your phone book or the Internet for riding centers, also called barns, farms, equestrian or training centers, in your area. Call to find out if the barn offers lessons for beginners, and if they train horses and riders to show. Visit the ones that do. If one place doesn’t, ask for referrals; all the horse people in an area usually know each other, and are generally happy to direct you to the right place.

To read chapters one through three of The In-Gate click here

Praise for The In-Gate

"The In Gate is an absolutely wonderful book! A must for every person taking their first steps into the horse show world whether with their children, themselves as amateurs or simply as an observer. The In Gate is written with humor and savvy by a parent who has 'been there and done that.' Definitely will make you knowledgeable from your beginning steps into the horse world." Sheila Varian, Varian Arabians, Arabian breeder/trainer, 2001 USA Equestrian Breeder of the Year

"The In-Gate has definitely helped our entire family survive the vigor of horse showing. The Clothes & Tack were especially helpful since we were not only new to horse shows, but first time horse owners." L. Bolz, mom to a Quarter Horse Western Pleasure exhibitor, Minnesota

"I am glad someone finally wrote this book, the equestrian world needs it." Phillip L. Pierceall, Horse Show Announcer, California

"This is a little gem of a book...I strongly advise everyone who knows a youth interested in showing to buy this book for him or her or their parents." The Arabian Horse Newspaper

"The In-Gate is a unique resource that I’m able to use as a trainer to give people a lot of information. I recommend it for anybody involved in lessons and learning how to show, and for parents whose kids are getting started." L. Talbot, English and Western Pleasure trainer, Texas

"If you are looking for a comprehensive guide before you step a hoof in the ring The In-Gate is the source for you." H. Messineo, Hunter/Jumper exhibitor, Louisiana