On Nov. 2, I had the privilege of riding in my first ever horse “schooling” show. A schooling show is a simpler type of horse show. It’s basically like riding at someone else’s barn. One doesn’t have to dress up and it costs a lot less.

In this case, the show was at Sioneledge Farm in Falmouth. I went with my riding instructor Charlene Leavin and students from Rowenda Farm in Gray.

When we got there, the barn was bustling with activity. I was in the first class, riding a horse named Jamie. Right before I went in the ring, Jamie spooked. She wouldn’t go down to a walk. She was grunting and snorting and scaring the audience. By this time I was terrified. The other horse we brought, Emerald, won first place for the class. I on the other hand, won fifth place, which is a pink ribbon.

I was amazed that I actually received a ribbon. It was shocking to me! For my first horse show, everyone told me I did well. I think Jamie was a little too prepared. Whenever the judge walked by, Jamie backed up.

All in all, I thought it was an excellent opportunity for someone of my age to try. I am invited to another schooling show in December somewhere in Massachusetts. I am definitely going to accept


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.