How Horse Events Help You Learn
by Karen Pickering, NWHS Publisher
This past month has been a whirlwind of horse activity. Every weekend has been filled with events and I love life more than ever when it’s spent with my horse. These experiences—enhanced by the incredible weather we’ve been having— have really changed my perception of competitive horse shows. Here are some of the things I’ve learned this past month:
- You’re never too old to learn.
- People are happy to assist if you just ask.
- Competition raises the bar for your performance.
- Clinics stimulate our brains so we can see things from a different perspective.
- There really are good people in this industry.
Horsemanship is an art, there’s no doubt about it, but it’s also a skill that can be learned. While some people have natural talent, I believe tenacity and determination play a bigger role in achieving success with your horse. Sometimes it takes years to reach a level of skill that will satisfy, but it’s a journey that’s well worth the effort.
My favorite thing to do is anything trail-related: trail riding, mountain or extreme trail and competitive trail. Competitive trail organizations such as ACTHA (American Competitive Trail Horse Association) and ETS (Equine Trail Sports) are an indication of the need for more low pressure activities where you can really have fun with your horse, enjoy the challenge and spend far less than horse shows often cost. Many of these events also have clinics where people can address their horse issues with a professional. I see these sorts of competition as a growing trend and something to watch.
What is your favorite horse sport? I’d love to hear from you. Email me ([email protected]) or comment to this article when we post online. What do you like about trail competition and how do you think it’s helping the horse industry?
Quote: “It is easy to come up with new ideas; the hard part is letting go of what worked for you two years ago, but will soon be out of date.” ~Roger Von Oech
Originally Published August 2014 Issue
Owner / Publisher | Canfield Certified Trainer
Karen Pickering is a lifelong horsewoman and the founder of The Northwest Horse Source, which began in 1995 as a small equine newsletter and grew into a respected industry publication. With more than 30 years of experience serving the horse community, Karen now focuses on helping equine businesses and organizations build visibility, credibility, and lasting relationships through online marketing, digital promotion, and educational platforms.
As a Canfield Certified Trainer, she blends proven success principles with real-world industry experience, supporting both businesses and individuals navigating change in today’s digital landscape. Karen remains deeply connected to the horse industry and is passionate about serving the community she has helped build for over three decades.
