Katie Jerram-Hunnable on Revitalizing County Showing
The world of equestrian sports is evolving, and yet, county showing is facing some serious challenges. Katie Jerram-Hunnable, a renowned showing rider and producer, provides a compelling argument for why it’s time for a change in our sport. In her latest commentary, she highlights the issues facing county showing and suggests viable solutions to rejuvenate the sport. Let's delve into her insights and proposed solutions, which are grounded in factual data and experience.
The Current State of County Showing
County shows across the UK are experiencing a noticeable decline in participation. Events like the Royal Norfolk Show have seen a reduction in the number of open classes for hunters and riding horses, leading to decreased enthusiasm and involvement. According to Jerram-Hunnable, the lack of these open classes is making it difficult for many non-amateurs to participate.
The Amalgamation Proposal
One of Jerram-Hunnable's key suggestions is the amalgamation of London International Horse Show (LIHS) qualifiers with open classes. This move would not only increase participation but also make the sport more inclusive for a broader audience. The logic is straightforward: by combining events, you create a more bustling and competitive environment that encourages more entries.
Breed-Specific Classes: A Beacon of Hope
While the broad category classes are dwindling, breed-specific classes like those for the Irish Draught are flourishing. These events have generated immense enthusiasm among participants and audiences alike. Katie Jerram-Hunnable commends initiatives such as the Shire Horse Society’s workshops, which have significantly improved competitors' presentation skills. Additionally, the standard of ridden Shire horse classes has seen a notable uptick, which bodes well for the future of breed-specific competitions.
Workshops and Training Programs
The importance of workshops and training programs can’t be overstated. These initiatives not only polish the competitors' skills but also ensure a higher standard of performance across the board. The Shire Horse Society's success in these areas serves as an exemplary model that other breed societies could follow.
Introducing Transitional Classes
An equally crucial aspect is the introduction of introductory or transitional classes. For instance, the working hunter class at the Sports Horse Breeding of Great Britain's (SHB GB) spring show serves as an excellent bridge for novice horses. These classes allow novice horses to sharpen their skills and gain confidence before moving up to the more demanding open levels.
Jerram-Hunnable stresses that these initiatives are essential for maintaining the viability and appeal of county shows. By providing these transitional opportunities, horses and riders can improve incrementally, making the entire journey less daunting and more rewarding.
Key Steps for Revitalization
So, what are the key steps to revitalize county showing and make it more inclusive and accessible? Here are a few proposed by Jerram-Hunnable and echoed by experts in the field:
- Amalgamate LIHS qualifiers with open classes to attract a wider range of participants.
- Introduce more transitional classes to provide a stepping stone for novice horses and riders.
- Promote breed-specific classes to capitalize on their existing popularity.
- Implement workshops and training programs to elevate the overall quality of competitions.
- Foster partnerships between breed societies and showing organizations to build a more cohesive community.
Conclusion
The time for change is now, and Katie Jerram-Hunnable's insights offer a roadmap to navigate the challenges facing county showing. By implementing these strategic changes, the sport can become more inclusive, competitive, and sustainable. As Jerram-Hunnable eloquently puts it, "It's time for a change in our sport." Through collaborative efforts and targeted initiatives, county shows can once again become a vibrant and integral part of the equestrian community.
For more insights on this topic, you can visit Horse & Hound’s website.
Sources:
- Katie Jerram-Hunnable’s original commentary on Horse & Hound
- Horse of the Year Show (HOYS)
- Shire Horse Society
- Sports Horse Breeding of Great Britain (SHB GB)
