How To Prepare

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Set Yourself Up for Success

The more prepared you are before the show, the more focused you’ll be in the ring. That’s why we’ve put together a Participant Checklist to keep you on track, as well as a list of FAQs.

The result? Instead of running around trying to find your other dress boot, searching your pockets for your proof of negative Coggins, or begging friends for an extra hay bag, you can be… jumping!

Participant Checklist

Need a little help getting your ducks in a row? Here’s a step-by-step list of the most important things you’ll need to do before our events.

Review upcoming events here, and mark your calendar!
Review the Prize List (i.e. event bulletin) for your event to choose your classes. Prize Lists are posted on each event details pages a few weeks before the event. We post updates to our Facebook page when they’re added, so follow us for the latest news.
Register for Jump Into Seasons events online at www.horseshowing.com.
Have your veterinarian confirm your health records are valid (i.e. within 6 months of event), and prepare copies to show at the entrance gate. Requirements are listed in the FAQs below and on each venue page.
Electronically sign our waiver/release here.
Not sure what to pack? Review What to Pack for a Jumping Show from Horse Rookie.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

What are the event dates for this season?

Check out the Events Tab for details.

I’m new to the sport of jumping. May I still participate?

YES! We offer classes for beginner riders at our Schooling Shows. Once you are ready to navigate a course of cross rails, the Jump Into Seasons series has appropriate classes for you.
If you’d like to learn more about this sport, check out A Horse Rookie’s Guide to Show Jumping.

Speaking of classes, what types are there?

There are three primary divisions offered at our shows:

Show Jumping: Jumpers are judged solely on their ability to clear the obstacles in the fastest time.
Hunters: Hunters must have the ability to clear the obstacles in style. They are judged on manners, jumping style, and ability to keep an even pace.
Equitation: In equitation classes, the rider is judged, not the horse. The rider must display an excellent mastery of controlling the horses pace, classic position, and efficient course execution.

Do I need to be a member of MHJA, YHJA, or USHJA to compete?

We strongly encourage membership with both organizations, but it is NOT required to compete. USHJA Outreach membership is free, and MHJA or YHJA membership costs less than the nonmember fee over the course of the series. Both organizations offer excellent benefits and support great causes!

Do you need volunteers?

Yes! We are always looking for individuals that want to help out with the shows. A minimum of a 4 hour commitment is required. Contact Allison at thebigskyclassic@gmail.com.

What should I pack for an event?

Everyone’s needs are different, but Horse Rookie’s Jumping Show Packing List is a great place to start.

Venues

What health records are required for my horse?

You’ll need to show proof of the following at the entrance gate:

Equine Influenza vaccine and Equine Herpes Virus (Rhinopnemonitis) Vaccine within 6 months of the date of the event.
Negative Coggins within 6 months of the date of the event.

How does stabling work at your events?

Dry Stalls are $65/night and must be reserved in advance through horseshowing.com.
You may bring your own bedding or purchase shavings online prior to the event.
Stabling, hay shavings, tack stalls, and RV spots should also be reserved online prior to the event at horseshowing.com.

Should I bring buckets and hay nets?

Yes, bring your own hay nets and water buckets—these are NOT provided.
Water hoses ARE provided at all facilities.

Registration & Payment

How do I enter?

For our Jump Into Seasons show series, please pre-register online at www.horseshowing.com.
For our Clinics and Schooling Shows/Course Practices, please pre-register through our website.

How do I pay?

For our Jump Into Seasons show series, you’ll pay for your classes at the end of the show (so we capture any add/scratches accurately).

For our Clinics and Schooling Shows/Course Practices, you’ll pre-pay through our website.

Can I show up and ride day-off vs. pre-registering?

You may register and pay for shows the day of, though we strongly prefer you register in advance so we can better plan ahead.

Is there a waiver I need to complete?

Yes! All riders must have a current copy of our waiver/release on file.

Does it cost money to spectate?

Spectators are welcome to enjoy the competition for free at all events.

What’s your refund/cancellation policy?

Please contact our show secretary at thebigskyclassicsecretary@gmail.com if you need to discuss a refund/cancellation.

Sponsors & Exhibitors

Where do I locate a sponsorship form?

Learn more on the Partners tab of this website, then fill out our contact form to become a sponsor. Any questions regarding sponsorship should be directed to Allison at thebigskyclassic@gmail.com.

I’m interested in having a vendor booth. Now what?