Do not address the judge - any questions must be directed through the steward or ringmaster.
"You get what you get and don't get upset" - refer to points 1 and 2. Yes, even if you "deserved" the win.
Ensure your horse is offered water and feed throughout the day.
NEVER take out your frustrations on your horse - they weren't going around with an empty saddle. The fault lies with YOU.
Don't refuse ribbons or prizes - if you wish to donate them back, do it AFTER the even and approach the secretary's office to do this. Be discreet so as to not appear ungrateful or "holier than thou."
Thank the sponsors - write a small note to the sponsor and organising committee - without them, there is no show.
Do not park on top of other people - a sure fire way to make enemies and cause accidents.
Do not get on Facebook or the old grapevine and trash the judges/competition/show committee/small child with a balloon that upsets your horse. Suck it up. It's called dignity.
LOOK UP - watch where you are going to avoid domestics in the ring.
Appreciate it if your horsey (or more likely non-horsey) mum/friend/significant other/aunty came to the show to support you. Treat them right or next time you won't have any help at all.
Above all, enjoy and remember you take the best horse home no matter the outcome on the day.
Have fun! You're there to show off how awesome your horse is so relax and enjoy yourself.
Shows are great for catching up with old friends but also make new friends!
If you see someone struggling, offer to help them even if it's just giving them a bit of pep talk before they go into their class.
Be encouraging especially to younger riders or people who are new to showing.
Everyone has bad days and so do horses. If this happens to you that's ok, there's always going to be another show.
Do not throw a tantrum if you miss a class. You are responsible for getting yourself to the right place and the right time.
Clarify the ring, timing of lunches etc. with the organising committee if need be, but if things change and you miss the class, don't take it out on them.