As a new season approaches, many horse owners and riders start filling calendars with clinics, shows, and educational events. With so many options available, it’s easy to overcommit—or choose events that don’t truly serve your horse, your goals, or your budget.

Being intentional about where you spend your time (and money) can make the upcoming year more productive, enjoyable, and successful for both you and your horse. Here’s how to thoughtfully select the clinics and shows that are the best fit for the year ahead.

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Start With Clear Goals—for You and Your Horse

Before registering for anything, take a step back and define what you want to accomplish this year.

Ask yourself:

• Are you focused on skill-building, mileage, or confidence?
• Are you aiming for higher-level competition, or solidifying fundamentals?
• Does your horse need experience, relaxation, or conditioning more than ribbons?

Your goals should guide your choices. A clinic might be perfect educationally but not appropriate for your horse’s current physical or mental stage—and that’s okay. The “right” event is the one that supports progress, not pressure.

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Consider Your Horse’s Needs and Personality

Not every horse thrives in every environment. Some horses benefit from frequent outings, while others do best with fewer, more intentional experiences.

Think about:

• Travel tolerance and recovery time
• Sensitivity to new environments
• Fitness level and soundness
• Age and training stage

Choosing fewer, well-matched events can lead to better outcomes than packing the calendar with too many commitments.

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Research Clinicians and Judges Ahead of Time

When it comes to clinics, who is teaching matters just as much as what is being taught.

Look for:

• Teaching style that aligns with your learning preferences
• Experience working with horses and riders at your level
• Clear communication and horsemanship values

For shows, reviewing judges and formats can help you decide whether an event aligns with your goals—especially if you’re focused on feedback, education, or experience rather than results alone.

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Balance Education, Competition, and Rest

It’s tempting to schedule back-to-back clinics and shows, especially early in the season. However, horses (and humans) benefit from downtime to absorb new information and recover physically, alongside thoughtful practice of your newly learned skills.

A well-rounded calendar often includes:

• A few key clinics for focused learning
• Select shows that build toward a goal
• Intentional breaks for conditioning, rest, and at-home practice

Leaving space on the calendar is just as important as filling it.

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Factor in Logistics and Budget

Beyond entry fees, consider the full cost of each event:

• Stabling and hauling
• Time off work
• Vet and farrier scheduling
• Horse wear and tear

Choosing events closer to home or combining learning opportunities can help stretch your budget without sacrificing quality.

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Don’t Overlook Smaller or Local Events

While large, well-known clinics and shows have their place, smaller local events often offer:

• Lower stress environments
• More individualized attention
• Strong community connections

These events can be especially valuable for young horses, green riders, or those rebuilding confidence.

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Be Willing to Adjust as the Year Unfolds

Even the best-laid plans may need adjusting. Horses change, goals evolve, and unexpected challenges arise. Give yourself permission to reassess mid-season and pivot if something isn’t working.

Progress isn’t linear—and flexibility is a strength, not a setback.

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Final Thoughts

Choosing the right clinics and shows isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what truly supports growth, education, and enjoyment. A thoughtful, well-paced calendar can set the tone for a positive and successful year for both you and your horse.

What factors help you decide which clinics or shows to attend? Share your approach or tips in the comments—we’re always better when we learn from each other.