What is the cost of going to an A-rated show?
Your heart will love showing horses! Your checkbook, however, not so much…
As I reach my middle-age years, I am becoming increasingly grateful for my younger years, when I showed on the west coast circuit on my parents’ dime. Even to this day, every time I come home from a show, I thank my folks for everything they sacrificed to allow me to train and show in what must be the most expensive sport known to man. When my friends complain about the steep prices for ski lift tickets or lament how much they spent on new golf clubs, I laugh and say, "You think that's expensive?"
I just got back from an A-rated show a few hours from my home. I decided to add up my expenses so I could share the info with others. Whew, I couldn’t believe it! I don’t want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm for this sport “of kings,” but I think it’s helpful for people to understand what to expect when they participate at an A-rated level.
The following expenses were just for the horse show itself. They are in addition to my regular monthly board, training, farrier, veterinarian, performance/dietary supplements, chiropractic, and other miscellaneous expenses.
Documented Expenses:
Note: I entered a hunter derby whose entry fee (for just that one class) was $450.00. (Not to mention, oops! I fell off the horse — $450.00 down the drain!) It wasn’t a proud moment, but on the bright side, I was named Reserve Champion in one of my divisions, and I won a medal that qualified me for the finals. (But…because of COVID 19, the finals may never happen…)
This equestrian sport is a genuinely fantastic sport that will change your life and humble you daily. However, it comes at a price, for sure.
If you want to know more about my monthly expenses, leave a comment below. I’d be happy to share this info as well.