January Checklist for the Showing Season- Horse & Rider Prep

In the showing world, January often marks the transition from winter holiday mode back to business. Many of us give our horses a well-earned break after the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), but as the new year gets underway, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and tackle the preseason checklist.

Here are the top ten jobs every showing enthusiast should tackle this January:

1. Renew Your Memberships

It’s the job we all dread—it seems to get more expensive every year—but now is the time to renew memberships for your chosen showing organizations. Whether you’re with BSPS, NPS, or another group, don’t leave it too late!

2. JMB Height Certificates

If your horse or pony requires a height certificate, January is a great time to get measured before they regain full show condition. Remember, under current JMB rules, annual height certificates are required until your horse or pony turns 8 years old and qualifies for a full (lifetime) certificate.

3. Lorry Inspection and Service

Your lorry has likely been sitting idle for much of the winter. Get it booked in for an inspection and service, and double-check that your insurance and roadside assistance are up to date.

4. Worm Counts

With frosty weather returning, it’s an ideal time to do a worm count. Use the results to plan your seasonal worming program, ensuring your horse stays healthy and ready for the year ahead.

5. Book Your Saddle Fitter

Although most saddle fitters recommend checking the fit once your horse is back in work, January is the time to get an appointment on the calendar. Waiting until March often means battling through fully booked schedules!

6. Schedule Horse Checkups

Your horse’s health is key to a successful season, so don’t overlook their “checkups.” Book essential appointments for dental checks and physio/back treatments now to ensure they’re in top form before the season kicks off.

7. Check Your Show Jacket Fit

We all have grand plans to shed the holiday pounds, but let’s be realistic—show jackets often don’t lie! If your jacket needs altering, it could take several weeks, so try it on now and visit your tailor sooner rather than later.

8. Flu Shots

Annual flu vaccinations can sneak up on us during the season. Pull out your horse’s passport and set a reminder on your phone for when the shot is due. Missing the deadline could prevent you from competing, so don’t risk it.

9. HOYS Prep: Grandstand Media Accounts

Planning to qualify for HOYS? Remember, both you and your horse need active Grandstand Media account numbers. While it’s a quick and easy task, it’s far better to handle it now than scramble to sort it before your first qualifier.

10. Make a Plan

A cold night in front of the fire is the perfect time to map out your preseason strategy. Look at lessons, clinics, arena hires, and upcoming shows. While plans might depend on the weather, setting milestones now will help you organize your horse’s back-to-work schedule. Things book up fast, so don’t leave it too late and miss out—your favourite clinic or lesson with a pro could fill up in no time.