At AVSS, our showing philosophy is that horse showing is an extension of the rider’s education, and an opportunity to showcase training, horsemanship, and showmanship. 

All AVSS riders should expect to participate in our home shows as an extension of the lesson program. 

Travel shows allow the rider to become a strong competitor, and we highly encourage involvement. 

Our riders compete in equitation, hunter, and jumper rings across the East Coast. We compete throughout the winter circuit in Ocala, FL every year. 

We are active in our community, hosting five local shows onsite each year, in addition to attending a variety of other local one-day shows. We strive to qualify our riders for events like CHSA & CHJA medal finals, NEHC medal finals, The League medal finals and more. 

What horse will I ride?

Your trainer will discuss with you which horse your rider will be most successful on. You will lease the horse for the day of the show.

What division will I show? 

That will depend on where you are  riding in your lessons. It is generally recommended that you are practicing/ lessoning 1-2 levels above where you would like to show. 

What is the difference between a class and a division? 

A division is made up of 3 or 4 classes. Over fences divisions have 3 over fence classes and one flat class. Flat only divisions, like walk and trot, only have 3 classes. Each class is judged and riders can earn a ribbon for that class as well as a Champion or Reserve Champion ribbon for the division.  

What if I change my mind and decide not to show? 

For away shows, because we prepare the trailer and horse assignments based on who has decided to show, we ask for  a 48 hour cancellation notice. Any trailer reservations not cancelled within 48 hours will be charged full shipping and  coaching fees. For a home horse show, any reservation not cancelled within 24 hours will be subject to coaching and  lease fees. Horse assignments and entries  must be finalized ahead of time.  

Memberships allow riders to accrue points throughout the year and qualify for finals. 

• USEF Rider Membership $80 

• USHJA Rider Membership $85 

• CHJA Rider Membership $45  

• CHJA Horse Membership $20

• CHSA Rider Membership $35  

• CHSA Horse Membership $25  

• NEHC Horse Membership $10  

• NEHC Rider Membership $30  

• Marshall and Sterling Rider Membership $40  

What do I need to wear? 

• Tall boots (polished for shows)  

• Paddock boots and garters (12 years and under)  

• Show jacket  

• Show shirt- no zipper front  

• Tan breeches  

• Black or brown belt  

• Hair tucked into helmets with a hairnet  

• Bows and braids (riders 12 years and under)  

• Show pad  

• AVSS Team attire (optional but encouraged)