Showmanship
When entering a show ring, you always enter the gate and travel to your left, making a clockwise circle. You should always be placed to where your goat is placed between you and the Judge. Once inside the show ring, either the Judge or the ring stewart will instruct you on how to proceed. Sometimes you will remain in the circle around the ring. Other times you may be asked to either line up side by side or head to tail. The line up in the ring depends upon the Judge’s preference or sometimes the number of animals in the class.
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Judge X |
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Show Ring Etiquette
1) Have your goat broke to lead before the show begins. This includes setting up the feet. This requires a good bit of time with your goat, but your placing will improve greatly with a well trained animal.
2) Have your goat properly trimmed at home before you leave for the show. This should ideally be done 7 to 10 days before the show. Trim the goat’s hooves at this time also.
3) If it is a breeding animal, make sure it is properly tattooed and the tattoo is legible.
4) Always show with a choker Chain collar. You can use a ¼ quick connect link to tie the ends together for a good fit. This looks attractive and your goat will respond to the chain better than a nylon strap.
5) Always travel at graceful pace. Do not get in a race around the show ring but do not take all day either.
6) Always leave adequate space between yourself and the outside of the ring. A judge should be able to walk around you and your animal at any place in the ring. Remember, if the judge can not see your animal well, you can’t be placed well either.
7) Always keep your goat in control and in line. It is very irritating for the judge when there is a distraction with an unruly goat or one that will not hold still so it can be evaluated properly.
8) When ever you come to a stop, set up your goat’s feet. Your goat should be set properly at all times. This is so that whenever the judge looks at your goat, it is always viewed at the goat’s best advantage. You should always set the outside foot that is nearest the judge first, then the other outside leg, then move to the inside legs.
9) Keep a distance of about 2 feet away from the goat in front of you. This gives nice separation for the judge to view your animal.
10) Never cross behind your goat!
11) Never cross over the back of your goat!
12) Try and keep your goat out away from your body. Don’t let your goat lean on you.
13) Do not touch your goat during the show except to set it up or fix something. Don’t just lay your hand on the goat’s back.
14) Don’t talk to spectators, friends or family while you are in the show ring.
15) Keep your eye on the Judge.
16) Always dress appropriately. You should not wear shorts or torn jeans. Your shirt should always have a collar and always be tucked in. Girls should not wear low cut tops or tops that do not cover their mid section.
17) Always be courteous to the Judge and your fellow exhibitors.
If you follow these simple guidelines, I know you will have an enjoyable and rewarding time in the show ring.