Showing can be expensive so it’s nice to know there’s a way to cut trailering costs and stay at home to do it. You can even compete against riders from all over the country while you’re at it. Thanks to developments by the International Performance Horse Development Association (IPHDA), it’s now possible to show your horses in western disciplines from the comfort of your home.

IPHDA offers eight progressive levels of competition in western dressage that begin at walk/trot. It’s similar to reining but not quiet as the requirements of IPHDA differ. Entering is fairly easy. Simply go to the IPHDA website and choose from one of their riding patterns. Then have a friend videotape your ride and upload it to YouTube or another video hosting site. Then post the link on the IPHDA website so a judge can view it.

The judge’s deliberation time can take up to 15 days. There are also over $1,500 in cash and merchandise to be won. This is great if you live in a far away place where finding a show is difficult. Unfortunately for now, English competitions are not offered through IPHDA shows.

If this interests you, be sure to check out the IPHDA website.