Pre-show warm up days

17 Nov, 2017; Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson AZ

Set up, warm up, final prep . . .

Later in the week, I wander thru the venues, watching the dogs and the horses, their trainers, handlers and riders all getting ready for the big weekend shows.  It's fun to get this 'behind-the-scenes' view and chat with various folks.  Each has a whole specialized world (think about the movie 'Best in Show' - it was pretty accurate in some ways!), and while I have some experience with the world of horse shows, my experience was a whole different level!

Poodle getting some last minute grooming

Waiting in the wings for a turn in the practice arena - I think she's a Saluki - a sight hound

I can't resist the sight-hounds; this whippet is precious

Acres of tents to protect the dogs in between classes from the sun

Great transition shot between pics of dogs and horses (oooooh, see how I did that?!)

Two hopeful champions meet at the line between venues - and yes, the dog is another sight hound!

There is so much to see - multiple rings for the dogs (easily a dozen) and 5 rings for the horses.

Getting used to the arena and practicing dressage test movements and transistions

Getting a little advice from a trainer

At this level of competition, everyone knows how to share the arena

Almost all the riders are miked - the trainers get to sit in the shade as they quietly provide training advice through their headsets - a high tech improvement that adds to the quiet professionalism of upper level dressage.