Helensville Show Equestrian Stewards
Stewards are in charge of running the rings at the Helensville Show. In this case, the horse/equestrian rings.
If you like horses, you'll enjoy stewarding - what's not to like about half a day watching beautiful horses performing in front of you?!
Each ring requires two stewards, who work closely together to ensure the ring runs smoothly, the judge is not waiting and that the schedule of classes will be fulfilled in time.
One operates the 'gate' where the competitors enter the ring, this is the Gate Steward. Their role is to keep the flow of entrants moving so as soon as one class is finished, the next is moving into the ring. While a class is running, this person calls up the entrants for the next ring, assembles them outside the gate and lets them in once the previous class is clear. They communicate to the Ring Steward (who works with the judge), to advise of any scratchings, so the judge knows they have all the riders and may start the judging process. There will be the odd enquiry from riders also (usually about timing or if they are in the next class). Some rings do require the horse to have a height certificate and in these rings, the height cert is checked to ensure it is valid. It is also good if the Gate Steward can note down placings as a class comes out, as a double check (however the responsibility of this really lies with the Ring Steward).
The Ring Steward works with the judge to ensure all runs smoothly, so the judge may do their work without distraction. Liaison with the Gate Steward and Judge regarding ring entrants is crucial. The Ring Steward records all results, has the ribbons for that class ready to hand the judge when their decision is made, fills in Height Certificates if the winner is a Novice and does everything possible to make the Judge's job smooth.
Both roles are supported by the Chief Equestrian Steward on the day and any questions can be directed to the Equestrian tent.
There is a Stewards training session usually the week before the Show, which goes through all elements of the roles, gives the volunteers an opportunity to ask questions and introduces you to our Equestrian team.
Good organisation and clear communication are the main prerequisites for these roles.
You are liaising between the entrants (and sometimes their parents, depending on which ring you are in), the other Steward and Judge, so communication needs to be clear and friendly.
Whilst it all sounds busy (and the first few classes will seem it), stewarding gives you plenty of time to enjoy the atmosphere of the Show.
You do need to be able to stand outside for half a day during the process.
Sensible shoes are required (the grass will be wet in the morning and you don't want a half ton horse standing on your toes!). And you will want to bring layers, sunscreen and a hat. A Steward vest, water, snack and lunch are supplied on the day. And a tipple at the end of the day, if you're still on the grounds.
We allocate stewards a half-day role, so you will have the rest of the day to enjoy the Show.
You are given two entry tickets, so you may bring a friend/partner. Children 16 and under have free entry.
There are two shifts of Equestrian Stewards.
The morning shift needs to report to the Equestrian Office by 7.45am for the morning briefing, with most rings starting at 8.30am or 9am. The morning rings finish around lunch time. Lunch is served in an Equestrian Tent in the middle of the equestrian rings.
The afternoon shift needs to be at the Equestrian Office by 11.30am for a briefing, then have lunch. The afternoon classes start at 1pm and finish usually by 4pm latest.
However the rest of the day is yours to spend enjoying the Show. If you are still on the grounds after 4pm, you are welcome to have a refreshment at the President's Lawn by the main Show office.
Getting started:
The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below. We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.
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