showing miniature horses

[hunterjumper22]

I just had a question about showing a mini. We have a yearling gelding. Do you braid mini's for halter or leave the long mane flowing? Thanks!!

[oharabear]

I *think* leave it long with an appropriate-length bridle path.

Disclaimer: I've never actaully shown minis myself, but I board my full-sized horses at a mini show training barn and am friends with the trainer and owner, and I've NEVER seen any manes braided for anything. They remind me more of showing Arabians in halter, similar tack, hairstyles, etc.

I will see her tonight when I go feed my beasties and I'll double-check for you. ;)

[littleum]

At AMHR and AMHA shows braiding is only permitted in hunter & jumper classes. You will be DQ'd otherwise.

For an unrated show, check the rule book, but it's "breed standard" to show with an unpulled mane. That doesn't mean puffy, fuzzy and fly away. Manes are typically thinned and shaped so they come to a nice point at the shoulder with a clipped bridle path.

[siegi b.]

Showing minis in breed classes is very similar to showing Arabians. So think of a fairly wide bridle path, no braids, clipped coats and a touch of oil in appropriate places (muzzle, eyes).