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 The Palomino World Show finished up it’s week long run.  As always, it was a very good show.  This is about my 20th year to volunteer for this show.  When I started volunteering for this show, I didn’t even own a palomino.  I didn’t purchase my first palomino until 2002.  I volunteer for this show because I absolutely love doing it.  I take a week vacation from my job to volunteer.  I get to see some old friends that I have made over the years and I always meet new ones.   

I started volunteering for small club horse shows back in the 80s just after I purchased Iggette.  I really didn’t know what I was doing, but I had a blast.  I’ve done everything from being a gate person to ring steward.  One year, a friend asked if I would help with the Palomino World.  This was to help check the markings of each horse against their registration papers.  I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into.  The show then was only 3 very long days.  I learned to read fast and on the run.  The show has grown over the past 20 years to the 7 day show it is today.  I still have to speed read and do it on the run.  Some things never change.   

If you have some spare time, consider volunteering for a horse show in your area.  You don’t have to own the breed of horse of any show that you’d like to help.  You just have to have the desire to help.  The different clubs & associations are always in need of volunteers.   Some of the jobs that are usually filled by volunteers are being a gate person (both in and out since these are usually different), checking in exhibitors for classes, ring steward, stalling, or just being a runner.  Keeping the area clean is also a big job.  Volunteering for a horse show can be very demanding work.  The hours can be long & at times can be very hectic.  You have to be versatile because you may be asked to take over another person’s job.

If you DO decide to volunteer, some things to remember are to always be pleasant & courteous to both exhibitors and staff.  You may be a volunteer, but you are one of the many faces for the organization putting on the show.  Help out for any job that is needed.  If you are not sure of the duties, ask one of the staff members for some guidance before the show starts.  If there is a problem, ask one of the staff members of the organization to help.  Don’t take longer for meals than any other staff member.  Don’t be in the wrong place or take a job that was not assigned to you.  Be prepared by bringing your own pen, water bottle and possibly small snacks.  There may not always be time to run to the water fountain.  Unless you are instructed to wear specific clothes, dress comfortably.  Don’t wear boots that pinch your toes or sandals.  You are probably going to be on your feet and on the move all day long.  At the end of the show, turn in any equipment that you were given.  Also before you leave the show, make sure you check in with a staff member.  They will appreciate knowing that you are no longer on duty.

It takes MANY volunteers to help put on a horse show.  Volunteers can be be from the local club putting on the show or it could be you.  Volunteer for a horse show in your area.  I’ll bet you’ll have fun!