Whispering Oaks Show Team
Building Confident Riders. Versatile Mustangs. Lasting Partnerships.
The Whispering Oaks Show Team gives riders the opportunity to develop their horsemanship, build confidence, and experience the excitement of showing in a supportive team environment.
Team members will work toward competing with Mustangs in a variety of classes while learning that success is about more than ribbons; it is about preparation, sportsmanship, partnership, and personal growth.
Opportunities may include in-hand classes, lead line, Pee-Wee, Western, English, ranch riding, dressage, jumping, obstacles, speed events, and other classes appropriate for each horse-and-rider team.
The 2027 team will attend a select series of open shows in Ionia, Michigan.
How the Show Team Works
Each rider will be matched with opportunities that fit their age, experience, confidence, and current riding level.
Team members may participate with an approved personal horse or may be paired with a Whispering Oaks lesson horse when one is available. Use of lesson horses is limited to ensure each horse receives appropriate care, conditioning, and rest.
Throughout the season, riders will work on:
Safe horse handling and preparation
Grooming and show-day presentation
Groundwork and in-hand skills
Riding position, balance, and communication
Learning class patterns and expectations
Building confidence in unfamiliar environments
Supporting teammates and practicing good sportsmanship
Caring for horses before, during, and after each show
Not every rider will enter the same classes. Class selections will be based on the readiness and safety of both the rider and horse.
The 2027 Show Team is expected to attend four open shows in Ionia, Michigan. Riders and families should be prepared to participate in lessons, practices, and show-day responsibilities throughout the season.
Show Team Opportunities
The Whispering Oaks Show Team celebrates the versatility of both our riders and Mustangs. Members may work toward competing in several disciplines based on their experience and the readiness of their horse.
Available opportunities may include:
In-Hand
Showmanship, trail and other In-Hand classes. A great starting point for younger, beginner or non-riding participants.
Western
Western pleasure, horsemanship, ranch riding, trail and other Western classes appropriate for the horse and rider team.
Speed
Barrels, poles and other timed pattern based classes when appropriate for the rider, horse and show.
English
English equitation, pleasure and other introductory English classes for riders and horses who are safely prepared.
Jumping & Dressage
Introductory jumping, dressage tests, flatwork and pattern work based on the horse’s ability and the rider’s experience.
2027 Show Team Costs
Show Team participation involves both a team program fee and additional show-related expenses. Final pricing will be confirmed before enrollment opens.
Planned Team Investment
$450 enrollment fee
$125 per month during the active team season
The team fee supports scheduled instruction, team practices, horse preparation, program coordination, and access to an assigned Whispering Oaks horse when available.
Families Are Responsible For
Individual class-entry fees
Rider and horse show memberships
Stall fees
Camping or hotel accommodations
Appropriate show clothing and safety equipment
Meals and personal expenses
Transportation to and from shows unless other arrangements are made
Any additional fees required by the show organizer
Current estimated show expenses include:
Classes — approximately $10 each
Stall — approximately $25 per day
Camping — approximately $35 per night
Show membership — approximately $100
All prices are estimates and may change according to the show organizer’s 2027 rates.
Team Member & Parent Expectations
Team Member Expectations
Show Team members are expected to:
Attend scheduled lessons, practices, and team meetings
Arrive on time and prepared to participate
Follow all barn, horse-handling, and safety rules
Treat horses, teammates, families, trainers, and show officials respectfully
Practice good sportsmanship regardless of placing
Help groom, prepare, tack, untack, and care for their assigned horse
Keep their riding and show equipment clean and organized
Accept coaching and demonstrate a willingness to learn
Place the horse’s welfare above winning or entering a class
Participation in classes is earned through preparation, attendance, safety, and the readiness of both the rider and horse.
Parent or Guardian Expectations
Parents or guardians of minor riders are expected to:
Support consistent attendance at lessons, practices, and shows
Remain responsible for their child throughout show weekends
Pay required team and show fees by their deadlines
Provide appropriate riding attire, safety equipment, meals, and accommodations
Help their rider arrive prepared and on time
Encourage respectful behavior and good sportsmanship
Communicate scheduling conflicts or concerns promptly
Understand that class participation may change based on safety, horse welfare, or readiness
The Show Team is a shared commitment between the rider, family, trainer, and horse.
Ready to Join the Show Team?
The Whispering Oaks Show Team welcomes riders who are ready to learn, grow, support their teammates, and build a stronger partnership with their horse.
Contact us to share the rider’s age, experience, goals, and whether they have their own horse. Jessica will help determine the best starting point and whether the 2027 Show Team is the right fit.
Availability is limited. Only a small number of riders can be accommodated on Whispering Oaks lesson horses.
Located in Montrose, Michigan