Best Turned Out Team: With You on the Road to Dublin
There is something special about stepping into Ring 1 or Ring 2 at Dublin. Beyond the competition itself, there is a long-standing tradition of presentation, pride, and attention to detail that makes the experience memorable.
The Best Turned Out Team initiative celebrates that tradition by recognising the work that goes into preparing not only the horse, but also the rider and groom. It is about rewarding the care, planning, and presentation that create those standout moments in the ring.
More Than Appearance — Celebrating Tradition
The Dublin Horse Show has always been about excellence. Turnout plays an important role in that heritage, reflecting the preparation, professionalism, and respect competitors bring to the event.
Every polished boot, carefully prepared tail, immaculate plait, and considered outfit contributes to the atmosphere that makes the show unique.
The Best Turned Out Team competition recognises that effort.
What Can You Win?
Each day, a winning team will be selected. (Team = rider + horse + groom)
The winning team will receive:
- A €500 voucher for the RED MILLS Store
From there, the five daily winners will go into a public vote, where supporters can choose their favourite Best Turned Out Team online.
The overall public vote winner will receive:
- An additional €1,000 RED MILLS Store voucher
Who Can Enter?
Best Turned Out Team awards will take place across selected classes in Ring 1 and Ring 2 throughout the event.
Eligible classes include:
Wednesday
- Riding Horses
- Small Hunters
Thursday
- Lightweight Show Hunters
- Ridden Connemaras
- Ladies’ Side Saddle
Friday
- Coloured Horses
- Middleweight Show Hunters
- Heavyweight Show Hunters
- Cobs
- Racehorse to Riding Horse
- Sportsman (Amateur Hunters)
Saturday
- First Ridden
- Lead Rein
- Intermediate Side Saddle
Sunday
- Show Hunter Ponies
What Makes a Winning Turnout?
Attention to detail matters.
For the Rider
Judges will look for:
- Smart, polished and appropriate presentation
- Well-maintained boots
- Gloves
- A correctly presented tie
- Smart hair and overall turnout
- Traditional finishing details such as a cane where appropriate
For the Horse
Presentation standards include:
- Excellent coat condition and shine
- Attention to tails and finishing
- Neat plaits
- Quarter marks
- Maintaining an optimal body condition score
Preparation starts long before competition day, and feeding plans can play an important role in helping horses look and perform at their best.
For the Groom
Grooms are an essential part of every successful team.
Key expectations include:
- Practical but smart presentation
- Hats worn at all times
- Personal style and professionalism
- Appropriate show attire (jeans and runners are not permitted)
The Final Touches
The difference between good and exceptional often comes down to preparation.
The Best Turned Out Team competition shines a spotlight on the dedication behind the scenes, the riders, horses, and grooms who put in the work to create a polished and memorable appearance.
Every detail counts on the road to Dublin and we’ll be with you all the way.
