The Innovative Introduction of the 'Worst Round of the Day' Award by Show Organizers

In an effort to boost morale and keep spirits high, show organizers have announced the introduction of the "Worst Round of the Day" award, a groundbreaking initiative designed to celebrate riders who really give it their all—no matter how badly it goes.

“The goal here is to acknowledge that dressage and show jumping aren’t just about perfection,” said event organizer Stacy Bucklehorse, her voice tinged with optimism. “We all know how much pressure these riders are under. So, we thought, why not reward those who truly show what not to do? It’s a way to say, ‘Hey, at least you tried—and that’s worth something!’”

The award, which will be presented in the form of a silver-plated horseshoe and a certificate for “Courage in Chaos,” will be given to the rider who has most thoroughly baffled the judges with a series of unintentional pirouettes, missed fences, or inadvertent horse jumps into the judge’s booth.

“We really want to celebrate the spirit of the sport,” continued Bucklehorse. “Some riders might knock down every single rail, or canter in the wrong direction for the entire round. But they’re out there, and that’s what counts. So, why not throw them a bone? It’s tough when the crowd is silent after an... let's call it 'creative' performance. This award is for them."

The innovative move has been met with mixed reactions. While some competitors are eager to embrace the concept, others are less enthusiastic about being celebrated for their failures. “I don’t need an award for being terrible,” said amateur rider Jane Smith, whose horse, Thunderous Mistake, recently had a particularly unforgettable show in which it completely missed a 2-meter jump and casually trotted off the course. “But I suppose a silver-plated horseshoe sounds nice. If nothing else, I can use it to hang up my ribbons. All three of them. From the same show.”

Meanwhile, veteran trainer Gus Leverage has voiced a more cynical view. “When did we start rewarding mediocrity? This is a sport that’s supposed to be about precision, dedication, and excellence. Now we’re giving out prizes for... whatever that was? If you can’t even finish your round, maybe it’s time to hang up the spurs.”

Despite the criticisms, many riders are already vying for the coveted title of “Worst Round” contender. “I’ve been practicing not taking out any fences for the last week,” said competitive rider and Instagram sensation @RiderGoneWrong. “But if I manage to knock down every single one, I’m going for that silver-plated horseshoe. And let me tell you, I’ve been training my horse in the art of accidental dismounts. Watch out, world.”

The "Worst Round of the Day" award will debut at the upcoming Spring Classics and promises to add an exciting new layer of suspense to the sport. Will riders focus on technical precision, or will they go for the glory of the grand mistake? Only time—and a few unfortunate tumbles—will tell.