We have participated in this program in the past, it's a great program. You don't need to do anything prior to shows. If you want to show a breed class you need papers, but other than that you can sign up the day of the show. You can show as a member buy sponsoring your animal for a registration fee to participate in the points program for awards. You will need to be a current member of the cattlemans association to register. All info is on the cattlemans website. Bring checkbook, it's pricey, to me anyway. Entry fees, fuel, food, hotels, end up about a $500 weekend for about 8 weekends for all of the shows.