Prep time

WITH spring in sight, and once lockdown restrictions ease, our thoughts are turning to the competition season. It’s difficult not to get excited at the thought of setting new goals and riding at some of our favourite centres again. Top riders and coaches agree that riding in a relaxed setting away from home is a key part of competition preparation – for the rider and the horse. We find out what the professionals have to say, and explore what facilities are on offer at some of the UK’s top venues.

Showjumper Holly Smith says when preparing for competition, you have to know what to expect from your horse away from home.

“I try to take the young horses out once a week,” she explains. “Training in a noncompetition environment enables you to repeat exercises and make corrections until you get it right – without the stress of getting a bad result.”

And this is no different when