Learning from the top
MEET THE TRAINER
KATE COWELL is an international dressage rider, based in Malvern, Worcestershire. Alongside competing, Kate also trains riders and produces horses up to grand prix level
MEET THE HORSE
SAMBA DANCER
(‘Sammy’) is a 16-year-old, 16.2hh, chestnut gelding owned by Chris Richards. He has been competing at grand prix level for a couple of years now and last season he was second at Keysoe International CDI in the grand prix kür with 73.7%, and third in the grand prix.
AS WITH ANY athletes working at the top level, grand prix horses require a tailored fitness plan and management routine to ensure they are fit and strong enough to do the work asked of them, but also to keep them sound, healthy and happy.
Competitions are the pinnacle of weeks, even months, of hard work, and it’s essential that both horse and rider are as prepared as they can be for the big day.
So, what does Samba Dancer (‘Sammy’)’s daily and weekly routine look like, and how does his rider Kate Cowell prepare him for a competition?
You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.
Start your free 30 days