Ready for action

FOR THE SMALL amount of time you actually spend in the ring, there are weeks and months of hard work and preparation that go into getting to a competition. From your own physical condition to your horse’s pre-event training schedule, and ensuring you have everything you need in the lorry or trailer, there are a few things to factor in to your competition preparation. Not only will being prepared mentally and physically set you up for a better performance, but it will also make a potentially nerve-racking day go as smoothly as possible.

CHECK LIST

☑ Are you and your horse fit enough?

☑ Do you feel mentally prepared?

☑ Have you done all the training (in and out of the saddle) you need to?

☑ Are you organised — ready to pack, load and go?

Practice makes perfect

When preparing for a competition, dressage trainer and grand prix rider Stef Eardley suggests planning at least six weeks in advance.

“Have a clear goal of what you want to achieve on the day of your competition, and then break those down into achievable goals,