First competition for my horse

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Ehound679

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I'm taking my horse to his first dressage competition and he hasn't been to a show in about 7years and he's now 10 😬 I'm worried he's going to be a loon especially when he sees horses doing their tests. He's also quite spooky and on edge anyways. I'm hacking him down so that should take the edge off but does anyone have suggestion on keeping myself positive for the show so he doesn't feed off of me
 
No advice but am watching with interest for any tips as I plan to be doing the same with my 5yo next month. Have just been lucky enough to get my own transport, so before our first show I need to get him used to travelling, as he hasn't left the yard since he arrived three and a half years ago. I am also planning to take him for a bit of school hire so his first time off the yard isn't competitive. So excited!
 
I always find arriving early and giving myself plenty of time to do everything really helps me ease the stress ! Obviously this might not be possible if you're hacking and don't have anywhere to tie up, but I'd still factor in time for a relaxed warm up, maybe time to watch someone do their test as well?

I also have a set warm up plan that I worked out with my instructor, so I find it very calming to focus on that. It allows me to warm up and think about the horse rather than panic about everything else going on. I also find that if I'm super nervous and may not be thinking sensibly that as long as I focus on my warm up I know I'm doing everything possible to get my horse in the right frame of mind- and stops me riding like an idiot just because I'm panicking !

Would having someone read the test for you make you more relaxed? If you can't find a friend/family member to come alone with you, most show secretaries are more than happy to find a steward to read your test for you.

Most importantly - keep breathing! Whilst warming up talk to yourself and your horse, it'll keep you breathing and stop you tensing up. I find that consciously trying to 'slump' in the saddle stops me tensing my seat, and remind yourself to ride positively and keep your leg on.

Try to enjoy it too! Once you're in the arena I'm sure you will love it, and afterwards will be planning your next outing straight away!

Best of luck 😊
 
The whole idea of going to a show, doesn't matter if it's dressage or jumping, is to enjoy it. First thing to do is get to your stables in plenty of time to get your horse groomed, wash off the overnight poo stains & tack hime up. Then get yourself ready & leave in plenty of time to get to the show. At least with dressage you are given a time to start your test so get there with plenty of time to work your horse in. Taking your time is the key for everything, if you do that you will be less stressed & what's in your brains goes down your reins. Your stress will transmit to your horse. If you can chill so will he.

When you ride round the ring prior to starting your test announce yourself to the judge & writer & SMILE!!! When the bell goes go in, keep breathing & do your test. If you are not as accurate as you may be don't worry. You'll still get marked, you may lose a mark but so what? You are there to enjoy yourself, you are not doing it for a living. When it's all over I guarantee you will want to go in & do it again. The judge will hopefully write some encouraging things on your sheet & that will give you guidance for training before you compete again.

Most of all, breath, smile & enjoy. :) :) :)
 
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