First hunter trial

C

Clodaghm

New User
Joined
11 April 2013
Messages
5
Visit site
Hi I'm thinking of doing my first hunter trial this Sunday on my horse I have only ever jumped once ! I'm a fairly ok rider just very nervous of jumping !! Any suggestions please ??? He is a super fella for hunter trials he has done plenty before I got him !! I'm middle aged and terrified of a fall !!:):) thanks
 
Thanks but that's a problem as I'm working and proberly only get a half an hour to have lesson Saturday !! Have neck strap though thanks
 
Might be an idea to take him xc schooling first- just to get a feel for him over natural fences. Hire out a small course, practice over them then once your confident go back and do the whole course at a canter like you would on the day :-)
Least you'll feel prepared and confident on the day.
 
Clodaghm said:
Thanks wish I had the time !! Was thinking of just trotting him around and if not comfortable by pass some fences
Click to expand...

Absolutely! I went hunter trialling and eventing last year after ten years of dressage and am age 47. Am not ashamed to trot or miss out jumps if I feel it safer to do so. Just go with the attitude that you are there to enjoy yourself, not frighten yourself. Completing the course safely is such a bonding experience with your horse; you will be on a high for days afterwards :)
 
thanks geldander
im going to take my time also going to let someone take him around before me so he wont totally run away with me as he has been out on grass for a couple of weeks !!
maybe try rescue remedy too !!
 
OP Ive my sensible hat on today lol.
Would you not get your confidence up with some jumping lessons @ your yard first, enclosed environment etc...

Not saying all horses BUT for alot of horses jumping in open space gets rather exciting & Id be worried it may set you back confidence wise if anything was to happen. Jumping rustic fences is totally different to jumping coloured poles..

If it was me Id get some lessons & they get out xc schooling a couple of times to get yourself confident over some natural obstacles & then go out & have fun at a HT -
 
I'd go the lessons and practice day somewhere route first too but if you have your heart set on this, good on you! I'd do the small height class and take the trotting round for fun approach. Neck strap is a must - for confidence it gives you if nothing else! Try to remember it is for FUN!!!!!!!!!!
 
Thank you for advice I'm going to try the minis and try and enjoy it :):)
Hopefully all will be ok going to try a few jumps tomorrow at the equestrian centre where I am !! All the lads there tell me I'm well able and so is he !! So we will just give it a go !! I know I was like this when I did a bit of showjumping but after I was on a high !! Think maybe the idea of open fields is daunting too !!!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top