Pre-hunt nerves anyone?

[debsey1]

I've hunted only twice. First time I was a bag of nerves as I didn't know what to expect from my horse, as it turned out he was as good as gold and thoroughly enjoyed the day although it was utter madness at times

Second time I was nervous again as I knew what to expect He was a lot more excitable as he knew what to expect!

I am due out again this Saturday and I feel my nerves again starting to rise....what's the matter with me???

Does anyone else feel like this?

 

[polo_han]

I'm yet to hunt (going in two weeks, eek) but if I get nervous before a polo match I used Bach's Rescue Remedy, a few drops makes me a lot calmer which in turn makes my ponies calmer - I couldnt recommend it highly enough

 

[L&M]

I used to feel like that and the only remedy is too keep going until it becomes a 'normal' activity to you and your horse!

Even now, especially for OM or the faster jumping days these nerves return, but once I get to the meet and the adrenaline (and port!!) kicks in I calm down.

If your main fear is jumping, there is usually a way round, or somone who doesn't want to jump either so you can pal up and go round together.

Relax, breath deep and enjoy!

 

[Grey_Eventer]

Ive been hunting weekly since I was 4... I still get nervous 14 years on Although I think its just because Im excited (yes, i still get super excited!). Have a glass of port at the meet!

 

[JenHunt]

Ive been hunting weekly since I was 4... I still get nervous 14 years on Although I think its just because Im excited (yes, i still get super excited!). Have a glass of port at the meet!

this! ^^

except mine is more like 24 years on!!

it's partly nerves, partly excitement, partly down to how much I hate driving the trailer!

it does get better, but I think if you're that kind of person you never 'get over' it totally!

keep on enjoying it though

 

[meesha]

it will get better - I have gone from very nervous (only been 6 or 7 times) to very excited and only a little anxious the night before - I am much better on the day itself as you can then just get on with it. I think like anything in life you will be nervous until it becomes almost the norm ! nerves are there to help us and keep us alert and alive although obviously you dont want then ruining it for you or transferring to the horse.

If I could afford it (time and money) I would go more often I think if you went twice a week it would quickly become the norm.

 

[chestnut cob]

I've hunted a bit over the last few years but am out much more often this season. I start dreaming about it a couple of nights before... thankfully last weekend, which was my third time out this season, I actually managed to get some sleep unlike the other times. Usually I feel so sick on the day that I have to force breakfast down, and am usually shaking so much I can't do my plaits!

The best cure, IMHO, is a bit of port while you're plaiting

 

[maggiesmum]

I think the nerves are a good thing, adrenaline sharpens your responses so see them as a friend rather than a foe. That said I always find a nice cointreau coffee before the meet takes the edge off

 

[tootsietoo]

I never usually drink out hunting, had a large glass of port at the meet on Saturday and fell to bits! I felt all floppy and the horse stopped at the first rail. Don't drink! You need your reactions pin sharp!

I think part time hunting is very hard. Best thing is to go twice a week, then the nerves will subside. Unfortunately it's not possible for most of us so you just have to live with them a bit! Might try that Bach Rescue Remedy.

 

[bellatrix]

I start to feel my nerves the night before when I'm cleaning tack/plaiting up, then hacking/driving to the meet I start to get butterflies They seem to disappear when we set off, though.

 

[lucy glitters]

I don't get nervous before hunting (hunted since a child) but my horse does. Poos for England when i am plaiting up but is chilled out once he gets to the meet and is a good hunter. I had one that vibrated until he got going, his nickname was Roger Rabbit (!)
I do get nervous at competitions if i haven't done one in a while. I used to get jelly legs but these days i yawn constantly and feel sleepy. Wierd. Once in the saddle though i feel fine, thank goodness - i have seen how nerves can stop people enjoying themselves and really feel for them.