Stage fright? any ideas?

[kerrylou123]

Hi

Have just come back from mine and Millies 3rd ever dressage test together (only talk and trot), but we have a problem! She warms up really nicely, but as soon as we enter the arena she starts jogging, evading the bit, wont stand, spins circles etc etc! I got really upset by this, because i schooled her at home last night and she was foot perfect!
I came out of the arena very disheartened and very upset. The judge came over to talk to me about my test, and said it was nothing to do with my riding, and even offered me a ride on her horse to prove to me it wasnt me!
After coming out of the ring, i decided to try riding her around in the warm up area, and yet again, she went beautifully!
So if it isnt me, why is this happened? What can i do to improve things?
She has raced, but her flatwork is improving all the time at home, why isn't it improving when we're out?!? I dont know what to do for the best. Within the last month, i've had her out at shows 4 times, so surely she should be settling down now?

Thanks
Kerry x

 

[piebaldsparkle]

All you can do is keep taking her out. My friends mare is the same (although is improving) and has to have been to a show ground 2 or 3 times, before she does any good. She also gets unsettled even if she has been to the showground before, if they move the location of the arena. She will get better, its just quite unsettling for some, so stick with it.

 

[Walder]

i wonder if giving her some rescue remedy on a bit of apple before she goes into the ring (about 15 mins) will help? x

 

[kerrylou123]

thanks... i makes me feel better knowing that im not the only one with problems! Its just do upsetting, because she's such a lovely pony really!
Nay try some rescue remedy. How does it work? Where do you get it from,?

 

[Hullabaloo]

When I first got my horse he used to get stage fright when we were jumping at shows - even little shows at home. I used to have to shout stand clear, charge into the ring and hope the judge would ring the bell before he noticed where he was. Wouldn't work with dressage I know, but by doing it over and over he did get over it and now I can ride him into the ring like a normal horse.
Keep going - I'm sure your horse will learn to settle too.