Tips for ex racer first shows

[reen2020]

I'm taking my ex racer out soon and wondering if anyone has some tips to make it the nicest experience for him possible?

It's a nice friendly combined training show so will be low pressure and atmosphere. Previously the lorry park/ warm up/ any burger vans etc have really set him off. We will be hacking there with a friend on foot so he has someone by his head if needed.

Grateful for any handy tips from people experienced with those that worry away from home!

 

[Flowerofthefen]

No real tips but what helped me was my mindset. I used to go to a show and no matter how badly the horse behaved I went in the ring and competed. I now think to myself, if it's going badly I will just load up and go home! Just having that mindset has changed my horse completely. Everything is relaxed. Having someone the ground will be a massive help. Hope you enjoy your day.

 

[ycbm]

Just being there is a win. Going and being able to leave in one piece, no matter how long you stay. That's a win, work up from there. If you feel him beginning to boil over, leave before that happens so you end on a win. Keep him moving if you can, standing still is a big ask. Know that every time you go out, he will be a little bit better than last time, you don't need everything at once.
.

 

[sassandbells]

Go with zero expectations and just take things step by step. If you only manage to go, unload, have a look around and then leave with no silly behaviour then take it as a win! Just got to keep an eye out for things getting too much and then go before things boil over.

As ycbm said, standing still was one of the worst things for my mare so we just kept moving for the first few. Even just walking in circles helped, gradually we could do less walking & more standing.

 

[reen2020]

Thank you all!! I hear you - definitely need to just make sure to frame my expectations and treat it all as a training experience with every little thing being a win. And know when to leave it on a positive note even if not all phases completed. You're so right about keeping them moving. Fingers crossed!

 

[ycbm]

Good luck! I will be taking my new ex racer out tomorrow morning to try to complete the second loop of the farm ride for the first time. On our first attempt, they started a tannoy for a big show at 8 in the morning. He's only ever heard a tannoy at a racecourse. Not helpful

 

[reen2020]

Good luck! I will be taking my new ex racer out tomorrow morning to try to complete the second loop of the farm ride for the first time. On our first attempt, they started a tannoy for a big show at 8 in the morning. He's only ever heard a tannoy at a racecourse. Not helpful

You too!! I've ordered some padded ears for mine to hopefully help with the tannoy of doom !

 

[Flowerofthefen]

Good luck! I will be taking my new ex racer out tomorrow morning to try to complete the second loop of the farm ride for the first time. On our first attempt, they started a tannoy for a big show at 8 in the morning. He's only ever heard a tannoy at a racecourse. Not helpful

Reminds me of my first dressage test on my now not with us exracer. The bell went to signal I could start and he shot off!! I think he thought it was for the jockeys mounting in the parade ring!!