Unaff eventing advice

[J_sarahd]

I’m thinking of taking pony to Eland Lodges unaffiliated 50cm ODE if I can get transport. But it’ll be both of our first times doing eventing. Pony loves jumping but Ive only doing XC schooling with him once (will go again before eventing!!!). Obviously it’s teeny (smaller than we are schooling at home) so he could step over them. But I’m nervous!

Does anyone have any tips? Aside from the just enjoy it. If I go, I’m not planning on making any aims (such as sub 30 dressage) let alone a placing!

 

[AandK]

Write a list of everything you need to take and tick it off as you pack. I used to go through each phase and tick off what I needed, i.e. kit for horse and me for dressage, same for SJ and then for XC. Then any extras, haynets, water, first aid kit etc.
Get water buckets ready for when you're back from XC so you can wash off straight away after untacking/de-booting. I have to (try to) be organised as 99.9% of the time I am on my own. I also work back from my dressage time to work out what time I need to arrive at the yard in the morning before leaving, e.g. arrive at yard 6am, leave at 7am, arrive at event 8am, walk XC (usually allow 1hr to be safe), pick up number 9am, stud/tack up/dress myself and on at 10am, dressage test 10.30am. Always leave a bit more time than you think you will need just in case, I am usually late unless I add on an extra 30min somewhere!
It's great fun and there will always be someone around to ask/help if you get stuck. And of course, enjoy!

 

[myheartinahoofbeat]

I also often go alone and always work back from my dressage time to work out when I need to be at the yard. When you get your ODE times you can work out when you can walk the XC course. If I am going to a venue nearby I will try and walk the course the day before as its one less thing to worry about on the day. You'll love it!