and how to prepare yourself and your horse for the challenges that you are likely to encounter .
A good coach will help you pick suitable locations to go cross-country schooling too . Some places that have been around a long time may lack the technical elements of modern crosscountry training so picking the right places with the right type of fences will enable you to feel well-prepared for tackling your first British Eventing competition .
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY
A British Eventing event often has hundreds of riders competing in a day , with some riders having multiple horses to ride . This requires competitors to adhere to their times in order not to fall behind on the day ’ s timetable . If you miss your time you may be eliminated . In the ‘ new normal ’ it may take more time to actually get into the event , as everyone is checked in on arrival at the gate , so it ’ s important to allow more time so that you are not rushing .
Also leave plenty of time for things like walking the course and finding your way to the dressage , as this can sometimes be much further away in order to allow for a quieter environment away from the cross-country course . You may find that the show-jumping arena has a lot more for your horse to look at , such as sponsors ’ advertising banners around the edge as well as bright , colourful fences and fillers . Often there can be flowers and decorative items that can add to the overall electrifying atmosphere of the arena . The same also applies to the cross-country course where there will be sponsors ’ advertising boards at various fences as well as things to dress up the fences , such as plants , flowers and decorations .
Sometimes , this can be a real eye opener for horses and riders that are more accustomed to plain and simple fences .
In next month ’ s issue , part two
of Harriet ’ s series takes a look at making the transition from Pony Club to British Eventing .
Harriet is available for dressage , show-jumping and cross-country lessons at her base near York .
To find out more call Harriet on ( 07795 ) 562745 or visit www . harrietmorris-baumber . co . uk
EVERYTHING HORSE : DECEMBER 2020 • 17