Learn the test or course well
Again it would be a shame to lose points over a silly course error . Whilst in dressage it is only a few points , you will find that in jumping competitions there are no second chances ! Learn the course properly before you go out , this will give you much more confidence to just focus on riding your horse well . It is good to know it well enough that you could navigate your way around with little thought . In dressage you can of course have a caller in most tests but again this is still not ideal , as you will be more focused on the caller and less focused on your performance . Set yourself up for success and leave nothing to chance !
Take responsibility for your own success
This means not relying on the good nature of other people to do your job for you . Often we can become reliant on our mums , dads , friends and family to help us get ready at the show but the ultimate responsibility lies with you . It is good practise to saddle your own horse and get him ready , if time allows . He will be more relaxed too if there are less people fussing over him and he does know you best !
The horse always comes first
This is a horse show after all ! It is all about him , not you ! Be proud of him , present him well , ride him well and put his needs first . Don ’ t be upset if things don ’ t go as well as you expectedthey often don ’ t . Every show is an experience for him and you , so no matter what , make sure it is enjoyable for him , so he doesn ’ t have anxiety next time you go out .
Present him as a winner
Sometimes competition comes close between combinations so don ’ t underestimate how important it is to make sure you look like a winner . The horse and rider that look like champions will give the judge a better impression overall and if it is close , this might be what gives you that extra edge over the other combination . A well prepared horse isn ’ t just about grooming , but about feeding , training and how you manage him all the time . Get into good habits and have him looking his best always ! It is a good idea to have a bag with little essentials in it like a brush , towel , rubber bands , coat shine and things like this , that goes to the ring with you . Then before your turn , you can have a quick tidy up ! Judges notice all sorts of details !
Be gracious !
Always practice good sportsmanship , no matter how your day has gone . Never take your frustration out on your horse or the people who have come to support you . We all have good days and bad days . Set realistic expectations and work on beating your last performance more than beating the other competitors . If you focus on yourself and you worry less about everyone else , then you will notice your performance gets better too !