Many of us are in the process of planning — or might have even attended — that first post lockdown competition, show or training clinic. With restrictions easing, organisers are working hard to put on fixtures for us all to enjoy with our horses.
Here are 10 things that might pop into your head when you attend that very first post-Covid lockdown event:
1. ‘I’m so excited’
Months of riding the same circles of the arena and taking the same hacking routes mean you’re seriously ready for a change of scenery.
2. ‘But I’m also seriously nervous’
Riding in public for the first time in ages means the pressure is geared up a notch. But remember, everyone is in the same boat!
3. ‘I’ve definitely forgotton how to ride a show’
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Or how to jump a course, memorise a dressage test or negotiate the collecting ring…
4. ‘I really hope my horse behaves’
Top tip, ensure you leave plenty of time for working in!
5. ‘I must check the lorry’
Checking if your horsebox is in working order — and that you’ve got all your gear inside — is a must before you venture out of the yard.
6. ‘I hope I still fit into my riding jacket’
All of those quarantine snacks must have gone somewhere. Breathe in!
7. ‘I don’t miss these early mornings’
That first get up before a show will definitely be a shock to the system. Alarm clocks at the ready.
You’ll arrive home absolutely knackered and probably question how you had the energy — or finances — to go competing every weekend last summer.
9. ‘I must find a groom’
Your first outing has made you realise how handy it is to have someone on the ground at your beck and call.
10. ‘God, I’ve missed this!’
It’s so good to be back in the saddle.
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Former H&H showing editor and deputy features editor
Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the showing scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show and Olympia and has first-hand knowledge of the current issues in the showing world as well as the horses, ponies and riders who compete in the sport. Alex joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor, cementing its place as the leading equestrian publication for both showing reports and current showing news in the UK. She moved on in October 2024 to pursue other opportunities, but continues to write for us on a freelance basis.
