8 basic mistakes all riders have made at some point

groom feeding horse feed talking to horse — Library image.

(Image credit: Karen Thompson)

The average equestrian’s mind is always running at a 100 miles per minute so it’s no wonder we make the odd slip up from time to time, even when completing the simplest of tasks. Even though we might fail our Pony Club tests with these errors, we have to laugh.

Here are eight obvious mistakes all riders and owners — amateur or professional— have probably made at some point…

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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.

8 basic mistakes all riders have made at some point

1. Missed out a fence on a course

It’s one of our worst fears, but at some point in your riding journey you’ll probably finish a course without completing all the obstacles. And it’s sod’s law that this particular round was one of your horse’s best ever performances…

2. Driven off without putting the lorry steps up

You’re usually notified of this potentially catastrophic mistake by a fellow competitor frantically running alongside your vehicle banging on the driver’s side door. Note, always check both mirrors before setting off!

3. Put a rug on upside down

Pre-coffee we’ve also been known to try fastening it up while it’s the wrong way round. Doh.

4. Left your horse’s door open

We’ve all done it and the level of chaos that ensues depends on the personality of your horse and the availability of a full-blown break out. Some will choose to ignore the unfastened latch while others might take advantage and make a bid for freedom, leaving a trail of droppings in his wake.

5. Didn’t tighten the girth before you got on

Annoying, possibly painful and quite scary for the rider, but absolutely hilarious for anyone stood around watching.

6. Put a bridle back together wrong

When you go to re-fit a bridle after a tack clean, and wonder why the noseband is completely twisted, the bit on upside down and the reins on the wrong way round.

7. Forgot your yard clothes/boots after work

Being at the yard in your work clothes just feels wrong. Hands up if you’ve ever filled haynets in your office suit, brought your horse in wearing your leather work shoes or changed rugs in your uniform.

8. Forgotten your dressage test/show

You practise hundreds of times at home and nail it every time. You step into the arena and your mind goes blank. An absolute classic.

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