WELL DONE SOPHIE!
One of our liveries, Sophie Bultitude did really well and qualified for the Badminton Grass Roots event, which is an amateur competition held just before the big international event at Badminton Horse Trials. Sophie made the long journey down last week with her horse Juno, travelling for 2 days (with an overnight stop over) to get to Badminton, which is in the South West of England. Sally flew down to help her warm up and prepare as it was such a big event for her and Sophie did really well coming 18th out of over 100 people and jumping a double clear (showjumping and x-country). Well done Sophie and Juno – we’re all very proud of you. Sophie started riding in the riding school (aged 5) and had Crunchie as her first pony – the same Crunchie that we own today!). She has progressed up in her riding and now owns Juno whom she qualified for this event with, so she is a great example of what can be achieved in your hobby!
MOUNTING
Just a polite reminder for everyone of good mounting practice this month, it’s good preparation for your assessment but it’s also just good practice!
Using the mounting block is the best option regardless of height of horse as it Is more comfortable for the horse and you!
When you lead the horse up to the mounting block, lead the horse to one side as you go to the other side, which allows the horse to get close to it. If you are between the horse and the mounting block, the horse won’t get close to it as you are in the way.
Be prompt – our horses are patient, but they won’t wait for a long time at the mounting block whilst you get yourself organised – be ready to mount as you climb up!
Make sure you have your reins gathered up in your left hand and your right hand under the front of the saddle – NOT under the back of the saddle. This means the horse won’t move off and that you won’t twist the saddle as you jump on.
Even though you are using the block, you need to jump – not pull yourself up and when you land, please do so GENTLY – don’t fall onto their back like your landing on the sofa!
Once on, put your feet in the stirrups then ask the horse to walk away and line up to allow you to adjust your stirrups/girth if need be. Don’t get on and wiggle about and try to pull the saddle across their back – it needs to be a comfy experience for both you and the horse and they are sensitive animals.
Thanks!