GOALS

1.      to improve the horse and rider at whatever level

2.      international endurance rides

3.      national endurance rides

4.      national graded set speed rides

5.      set speed rides

6.      pleasure rides

ASSESSMENT

Where are you now?

A progressive programme over 2-3 years is needed to achieve top honours in the areas 2, 3 and 4 above.
Assess your horse to decide where his talents are. With the help of a good instructor, assess your riding position and ability for training your horse.
Consider ways to achieve fitness of both you and your horse.
Decide what you would like to achieve and what you can realistically achieve within your budget.
Once you have considered these elements and decided on a training programme you can start to plan which competitions to enter.

COMPETITIONS

Whatever level you choose to ride at, similar criteria come into play:

• Recovery time: Time between competitions depends upon the length and severity of the ride as well as the level of experience of the horse. Shorter rides can be used as part of the training programme.
• Travelling time: The length of time spent in the horse box or trailer has to be added to the competition i.e. a longer ride of 40 miles plus in addition to a two and a half hour journey each way may necessitate an overnight stay.
• Selection of class: Look at your long term aims. Consider the venue, terrain and fitness of the horse.

Broaden your horse's experience i.e. give him/her new venues, new routes, different terrain and different competitions including two day rides and endurance rides.

There are many factors to consider when planning your competitive season, the above are just a few of the basics. If in doubt there are many experienced competitors in your Region who are willing to help advise you.

Copyright: Alison Baggeley