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Eventing will always be my sport of choice (despite the odd foray out of it — I’ve spent the last few days in Qatar, working as part of the broadcast team for the 5* showjumping at the CHI Al Shaqab, which has been an experience!) but I do think there are some cues we could take from other disciplines. Mostly, tbh, I want us to have costume classes, as they do at Desert Horse Park in California, but I don’t want them to just be restricted to kids. I’m thinking a fancy dress CCI4*-S could go over nicely. Who do I pitch this to?
National Holiday: It’s Letter to an Elder Day. Have you been inspired, or taught valuable lessons, by a horse person of an older generation? Consider writing them a note of gratitude — even if they’re not someone you know directly, we guarantee it’ll mean a huge amount to them.
US Weekend Action:
Full Gallop Farm Mid February H.T. (Aiken, SC): [Website] [Results]
Pine Top Advanced (Thomson, GA): [Website] [Results]
Three Lakes Winter II H.T. at Caudle Ranch (Groveland, FL): [Website] [Results]
Your Monday Reading List:
Men and women might be able to compete equally in equestrian sports, but the experience of it isn’t always the same. Menopause is one major factor that can really change a rider’s riding life, and that’s the topic on the table in this interesting interview with 55-year-old Rachel Fisher, who’ll be tackling the Badminton Grassroots Championship this year and has learned how to make her body work for her, even when it feels like a new, alien place to be. Check it out.
Would you buy an unbroken pony for your kids? Only if you don’t like them much, amiright — but actually, writer Jamie Sindell has kind of swayed me with her measured approach to doing exactly that. First-time pony producers should probably still not do this, but for those with a bit of experience, I think I can see the benefits now.
We love a life-hack or a top tip from the folks who really know horses. And top of that list? Professional grooms. Here’s some of their biggest ‘don’ts’ to help you become a better horse person and make your horse happy, healthy, and super-duper shiny.
Marley Bridges was en route to being a gymnastics champion. Then, a major injury forced her to give up the sport she loved at just twelve years old. It was heartbreaking — but in the process, she found horses, and eventing, and a new challenge to embrace. Check out her inspiring story here.
Morning Viewing:
I truly…don’t know what to tell you here.
