1st test on new horse

[loubyb]

I'm so scared as i'm doing my 1st test on my new loan horse (prelim 7, 10.21 on 27/01). I've done various tests in the part with my last loan horse but he was a lazy cob so no worry of him tanking off. But my new loan horse is an ish that is forward going. I know i shouldn't worry and that he'll probably be fine. i can't help thinking he'll get far too excited seeing the others & not listen

[Fanshawe]

Just think of this as a practice/play. Don't put any pressure on yourself to get good marks or even get the test right! Just use it as a means to explore how he copes. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready and remember to smile and breathe! You probably will have a brilliant time but if it all goes pear shaped then just laugh about it and use the experience as a learning tool. When you are warming up keep the work varied so he doesn't have a chance to get distracted and have a good helper on hand to do things for you if he is fidgety etc. My girl is forward going and easily distracted yet when we (rarely unfortunately!) go to shows/comps she is as calm as anything yet performs beautifully. You'll probably find that he does the same. Being forward going is not necessarily a sign that he won't listen. Most importantly -enjoy yourself!!!! Good luck :)

[S_F_S]

How did it go? Where were you doing this, it wasn't HCEC was it?

[S_F_S]

Actally doh I've just engaged my brain - of course it was HCEC and I was there with you - Hi L its Emma!!

[loubyb]

Well it was a no-go as ty was foot sore after being shod but looking forward to the next one we could do. Perhaps at least a week after being shod next time!!