Arghh!!! So excited, doing x country....

[Mini Reed]

okay, not until 14th of May, but can't believe how excited I was when asked, seemed to push all other worries, and there are a couple of biggies at the moment, all to one side, isn't it great when you find something that can do that.

I'll be doing it on Gem, a little ex racer, oh she's so fun to ride, but so strong.... arrghhh!!! Can't wait. I'll try and get piccies and post them if you'd like to see.

Only 6 weeks to practice!!! Any tips for safe ride greatly appreciated.

[ANN H]

No tips I'm afraid as I'm not brave enough to do anything like that. Good luck though, and have fun. Let us know how it all goes.

[Sumitra]

I am sooo jealous. Enjoy.

[DavidH]

Any tips for safe ride greatly appreciated.

1) Attack each fence. Approach like you really mean to jump the fence no matter what happens. A cautious approach will land you in trouble.

2) If in doubt, leave a stride out. Old saying but very relevant to XC. getting a horse in too deep to an XC fence can and does flip them over. If you cant see the stride push for the horse to stand off the fence, dont let it put a last short stride in.

3) Never approach on a shortening stride to a fence. If you need to come in on a shorter stride than normal then set it up at least 6 strides away then hold that stride and maintain impulsion. If it looks wrong then apply rule 2

4) On down hill fences or drops do NOT lean forward. Sit up or lean back and slip the reins to give the horse its freedom. If you are leaning forward and the horse pecks on landing you will be out the front door.

5) If your horse does stumble on landing DONT try and pick him up with your reins. Doing so will remove the use of his natural balance aid, his neck. Give a loose rein and let him sort himself out.

6) Only attempt what you are reasonably comfortable with. You are doing it for fun so make sure thats what it ends up with. Walk away wanting to do more rather than wishing you had stopped one fence earlier.

Good luck

[pepsimaxrock]

David what great advice as ever, I have printed that out for my daughter as she will be trying for higher xc jumps (still only 2'6 - 2'9, but big enough!!) this season on the lovely Max.

Very best wishes with your xc course MiniReed. What class are you doing, and where?

[Megpeg]

Hi Mini Reed,
I'm a newbie to the board but just wanted to say good luck with your xc, I'm sure you'll have a fantastic time!
It's (in my biased opinion) a real buzz - you'll have so much fun!

I was always told "if you weren't a little bit afraid, you'd be a lot stupid" - I think it applies to a lot of things.
Remember, your fear is useful (providing you can control it of course - which I'm sure you can) and will help ensure that you make decisions judiciously.

Some great advice given by DavidH, it was all excellent advice but I'd particularly reiterate the bit about "not doing anything you're uncomfortable with."
It's a funny discipline xc - you have to get a balance of confidence (without rashness), carefulness (without hesitation), analysis (without over-analysis) and above all get round safely and have a great time.
Obviously also make sure you have the correct equipment to the correct standard (for both horse and rider) and get in as much practise as possible before the big day.

Good luck! Hope you have an amazing day!

[bexj]

I've done xc today for the very first time (not a competition, but in a lesson). I was nervous, but incredibly excited, as it is something I have wanted to do since a child (now 36:eek: ) I loved it! Grinning like the proverbial cheshire cat! Fortunately didn't have any major incidents, apart from two run outs at the same fence (first was my fault, second was horse deciding to take the easier option).......want to try it more......:D :D :D

[Mini Reed]

Thanks all.

Good advice DavidH, I'll try and keep that in mind whilst I'm hanging on for dear life and trying to remember to breath, some-one once told me you have to remember to breath, sounds obvious but I believe sometimes you can get so wound up you literally hold your breath the whole way round.... wouldn't you faint??? Anyway.....

AAH, I'm just doing little local show, 2ft, no ditches, steps or downhill, somewhere near Crawley in Sussex.

I'll keep you posted, and hopefully have some nics pics to post after the event.