FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE
SIDELINES JANUARY 2012 33
My Line
Focus…
By Sarah Ward
I know that I am sometimes clumsy, forgetful, and often lucky
to leave the house with both shoes on in the morning. My lack
of organizational skills has caused me un-necessary stress that
could have been easily diverted if only I had kept my head clear
and focused…Sometimes this is easier said than done. I am sure
it comes as no surprise that I fnd horse shows can be a little
challenging. It’s not just getting to the ring on time; it’s getting to
the right ring, on the right horse, to ride the right course…So much
to do, so little TIME!
It can be diffcult to switch from riding the hunters to the jumpers,
especially since I already have a problem going too slow in the
latter. Typically I wait around for hours for my classes to start, and
I know I am not alone. It seems that, without fail, the classes will
all begin to run at exactly the same!
Keeping Track
Changing horses in the same class is one thing, but having
more than one horse, in more than one division, in more than one
ring can cause all sorts of issues! Let the brain stress begin. I am
a little in awe at how the trainers do it; they run from ring to ring,
client to client, course to course and don’t lose their cool or break
a sweat. How they keep track if it all is a wonder. Not that having
multiple rides is something to complain about!
I usually have a plan; get at least one hunter course done then
jet over for the course walk, then back to the hunter ring, etc.
until done. It doesn’t sound very hard right? Changing rings,
horses and equipment is easy, but changing my style from
(what I hope is) a fowing and smooth hunter round to (what
I hope is) a speedy and smooth jumper trip can be more of a
challenge. But I know that rushing, on a horse or off, is not good!
Through trial and error, I’ve worked out a way to get through this
without feeling panicked. I make myself take a deep breath and
a minute to myself. It may be only 60 seconds, but it lets me fnd
my focus and ride the course in my mind. Then all I need to do is
pick up the reins and we’re ready to go.
On Course? Not Always!
Of course, it wasn’t always this easy, and it doesn’t always
work. I have gone off course quite a few times. I can still fnd
myself getting a little
lost, especially on the
bigger jumper rings which
have 18 jumps and four
combinations flling my
vision out of the turn. All I
can say is thank goodness
for fags and numbers!
Anyway, I have promised
to set some new goals for
this year which include
staying focused (from in
my classes to riding my
horses), relaxed, positive
and having fun. Last but not
least, STAY ON COURSE!
Happy New Year
everyone! Sarah Ward