The Reality of Not Having An Indoor Arena in Winter

Knowing the difference between water resistant and water proof clothing and accessories. Knowing the difference between sort of waterproof and really waterproof as in can withstand hours in the lashing rain waterproof. Resorting to riding horses in gardening gloves or marigolds – now that’s a proper waterproof glove. Honestly not giving a damn how stupidContinueContinue reading “The Reality of Not Having An Indoor Arena in Winter”

The Reality of Riding A Dressage Test

Because sadly we all cannot be Charlotte…. Dressage test movement: “Enter at A, proceed down centre line in working trot” Dressage test reality: Attempt to get straight before entering arena. Deep breath, enter at A. Realise you are a little to left. Left leg, left leg, damn too much left leg, right leg. Okay that’sContinueContinue reading “The Reality of Riding A Dressage Test”

25 Things Riding Instructors Understand

1. Why 200 euro is way better spent on a top quality pair of waterproofs than on a dress or a pair of heels. Anyone who feels differently should have to stand for four hours in monsoon rain without said waterproofs to see if they still feel the same afterwards. 2. How to recognise thatContinueContinue reading “25 Things Riding Instructors Understand”

Riding Club Festival – Survival Tips

It is almost time for the annual riding clubs festival. Times have been issued, weather apps are being consulted, child of prague statues are being plonked out on doorsteps, plans are being made and lists are being written. You can check out what I learned at last year’s festival here. In the meantime, considering IContinueContinue reading “Riding Club Festival – Survival Tips”

Enjoying Cross Country and Home Cooked Cuisine at Crossogue

Ever thought ‘no one ever wins those competitions on Facebook’? I used to think that too. I was wrong. People win – I won! Most recently I won a fantastic prize of a two day trip to Crossogue Equestrian near Thurles in Co. Tipperary in Ireland. My trip included two nights stay, meals and fourContinueContinue reading “Enjoying Cross Country and Home Cooked Cuisine at Crossogue”

This Is Me When…..

  photo by Lorna Keogh                                      all content produced is my own original content. Please do not reproduce in any form without my express prior permission. Thank you

Equestrian Fail – When Things Go wrong

We have all been there….those days where you consider taking up an indoor hobby that only involves inanimate objects….. This was me, not one of my finest moments. Miraculously we didn’t part company as the horse was a gent and lifted his head up and waited for me to cop myself on. My friend Hollie,ContinueContinue reading “Equestrian Fail – When Things Go wrong”

Things Non Horse People Say

“What’s the difference between a horse and a pony” I’m serious, two colleagues in my office job conference called me one day to ask me to answer this in order to settle an argument between them. Turns out they were both wrong, go figure.  “Aren’t they dangerous?” I’m dangerous “You didn’t go out riding aContinueContinue reading “Things Non Horse People Say”

A Little Adventure To Lullymore

When a new facility opens up practically on your doorstep I figure it would be madness not to call over for a visit. So, with that in mind, we set off last week for an adventure to the newly opened Lullymore Equestrian Centre where the main attraction was the large all weather outdoor cross countryContinueContinue reading “A Little Adventure To Lullymore”

Old School Versus New School Horsemanship

Old School HorsemanshipIf horse is too fat…… feed it lessIf horse is too skinny ………….. feed it moreIf horse looks good………. feed it the sameIf the saddle doesn’t fit….. try a different oneIf the saddle fits ……….. use itIf horse is sick……. Ring the vetIf horse is well…… leave it alone and don’t go lookingContinueContinue reading “Old School Versus New School Horsemanship”