“I have just got a new horse and he’s a youngster and hasn’t done much show jumping before – and he hasn’t seen many fillers. I have been so inspired by you and I’m hoping to be doing some eventing next year. Do you have any good tips for me please?”
Oliver answers: Although no 2 horses are the same and you have to treat them individually, it is always best to introduce everything slowly. Start anything new very small, let them see it, have it as low as you can, then when you approach the fence make sure you have good momentum, are straight, and have the set up completely right so there is no excuse – and be determined yourself. Horses always take their cue from you, so if you don’t want to jump the fence, with or without a filler, the horse certainly won’t. Always find a top instructor as well as it is always good to do everything correctly the first time – much better than to try and fix bad habits. I hope that helps 🙂