It's [horse] show time

If you've read about my journey from pony hunters to #adultammystrong, then you know I took some time off from riding (10 years to be exact!) after selling my pony hunter and going off to college. Since then I've only shown a handful of times because of work schedules and other circumstances that put showing on the back burner.

Well, now the time has come and I'm getting back in the ring!

From ringside to roll backs

Since I started back riding as an adult amateur, I've done all I can to make it a priority, but like we all know life has its way of humbling you and showing has taken a back seat. 

After two years ringside, 2016 will be the year I return to the show ring and I couldn't be more excited. I'm starting small, but it's a start and a positive step in the right direction.

Small jumps, big jumps, fence height does not define you as a rider,
​remember that. 

I don't get nervous easily, but I'll admit I'm nervous to get back in the ring. Not scared-nervous, an excited-nervous; like a kid on Christmas morning running down the hallway, still somewhat half asleep but fully awake at the same time, hoping to unwrap that one special present. 

Sure I want to have winning rounds and come back with ribbons, who wouldn't? But I'm more focused on having consistent rides and being able to walk out of the ring, smile on my face, knowing I rode my best and did what I've been working on in lessons - softening at the base, riding a consistent pace and rhythm, and keeping my leg on and eye forward. Oh, and not letting that long approach to the single oxer beat me!

I'll be blogging my way through the 2016 show season with my fellow adult amateurs at HaddenLoch posting photos and videos. I can't wait to share this journey with all of you since you've all been so supportive of AdultAmmyStrong. 

Speaking of support

I have  been extremely lucky to have a great horse husband who supports me in my riding (and all aspects of our lives together) and because of that, he's made it one of his priorities, no matter what life has in store for us, that I continue to ride. I couldn't be more thankful for him and his support. 

Cheers to a great show season

To anyone showing this year, be it all year long or certain shows, keep your head up, heels down and have fun!

Happy riding,