IT’S heartening to see the ways in which horse owners cope in these strange times. I’m so sorry for those unable to see their horses, but the overwhelming feeling is that we must plan, be positive and encourage each other as much as possible.
Riding schools and livery yards face enormous challenges, and the determination and initiative some businesses show is inspiring. I’m determined to stay positive, not least for the sake of the staff with us in self-isolation and for the clients trusting me to look after their horses.
We’re taking the chance to stand back, see how riders and horses are progressing and work on improvements. We’re still riding because riding – albeit with restrictions, such as not backing youngsters – seemed the best way to maintain morale.
So everyone has more lessons and is learning more training techniques. My head girl has learned to ride side-saddle and, thanks to my daughter-in-law, we have a yard WhatsApp group so owners can keep in touch with us and keep track of how their horses are getting on. Trying to keep everyone positive helps me do just that!
Denne historien er fra April 30, 2020-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
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Denne historien er fra April 30, 2020-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Rider Denies Doping After Team Loses Olympic Placing - Tine Magnus and the Belgian team said they do not know the source of the drug that caused the positive test
Olympic eventer Tine Magnus has denied ever doping after her Paris ride Dia Van Het Lichterveld Z gave a positive test at the Games. This means the Belgian team, which came fourth, has been disqualified. On 4 September, the FEI said the 10-year-old mare, owned by Kris van Vaerenbergh, tested positive for trazodone, which is listed as an antidepressant on the FEI's prohibited substances list.
Michael Eilberg
The top dressage rider talks to Polly Bryan about the special horse with the potential to carry him back onto the British team, how to be a better coach and using his talent for teaching to help the sport
Schooling success
Combining school and riding can be tricky, but horses can benefit a child's education. Lottie Morgan uncovers some options for horse-loving pupils
How to get a job in hunting
The British Hound Sports Association's apprentice scheme is providing young people with excellent all-round training in the skills required - and many others besides, as Tessa Waugh discovers
Burke's Affair to remember
A fast round delights one rider who comes away with a coveted grand prix trophy and a rankings class concludes with an unusual tie
Derby winner returns for further Hickstead glory
After watching wife Pippa compete at Burghley, William Funnell returns to the scene of his Derby triumph to win the All England grand prix
Derby winner returns for further Hickstead glory
After watching wife Pippa compete at Burghley, William Funnell returns to the scene of his Derby triumph to win the All England grand prix
'I'm grateful to have such a wonderful partner'
The brilliant duo of Martin Fuchs and Leone Jei seal back-to-back grands prix after a dramatic turn of events
Hamlett takes centre stage
Two horses round off their competitive careers with victories, a championship specialist earns her fourth title and a pair with a combined age of 105 prove invincible
'This is the ultimate five-star test'
Mark Phillips on Burghley's highs, lows, challenges and champions
