It’s that time of year – the Daffodils are blooming, green shoots of grass are sprouting in the fields, your horse is starting to show a bit of that familiar spunk. That can mean only one thing: it’s time to start preparing for the spring and summer horse show circuit.

You and your horse can get a jump on the season by following a few simple steps. First, evaluate your goals – are you after ribbons? What kind? Are you just trying to better last year’s scores? Or are you simply in it for the fun and camaraderie?

Practice practice practice! What are your weak points as a rider? Where does your horse put her head down and say no? Work through these challenges. Ask trusted friends to come over and critique you and your performance. What’s missing? What’s working really well?

Get your trusted equine ready for the horse trailer and the drive – practice loading and unloading. Take her to an unfamiliar ring and give her a workout so she just doesn’t get in a rut.

Follow these tips and you’re sure to have a successful season. Above all – remember to have fun!