Many riders find they ride better on cross country when their adrenaline is up. That’s why Advanced level riders usually school cross country at a slightly lower level. It is perfectly normal to be nervous before competition, & that adrenaline surge can help you ride to the best of your ability!
Studying riding theory will make you a better rider or trainer in many ways. Trainers need a knowledge base broad enough to enable them to apply the appropriate system for each horse/rider combination in front of them. Riders need to thoroughly understand what they are trying to do and
"I do not ask the rider to alter the horse’s step in front of the pole because I want to awaken the horse’s initiative. Whether he takes a slightly long step or adds a step before the pole, I am equally satisfied. If he steps on the
"Do I still get butterflies? You bet! Adrenaline is an important part of the deal." ~ William Fox Pitt
In the sport of Eventing, ensuring that our horses are truly fit for our level of competition is one of the best ways to prevent unnecessary injuries.