Some tips on what to do before a ride
What to do once you have decided to have a go
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Pick your ride and send entry.
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Some are popular so don’t wait to last minute
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Check when horse is due for shoeing so you can schedule it relatively close to ride date
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When cleaning tack check stitching to see if you need any repairs before the ride
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Get a spare set of shoes (half worn ones are very suitable)
Week before the ride
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Ensure girth and numnah will be washed and clean
Day before
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Soak sugar beet for horse on the ride
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Wash horse mane and tail and possibly saddle patch if very dusty
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Check shoes
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Ride as normal
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Clean tack remove all saddle soap (better for horse and easier to clean him after)
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Fill up water containers/sloshes
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Pack car with all stuff except the valuable stuff
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Check trailer tyres, lights, etc (mine had brakes seize on once)
Day after ride
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Check horse for rubs nicks etc (may need to change something a bit for next ride
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Generally make sure it is it’s usual self
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Ensure you give yourself a long hot soak in the bath or ride helps with stiffness