Former Olympian and Level 3 coach Kelly Plitz, who operates Dreamcrest Farm in Port Perry, ON, with her husband Ian Roberts, has introduced numerous riders to the sport. Here is what she has to say about preparing for your first event – and how to determine if you are ready.

1. Before you start competing, volunteer to help another rider at an event to get familiar with the sport.

2.  Make sure you have all the memberships you’ll need to compete, a pinny holder and medical armband. Buy a proper safety vest. Know the rules – such as how many stops you can have in stadium jumping and on cross-country before elimination, and what constitutes a refusal.

Advertisement