Guest Blog: From 'Feeling completely sick, shaking...' to giving it a go!

2017 has been a busy and productive year for me and my two horses, Bert and Fleur. We started going to Sian with my friend Lisa to do some jumping clinics at Curborough Equestrian. Battling with my confidence and Bert's need for speed over fences were our two major problems! Although I have ridden for nearly 40 years, 9 years ago I had a riding accident, leaving me with my right lower leg broken in four places- OUCH!

I have never had horses that can really jump and I am lucky enough to have two now, that both can jump and enjoy it. Sian and her amazing talent for convincing and encouraging has given me the inspiration to have a go!

I remember the first clinic feeling completely sick, shaking and truly wondering what I was doing there and why I didn't just stick to Dressage. On seeing the fillers my face must have said it all, as Sian gently asked 'Who is scared- you or Bert?'. Well of course it was me!! Over the next few sessions Sian encouraged me to give it a go and, to my amazement, I got Bert more and more under control! I am far more confident on Fleur however, still nervous of fillers and anything above 50cm! But, I have had fun and productive lessons, always smiling at the end and feeling confident.

The big one for me this year was taking Bert XC- back to feeling sick and really wanting to back in the safety of a school and not a scary open field!!

It was the most fantastic afternoon- I felt at the end I could take up eventing!

Unfortunately, the next time we went I hit the deck with a bang, I was really not feeling it that day! Sian, never one to negatives unanswered, arranged another day where she helped me gently back over a few fences, with her encouragement and never asking

too much. I hate leaving things on a bad note so this really helped!

We have attended camps that Sian has been coaching at and found a lot of useful tips with our Dressage! I've also gone to Sian to help me ride through my tests before competitions.

I am so looking forward to the next lot of clinics and even more 2018! Thankyou so much Sian, I love your lessons and your inspirational posts, would not be in this good place without you! xx

Beverley Harrison, Bert and Fleur