What If Your Horse Spooks in the Show Ring?
Competing in dressage is always an exciting challenge, but what happens when your horse spooks in the show ring? It’s a scenario every rider dreads but should prepare for, as it’s not a matter of if, but when something unexpected will happen. Here’s how to handle a spook effectively and make the best decision for both your score and your horse’s confidence.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
When your horse spooks or breaks gait, your first job is to stay calm. Take a moment to assess what’s happening. Is your horse just distracted, or are they truly overwhelmed? This quick evaluation will guide your next steps.
2. Decide What’s Best for Your Horse
In the moment, prioritize your horse’s well-being and confidence. If attempting the correct movement risks causing further tension or resistance, it’s often better to simplify the movement and keep them moving forward on the line. For example, when my horse Gatsby spooked and broke to trot during a counter-canter, I decided to pick up the canter from trot rather than attempting a counter-canter transition. While it hurt my score, it preserved Gatsby’s confidence and forward motion.
3. Weigh the Score Impact
After considering your horse, think about your score. Sometimes, a quick recovery and returning to the correct movement will minimize penalties. Other times, taking an extra circle or simplifying the movement might be necessary for your safety or for the horse’s confidence, even if it results in a deduction. Ultimately, balancing these priorities comes with experience and understanding your horse.
4. Build Confidence for Future Tests
Every show is a learning experience, for both you and your horse. Even if you lose points in the moment, handling the situation thoughtfully can pay off in future rides. For Gatsby, prioritizing his confidence during a spook one day helped him deliver a mistake-free ride the next.
5. Prepare for the Unexpected
Spooks are inevitable, but you can minimize their impact by practicing problem-solving at home. Ride through unexpected distractions (like someone cutting grass outside the arena) and rehearse transitions to help your horse stay focused and responsive under pressure.
Showing is about more than scores—it’s about building trust with your horse and navigating challenges together. Stay adaptable, make decisions with your horse’s best interests in mind, and remember: every spook is an opportunity to grow!
Happy riding!
Amelia
