Progress Update from my sponsored rider Philippa and ex racehorse Mr Wiggins : From Weather Challenges, Area Festivals to New Goals

Hello everyone, and welcome back to the blog! It’s been a little while since I last shared what we’ve been up to, so I thought it was about time I gave you all an update. So much has happened over the past few months, and as always, there have been plenty of highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way.

After what felt like the longest, coldest, wettest winter (where training was often impossible), the year turned around with an unusually dry spring, followed by a long, hot summer. While the sunshine sounds idyllic, it hasn’t been without its challenges.

For my good-doer cob, the limited grass has been a blessing. But for my thoroughbred, Wiggins, the hard, baked ground has been tough – and my bank balance has felt it too! I’ve never had to feed so much hay and hard feed through the summer before. Hard ground also brings the constant worry of injury, and Wiggins and I have had many “conversations” about the importance of sensible behaviour in the field! Thankfully, we’ve managed to stay injury-free so far.

Alongside our ridden training, I’ve been taking part in Sharon’s weekly biomechanics sessions. These have been a real game-changer for me, particularly in improving my posture and core strength. Sitting trot, which I used to find such a challenge, is starting to feel more manageable – proof that the little improvements really do add up. I’d highly recommend giving the sessions a go if you’re looking to develop your riding. Gym kit or riding attire optional!

This year’s big goal was to compete at the Area Festivals after injury stopped us last year. I was delighted that we gained six qualifying scores at novice and got to ride at both Port Royal and Northallerton. Earlier in the summer, we had a top 10 finish at the BD Championship Show at Epworth, which gave me high hopes for a strong placing at the festivals.

At Port Royal, I was really pleased with how we went – one judge even had us in 9th – but a much lower mark from another judge sadly pulled us down the rankings. Northallerton was another story: the combination of heat and flies made it impossible for Wiggins to focus. He tried his heart out, but our test was tense and we even threw in a few “freestyle” movements of our own! Both outings were valuable learning experiences and a good reminder that in this sport, you can only control the controllables.

With that chapter closed, we’ve regrouped and set fresh goals. Training has stepped up a gear and we’ve begun working on more advanced movements like half pass and pirouettes. Earlier in the year, Wiggins had a special platform fitted to one of his shoes after our physio diagnosed a tilted pelvis – something that’s actually quite common in ex-racehorses. The difference has been remarkable. He’s now more even behind, and his lateral work is improving all the time.

Sharon has put together an exciting plan for us moving forward. Over the winter, we’ll be competing at elementary while training at medium. I genuinely think Wiggins will thrive at the higher levels – he’s a clever horse who needs lots to think about to stay engaged.

I love having goals to work towards, and I can’t wait to see where this next stage of our journey takes us.

Thank you for following along with our progress – it means so much to share the ups and downs with you. Here’s to the next chapter, and I hope you’ll stay with us for the ride. Watch this space – there’s plenty more to come!