Successful amateurs are the ones with professional standards, says Carolyn Henderson

 

The dictionary definition of an amateur participant in any sport or activity is someone who takes part without payment. So why do so many riders assume that “amateur” is synonymous with second-rate?

 

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I have now had my back operation and am back in the saddle albeit a little shakily.  I did wait a week before attempting to clamber on but once on board things improved on a daily basis.  I then decided to enter the Endurance Masters at Euston Park some four weeks after my operation which I know was...

New research supports the theory that crib-biting relieves stress and should not be prevented. Instead, we must try to keep horses who practice the behaviour in ways which minimise their need to do so.

 

Researchers at the Royal Agricultural University and Aberystwyth University have found mor...

I am on box rest again. This time, I have to stick to it, because my husband is seriously considering having me put down.

 

It isn’t the pain from damaged muscles that’s causing me the problems, but the fact that I can’t ride. It’s driving me crazy and him crazier, because he has to put up wit...

Teenagers. Just that one word is enough to make you sigh, roll your eyes and flounce out the room. And that’s if you’re a parent.  However, horsey teenagers have many saving graces. Here are ten reasons to be cheerful – well, most of the time – if you have one in your household.

 

1.      When...

So, who is the UK’s most famous four-legged dressage star? 

 

A few years ago, Valegro was the name on everyone’s lips. Now, the most famous ears looking through a dressage bridle are rather larger.

Yes, it’s the wonder of Wallace. Wallace the Great, to give him his full title – the charism...

Is a horse too big for you? Perhaps you should consider riding a pony. There are some that say ponies should only be ridden by children but small adults who don't exceed the recommended weight guideline..

Advances in science and research have improved our knowledge of horses by light years – but sometimes, the most valuable advice is timeless.

 

My secret weakness is collecting old horse books. Some exhortions are fearsome; one recommends that owners ensure their grooms plait straw inside the d...

I am glad to report that the evergreen, ever wonderful Ever So Much (below) has continued his rich vein of form this year, and gave himself his third win of the year, at Hexham, in June. He is an absolute delight to have around the yard, and to see him record the tenth success of his career, all ach...

You look after your horse in the heat, so give yourself the same consideration, says Carolyn Henderson

 

This summer has given a whole new meaning to hot competition. So why are so many of us sweating it out in black or navy jackets and hats?

Obviously people don’t want to miss importan...

New regulations will only work if they have more teeth, says Carolyn Henderson

 

From 2020, it’s going to be chips with everything. All horses, ponies and donkeys will have to be microchipped and owners who don’t comply could be fined £200.

 

In one way, it’s good news in that it should ...

Make the most of this summer with advice from the Feedmark team

 

If there’s one topic guaranteed to cause hot debate when temperatures soar, it’s how we should work our horses and the best way to care for them afterwards.

 

In the early 90s, general consensus was that we should protect ...