Pick battles big enough to matter, small enough to win. ~Jonathan Kozel
- So lately I’ve been meaning to get back in the competition circle. Since the end of the season of last year (which I mostly watched from the side-lines) I’ve wanted to really get back into it. So…remember my New Year’s List? Here are some little things that I’ve done to get me going on the right direction:
- Opened a savings account. Any money stocked away here will only be touched for training fees, entry fees, any related vet fees, new riding clothes (like a new helmet) and of course, the all important constant stock of treats.
- I try to ride (with a trainer) at least once a week. If I can do it more…awesome. But of course, most of us are still working people, and once a week while still running the rat race is do-able.
- I have a support group. Any rider who has ever gone to a competition with no one to cheer him or her on knows how depressing it can feel to only hear the polite claps of passer-bys. And who on earth will get you that slice of pizza when you can’t get out of the saddle?! Bring a dear friend…or someone who will enjoy to put up with at least 5 to 6 hours of standing around watching Chestnut after Chestnut after Bay do the same course over and over again while avoid manure land mines and blistering heat or frigid cold (or rain as a previous partner experienced).
Those are some little battles that I’ve started to hack away at. I’m trying to balance my work week and my training schedule. Gettin’ ther! See you in the ring!
Lesson Learned: Get two address books. One for family and friends…the other will be a list of people you can always call and depend on to drag out for early morning workouts and show emergencies. TRUST ME.
