Top tips for starting out in Trailblazers Show jumping competitions with trainer Scott Ponton.

BHSAI Scott teaches numerous people in the Kent area.  He is closely involved with Trailblazers through the running of SMP Events which hold Trailblazers competitions at Blue Barn EC, Cobham Manor EC, Old Mill EC and Arrow RDA in Kent. 

We spoke to Scott to find out his top tips for those thinking about taking part in Trailblazers show jumping competitions.     

There are so many exercises which you can practise at home to help both you and your horse.  A few simple flatwork exercises that will help to prepare your horse or pony for the ring are, transitions, circles, bending, lengthening and shortening of strides. Each of these things are very important when it comes to riding a course of fences. Some simple pole and grid work will help with accurate strides to fences, aid control, balance and rhythm.

Hacking out is also just as important when preparing for a show as work in the school.  Hacking is always a great way to build your horse or pony’s muscle and stamina whilst allowing him to relax.   By mixing up their working areas and regime you will help keep your horse interested.  It is also beneficial for balance to practise riding both up and downhill.

Make sure you are as confident as possible before your first Trailblazers competition.  Help boost your confidence by putting a course of fences together at home or attend a local Clear Round event.  Fillers will be in the course at each Trailblazers show jumping competition so it is always good for both your confidence and that of your horse to be familiar with jumping them.

Even practising in a different arena can be useful, as can riding indoors and outdoors.  Some arenas may have mirrors up the side so it is always good to be prepared and for your horse to trust you as the rider. If you can get to the venue you have set for your first show this will make the experience a lot easier knowing you have already ridden in the arena.


It can even be really helpful to attend the show centre on foot before the day of your competition and watch an event to see what it is all about.  Even try and get a group of friends so you can all have fun together.

If you do suffer from last minute nerves a great way to deal with it is to have friends around you to help give you confidence. You would have not entered an event you felt you could not do so believe in yourself. If you get nervous tell yourself you can do it, look again at the course, breathe and carry on.

Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience of your Trailblazers show jumping competition.