Lesson 1. There comes a time when someone will try and persuade the long-suffering THF that Dressage is a sport. Be strong – they do not really mean it. Dressage is an opportunity to show off, to spend money and to network. I am not talking about the practice of High School which is of course unbelievably difficult, requiring years of genuine horsemanship, dedication and training. Though that is a noble combination of nurture, science and an art, it is absolutely not a sport. I am talking about what purports to be the level playing field of competitive dressage, where the rich man wins and the poor one loses unless they know a rich man ( who cannot ride). Where scores and success appear determined by name and fashion, trainer, contacts and patronage. Once you learn that almost all is pre-ordained and that you should not attempt to disturb the natural order, then will you achieve contentment at the ringside. Until then all is frustration and thwarted ambition. Think of it as ice dancing or synchronised swimming with cash and go to the “competition” with a drink, warm clothing and the true mind of a cynic and you will survive – you might even enjoy the show.
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