DEALING WITH A DISAPPOINTING DRESSAGE TEST | OT Vlog

[@lucymckeown145]

Your entire journey with him is inspirational. Feel what your heart feels, let yourself be sad then let yourself grow from this as you have done many times before :)

[@OliviaTowersDressage]

exactly this ♥️

[@jhorvers]

This is so recognizable for me.. I had a pony that would do so great indoors and outside it was like rolling the dice.. She eather behaved or she didn't and there was no predicting if she would misbehave or not. It frustrated me to the point that I wouldn't want to ride her on outdoor competitions anymore.. I got 1 hell of a tip that really worked for me... Someone told me that when she was acting up I would start riding her more in an attempt to regain control.. What would make her tense up and act worse or made her stiff in her body. I was told to remember that less is more.. When I would feel her starting to act out.. Just breathe and check my body and aid to make sure I was still relaxed and giving te correct aid at the correct time.. And just don't react to her and stay still beside what a needed to do for what we had to do in the test at that point. I started taking her to different outdoor arenas and just have fun with her while we were training and upped the in hand exercises at home but also on different locations because at home and in an indoor arena she was fine.. I tried making new outdoor locations "fun" and tried to do as little as possible while riding her so she would be looking for direction and to create "room" for riding the difficult exercises as well. I understand that you can be really really really disappointed when you're horse acts that way in a test or during training.. But don't let it get to you that much.. At the end of the day... It's just a test.. By the way... Have you looked at the neck of him lately?? It's gotten huge!! And he is getting much stronger in the hind legs! You're doing great!!

[@polarbear9848]

its the first one since feb i think, give yourselves a chance, i watched the showjumping and the horses and riders have taken a few rounds to get into things again. 15 mins is not bad to get some perspective. enjoy all the learning up and down we have one life, enjoy all aspects, i love Sausage! xxxxxx

[@lizzyrbits1283]

So so impressed with how constructively you have been using your frustrations recently! Also with how hard you are working on yourself! Great job!

[@sunbmr73]

What I'm really proud of you the most is the way you are growing and learning to take the disappointments better. Only 15 minutes of sadness and then move on. I love everyone's comments. I learn so much from you and your honesty to show your true emotions. I need to go get my horse used to riding in other indoor and outdoor arenas under a stress free environment.

[@wildcat_sa]

Aw man, this made me cry! I used to be like this too (an still am) - too hard on oneself. So super proud of you Olivia! Keep working at it - we all here with you

[@GoatTheEventHorse]

I was in tears with you, I'm such a empath and my heart really went out to you when you said you just want to be able to do it. Naughty sausage but he is looking so much stronger than the last time you did GP. Thank you for sharing the reality, you've got this and Goaty and I are rooting for you xx

[@zenhorsemanship3318]

Your test was beautiful. You’re too hard on yourself.

[@krillie8729]

Oh girl, you have reached so much with him already that you thought was impossible. If you feel down like this, look back of where you're coming from with him and look how amazing you both became over time. You inspire me and so many more people. Be proud! Much love

[@mmmdressageeventing2793]

be proud of how far you have come, well done. you need to have the bad days/ tests to make the good ones feel even better xxx

[@inapickledressageselinahor3953]

Thank you that you show the realities, that we don't always feel great straight after a test! But it's inspiring how you show how to learn from it as well

[@emmahannon5846]

I know how much this sucks. I’m really glad that you show this side of it though because this is exactly what I’m going through right now and to see that professionals deal with the same disappointments makes it easier to deal with myself.

[@vissennav]

How great that you share this with us.! I think that good way will be taking Wilf every week to different arenas around just for work outside. For shure you have other yards around that will welcome you. This can be good way to brake rutine for you and Wilf and it allows Sausage to get used to unknow show arenas. Best wishes!

[@missmaisie2112]

I was going to say same thing !! Get to outdoor arenas to do as much training as u can ! Ground work outside too ! It clearly just blows his mind as he’s used to being inside xx

[@sydneydrablow8529]

Loving this vlog! Thank you for always being honest as I go through the same thing and it makes me feel so much better. Also I’ve been really enjoying your TIK TOKS lately !

[@charmich3627]

what a gorgeous day for an out door test. Very happy that you were positive about the out come in the end and was encouraged by it to move forward :) :) What you said at the end of your vlog is what my trainer always has told me -- go deep into the corners cause they are what set you up for the next step in your lesson..as well she would always tell me don't let them get away with it make them do it no wish washy and then I would get the look :) :) i really miss her and my lessons at the moment cause these little things set the tone of my day and helped me to get through choices that i had to make while at work...yes it translates both ways :) :) Thank you for the video :) :)

[@outoftime7740]

You did it, Olivia, Please dont be so hard on yourself or Wilfi. It's been a long time since the two of you did a show. You know it takes consistency to make perfect. Wilfi knows his job very well and so do you. I think with this huge break, it takes awhile to get back in rhythm. No worries, mate. You have the future. And I'm super glad you are figuring it all out.

[@jenniferhoran9311]

Love your honesty then turning things around with your trademark positivity and a game plan for the future.

[@karisnapp1933]

Laughed so hard at the TicTok - ty. In regards to black and white, being a confident leader, and school in an outside arena (deal with nerves and naughtiness)- you have made a HUGE leap forward in your mindset as well as a rider. Look forward to the new leg of your journey

[@Murrinholi1]

I love the fact you show all sides of competing, being your true self. I've seen some dressage horses in Canada, benefit from a training tool called 'join up' - I'm not sure if they're any professionals in it here in the UK. It has to be done right, it can work wonders! I've seen it done with wild Mustangs there too! Perhaps switch up his training environments to include outdoor schools more (I don't know if you have one), from your vlogs I've seen he seems to mainly take the Alfa horse position when he's outside. Circling him, or bending his neck round when he misbehaves may also help him break this habbit. Just a few suggestions from someone who worked at a dressage stables in Alberta a few years ago! Love your vlogs! L x

[@Nina-md3tm]

You really love your horse don't you :) I see so many people who just use their horses to fulfil their ambitions. So lovely to see people like you xx

[@caitlinpadgett-pararider5037]

Have you tried taking him to an outdoor hire, JUST do your groundwork, work on him being completely settled in the arena, then go home? I think because every time you go out he knows what's going to happen. But if you start from just going for groundwork, and then starting doing a stretching session like you'd do at home etc, and build up to running through his grand prix test. Even if you do this and get off half way through the ride to relaz him again and then carry on. I've had one like this and I found graduating it without over facing them really helps build that confidence and tolerance to their stressors and triggers. Sorry if this has already been suggested but I think the TRT groundwork with this method may help if so! :)

[@emilylawson5379]

6:19 his neck is amazing! are you sure he is a gelding?! How do you build up that much muscle? His coat is so shiny. You have done such an amazing job with him. You rode so well so please don't be disheartened, I mean you got to Grand Prix level. You are a huge inspiration to me. xx

[@mmchapman5419]

Just bravo, gorgeous! It sounds like you had an awakening and these struggles so often help us get unstuck. This sport requires such precision, and your revelations of your riding before, during, and after the show are going to allow you to push through to the next level. Proud of you... what will you say to yourself, your true inner self, when you nail this? ...You got this. 😉

[@tazhorse]

You are so hard on yourself. You make me sad just watching. The struggle is real with horses. They always keep us on our toes. My guy as well can be very flighty and unpredictable. I just have to breath and work through it without getting upset. If i get upset he feels everything. You are amazing and you inspire so many people to push through the tough times.....

[@elsa3128]

Any setback makes you stronger and better! Always think about that. You are a great rider!

[@julesszzequestrian1658]

SO relieved you heard the ticking sound too!!!!!!!😂

[@vickilowe2419]

Jules Underwood I thought it was just me 😂

[@janettehutton8634]

You’ve taken a horse, that you were going to sell because you couldn’t handle him, to GrandPrix. You have loads to be very proud of. I’m very proud of you and little Sausage 🥰❤️👍🏻

[@animallover4101]

Yes yes yes !!!

[@OliviaTowersDressage]

Amen ♥️

[@jeanfish7]

Great, having a mentor is wonderful!

[@jeanfish7]

The more confidence and clear a rider is, the better the horse will perform

[@katiedavie1916]

I see so much improvement in this test! Great job Olivia !

[@YoungGreyMare]

Do you do much training outside at home? Or hire outdoor arenas for training somewhere new? I imagine it must be so frustrating for you but just remember all those people saying he wouldn’t get past elementary and here you are doing your second GP!

[@zoebowdery2219]

Your a great rider we all have wobbly moments I've had a few at the most with stuff going on you are incredible to have achieved so much and you got many years ahead you rock from Zoe in isle of wight

[@daenemcdonald5932]

yu rode so well! maybe its time to build an outdoor arena for wilfred! he will learn eventually!

[@KatRae]

its SO funny when you talk with an american accent lolol. im american but of course im used to your normal accent; it sounds so funny when you do it. its like hearing our accents from the british POV.

[@garethbates3273]

Amazing vlog! x 🤩

[@edwinahicks5010]

Just out of interest, how much of a factor do you think it is, on Wilfs nerves that he is worked in an indoor area at home? I suppose it’s the same for horses that only use an outdoor arena at home and then have to compete indoors. It sounds like you have a great plan in mind with your trainer. You and Will are both capable but it’s such early days at this level.

[@bocolewish]

Yes. Corners! Ugh. I am struggling with that fix.

[@hceventing]

Love your motivation! So inspiring!

[@Zzz-ql5tn]

I’m not a professional and I don’t know if it is a good idea or not... Can you train your horses at the paddock? In my opinion it will be much better especially at the summer ... PS always love your videos 😘

[@vickilowe2419]

Your fantastic your test was lovely you done so well x

[@fleetskipper1810]

I have a friend who refers to her children as “humblers.” It’s the same with horses-they teach us humility because we never have total control of them. It’s good for us remember that, no matter how upset we get! 😝 Hang in there.

[@christinestephenson4500]

You did very well at your test .i think you are amazing .xx

[@DaWongStar]

Keep rebounding after tough moments and being innovative! 👏👏👏

[@Charleel2008]

In doing my second ever dressage test this weekend and it’s my pony’s first ever 😟

[@outoftime7740]

You are funny. I love how Wilfi just stands there, all debonair. With his beautiful neck and head. Good luck, I cant wait to watch the two of you.

[@OliviaTowersDressage]

he is not fussed after a test 😂

[@naunettemartin7450]

You did so good with him

[@mygirljazzie]

Oh Bless you Olivia, onward & upwards as they say.😚😚

[@sipatch777]

Where was the show, looked lovely and quiet arena? X

[@amythomsen9711]

I believe He needs to be worked in an out door at home. To me he wasn't silly as i ride off the track crazys. Just use a leveled paddock as building an out door would be expensive. From what I can see your both so used to working in an indoor and when you go to a show it's so different and both of you are playing on each other's vibes. But you have come such a long way with your riding and the way you do things. I feel its something small that will help. Also as you have said it this video you need to bring in alot of high positive when they have done something good as well as great like drop the pressure and lots of talking (in training) Please don't get me wrong I am not at your level of dressage but I work with trubled horses and people and people that are stuck and can't get though the struggle and listen to body from horse and rider You should be so proud of how far you have come keep pushing on mate the work IS paying off

[@maryallen2603]

Actually considering Sausage has a problem working in open arenas y’all did very well. Do you have an outdoor arena to practice him in? Maybe alternating outdoor and in door in new environments. He had some very strong points. Keep the faith Olivia.

[@NoThankUBeQuiet]

Can I ask a question a year late? How often does Wilf actually school outside?

[@lavendergirl8530]

You will do better you are and ur horse are a match made in heaven ☮️💟

[@birgitstraesser9584]

Love your Vloggs, the Tik Tok ending priceless .

[@donnajeffery8267]

You have come so fare with him you where once going to sell him except you didn’t you chose to keep going and look how fare you have come so don’t be so hard on yourself and it is only your second one so well done

[@ithulah]

We see you doing a lot of training inside in your arena, but how much training do you do outside? I have *zero* experience with your level dressage, but if you don't train outside anywhere near as much as inside, of course outside won't be as comfortable for him. Can you go to some of the places you compete outside and do some regular training? IMO you need to take away the novelty of outside arenas.

[@christinemartindale8715]

You got this believe Olivia 😎

[@lisajames4150]

Sausage may not be your Grand Prix horse but I don't think you're at the point of making that decision yet. Keep trying. He may settle into it.❤ thank you for sharing. Interesting video of the test lol

[@kippen64]

You can do this.

[@minderellafox7906]

Maybe a new solution is needed ! Have you got a riding area outside of your barn that you can work him in? Instead of always working him inside, and I know you ride him out, but its different to having to work outside and not being distracted 😊.

[@Moppel9014]

I know this was a month ago. It was great. You know it’s not about the marks. Every opportunity have your lessons outside, there must be a neighbour who has an outdoor arena that you can ride in every day. Do his in hand work in an outdoor every day, there is a way. 😃

[@obsessionofhorses]

I'm no where near the same rider but by golly do I know ur feelings... Have u considered just literally hiring an outdoor warm up as normal then doing your groundwork when he misbehaves then hop back up and start again?

[@obsessionofhorses]

Hahaha I posted the above before you talked to Claire BTW 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@teresawort9124]

I just started with my horse. I feel like you..i just want to able to do it...all I need is a trainer & I can't find one.

[@jwolf2141]

TRT... to quote Zoolander "its so hot right now" but also zero evidence base (if by evidence, you mean something more than anecdotes by vested interests)...

[@elinaansevica9199]

💜💜💜

[@evabuddyandchester9385]

❤️❤️❤️

[@elizabethdonald5742]

Alexander scourby, on youtube. He reads out the bible he’s really good.

[@susantescione8007]

This will cheer you up. Notice that the overwhelming number of these "fails" occur in outdoor settings. Yes, there are some in indoor arenas. There's just so much more that can go wrong in outdoor rings. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iKenqIlqbNxgaKs

[@et0h7an]

Is that an owl making noise in the background?!

[@horses4life11890]

looks like she'll be investing in a outdoor arena now

[@naunettemartin7450]

I like it

[@bertiekarama]

I'm glad I'm not the only one! Lol

[@teamosgoods2839]

Your AMAZING remenber that. x

[@susantescione8007]

It's very hard to be emotionally invested in your horse and your sport and to have a disappointing ride. But it is only your second GP. I think you set your expectations so high that it is difficult when the reality doesn't match the dream. So there's a couple of things you might look at. Where are you training with this horse? If he's reacting to the environment, then maybe you need to train more in that environment. If he loses focus outdoors and you are training in an indoor arena, you should consider spending more time outside. If it's a matter of not doing enough tests, you're kind of stuck in the same place everyone else is. You have to do the best you can with what you've got and everyone is working with the limitations imposed by COVID 19. I've yet to see a single video of someone taking their horse to a show in the past two weeks, either in the US, the UK, Ireland, or Canada, where the riders have been satisfied with the performances. Everyone seems to be stuck in the same place. So you are not by yourself. Everyone is out of practice. Stick with it. Good luck!

[@Rosie-iy2bv]

You could work on his trust in you, if he is still insecure snd nervous outside maybe take him to a course hire or a show (pony club style) thats not dressage to build on your relationship outside of his comfortable environment I honestly think maybe its nothing to do with the riding and the dressage but more so about the two of yours relarionship and how he doesnt feel secure outside with you Sending you love

[@naunettemartin7450]

Can you tell me want a bit la brittle thank you Nannette I want to buy one for my horse but I don't know want a bit l brittle

[@TildaMaeFrancis]

You make me want to cry 😢 hugs and kisses 😘

[@julen2380]

You seem to put all the pressure on how you two perform on yourself when you're a team. Clearly, is your job as Sausage's rider, owner and mummy to try to make his experience in outdoor arenas and stuff good experiences, to build his confidence etc. But he still needs to make the experience himself, right? So I imagine the four months break didn't do Wilf any good but this wasn't up to you since yeah, lovely Covid...sigh. I'm sure you and Clair have it all handled with renting outdoor arenas to have test runs so I'll finish with saying - I cannot get over the fact how stunningly beautiful Sausage is. Statuesque in the bestest sense possible.

[@egankuys6958]

First!