Customer Reviews

The Dressage Competitors' Handbook

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What a wonderful, common-sense, methodical, organized, well-thought-out approach to dressage showing. As a novice to showing, contending with show nerves is enough of a challenge. Add to that trying to learn-and then strategically remember-all of the details and rules and etiquette that surround showing... well, you've got your work cut out. Enter: The Dressage Competitors' Handbook.

I find this book clearly and concisely answers every possible question you can think of and, most importantly for me, those I didn't even know to ask. Suzy has thought of everything-especially those little, but absolutely crucial, details that slip so easily into the seasoned shower's repertoire but that are just as easily overlooked when coaching the novice. ("Hmmm..... what's up with that obnoxious guy with the bell? ")

Thanks to this book, I can be better organized, educated, and prepared before I get to the show, so I can then focus on what's really important: my horse. What a help in minimizing those pre-show jitters. The next time I turn down center line, I can feel well prepared and confident. A real treat and a joy to read. And a definite "must" for every new dressage competitor-and their trainers!

As well-known dressage judge Cindy Sydnor writes in the Forward to the book, "You will want to keep a copy of The Dressage Competitors' Handbook in your truck. It is one of the best gifts you could give to a new competitor and to experienced ones. I plan to keep it nearby for my students and myself."

Entering a dressage show and preparing for your first test can be a nerve-wracking experience! This book is the closest thing there is to a cure for those nerves.

The author covers EVERYTHING you'd want to know prior to entering, the actual entry process, what to pack, what to wear, what to expect and strategizing your ride. She even fills us in on something important to those of us who compete -- awards!

Written in a down-to-earth voice, but with very clear instructions and recommendations, this is a must-recommend for dressage instructors whose students are venturing into the showring, or for the veteran who is looking to have all the critical information (including lists, rules, etc.) all in one place.

Highly recommended! (I've already bought several for Christmas gifts for my dressage-showing friends.)