The French Championships in Lamotte-Beuvron are an event that many riders have been waiting for all year, an event for which they have been preparing for months! With 8 days to go before the launch of the Generali Open de France Poney, we wanted to take a look at this legendary sporting event.

Sports preparation

A big deadline means big preparation. You probably already have a pre-competition routine that you use throughout the year, but it is even more important for the championships. A good preparation in the weeks leading up to the championships can be to jump no more than twice a week. Concentrate instead on flat work and get out in the open, it's good for your pony's morale. A good preparatory jumping session the week before, where you work on a complicated point that you are struggling with (such as a difficult sequence or combination) should be enough.

Once you arrive in Lamotte-Beuvron, especially if you are coming at the weekend, it will be difficult to keep a fixed work programme. Take the opportunity to go out a lot, again this will help to keep your pony in good spirits and therefore mentally fit.

The essentials not to be forgotten

As we will say below, it is important not to pack at the last moment. Here is our "must-have" to put in your suitcase!

Since July can bring us joy with beautiful sunny and (sometimes very) hot days, as well as depression with heavy rain: take a hat or cap, sunglasses, and sun cream, but don't forget to also take a k-way, rain boots and a heavy jumper. This is the basic essential of a rider's suitcase, in addition to your riding gear and your competition outfit of course. In addition to your riding gear and your competition clothing, you should also take riding trousers for everyday training. Mosquito repellent and a first aid kit complete our list.

As far as your pony's bag is concerned, our essentials (in addition to the show equipment) are: a shirt, a mask and fly repellent as it's summer and he'll probably be bothered by all sorts of insects, a rug for everyday training, a drying shirt and a bucket of water. For boxing, consider bringing a small toy to keep your pony entertained, and a boxing blanket may be useful to protect him from the sun or rain. You can also take something to help with recovery after exercise, such as clay or electrolytes. Finally, to reward him after his runs, don't forget the crucial element: a large supply of apples!

Managing stress

When you think of championships, you think of stress... Here are a few tips to help you manage your stress in the run-up to and during the event - tips that apply to all competitions:

- BEFORE -

First of all, you need to be well organised, so as not to have any last-minute stress. Plan when you are going to leave, from where, with whom and with what beforehand. Don't pack your suitcase the night before, this will prevent you from forgetting important items and therefore unnecessary stress. For a competition like Lamotte-Beuvron, where you will spend several days, if not a week, on site, think about bringing small things from your daily life, and try to keep a certain routine. Finally, get plenty of rest in the days leading up to the event so that you arrive in good shape!

- DURING -

During the event, especially one that takes place in the middle of July, don't forget to stay well hydrated. Even if stress can ruin your appetite, it is also important to eat well. We were talking about rest in the run-up to the competition, but rest is also important during it. The night before a test, try not to go to bed too late; fatigue can add to the stress on the day.

Try not to think only about the competition and relax as much as you can: read, listen to music, talk to your friends, etc. It is important for the mind. This is important for the mind.

Finally, although it is easier said than done, try to use your stress. Stress can become a driving force and serve performance positively, if you use it in the right way and don't let it overwhelm you.

- AFTER -

After this demanding competition, you have earned the right to rest well. Enjoy your performance, and if you are less satisfied, keep in mind all the good memories, waiting to do better next year... 😉

We hope this article will help you to start your championships in the best way. Enjoy the event, the great atmosphere with a warm and encouraging public, the big shopping week that often rhymes with the championships, and the great sporting performances that await you!

We will of course be present, and we look forward to meeting you there. Contact us if you want to test our products during the event and come and see us on our stand, lots of surprises are waiting for you... 🙂

Team Seaver