Laura Miller, 30yrs,  Riding for 3-4yrs.

Challenges:  Learning something completely different as an adult and overcoming the fears that go with that. Getting to know how to care for and enjoy my own horse (especially as he is such a big boy at 17 1 hands)

Achievements - everyone thinks I've been riding since I was young.  Getting to shows and competing on my own.  Winning my first ever competition (at Abderry!!!)  Managing some cross country.

Point A - Getting ready to move on to my second horse.  Having had a bit of time off riding for exams - just trying to get confidence back - happy jumping 60-70cm, low level dressage
Point B - Confident jumping 80-90cm with aiming to get higher in future. Competition mileage.  XC mileage.
 
Coaching session:

• First thing Cheski would tell me is 'whats wrong with jumping 60-70cm?"  and to acknowledge that achievement.
• Discuss what I have been doing at home and any troubles I am concerned about.  Troubles will be addressed and turned into a positive learning experience.  Nothing you say is treated as silly or inconsequential, although you might be laughing at it yourself by the end.
• Warm up and exercises to help get you riding positively, Cheski provides a lot of positive energy through out the lesson which is really helpful to keep you and your horse going
• You will get told where you did that exercise well so you can think about what you did in that corner or long side so you can repeat it and hopefully replicate it yourself.  I have found this really helpful when I am out and about at competition as I focus on the good parts of my ride and try and make more of them, instead of worrying about the less desirable bits.
• The lesson is very individual with Cheski being able to assess both horse and rider incredibly well and providing solutions to fit you both.  I have found other coaches just reiterate the same thing for everyone and you've got to wonder how that works for all, as there are a lot of different rider and horses out there.
• Each session ends with what you can practice at home to help both you and your horse.
• Every session I feel confident, happy and delighted to be able to do this sport and really motivated to get on with my 'homework' and get out there doing.  
• The session will give you the tools to go out and do things without needing that person stood by you telling you what to do
• Fantastic fun!

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Cheski meets my needs as a rider - she has helped me with ground skills, riding skills and horse care.  The complete package.  It is good to have a coach so interested in how I am going at competitions, with always a positive word to say.  It is also wonderful that whilst I am away with work and not able to have  lessons for a little while I know that Cheski is still interested in how I and my horse are going and remains delighted at our achievements and would happily receive a phone call with any new challenge I am faced with and give me advice on how to succeed.

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