The bumpy roads, strange environments and routine changes that come with hauling only mean one thing for horses: STRESS! Whether you are going across the pond—like many of the FEI World Equestrian Games competitors—or just a few hours down the road, travel stress and anxiety plays an enormous role in equine health and performance. […]
Cowgirl Gives Horses Second Chances with Vitalize
Not everyone gets a second chance. But for horse enthusiast Briana Wiker, giving horses a second chance just comes naturally. The Illinois native started riding horses when she was just 2-years-old and started her training under the guidance of her grandpa, Thurston Carroll, professional trainer and breeder, when she was 10. A decade later, she […]
How to Overcome Your Nerves When Competing
Anxiety. Nerves. The jitters. Whatever you call the feeling of sweaty palms and the sensation of your stomach doing flip-flops while your heart pounds through your chest is a normal reaction when you are getting ready to compete. However, there are steps you can take to overcome these pre-competition jitters and calm your nerves. Dan […]
Inside the Head (and Heart) of an Eventing Athlete
Most long-term relationships are built on trust, confidence and working together day after day. These same attributes are necessary for athletes that compete as a team. However, in one sport, the athletes are a team that include a horse and its rider. Both athletes must be focused, physically fit and be able to read the […]