Judy Smith, a celebrated figure in the equestrian world, renowned for her 1970 Burghley victory, continues to inspire as a respected horse producer, rider trainer, and judge. Her groundbreaking role as the first woman to preside over the ground jury at both Badminton and Burghley, coupled with her position as a New Zealand eventing team selector, highlights her profound impact on the sport. This article delves into Smith’s philosophy on horsemanship, emphasizing the foundational importance of a strong rider seat and a deep understanding of horse care, principles she believes are often overlooked in modern equestrianism.
The Importance of a Solid Foundation in Riding
Smith recounts her early experiences, including training with Captain FE Goldman. Her father’s initial concern about her ability to handle a show pony in a double bridle was met with Goldman’s firm belief in developing a rider’s fundamental skills. “Your daughter might be coming home tomorrow if she can’t ride in a snaffle,” he declared, underscoring his commitment to teaching riders to achieve balance and control through their own bodies, rather than relying solely on advanced equipment. This rigorous approach, while demanding, forged resilient riders, a testament to Goldman’s effective, albeit tough, training methods. Smith still hears his voice guiding her and her students today, emphasizing the lasting impact of a trainer who prioritizes a rider’s core abilities.
Modern equestrians, Smith observes, often possess ample financial resources and the latest gear but lack the fundamental riding skills. “Nowadays people have all the money and gear, but they don’t learn to ride properly,” she states. This includes a significant lack of understanding regarding tack and feeding. She criticizes the common practice of allowing horses to consume large amounts of hay right up until a cross-country event, a stark contrast to the old days when horses were typically deprived of hay for several hours beforehand. This practice, she implies, can negatively affect a horse’s performance and well-being.
Conditioning for Peak Performance and Well-being
Smith emphasizes the critical role of conditioning in a horse’s athletic ability and longevity. A horse with a well-conditioned neck and body is better equipped to handle the demands of various equestrian disciplines. She highlights the difference between a horse that is merely fit and one that is “well-conditioned,” suggesting the latter possesses a superior capacity to perform and sustain effort. This is likened to people going on holiday; while they may not be as fit as they were before, they have the extra adrenaline to enjoy themselves. Therefore, near a competition, reducing a horse’s workload is crucial to allow them to regain energy and enthusiasm.
Furthermore, Smith advocates for horses learning to negotiate diverse terrains and gradients. Her own horses are not confined to an arena but are trained on various surfaces and inclines, fostering self-preservation and balance. This type of training, reminiscent of traditional hunting practices, helps horses develop the ability to maintain their footing and composure in challenging environments.
Icons and Inspirations in Equestrianism
In her formative years, Jennie Loriston-Clarke served as a significant role model for Smith, admired for her presentation, test riding, and versatility across multiple horses. More recently, Smith expresses her admiration for dressage judge Pippa Funnell, appreciating her precise and clear execution of movements and her well-rounded approach to eventing. Funnell’s ambition to excel in all three phases of eventing, as well as her role as a true ambassador for the sport, are qualities Smith holds in high regard.
From One-Day to Three-Day Eventing: A Journey of Learning
Smith reflects on her early career, where she was known as a proficient winner of one-day events but less successful in three-day competitions. She expresses a wish that she had possessed more knowledge about preparing horses for the future and providing them with a solid foundation.
A pivotal moment in her development occurred when she “jumped a double clear at Burghley” on a horse called Cufflink, then aged 18. At the time, she did not fully grasp the extent of the horse’s talent, nor did she optimally produce her. Later, Smith proved her evolving understanding of horsemanship by producing Castlewellan. Having acquired him as a three-year-old, she held him back from competition until he was five and six. By seven, he had secured five consecutive wins, including Bramham, and they went on to win Punchestown in 1979. Following a hunting accident that ended Smith’s eventing career, Castlewellan was sold to Jim Wofford in the US.
Smith’s journey underscores a continuous learning process in the art of horse production and rider training. Her insights, drawn from decades of experience, offer invaluable lessons for anyone aspiring to excel in the equestrian world, emphasizing that true success lies in a deep understanding of the horse and a commitment to fundamental riding principles.
