Tracey Toombs | Bow Brickhill | Senior | Dressage | Dressage Team Member
When did you start riding?
What I was 4 years old
When did you join AGDRC?
I had been a member years ago when I was a child and joined again earlier this year as a "the wrong side of 45" adult. I was looking for a club that held regular clinics and training local to me and Aspley Guise & District Riding Club was the perfect choice.
What horse(s) do you currently own or ride?
Pollyanna Steele - stable name Pocket, a 13yo ex racer TB mare
What equestrian activities do you do?
I do mainly dressage as my confidence jumping is not what it used to be and Pocket is quite sharp and excitable having done Point to Point and a couple of NH races in her previous career. I love taking part in clinics and do a fair few pole clinics which helps to contain Pocket's excitement over poles as it gives her lots to think about as well as helping to improve our flatwork. She enjoys the jumping much more than I do.
Do you have a horsey goal or aspiration?
To stay on board mainly! If I'm still breathing, alive and laughing at the end of an outing I always consider that as a successful trip.
What are you most excited about with regards to being a member of the club?
I absolutely love being part of this club. Everyone is super friendly, inclusive and so supportive, which is great.
What riders influence you?
I love watching Charlotte Dujardin - and I feel she has proved she's not a one trick pony (excuse the pun) with her success after Valegro. Also anyone that is still out there giving it a go!
Do you have any "pre-game" rituals?
I have to have a psychological wee before I get on! Even if I've been before I've left home, I can't concentrate until I've paid a visit to the toilet at a venue. Probably an age thing! And a "post-game" ritual is a cold can of Pimms. Always have my lorry fridge stocked up.
What do you consider to be your equestrian career highlight?
Qualifying and riding at the Trailblazers final at Stoneleigh Park a few years ago on a previous horse that I had helped the owner back and train up to Novice level.
Anything else we should know about you/your horse(s)?
Having recently taken part in the Area 7 Summer Dressage Qualifiers, I'm looking forward to representing Aspley Guise & District Riding Club in the Dressage Team at future events. We all had a great day, a fantastic picnic and I felt the day really showed our team spirit.