10 things you need to know about your first CCI1*- INTRO

It's one week to go until the spectacular Blair International Horse Trials kicks off for 2021. Not only are we excited to be back at Blair with our trade stand, but we are also excited to see some of our brand ambassadors taking on the famous hills of the XC track in the FEI classes. 

Next week will see Giorgia Burns tackle the CCI-L2* on her incredible horse, Boss Luxe. Although we don't admit to having favourites, Boss is an exceptional guy, and we're just a little bit in love with him here at Apt HQ. We are also thrilled to cheer on Elise Rae and the gorgeous Cara as they tackle their very first CCI1*- INTRO. 

Both Boss and Cara have had time off in the past few years with injuries, so it's going to be extra special to see them back on top form and contest their respective classes at such an iconic event. 

 
As she faces her first FEI class, Elise has been studying the rules and regulations of the event, and we caught up with her to learn some top tips for those headed to 1* for their first time;

 
1. Membership – Both horse and rider will need an FEI membership before competing in an International class which can be purchased by phoning the British Eventing HQ. 

 
2. Passports – A horse's passport must be taken to the Dressage warm-up to be checked by a steward before competing. 

 
3. Vaccinations – Horses competing at an FEI competition must be vaccinated six months (with an extension of 21 days) before arriving at the competition venue.

4. Hair – With the new rules surrounding sensory hairs, including whiskers, you must not trim them for competition. 

 
5. Horse Inspection – There is usually a trot up required for International classes; however, for the new 1* Intro class, they may opt for a Vet to watch your horse in the Dressage warm-up rather than an actual trot up itself. 

6. Times – In FEI classes, phases are all ran in drawn order, so you must be ready to go precisely on your time. You can not swap with another rider if you are not prepared. 

 
7. Numbers – Horses must wear their number any time they leave their stables at an FEI competition; this includes exercise and hand grazing. A top tip from Olympic Gold medalist Oliver Townend is to wrap some white electrical tape around your horse's headcollar and use a black sharpie to write your number, which will save transferring bridle numbers over. 

8. Acknowledging the judge – Unlike most BE tests, you will probably have more than one Dressage judge scoring your test. Therefore, you must make sure to salute all of them when you finish. It's also good manners to salute the showjumping judges before you start your jumping round as well. 

9. Tack Inspection – There is usually a tack inspection after your Dressage and Showjumping rounds, so don't head straight back to the stable. Competitors may be required to show stewards their horse's boots. 

10. Enjoyment - even though it's FEI and might feel like a big atmosphere, it's important to remember to breathe, smile, and enjoy the experience. 

Good luck to everyone competing at Blair International next weekend. 

*Please note that these points are based on information we have gathered and are NOT official guidelines or rules published by British Eventing, FEI, Blair International Horse Trials or any of it's associated organisations.