Amy Tickle

What do you like to be called? What is your nickname?!
Tickle

What got you in to riding?
My Mum

Do you remember the first event you entered? What / where was it?
I was 4 years old at a Pony Club show  (so was probably a mixture of little jumping and lead rein classes) on my first pony Valentine who is still alive today at the grand old age of 32/33.

Can you tell us a funny story from when you’ve been competing?
Put it this way, I have learnt to be a lot more careful with my underwear choices under my jods, partially on a rainy day!

Why have you chosen your particular discipline?
I grew up through Pony Club and did a lot of eventing, but have always enjoyed dressage and with getting a job etc. it was easier with my current horse to keep him fit for dressage than it was eventing. Luckily I absolutely love it!

Who is your favourite horse and why does he/she stand out to you?
My current main man Maxie! I have owned him for 12 years and everything we have ever done has been together. We have progressed through the levels together and he’s helped me achieved things I never thought my Pony Club horse would help me to in my adult career competing.

What’s your most memorable win (with that horse)?
PetPlan 2014 Elementary Area Festival with 72% a clear 2% lead.

What goes through your mind before, during - and after - a competition?
Before I remind myself that I am on a horse that I know inside out and I know I will come away with a smile on my face about something. During – just trying to remember those little tips and tricks to do or not do through the test. After – finding the positives in the day and being proud of Max.

What’s the best advice you have been given to help you prepare before an event?
Work backwards on time so you aren’t rushing. So you go from the time you are due to compete and work backwards to fit in your warm up, prep and travel time so you give yourself plenty of time on the day.

What daily routine do you follow to ensure your horse is in always on top form?
General day to day routine is the best thing you can do for your horses, both of mine are always happy because they know the general route of the day. As well as variety in exercise for me and them, I know I would be bored of schooling 7 days a week and a day off!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to compete in your discipline?
Don’t give yourself a hard time, our sport and particularly dressage has the never ending need to perfect. Remember you are there because you have worked hard with what you have!

Why did you choose to be a Bed-Down brand ambassador?
I remember my mum using Bed-Down when I was 5. It has been a reliable product without costing a fortune and does exactly what it says on the package. To me, it’s important to be involved with a company that you believe in the product.

What positive changes have you noticed in your horse since you started using Bed-Down products?
As my horse is in more than out in the summer to help with his diet, I don’t go through more bedding than I would in say late winter/early spring when he’s out for longer.

Do you use handy bales, classic bales or both and why?!
I use classic bales for everyday but have taken handy bales away to over night competitions. As I can take a bit more bedding than I probably need without the extra weight in the lorry.