Excel Supplements Junior Rider on Returning to Competition Post-COVID

Interview with Emma Callanan: Excel Supplements Junior Rider on Returning to Competition Post-COVID

Emma Callanan, a talented junior rider sponsored by Excel Supplements, recently shared her insights on returning to the show ring after the COVID-19 hiatus. Here’s a look at her experience and thoughts on the current state of horse showing.

Q: How have you felt about getting back into horse showing after the COVID-19 break?

Emma: The break was refreshing, but returning to the show ring has been exhilarating. It’s fantastic to be back in the competitive environment and witness the success our horses achieved during the quarantine. The pause gave us a chance to reset, and now the competition feels even more exciting.

Q: I noticed you recently competed at GLEF in Michigan and performed exceptionally well. You also competed at Princeton before that, correct?

Emma: Yes, we had a warm-up week at Princeton before heading to GLEF. The break from competition was beneficial for the horses, as it reduced the pressure and allowed them to enter the ring with a positive attitude. My green horses, in particular, benefited greatly from the extra training during the quarantine. They stepped into the show ring with confidence, which was fantastic to see.

Q: How have the horse shows been handling the new COVID-19 safety protocols?

Emma: GLEF did an excellent job managing the safety measures. Everyone adhered to mask-wearing and social distancing guidelines effectively. It felt safer than other public places, and the show maintained a sense of normalcy. The protocols were straightforward, including gloves for schooling rings and masks, which made compliance easy and effective.

Q: Have you implemented any specific safety protocols at your barn?

Emma: During the full quarantine, it was just my mom and me working with the horses in Florida, which was manageable. Back at our larger barn up north, we scheduled lesson times to minimize crowding and maintained social distancing. We adjusted as restrictions eased, ensuring that clients came in, rode, and left promptly. Masks were optional, but social distancing remained a priority. This system has worked well for us.

Q: How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected you personally as a junior rider?

Emma: The pandemic was surprisingly beneficial for me. It provided a much-needed break from the routine, helping me gain a new perspective on the sport. The enforced hiatus allowed me to reconnect with my horses on a deeper level and reduced the pressure of constant competition. It was an opportunity to focus on training and bonding without the usual stress. This break enhanced my relationship with my horses, particularly with my two green horses, and helped us improve as a team.

Q: Did you focus on any specific training during the break that has benefitted you in your current competitions?

Emma: My mom and I worked closely with Anne Kursinski from Market Street when we were home. Instead of traditional jumping, we utilized the field at Anne’s place, which allowed us to train in a more relaxed setting. This approach helped us build a stronger team dynamic and improved our performance without the pressure of competitive settings. The fieldwork was both enjoyable and beneficial, strengthening our partnership and preparing us for competition.

Q: It sounds like you’ve made significant strides with your horses. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. Best of luck in your upcoming competitions!

Emma: Thank you! I appreciate the support and am looking forward to the rest of the competition year.