The best of my fun

Louisa Milne Home

The biggest mistake I have learnt from…

Many years ago Melody River went so well in his first season of novice that I campaigned him at intermediate the following year. He was a bit gobsmacked, so I now take into account that a horse may not come out the same as he was the year before, and I’ll often take them down a level for a couple of runs just to check.

My most memorable win…

Finishing first and second in the advanced at Eglington Horse Trials in 2013 (left, on King Eider). With only a small team of horses it was nice to do so well at my local event, over proper, old-fashioned cross-country fences.

My secret weapon...

Equisox compression socks for travelling horses and after competitions. I have now ditched the bandages and use these. They are great as anyone can put them on.

My tip for saving time around the yard…

My horse walker. My horses go on this before I ride them and, while it’s no substitute for being ridden, it’s a bonus that they have been exercised for half an hour before I start schooling.

The best event after-party…

Burgie’s parties were once legendary. I have memories of some quite special hangovers and plenty of antics, but I can’t go into specifics!