STEPPING into the auction ring can be overwhelming for a young horse. The unfamiliar environment - bright lights, bustling crowds, strange noises - can quickly unravel even the most promising youngster. Preparing a horse psychologically is just as crucial as ensuring it’s in peak physical condition.

Start with exposure. Gradually introduce the horse to varied environments - different arenas, loading ramps and indoor settings - well before auction day. Use calm, confident handling to build trust. Walk the horse through scenarios that mimic the auction atmosphere: clapping sounds, announcements over speakers and brief periods of standing still in a confined area. This acclimatises the horse to the sensory overload it will experience.