Showjumping 101

Sam Forrest

Welcome to Showjumping 101—your backstage pass into the world of international showjumping! Join top riders Joanne Sloan-Allen and Sameh El Dahan as they take you behind the scenes of the sport, sharing their experiences from the arena to the stables. From competition insights to life on the road, training tips, and untold stories, this is the ultimate inside look at the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Saddle up and let's ride into the world of elite showjumping!

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19 episodes
Avg 27 min
English

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S2 · E8
October 7 · 15 min
Sycamore Stables Online Horse Auction: The Horses Part 2
In part two of the Sycamore Auction podcast, Joanne and Sam take us through this year’s collection, sharing their personal favourites, the stories behind the bloodlines, and what each horse is like to ride. From exciting young prospects to proven performers, they discuss the horses’ individual strengths and the riders who could suit them best. With a group of six-year-olds they describe as their strongest yet, hear which horses have sparked a little friendly debate about who gets to stay! Explore the full collection and watch the videos at www.sycamore.auction.
S2 · E7
October 5 · 20 min
Sycamore Stables Online Horse Auction: The Preview | Part 1
Sycamore Stables’ second online horse auction takes place on October 13th! In part one of this two-part series, Sameh El Dahan and Joanne Sloan Allen tell the story behind the auction, details from the first auction last year event, and how the online bidding process works. Whether you’re looking for your next horse or curious about buying through an online auction, join us to hear what buyers need to know ahead of the sale. Coming later this week: in part two, the team introduces the horses available in the auction. Follow the podcast on Spotify so you don’t miss it!
S2 · E5
June 27 · 22 min
The realities of tendon and soft tissue injuries and how to deal with them
Welcome back to Showjumping 101 with Joanne Sloan Allen and Sameh El Dahan. In the second half of this episode with Henk Offereins, the conversation moves further into the science behind tendon rehabilitation, the importance of creating a structured recovery plan, and how vets, riders, physios and rehab teams can work together to improve outcomes for horses. Joanne and Sameh also share their own experiences managing tendon injuries in top sport horses, while Henk explains why movement, controlled exercise and the correct loading of the tendon can be the key to successful healing and a longer athletic career. To find out more, visit equinetendon.com or contact info@equinetendon.com.
S2 · E4
June 13 · 17 min
Equine tendon and soft tissue injuries and how to treat them with Guest Henk the Vet
Welcome to Showjumping 101 with Joanne Sloan Allen and Sameh El Dahan. In this two parter, Joanne and Sameh are joined by Henk Offereins, better known as Henk the Vet, to talk about one of the biggest fears for any horse owner or rider — tendon and soft tissue injuries. Henk has spent many years treating professional equine athletes and brings a fascinating insight into how tendon injuries are diagnosed, managed and rehabilitated. Together, they discuss why rest alone is not always the answer, the importance of correct diagnosis, controlled loading, and how new technology — including the Equine Tendon boot — is helping more horses return to work safely and successfully. This is a fascinating discussion that challenges many of the traditional approaches to tendon rehabilitation and offers riders real hope, practical advice and a better understanding of how modern rehabilitation techniques are changing outcomes for equine athletes. If you’ve ever faced the fear of hearing the words “tendon injury” from your vet, this is definitely an episode you won’t want to miss. Part two is out soon...
S2 · E4
May 23 · 41 min
The Truth About Bits, Contact & Horse Comfort with Aster Bits
Welcome to Showjumping 101, the podcast bringing you honest conversations, expert insight and practical advice from across the equestrian world. In this episode, we’re joined by Belle Palmer, equine dentist and founder of Aster Bits, to discuss one of the biggest talking points in modern riding — bitting, communication and horse comfort. From understanding contact and stability in the mouth to finding the right bit for different horses, this episode is packed with valuable insight for riders at every level. Whether you’re producing young horses or looking to improve harmony and performance, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
S2 · E3
March 1 · 26 min
Ban It For Buddy
Winter can be one of the toughest times of the year — dark days, broken routines, and emotions that feel harder to ignore. In this episode of Showjumping 101, Joanne Sloan Allen and Sameh El Dahan are joined by mindset coach Sandie Robertson and fitness expert Aamir Fit for an honest conversation about grief, mental resilience, community, and finding ways to move forward after loss. While this was recorded in January, which can be the most depressing month of the year, it's a reminder that grief and emotions are with us all year round and how we can cope with them. This is a raw, open discussion about coping, connection, and why it’s okay to not be okay — plus how turning pain into purpose can help create positive change.
S2 · E2
February 14 · 30 min
Showjumping 101: Bouncing Back – Injury, Fear and Building Mental Resilience.
Welcome back to Showjumping 101 — the podcast hosted by Sam Forrest and presented by Joanne Sloan Allen and Sameh El Dahan, where we dig into the realities of life in high-performance showjumping. As we head into a new season, it’s easy to talk about fresh starts and clean slates — but for many riders, last year’s injuries, falls, and setbacks don’t disappear just because the calendar changes. In this episode, Joanne and Sameh are joined once again by mindset performance coach Sandie Robertson and fitness and nutrition coach Aamir Fit to tackle one of the biggest challenges in the sport: how to come back stronger — mentally and physically — after injury. From riding defensively and fear in the ring, to trusting preparation, managing recovery, and knowing when to push and when to pause, this is an honest conversation about resilience, confidence, and why recovery is just as important as training. Whether you’re returning from injury, carrying mental baggage, or simply trying to perform consistently in a sport where nothing is guaranteed, this episode offers practical tools and real-world insight from people who live it every day.
S2 · E1
January 30 · 17 min
Starting the 2026 Season Strong – Goals, Mindset & Rider Wellbeing
Welcome back to Showjumping 101 — the podcast hosted by Sam Forrest and presented by Joanne Sloan Allen and Sameh El Dahan. As we head into a brand-new year, many riders are setting goals, chasing progress, and feeling that familiar pressure to start fast and do more. But is that always the right approach? In this episode, Joanne and Sameh are joined by Sandie Robertson, the team’s official mindset performance coach, and Amir Fitt, official fitness and nutrition coach, for an honest and practical conversation about starting the season with clarity rather than chaos. From setting realistic goals without pressure, to managing sleep, recovery, and mental wellbeing during the darker months and the intensity of indoor season, this episode is packed with advice riders can actually apply — whether you’re competing at the top level or balancing riding around everyday life.
S1 · E9
Nov 14, 2025 · 27 min
Meet the Breeders Shaping the Future of Showjumping | Breeders United Auction 2025
In this special episode of Showjumping 101, host Sam Forrest is joined by Joanne Sloan-Allen and Sameh El Dahan from Sycamore Stables to talk about the very first Breeders United Auction, taking place 21–23 November at www.sycamore.auction. We’re joined by some of the breeders and producers behind this exciting collection — LFS Stables, Attaché Stables, and Elamo Stables — to hear their stories, breeding philosophies, and what makes their young horses stand out. From confident, kind-natured mares to talented 4- and 5-year-olds with international potential, this episode offers a genuine insight into the people, bloodlines and values shaping the next generation of showjumpers. 🎧 Listen now and explore the full collection at www.sycamore.auction 📅 Auction runs 21–23 November 2025 📲 Follow @SycamoreStables
S1 · E8
Oct 26, 2025 · 23 min
Unveiling the Sycamore Breeders United Auction
Summary In this episode, Sam Forrest interviews Joanne and Sameh about the upcoming Sycamore Breeders United auction, highlighting the unique features of the auction, the diverse offerings of horses, and the importance of bloodlines and production methods. They discuss the personal touch and transparency in the sales process, as well as their future plans for the auction. The Sycamore Breeders United auction will run from November 21st to 23rd. The auction offers a unique opportunity to buy horses directly from breeders. There will be a mix of horses available, catering to different levels of riders. The auction includes an embryo for the first time, adding a unique element. Horses are produced with care, ensuring they are not overexposed or overworked. The bloodlines of the horses are carefully selected for quality and performance. Transparency is key, with full vetting and background information provided for each horse. The auction aims to connect buyers with horses that have been raised with personal attention. The platform will be live a few weeks before the auction, allowing for previews. The auction is designed to be a personal experience, with detailed histories of the horses. 00:00 Introduction to the Sycamore Breeders United Auction 02:44 Unique Features of the Auction 05:25 Diverse Horse Offerings and Breeding Insights 07:51 Highlighting Special Horses in the Auction 10:29 The Importance of Bloodlines and Production Methods 13:08 Personal Touch and Transparency in Sales 15:54 Future Plans and Auction Logistics
S2 · E8
Jul 13, 2025 · 32 min
Navigating the Minefield of Vettings! A frank discussion about the pre-purchase exam with Marcus Swail, leading Irish team vet. Episode 8.
In this episode of Show Jumping 101, hosts Joanne Sloane Allen and Sameh El Dahan engage with Marcus Swail, a leading veterinarian in the equine industry, to demystify the complexities surrounding pre-purchase vettings. The conversation covers the nature of vettings as risk assessments rather than pass/fail evaluations, the importance of interpreting clinical findings and imaging, and the evolving trends in equine health assessments. The discussion emphasizes the need for buyers and sellers to manage their expectations and understand the context of veterinary findings, particularly in relation to a horse's competition history and suitability for intended use.
S1 · E7
Jun 15, 2025 · 33 min
From Ponies to Pros: Feeding for Every Level. Episode 7.
Nutrition is one of the most important—and most confusing—parts of horse care. Today, we’re cutting through the noise with expert insight from Laura Gosden, Nutrition Advisor at Spillers, to help you understand what your horse really needs, when, and why.” “Whether you’re managing one pony or a full team of performance horses, feeding right makes all the difference. In this episode, we’re joined by Spillers’ Laura Gosden to explore everything from balancers and forage to hydration, travel feeding, and seasonal changes.” “From fizzy ponies to tired top-level jumpers, nutrition plays a role in behaviour, condition, and performance. This week on Show Jumping 101, we get into the practical side of equine feeding with Laura Gosden from Spillers—no fads, just facts.
S1 · E5
May 25, 2025 · 33 min
Inside Out: The Gut Health Advantage with SUCCEED, Episode 6.
In this episode of Show Jumping 101, hosts Sameh El Dahan and Joanne Sloan Allen sit down with Sandra Hughes from SUCCEED, the equine digestive health specialists trusted by riders worldwide. They explore why gut health is the foundation of performance, behaviour, and overall well-being—and how digestive discomfort can quietly undermine even the best training programmes. From breeding and foal development to managing ulcers, preventing bad habits, and supporting horses through travel and competition, this is a deep dive into what’s really going on inside your horse—and how to support it. Whether you’re managing elite sport horses or weekend warriors, this episode is full of practical advice you can apply immediately.
S1 · E5
May 11, 2025 · 29 min
Fuel for the Ride – Rider Nutrition Uncovered. Episode 5
Today’s episode takes a different kind of deep dive – we’re talking about something every horse rider needs, but not everyone gets right: nutrition. We’re welcoming back Aamir Fit, who you may remember from our episode on rider fitness – this time, we’re tackling rider fuel, from what you eat before a competition, to how nutrition impacts energy, focus, and performance in and out of the ring. And we’re also joined by Joanne’s daughter, Tabitha Allen – not only a showjumping rider herself, but also a biochemistry student, bringing a great perspective on how what we eat truly affects how we feel and perform. Together, we discuss everything from meal planning on the road, coping with food intolerances, and avoiding energy crashes, to why riders so often prioritise their horses’ nutrition over their own – and how that needs to change. It’s a seriously practical, honest, and eye-opening conversation – so whether you’re riding at the top level or just trying to eat better around a hectic yard schedule, this one’s for you.
S1 · E4
Apr 27, 2025 · 28 min
The Realities of Show Jumping, Episode 4.
In this episode of Show Jumping 101, hosts Joanne and Sameh discuss the realities of show jumping, including coping with failure, managing nerves, and the impact of social media. They emphasize the importance of building strong partnerships with horses and having a supportive team. The conversation also covers their experiences at major competitions, future plans for young horses, and strategies for dealing with hot horses.
S1 · E1
Apr 6, 2025 · 31 min
The Art of Transporting Showjumping Horses
Summary This conversation delves into the intricate logistics of traveling with competition horses, exploring the challenges and solutions faced by international showjumpers Joanne Sloan Allen and Sameh El Dahan. From the complexities of ferry and flight arrangements to the nuances of horse care in different climates, the discussion highlights the importance of preparation, nutrition, and adaptability in ensuring the well-being of these elite equine athletes. They also touch on the evolving practices in hoof care, including the growing trend of barefoot horses, and the significance of local knowledge in managing horse health and performance on the road.
S1 · E3
Mar 16, 2025 · 31 min
Show Jumping 101: Episode 3 with Sameh El Dahan, Joanne Sloan Allen and special guest, sports Psychologist Sandie Robertson
In this episode, we explore the critical role of mental fitness in equestrian sports, discussing how it impacts performance, confidence, and resilience. The conversation highlights gender differences in mental approaches, the importance of support systems, and the evolving landscape of women's sports. We also delve into the pressures faced by young riders from parents and the need for balance between hobby and profession in riding. The episode concludes with insights on overcoming mental blocks and the significance of perspective in equestrian pursuits.
S1 · E1
Mar 9, 2025 · 39 min
Showjumping 101. Episode 2, with Sameh El Dahan, Joanne Sloan Allen and special guest, personal trainer Amir Fit.
In this episode of Show Jumping 101, we explore the critical role of rider fitness in equestrian sports. Personal trainer Amir Fit discusses tailored fitness programs for riders Joanne Sloan Allen and Sameh Eldahan, emphasising the importance of physical conditioning, mental strength, and nutrition. The conversation highlights how fitness impacts performance in the ring, the significance of starting young with fitness training, and the necessity of sustainable habits for long-term success. The episode also touches on the importance of finding the right coach and the balance between training and nutrition for optimal performance.
S1 · E1
Feb 12, 2025 · 13 min
Episode 1, When two continents meet.
Welcome to Showjumping 101—your backstage pass into the world of international showjumping! Join top riders Joanne Sloan-Allen and Sameh El Dahan as they take you behind the scenes of the sport, sharing their experiences from the arena to the stables. From competition insights to life on the road, training tips, and untold stories, this is the ultimate inside look at the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Saddle up and let's ride into the world of elite showjumping!

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