A study by Hartpury College has shown that riders (and grooms) get too little sleep at competitions. In the research conducted by senior lecturer Emma Davies, the first recommendation is already being followed: "Creating quiet zones in the truck parking area!"
A global "sleep intervention package" and quiet zones in the parking areas could help riders get enough quality sleep, which would improve safety during competitions – just like bringing your own pillow to events.
Two studies, conducted during the Hartpury International Horse Trials last year and through a questionnaire sent to 230 FEI-registered eventing riders, resulted in similar recommendations to "improve the health and well-being of athletes and staff in equestrian sports."
"Sleep is something that has never been studied in riders, despite the early mornings and irregular working hours," it sounds. The studies show that riders at events sleep an average of only six hours per night. There are various disturbances that disrupt sleep, such as the noise from generators, people in the parking area, etc."
Source: H&H