It's been an exciting start to the year; let's hope that 2023 delivers on all your equestrian dreams and that the imminent recession does not affect equestrian sport too severely.

Samantha Lissington graces our cover, and it is so good to see that she is recovering from her horrible fall at Blenheim Horse Trials, where she lost Ricker Ridge Ricochet during cross-country. It's a scenario that is every rider's worst nightmare. Still, Sam has refocused on her long-term goals for her UK campaign, revealed in this inspiring interview.

From a completely different perspective and equestrian field comes successful author, photographer and all-around saviour of wild horses, Kelly Wilson. Kelly, Amanda and their mum have acquired a 120-acre property 12 minutes from Taupo, which they have subdivided so that they each have a share. Kelly is focusing on providing facilities for wild horse training, clinics and the Kaimanawa horses that are her passion. We caught up with her while she was side-lined after fracturing her neck to see what the future holds.

We feature riders from across the spectrum - some younger and some older! The first article in our new series, 'Where Are They Now?' features eventing legend, Trudy Boyce. Trudy was highly competitive and won a Silver medal at the World Eventing Champs in 1986 - so what is she up to now? You will have to read the article to find out - but her career sees her still on the fringes of the equestrian world.

Caitlin Benzie needs no introduction - she's a fantastic writer for Show Circuit. For those who don't know her, she's also an accomplished dressage rider, eventer, stunt rider, musical composer and photographer! So, we thought, why not tell people how our writers are also involved in the sport.

Paige Fitzgerald is one to watch for the future. Coming from a showing background to demonstrate that stepping into dressage on her lovely ponies was something she was ready for, Paige won the World Youth Challenge at last year's Bates Nationals. She lets us have a wee sneak peek behind the gate at the farm and one of her lovely ponies, Greenmoor Euphoria.

No-nonsense farmer Daniel Webb swapped his successful career as a young show jumper for the Hunterville farm, where he and his wife Chrissy have raised their family and populated their paddocks with gorgeous, talented youngstock. Daniel has now returned to Grand Prix and will be one to watch in the coming years as the young horses emerge. Everyone should read this article for a broader perspective on life with horses.

Cooper Oborn and James Blackwood have purchased the gorgeous Capel Farm in Masterton to further their equestrian dreams, and what a property it is! We were lucky to take a look soon after they took possession. Read about their bond forged through horses, the permanent move to New Zealand for Cooper, and their dressage ambitions.

Again we feature our opinion piece (and it is just that!) in this issue. This deals with concerns raised via emails from our readers -  please take a look and let us know your thoughts.

Christine Weal looks at keeping your horse's training uphill with our writer, Ashleigh Kendall, who rides her lovely horse PSL Jahzara (Ruby).

Coming into the hot end of summer, please keep in mind that heat stress is a severe condition and one that must be kept in mind. We spoke to vet Dr Hannah Bowen from Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre for the signs and recovery options should your horse look remotely stressed.

Lastly, what is your competitive edge? Ashleigh Kendall takes a look at some tips for managing a great mindset and speaks to Madison Schollum about what she does to keep on track.

Well, that is all for this issue. The next issue encompasses Land Rover Horse of the Year, so until then, happy riding everyone.

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Sheryll Davies - Publisher