We all feel the insecurities that creep up as we get older. But don't let that keep you from something you enjoy. Injuries are one thing to slow you down, but I'm reading more anxiety in that text than anything else. You won't embarrass yourself by going out and doing your best. You'll prove your fears don't own you.

Now go kick someone's ass...

You can do it.  We all slow down.  That doesn't mean we have to stop.  Chin up.  Show'em what you've got.  When it's over, you'll be glad you did.  Just be careful! 

Whenever I'm in a triathlon and see some 70 year old on the course, I think "I want that to be me when I'm that age."   I bet there are a lot of younger people thinking that about you.  Show them the love you have for the sport, the joy you take from working with your horse.  Show them that doesn't diminish with age. 

Thank you guys You were right Mann, it was mostly anxiety and not feeling ready for the start of tournament season and just really overthinking what i needed to do today. I did go to the tournament, (mostly because my daughter was about to have a fit when i even suggested not going, since I'm her coach, and I started the day judging, but i did compete, and low and behold, my whole division was my age and older and i didn't embarass myself at all. thanks again folks. 

May I ask what sort of competition it was? Your initial blog sounded like martial arts to me, yet Percy was speaking of working with your horse. I didn't see some of the injuries you listed as particularly detrimental to show competition unless you are in the 4 foot classes.

It was a martial arts competition. I used to spar, a lot, now i stick mostly to forms and breaking, because i just can't handle the stress the rapid movements in sparring put on my knee and angle, even with forms I have to be careful of any jump kicks, and not to land wrong.