The mist is gradually rising from the depth of the trees, and minutes of the early morning are passing. There is quite a turn out thus far, and some noteable competitors have been observed. Time to do the last of the prep and start to warm up.
Adorned in my best bridle, saddle and linens, my steed and I begin to glide around the grounds; parting the last of the mist as we go. The circulation for the pair of us is improving by the minute in this rather brisk winter weather. Some of the other horses haven’t been particularly liked by my ol’ girl, but we’ll just try our hardest to just play our part.
Timely to the judge’s request we all conform to the choreography asked upon the ring; except for a few of the beginners out on their second outings. Bless their souls!
The glimmer from some of the horse’s coats ahead of me is quite blinding; but ever so heavenly.
Sitting anxiously awaiting our work out placing; so excited we’ve been called in. We’ve truly shone today regardless. A beautiful red rosette! Can’t complain with that!
Upon leaving the Dressage Arena, I am quite relieved in comparison to the ball of nerves only 6 minutes ago. I am hoping this judge picked up on the improved paces since the morning classes; but time will tell.
After a short break, I find myself at the cannons, wrapping her all up set for the obstacles ahead. It’s time to soar!
Soar!? Did we ever! Only one double clear on the day at that height! I’m speechlessly proud!
And if that wasn’t enough, we both pushed out a solid Sporting effort this arvo. Good pace, on a dime precision and both just soaking it up!
Through my eyelids I look through the back window of the ute to see my beautiful girl enjoying a well – deserved biscuit from the hay bag. There was only one point in it! So proud either way! Next time is ours because an old man once told me that: “Only you truly know if you’ve had a successful day. Success ain’t always measured by the amount of trophies held”.
– Skye Pickering Dip. Horse Business Management ©