PENCARDER SILVER STORM was having a run in the intermediate at Gatcombe, she was second into the dressage arena which is always a disadvantage especially when dressage is her weakest phase. She collected a 40.9 then showjumped well but I shortened her down a related distance and paid the price , and she was casual through the treble catching the last element. She gave me another fantastic ride at this level xc jumping her socks off but as she was never going to be in the placings we collected 16.8 time.
The next day we returned with WANADOO TOO and KINGTON. Wally did a rather distracted test scoring 34.5, he can do so much better but the smallest thing can catch his attention, something I hope he will grow out of with time and more experience. He showjumped amazingly for a clear showing my pure showjumping is definitely helping. He was flying round the xc showing no signs of his previous character until he came to the water 4 from home. Wally saw the white boat for the 2* course in the water and was completely transfixed by it. Annoyingly I had to retire but I did get the fence judge to lead him into the water to teach him it wasn't going to bite him. He has come a long way and this monor blip is the least of my worries, we have overcome the worst and his future is bright.
KINGTON did a rusty test, he like so many others has missed runs due to the weather, and he now thinks he is a showjumper so has forgotten about dressage!! He scored a disappointing 38. Showjumped brilliantly for a clear, and went clear xc like a demon so another point collected for Stan.
Friday, 21 September 2012
Purston Manor
Back to reality from the high of Blenheim, Wednesday I hit Purston with just ERRIGAL HILL BOY in the BE100, he hasn't been to a competition since June due to the weather and then stupidly eating a tree in his field which it turned out he was allergic to!!! Dougal did a respectable test to score 35 and then jumped double clear collecting a costly 6 time faults which dropped him out of the top ten. He is becoming consistent at this level and had he not had such a break in the season he would have finished the year with a novice run but his owner Simon Hall is now going to run him at his next 3 events.
BLENHEIM
Well the moment a lot have been waiting for...
ZEUS OF RUSHALL'S return to international competition!!! Driving into Blenheim with my groom for the week Kirsty Boriello, was a very exciting moment. Jimmy was making his comeback with only 2 runs under his belt since jumping clear around Badminton 4* 2011. He settled into his stable well on the Tuesday afternoon enjoying his new bed of shavings!!
Wednesday was spent hacking Jimmy so he was familiar with his surroundings and then preparing him for the trot-up at 4pm. He looked fantastic and many heads were turned to watch him strut down the straight for the ground jury, he loves a crowd and certainly played up to them at Blenheim. Following the trot up I was straight down to have a lesson with dressage guru Pammy Hutton in preparation for my test.
Thurday afternoon was my dressage, Jimmy warmed up very well under Pammy's watchful eye and I hoped he would keep his lid on when in the main arena, thankfully he did. He performed a lovely test with one error and perhaps his outline a little long so I was thrilled with 48.6. There is loads of improvement still to come in the phase and with time to prepare over the winter Badminton 2013 will be even better.
Friday was a day off from the competition for Jimmy and I so we went for a quiet hack and then I had a jump with Richard Waygood in the afternoon. Richard also walked the course with me a couple of times for which I am hugely grateful.
Saturday I was nervous, there is no doubt about that!! I headed out on course with a banana and a bottle of lucozade to watch the first 10 tackle the some what meaty beefed up Blenheim course. Well I didn't come back feeling much better having seen several problems dotted all around the course...not what I'd wanted to see when I was heading out on a horse which could be a little rusty at this level!!
Thankfully having been a spooky monster in the warm-up Jimmy was on his game as soon as he stepped foot out of the start box. Other than a slight spook at the ditch and hedge at fence 5 he gave me a fantastic round, I took him slightly steady (collecting 14.8 time faults) as there had been so many problems and I wanted him to be full of running at the end of the course where some of the questions lay. He really felt like he has never been away from running. I can't thank his owners Mr and Mrs Wookey enough for being so patient and allowing me to ride such a talented horse. It was lovely to have their daughter Caroline (over from USA specially) and their daughter-in-law Julie, supporting me at Blenheim too.
A huge relief when Jimmy seemed none the worse for wear following the xc test. A huge thanks must go to Simon Hall for sorting the cool down team on this scorching day, my brother Adam, groom Kirsty, Kate Honey, Elodie Frost, Mark Swan, Charlotte Perryman and Rhiannon Sheehan for all their efforts in getting Jimmy's temperature down and ice on in a remarkably efficient manner following his run.
Sunday morning is always a worry but not for me this time, Jimmy looked fresh as a daisy ready for this 7am trot up. Kirsty had him beautifully tunred out and thankfully he flew through the jog with the ground jury laughing at his enthusiasm!
As i was lying in 24th place I had to wait until the afternoon session to showjump. I watched during the morning and time faults were an issue so knowing Jimmy is careful I knew I could save time by keeping the speed up. Jimmy was second into the arena and having warmed up well with Richard Waygood helping I was feeling positive. He jumped an immaculate round never even coming close to touching a pole and he was well inside the time. An amazing result for Zeus of Rushall and what a comeback!!!
I am so grateful for all the support I have received and for those that ever doubted the horse or me I hope you are eating your words!!
Many thanks
To my owners: Mr and Mrs Wookey
To all my sponsors: Kate Negus Saddlery, AMtrust Equine Insurance, Global Herbs, Prolite Products, Devoucoux, ARC Equine, The Horse Laundry, PAC Ltd, Soteria Consulting Ltd, Gatehouse.
My amazing grooms behind the scenes without who the whole operation can't run: Claudia Smith, Rhiannon Sheehan, Charlotte Perryman and those that pop in to help out Alex Hamilton-White, Josh Thompson and Katy Cooper.
My very supportive parents and brother and my super cute dogs Rolo, Twiglet, Mollie and Ben.
And to everyone else who i've missed off no offence meant.
ZEUS OF RUSHALL'S return to international competition!!! Driving into Blenheim with my groom for the week Kirsty Boriello, was a very exciting moment. Jimmy was making his comeback with only 2 runs under his belt since jumping clear around Badminton 4* 2011. He settled into his stable well on the Tuesday afternoon enjoying his new bed of shavings!!
Wednesday was spent hacking Jimmy so he was familiar with his surroundings and then preparing him for the trot-up at 4pm. He looked fantastic and many heads were turned to watch him strut down the straight for the ground jury, he loves a crowd and certainly played up to them at Blenheim. Following the trot up I was straight down to have a lesson with dressage guru Pammy Hutton in preparation for my test.
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| Photo Courtesy Uptown Eventing |
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| Photo Courtesy John Britter Photography |
Saturday I was nervous, there is no doubt about that!! I headed out on course with a banana and a bottle of lucozade to watch the first 10 tackle the some what meaty beefed up Blenheim course. Well I didn't come back feeling much better having seen several problems dotted all around the course...not what I'd wanted to see when I was heading out on a horse which could be a little rusty at this level!!
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| Yes this ridiculous sized ditch and hedge was 3 fences from home and Lance and I are not migets!! |
Thankfully having been a spooky monster in the warm-up Jimmy was on his game as soon as he stepped foot out of the start box. Other than a slight spook at the ditch and hedge at fence 5 he gave me a fantastic round, I took him slightly steady (collecting 14.8 time faults) as there had been so many problems and I wanted him to be full of running at the end of the course where some of the questions lay. He really felt like he has never been away from running. I can't thank his owners Mr and Mrs Wookey enough for being so patient and allowing me to ride such a talented horse. It was lovely to have their daughter Caroline (over from USA specially) and their daughter-in-law Julie, supporting me at Blenheim too.
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| Photo Courtesy Tim Wilkinson |
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| Photo courtesy John Britter |
A huge relief when Jimmy seemed none the worse for wear following the xc test. A huge thanks must go to Simon Hall for sorting the cool down team on this scorching day, my brother Adam, groom Kirsty, Kate Honey, Elodie Frost, Mark Swan, Charlotte Perryman and Rhiannon Sheehan for all their efforts in getting Jimmy's temperature down and ice on in a remarkably efficient manner following his run.
Sunday morning is always a worry but not for me this time, Jimmy looked fresh as a daisy ready for this 7am trot up. Kirsty had him beautifully tunred out and thankfully he flew through the jog with the ground jury laughing at his enthusiasm!
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| Photo Courtesy Uptown Eventing |
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| Photo Courtesy Lucy Hall Photography |
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| Photo Courtesy Lucy Hall Photography |
As i was lying in 24th place I had to wait until the afternoon session to showjump. I watched during the morning and time faults were an issue so knowing Jimmy is careful I knew I could save time by keeping the speed up. Jimmy was second into the arena and having warmed up well with Richard Waygood helping I was feeling positive. He jumped an immaculate round never even coming close to touching a pole and he was well inside the time. An amazing result for Zeus of Rushall and what a comeback!!!
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| Photo courtesy John Britter |
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| Photo courtesy John Britter |
Many thanks
To my owners: Mr and Mrs Wookey
To all my sponsors: Kate Negus Saddlery, AMtrust Equine Insurance, Global Herbs, Prolite Products, Devoucoux, ARC Equine, The Horse Laundry, PAC Ltd, Soteria Consulting Ltd, Gatehouse.
My amazing grooms behind the scenes without who the whole operation can't run: Claudia Smith, Rhiannon Sheehan, Charlotte Perryman and those that pop in to help out Alex Hamilton-White, Josh Thompson and Katy Cooper.
My very supportive parents and brother and my super cute dogs Rolo, Twiglet, Mollie and Ben.
And to everyone else who i've missed off no offence meant.
Moreton-in-Marsh showjumping
I took WANADOO TOO to this country show for bit of variety in his life. He jumped an impressive double clear in the Newcomers just missing out on a placing (must learn to cut more corners). I also jumped him in the foxhunter where he annoyingly had the last fence down, I think I got a bit excited!! I am really enjoying doing some pure showjumping and although it is boring waiting to jump it is paying off on the eventing side of things. Plus I now fit in with my new Gatehouse hat that I have been kindly supplied with by Gatehouse. This winter I will definitely spotted out on the showjumping circuit, with a lorry load most weeks.
Wellington
ZEUS OF RUSHALL had his second run at Wellington advanced. His first test of fitness for this level. Jimmy has spent a lot of time in the swimming pool since his injury as we are trying to gallop him once a week and swim him once a week instead of galloping twice just to save a little bit of wear and tear on his limbs. Jimmy performed a good test but both of us were very rusty at this level giving me a wake up call for Blenheim in 2 weeks. We were given a 38.2 which was disappointing. Jimmy jumped the most superb round of showjumping and so I was very surprised to hear I had had 4 faults, this was even questionned by the areana party who had not picked up an rail but the judge was adamant dispite my best efforts for him to admit he was wrong...so 4 penalties it was. XC Jimmy reminded me how lucky I am to be able to ride him, he took everything in his stride and gave me a fantastic feel coming home with just 6.8 time faults. We finished 9th. A very pleasing run for a horse that has been out of the game for the last 17months. Wellington is a lovely new event with 3 great courses, we even had to jump a fence that came from the London Olympics!! I will definitely be returning to this venue.
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| Photos Courtesy of James Pyne Photography |
Burnham Beeches
WANADOO TOO went to Burnham Beeches for his first run since going to naughty school. He performed a lovely test which was harshly marked for a 33, he had one unlucky rail down and a great clear xc picking up a handful of time faults. A great first run back with Wally feeling much happier in himself.
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| Photo Courtesy of James Pyne Photography |
Monday, 13 August 2012
More Showjumping
WALES AND WEST
KINGTON jumped in the Discovery, producing a lovely double clear in a 67 strong section finishing a very respectable 2nd and in the money!!! He also jumped in the Newcomers and I unfortunately rode like a muppet causing him to have 2 rails...grrrrr
WANADOO TOO also came along for the journey. He jumped the best he has ever jumped just having one pole in the Newcomers and his first Foxhunter, both of which I can blame on myself. I will be pulling myself together for our next outing as I have some awesome horses and would like to come home with some more prize money!!!
AVON VALE HUNT SHOW
NASEBY (Jerry) went to the local hunt show for the ROR (retraining of racehorses) class. Through the pouring rain, thunder and lightening Jerry didn't bat an eyelid finishing 3rd out of 10, not a bad effort being that the two above him were 14yo and 8yo with a pelham and a double bridle as opposed to Jerry in his rubber snaffle aged 5!! The judge rode him and thought he was very sweet. A good result and an exciting future for this horse.
Next stop Burnham Beeches...if it runs with more rain forecast!!!!
KINGTON jumped in the Discovery, producing a lovely double clear in a 67 strong section finishing a very respectable 2nd and in the money!!! He also jumped in the Newcomers and I unfortunately rode like a muppet causing him to have 2 rails...grrrrr
WANADOO TOO also came along for the journey. He jumped the best he has ever jumped just having one pole in the Newcomers and his first Foxhunter, both of which I can blame on myself. I will be pulling myself together for our next outing as I have some awesome horses and would like to come home with some more prize money!!!
AVON VALE HUNT SHOW
NASEBY (Jerry) went to the local hunt show for the ROR (retraining of racehorses) class. Through the pouring rain, thunder and lightening Jerry didn't bat an eyelid finishing 3rd out of 10, not a bad effort being that the two above him were 14yo and 8yo with a pelham and a double bridle as opposed to Jerry in his rubber snaffle aged 5!! The judge rode him and thought he was very sweet. A good result and an exciting future for this horse.
Next stop Burnham Beeches...if it runs with more rain forecast!!!!
Aston Le Walls
The day we had all been waiting for (well for 17 months anyway)...Jimmy's return to competition.
PENCARDER SILVER STORM
Rosie was first to go out of the two of them...she did a 42.7, had one very unlucky pole just being a little too keen to be out and about. She was awesome xc again but sadly picked up a 20 penalties when she lost her back end going up the slope to a log, she pretty much fell straight into the log ending up with her nose and chest on it so couldn't recover. This is her first xc fault since she was 5yo and really didn't deserve it. She is such a dude jumping and enjoyed the rest of her foot perfect round.
ZEUS OF RUSHALL
Finally I was allowed to take Jimmy to an event 17 months after he was injured at Badminton. He seems to have settled in his year off and managed to produce a great test with plenty of room for more improvement, he was lying 3rd after dressage on 26.8 in a very hot section. Annoying we picked up 8 faults in the showjumping one was my fault and the other him, we were very rusty having had a year off but it will come back. Cross country was AMAZING!!! Jimmy was very straight and bold, he loved every minute of it. I took it fairly steady collecting 15.6 time faults. Thankfully he was fine the next day and I can run him faster at his next run!! I was very emotional finishing the xc, he is a true legend and I am very grateful to Mr and Mrs Wookey for being so patient over the last year. I am very privileged to ride him and we will be going for it at Blenheim.
PENCARDER SILVER STORM
Rosie was first to go out of the two of them...she did a 42.7, had one very unlucky pole just being a little too keen to be out and about. She was awesome xc again but sadly picked up a 20 penalties when she lost her back end going up the slope to a log, she pretty much fell straight into the log ending up with her nose and chest on it so couldn't recover. This is her first xc fault since she was 5yo and really didn't deserve it. She is such a dude jumping and enjoyed the rest of her foot perfect round.
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| Photo courtesy of Julia Shearwood Photography |
Finally I was allowed to take Jimmy to an event 17 months after he was injured at Badminton. He seems to have settled in his year off and managed to produce a great test with plenty of room for more improvement, he was lying 3rd after dressage on 26.8 in a very hot section. Annoying we picked up 8 faults in the showjumping one was my fault and the other him, we were very rusty having had a year off but it will come back. Cross country was AMAZING!!! Jimmy was very straight and bold, he loved every minute of it. I took it fairly steady collecting 15.6 time faults. Thankfully he was fine the next day and I can run him faster at his next run!! I was very emotional finishing the xc, he is a true legend and I am very grateful to Mr and Mrs Wookey for being so patient over the last year. I am very privileged to ride him and we will be going for it at Blenheim.
Other news
Other news happening in this miserable summer...
We have had 3 new horses...
RIVADALE RAPHAELLO (Raffi) a Hannovarian x 5yo belonging to Mrs Dance, Raffi came for schooling and to sell, he has now moved to his new home with Peter Coote...
STAR OF ERIN (Ruby) a Warmblood 6yo belonging to Mrs Short again in for schooling and sale. Ruby was only here a short while and is now enjoying her new home with Michael Whippey who is a yard manager at Talland.
TREKKIE (Tommy) a full TB 4yo belonging to Mrs Julie Wookey and Mr Simon Hall, Tommy has done very little. He was bred to race but never quite made it to the track. He is a lovely character and is a winter project.
I have had 2 very busy weeks teaching at Pony Club camp for the Avon Vale PC (where I learnt to ride). As much hard work as it is I really enjoy putting something back into the children and watching them develop is very rewarding. We had one dreadful day when I had 7 falls in one day but the next no one fell off so obviously they learned from their mistakes (and me screaming at them!!)
We have had 3 new horses...
RIVADALE RAPHAELLO (Raffi) a Hannovarian x 5yo belonging to Mrs Dance, Raffi came for schooling and to sell, he has now moved to his new home with Peter Coote...
STAR OF ERIN (Ruby) a Warmblood 6yo belonging to Mrs Short again in for schooling and sale. Ruby was only here a short while and is now enjoying her new home with Michael Whippey who is a yard manager at Talland.
TREKKIE (Tommy) a full TB 4yo belonging to Mrs Julie Wookey and Mr Simon Hall, Tommy has done very little. He was bred to race but never quite made it to the track. He is a lovely character and is a winter project.
I have had 2 very busy weeks teaching at Pony Club camp for the Avon Vale PC (where I learnt to ride). As much hard work as it is I really enjoy putting something back into the children and watching them develop is very rewarding. We had one dreadful day when I had 7 falls in one day but the next no one fell off so obviously they learned from their mistakes (and me screaming at them!!)
Summerhouse and Weston Lawns
SUMMERHOUSE EC
So more showjumping for the bored eventers this time we hit Summerhouse.
Simon again rode ERRIGAL HILL BOY (Dougal) in the Discovery and the 1.05m finishing just outside the placings for collecting 1 time fault in the 1.05m.
KINGTON jumped in the 1.05m and the Newcomers. He jumped double clear and finished 3rd in the 1.05 and had a rail in the newcomers.
WANADOO TOO also brought home money finishing 9th in a large newcomers section.
WESTON LAWNS
I took WANADOO TOO in the lorry to Weston Lawns as I was giving a friend a lift. Wally jumped in the 1.05m finishing double clear and 4th, he also jumped in the 1.10m open and qualified for the amateur championships at Aintree. Another successful trip out showjumping!!
So more showjumping for the bored eventers this time we hit Summerhouse.
Simon again rode ERRIGAL HILL BOY (Dougal) in the Discovery and the 1.05m finishing just outside the placings for collecting 1 time fault in the 1.05m.
KINGTON jumped in the 1.05m and the Newcomers. He jumped double clear and finished 3rd in the 1.05 and had a rail in the newcomers.
WANADOO TOO also brought home money finishing 9th in a large newcomers section.
WESTON LAWNS
I took WANADOO TOO in the lorry to Weston Lawns as I was giving a friend a lift. Wally jumped in the 1.05m finishing double clear and 4th, he also jumped in the 1.10m open and qualified for the amateur championships at Aintree. Another successful trip out showjumping!!
More events cancelled...more bored ponies
With yet more cancellations facing us I took the decision to take up the BSJA on their eventers registration deal.
HAND EC
Simon jumped ERRIGAL HILL BOY in the Discovery and the 1.05m having an unlucky pole in each.
WANADOO TOO jumped in the 1.05m and the newcomers just tipping off a couple of rails but most importantly his whole attitude seems to have improved and he really appeared to be enjoying himself, even when he jumped in the pouring rain!!
KINGTON also jumped in the 1.05m and the Newcomers having one rail in each.
HAND EC
Simon jumped ERRIGAL HILL BOY in the Discovery and the 1.05m having an unlucky pole in each.
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| Photo's courtesy of Spidge Event Photography |
WANADOO TOO jumped in the 1.05m and the newcomers just tipping off a couple of rails but most importantly his whole attitude seems to have improved and he really appeared to be enjoying himself, even when he jumped in the pouring rain!!
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| Photos courtesy of Spidge Event Photography |
KINGTON also jumped in the 1.05m and the Newcomers having one rail in each.
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| Photo courtesy of Spidge Event Photoraphy |
More good news
12th July 2012 brings some fantastic news, Jimmy got the all clear!!! After all the time, effort, tears and hardwork Jimmy had his final scan and we were told to crack on with him. Mum could not have had better news on her birthday so a celebration in the local pub took place!! We will be aiming for Blenheim in September....
The last couple of months
WEST WILTS
NASEBY (Jerry) went to West Wilts for combined training in June, he performed a very nice test and showjumped clear finishing 3rd in his class.
NUNNEY INTERNATIONAL
ERRIGAL HILL BOY took part in the BE100, his first since falling in the water at Pontispool. He did a much improved test to score 30.5, annoying lost focus showjumping taking two downhill rails and ran well xc just having a green moment about jumping into the water, understandable after last time he got eaten by it!!
KINGTON did an average test in the novice ,which was annoying as I know he is capable of a lot more but is somewhat out of match practice this season, he scored 35.5, had an unfortunate rail and jumped a lovely clear xc round a tough novice course. He is becoming very consistent at this level and really gives me a good feel, staying straight on his lines and taking the fences on.
PENCARDER SILVER STORM proved how cool she is today for all those who have had any doubt in her. She did a rather unsettled test scoring 43.2 but to make up for it leaving me unable to be cross with her she jumped the most fantastic double clear round a technical and large Intermediate. I am so proud of this little pocket rocket, she is the most incredible horse xc never doubting what she is put at. She has been great fun whilst Jimmy has been off the road and has kept my eye in at the higher levels.
WEST WILTS
ZEUS OF RUSHALL did 2x dressage tests scoring very well in both. He did an intermediate test and scored 68% and an advanced test scoring 66% not bad for a horse who has not been out or in an arena since April 2011!!
STONAR
ERRIGAL HILL BOY managed to get a late entry into the BE100 here. He did a great test scoring 26, proving he is capable of doing all the movements in the correct place. He then went on to jump a great double clear finishing just 1 second over the time. We were very grateful for the effort put into running this event as they have been up against it with the current climate!
NUTWELL COURT
KINGTON performed a really nice test in bottomless mud scoring 32, he showjumped well on the surface for a clear, sadly the mud was horrendous and they had pulled fences out before I ran so I made the sensible decision to withdraw before xc as it wasn't worth the risk.
Luckily the next day was cancelled so WANADOO TOO and ERRIGAL HILL BOY didn't have to run, on the way home we gave them a jump at Bob Livock's yard.
NASEBY (Jerry) went to West Wilts for combined training in June, he performed a very nice test and showjumped clear finishing 3rd in his class.
NUNNEY INTERNATIONAL
ERRIGAL HILL BOY took part in the BE100, his first since falling in the water at Pontispool. He did a much improved test to score 30.5, annoying lost focus showjumping taking two downhill rails and ran well xc just having a green moment about jumping into the water, understandable after last time he got eaten by it!!
KINGTON did an average test in the novice ,which was annoying as I know he is capable of a lot more but is somewhat out of match practice this season, he scored 35.5, had an unfortunate rail and jumped a lovely clear xc round a tough novice course. He is becoming very consistent at this level and really gives me a good feel, staying straight on his lines and taking the fences on.
PENCARDER SILVER STORM proved how cool she is today for all those who have had any doubt in her. She did a rather unsettled test scoring 43.2 but to make up for it leaving me unable to be cross with her she jumped the most fantastic double clear round a technical and large Intermediate. I am so proud of this little pocket rocket, she is the most incredible horse xc never doubting what she is put at. She has been great fun whilst Jimmy has been off the road and has kept my eye in at the higher levels.
WEST WILTS
ZEUS OF RUSHALL did 2x dressage tests scoring very well in both. He did an intermediate test and scored 68% and an advanced test scoring 66% not bad for a horse who has not been out or in an arena since April 2011!!
STONAR
ERRIGAL HILL BOY managed to get a late entry into the BE100 here. He did a great test scoring 26, proving he is capable of doing all the movements in the correct place. He then went on to jump a great double clear finishing just 1 second over the time. We were very grateful for the effort put into running this event as they have been up against it with the current climate!
NUTWELL COURT
KINGTON performed a really nice test in bottomless mud scoring 32, he showjumped well on the surface for a clear, sadly the mud was horrendous and they had pulled fences out before I ran so I made the sensible decision to withdraw before xc as it wasn't worth the risk.
Luckily the next day was cancelled so WANADOO TOO and ERRIGAL HILL BOY didn't have to run, on the way home we gave them a jump at Bob Livock's yard.
Monday, 11 June 2012
Most Exciting Post yet
West Wilts bites the dust but we go to combined training instead
Sadly West Wilts was not to be due to more rubbish rain
We did however get to run on Sunday at combined training that they kindly put on.
Simon made his debut with Dougal (Errigal Hill Boy) in the 90, posting a score of 34 and a clear finishing 6th.
Wally (Wanadoo Too) made a fantastic comeback to competition with a fresh dressage scoring 28.5 even with a explosive transition or two. He jumped very well and finished 2nd in the 100.
Stanley (Kington) did a lovely test to score 31.5 in the novice and just tipped the first fence. He was back jumping like the Stan of last year so he definitely put a smile back on my face.
Rosie (Pencarder Silver Storm) thought she needed to go to the gallops before dressage and was therefore very naughty scoring a rubbish mark, however she jumped clear albeit a little like a horse who had popped some illegal drug beforehand!! Off to the gallops for her this week little toad!!
So next stop is meant to be Nunney with Rosie, Stanley and Dougal but as I write this I am looking out at torrential rain AGAIN so my hopes are not so high for the weekend...Fingers crossed
We did however get to run on Sunday at combined training that they kindly put on.
Simon made his debut with Dougal (Errigal Hill Boy) in the 90, posting a score of 34 and a clear finishing 6th.
Wally (Wanadoo Too) made a fantastic comeback to competition with a fresh dressage scoring 28.5 even with a explosive transition or two. He jumped very well and finished 2nd in the 100.
Stanley (Kington) did a lovely test to score 31.5 in the novice and just tipped the first fence. He was back jumping like the Stan of last year so he definitely put a smile back on my face.
Rosie (Pencarder Silver Storm) thought she needed to go to the gallops before dressage and was therefore very naughty scoring a rubbish mark, however she jumped clear albeit a little like a horse who had popped some illegal drug beforehand!! Off to the gallops for her this week little toad!!
So next stop is meant to be Nunney with Rosie, Stanley and Dougal but as I write this I am looking out at torrential rain AGAIN so my hopes are not so high for the weekend...Fingers crossed
Wet Wet Wet Eventing
So since my last post not a lot has occurred due to the delightful weather the UK is providing us with!! £ days at Aston-Le-Walls were missed and between Dougal's owner and I we decided the trip up there was slightly silly with one horse so he was withdrawn.
PONTISPOOL
Pencarder Silver Storm (Rosie) headed to Pontispool for her first Intermediate finally having missed 3 due to the rain. She posted a great score in the dressage (for her) of 36.4. The showjumping is on the surface down there which I have always found to be pretty loose and moving under the horses, Rosie agreed and out of character had 3 down. The xc was on the technical side and probably not ideal for a first timer however I have absolute trust in this pint-sized mare and true to form she flew round without batting an eye-lid. I am thrilled with her making the step up seem so easy! Next run for her is West Wilts Novice.
On the Sunday we headed back to Pontispool with Kington (Stanley) and Errigal Hill Boy (Dougal) in the PN. Stan did a nice test that the judge didn't like scoring a disappointing 38.5, he showjumped well for a clear and flew round the xc, I didn't push for time as he was HC but he finished only 2 secs over collecting 0.8 time faults. Next stop for him is West Wilts Novice.
Dougal nearly contained himself for the entire test but sadly felt the need for an extra canter in the serpentine so scored 38.5, he showjumped well on this surface (he loves mud and this moves as much!) for a clear, xc he set out fantastically jumping his socks off, sadly it was not to be... he was bold cantering into the first water and fell over a ridge that 3 others had fallen over before me. Annoying as he did nothing wrong, but ce la vie. He studded me on getting to his feet, ripped my airjacket and trod on places that shouldn't be trodden on!! A week off games for me and I'll be back riding.
PONTISPOOL
Pencarder Silver Storm (Rosie) headed to Pontispool for her first Intermediate finally having missed 3 due to the rain. She posted a great score in the dressage (for her) of 36.4. The showjumping is on the surface down there which I have always found to be pretty loose and moving under the horses, Rosie agreed and out of character had 3 down. The xc was on the technical side and probably not ideal for a first timer however I have absolute trust in this pint-sized mare and true to form she flew round without batting an eye-lid. I am thrilled with her making the step up seem so easy! Next run for her is West Wilts Novice.
On the Sunday we headed back to Pontispool with Kington (Stanley) and Errigal Hill Boy (Dougal) in the PN. Stan did a nice test that the judge didn't like scoring a disappointing 38.5, he showjumped well for a clear and flew round the xc, I didn't push for time as he was HC but he finished only 2 secs over collecting 0.8 time faults. Next stop for him is West Wilts Novice.
Dougal nearly contained himself for the entire test but sadly felt the need for an extra canter in the serpentine so scored 38.5, he showjumped well on this surface (he loves mud and this moves as much!) for a clear, xc he set out fantastically jumping his socks off, sadly it was not to be... he was bold cantering into the first water and fell over a ridge that 3 others had fallen over before me. Annoying as he did nothing wrong, but ce la vie. He studded me on getting to his feet, ripped my airjacket and trod on places that shouldn't be trodden on!! A week off games for me and I'll be back riding.
Sunday, 29 April 2012
WANADOO TOO
Having one of the most talented horses on the yard is great but him stopping in the middle of xc courses for picnics is not. Simon Hall (Wally's owner) and I have decided to try and help him. We have sent him to Gary Witheford's yard in Burbage to try and get inside his head a little more and see if they can cure him of his issue.
Gary Witheford
Gary has developed a unique insight into the psychology of the horse, he
is passionate about his work with all types of horses and has created his own
unique techniques to deal with equine traits and behavioural issues in a shorter
period of time than it usually takes using more traditional methods.
His training methods are based on the observation of horses in the wild and the firm belief of everyone who works with Gary is that no matter what problem the horse brings with it, there is always a possibility of change and the chance of a better life for both horse and owner.He does not resort to beating, shouting or abuse, but uses calmer, straightforward methods that allow the horse to quickly learn and respond in the light of their own natural behavioural patterns. In this way they learn to accept human control as quickly as possible and are ready to begin their work in a much shorter space of time.
Wally has been there for 5 days now and progress is being made. First he needs to be less scared of humans so he has been playing with shakers, umbrellas and plastic to he knows we will never put him in a dangerous situation and learn to trust us a little more.
His training methods are based on the observation of horses in the wild and the firm belief of everyone who works with Gary is that no matter what problem the horse brings with it, there is always a possibility of change and the chance of a better life for both horse and owner.He does not resort to beating, shouting or abuse, but uses calmer, straightforward methods that allow the horse to quickly learn and respond in the light of their own natural behavioural patterns. In this way they learn to accept human control as quickly as possible and are ready to begin their work in a much shorter space of time.
Wally has been there for 5 days now and progress is being made. First he needs to be less scared of humans so he has been playing with shakers, umbrellas and plastic to he knows we will never put him in a dangerous situation and learn to trust us a little more.
Gary is positive he can help us and hopefully we will have an amazing talent in all phases on his return.
The big catch up!!
Sorry for being completely useless keeping you up to speed on my news...
February seems a long time ago when I last wrote on here.
MARCH
Sadly Tasha has had to take some time off so the beginning of March was rather hectic with no help and 8 horses in work with the event season looming, luckily I have some awesome friends and some forgiving parents who stepped into help until I found a new groom. thankfully this didn't take too long and Claudia Smith started with us. She is a great asset to the team, it's lovely to see her with the horses and she has yet to moan when asked to do the worst jobs!
Tweseldown
ERRIGAL HILL BOY (Dougal) and KINGTON (Stan) headed to Tweseldown to blow the cobwebs away. Dougal was a little excited to be at a party thinking he was back on the hunting field so dressage involed bucking and showing exuberance which I found funny-the judge didn't. Anyway he jumped well for a pole down and clear xc. Stan did a better dressage but wasn't quite right before SJ so sadly he was withdrawn.
Howick
ERRIGAL HILL BOY and WANADOO TOO (Wally) headed to the second event of the year. Dougal was a lot more settled on the flat knocking 7 marks off our previous test but still lots to come from him. He was cheeky showjumping this time and had a silly pole then jumped clear xc-he loves this part!
Wally did a fab dressage which was harshly marked for a 28, clear sj and went beautifully xc picking up a silly green stop in the latter part of the course but hugely improved from last year. Without this he would have been very well placed.
Larkhill
Next Stop was Larkhill with WANADOO TOO and PENCARDER SILVER STORM (Rosie) contesting the novice and ERRIGAL HILL BOY in the pn. Dougal again improved on the flat, jumped to have 2 unlucky poles and had a green look at the log before the water.
Wally's test was sadly destroyed by a scramble bike zooming upto the arena threatening to eat him on entry so he lost a lot of marks from tension still he was lying 4th after this phase on a 32, he had an annoying pole and was clear sj but blotted his score with a huge amount of time penalties from hanging to the lorries between the first few fences...grrrr.
Rosie was very pleased to be out so dressage was not as good as she can be, sj she had a pole and flew xc as per usual.
Portman
KINGTON went for a jolly round the OPN at Portman. He did a rather excitable dressage to score 36. He showjumped fantastically for a clear and flew xc finishing on his dressage score which left us 12th. He is now heading for dressage school to learn to behave himself!!
Larkhill Hunter Trial
So having had a naughty experience at Larkhill the week before we decided to head back to the RA Pony Club Hunter Trial round pretty much the same courses. We took ERRIGAL HILL BOY, WANADOO TOO and NASEBY (Jerry). Jerry was doing his first xc round having only schooled once at Boomerang. He did the 2ft 6 and took it all in his stride, I am very positive about this horses' future as he seems to have a very straight forward attitude and loves his work.
Dougal had obviously learned from his mistake and flew round without batting an eyelid at anything so I was very pleased with him.
Wally was not in the mood to play and although he went round clear he had a few pauses on the way-so frustrating as he is one of the most talented horses I have been lucky enough to have so we are now thinking of plan of attack two with him...watch this space.
Hambleden
Next stop was to the beautiful Hambleden estate sadly too early for the bluebells to be in full swing. ERRIGAL HILL BOY and KINGTON were both in the pn/opn.
Stanley produced one of his better tests this year to score 32, sadly with a huge amount of rain the venue was soon looking like a mud pit and Stan didn't enjoy showjumping slipping into the first fence before jumping clear. Having a fair amount of experience I decided he could run xc but steady in order for him to regain some confidence. He popped round without issue collecting a handfull of time but he is now ready to head back up to Novice level.
Dougal was performing his best test to date until some horses popped out of nowhere scaring him and ruining the end of the test, even the judge got out to say what a shame!! Showjumping was interesting as we got caught in the most horrendous hailstorm with hail the size of peas!! Dougal was not sure about this stinging his entire body so I threw him back in the lorry until the worst had passed. WE then warmed up again and decided, although the conditions were worsening, that we would run him. He jumped brilliantly loving the mud!! His first clear. Sadly I decided he isn't experienced enough yet to jump out of the deepest mud I've seen in a long time so I withdrew him before xc.
Very sadly for Hambleden they had to cancel the next 2 days of competition due to the ground conditions. I was secretly relieved as I didn't fancy jumping Rosie around her first intermediate in those conditions and I'm not sure Wally would have liked it much either!!
February seems a long time ago when I last wrote on here.
MARCH
Sadly Tasha has had to take some time off so the beginning of March was rather hectic with no help and 8 horses in work with the event season looming, luckily I have some awesome friends and some forgiving parents who stepped into help until I found a new groom. thankfully this didn't take too long and Claudia Smith started with us. She is a great asset to the team, it's lovely to see her with the horses and she has yet to moan when asked to do the worst jobs!
Tweseldown
ERRIGAL HILL BOY (Dougal) and KINGTON (Stan) headed to Tweseldown to blow the cobwebs away. Dougal was a little excited to be at a party thinking he was back on the hunting field so dressage involed bucking and showing exuberance which I found funny-the judge didn't. Anyway he jumped well for a pole down and clear xc. Stan did a better dressage but wasn't quite right before SJ so sadly he was withdrawn.
Howick
ERRIGAL HILL BOY and WANADOO TOO (Wally) headed to the second event of the year. Dougal was a lot more settled on the flat knocking 7 marks off our previous test but still lots to come from him. He was cheeky showjumping this time and had a silly pole then jumped clear xc-he loves this part!
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| Photo Courtsey Photo Synergy |
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| Photo Courtesy Photo Synergy |
Next Stop was Larkhill with WANADOO TOO and PENCARDER SILVER STORM (Rosie) contesting the novice and ERRIGAL HILL BOY in the pn. Dougal again improved on the flat, jumped to have 2 unlucky poles and had a green look at the log before the water.
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| Photo Courtsey Ultimate Images |
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| Photo Courtsey Steve Bell |
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| Photo Courtesy Ultimate Images |
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| Photo Courtesy Catherine Jones |
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| Photo Courtesy Ultimate Images |
Portman
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| Photo Courtesy Mud Sports |
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| Photo Courtesy Mud Sports |
So having had a naughty experience at Larkhill the week before we decided to head back to the RA Pony Club Hunter Trial round pretty much the same courses. We took ERRIGAL HILL BOY, WANADOO TOO and NASEBY (Jerry). Jerry was doing his first xc round having only schooled once at Boomerang. He did the 2ft 6 and took it all in his stride, I am very positive about this horses' future as he seems to have a very straight forward attitude and loves his work.
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| Photo Courtesy Mud Sports |
Wally was not in the mood to play and although he went round clear he had a few pauses on the way-so frustrating as he is one of the most talented horses I have been lucky enough to have so we are now thinking of plan of attack two with him...watch this space.
Hambleden
Next stop was to the beautiful Hambleden estate sadly too early for the bluebells to be in full swing. ERRIGAL HILL BOY and KINGTON were both in the pn/opn.
Stanley produced one of his better tests this year to score 32, sadly with a huge amount of rain the venue was soon looking like a mud pit and Stan didn't enjoy showjumping slipping into the first fence before jumping clear. Having a fair amount of experience I decided he could run xc but steady in order for him to regain some confidence. He popped round without issue collecting a handfull of time but he is now ready to head back up to Novice level.
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| Photo Courtesy Ultimate Images |
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| Photo Courtesy Digital Equine |
Very sadly for Hambleden they had to cancel the next 2 days of competition due to the ground conditions. I was secretly relieved as I didn't fancy jumping Rosie around her first intermediate in those conditions and I'm not sure Wally would have liked it much either!!
Sunday, 12 February 2012
Winter updates-Hartpury JAS
We have been busy getting the horses back fit in preparation for the coming season which is only 3 weeks away!!! Errigal Hill Boy (Dougal) and Kington (Stanley) are ahead of the others in terms of fitness and have been out to unaffiliated jumping competitions with many wins and placings. Stanley qualified for the JAS BE100 final on his first attempt with a 3rd placing at Hartpury at the end of January, and Dougal had just one pole in both the BE 90 and 100, pretty impressive for his first attempt at anything like this.
Today we returned to Hartpury to take part in the second JAS competition there, Dougal did the BE90 again and scored an impressive 8 for style with just one time fault, sadly I have to compete in 90 HC as I have ridden at Advanced level so I was unable to claim my win but he would have won by 3 marks. In the BE100 again he jumped fantasically this time going inside the time and claiming the win, a brilliant achievement for a horse who has not been in work all that long and has certainly never done anything like this before. He is definitely an eye catcher and well loved by us and his owner Simon Hall. Kington just had one pole down in the BE100 leaving him just out of the top 10. I decided to withdraw him from the Novice as I am struggling with brakes since his winter hunting!!
Thanks to Baileys for their support of the JAS series, very useful as we already feed all of the horses their feeds and they definitely make all the difference.
Other very exciting news....Jimmy (Zeus of Rushall) has just started cantering in the school- a massive thrill for me having gone through 9 months of him testing my patience, he feels fabulous and I can't wait to get him out eventing again later in the season.
Today we returned to Hartpury to take part in the second JAS competition there, Dougal did the BE90 again and scored an impressive 8 for style with just one time fault, sadly I have to compete in 90 HC as I have ridden at Advanced level so I was unable to claim my win but he would have won by 3 marks. In the BE100 again he jumped fantasically this time going inside the time and claiming the win, a brilliant achievement for a horse who has not been in work all that long and has certainly never done anything like this before. He is definitely an eye catcher and well loved by us and his owner Simon Hall. Kington just had one pole down in the BE100 leaving him just out of the top 10. I decided to withdraw him from the Novice as I am struggling with brakes since his winter hunting!!
Thanks to Baileys for their support of the JAS series, very useful as we already feed all of the horses their feeds and they definitely make all the difference.
Other very exciting news....Jimmy (Zeus of Rushall) has just started cantering in the school- a massive thrill for me having gone through 9 months of him testing my patience, he feels fabulous and I can't wait to get him out eventing again later in the season.
Thursday, 12 January 2012
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to you all. All the horses are now back in work. Rosie came back in from her break looking like a hairy pony, but now she is all clipped and looking back to the classy horse we know she is! Jimmy continues to make progress and I am very excited that he will be eventing this season. Stanley and Dougal are fit and entered for their first JAS competitions at Hartpury next weekend, Dougal will do the Intro HC as he has never seen anything like that and Stan in doing the PN and Novice classes. They have both been hunting, massively enjoying themselves and learning a bit along the way too. I will be out and about with them all showjumping and Wally has his Dressage Regional final to take part in next month. So it's all go go go from now until the season, and I can't wait, I have made my proposed eventing plan for the first half of the season and if all goes to plan it should mean I have 3 going to Houghton Three day event in May. More on this nearer the time.....
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