A better day, and a good finish!
We had a turtle view just as we were about to leave – X rated!! But since we love box turtles, we thought it a good omen…
We loaded horses at 1:30 PM and left for our last day of showing this week. When we arrived at the show, we discovered the schedule was running an hour behind expectations. But we managed to fill the time visiting with friends and watching some hunter rounds. A big part of horse showing is social at this stage of our lives. Yes, we would love to be competitive, but we are more interested in having fun and sharing time with others who care about horsemanship. And let’s face it, we really aren’t that competitive! We just don’t want to embarrass ourselves or Kris, and we do want to do right by our wonderful horses.
Our friends, Laura, Caroline, and Dave came to cheer us on, which added to the fun. Laura’s mother gave me the opportunity to ride when I was young, and none of this would be possible for me without that chance to ride Connemaras. I love that I have returned to riding Irish horses all these decades later. Many years ago – Tre Twain Tourbillon and a young Anne…
Tonight – Bartholomew Fair (Bart) and an old Anne…
Jane and Derry entered the Low Adult Jumpers. They were first in the ring for their class, and went clear, but just over the time allowed. Since the time was still being monitored, they were allowed to jump off, and had a smooth, clear jump off round, so technically, a double clear! Jane opted to scratch the Low Adult Classic, since Derry felt a little tired and she had jumped well. They earned a pink 5th place ribbon for their final trip this week – a great note to end on.
I was so nervous before the High Adult Classic that I really got my cardio workout! Bart was peppy and perfect, and we were able to execute the plan that Kris gave us. Bart jumped so well in the warm up area, I just wanted to put him away and give him his dinner, but he continued to jump well in the ring. I was able to relax my arms, which helped with finding the jumps, as we learned with Melanie Smith Taylor in August. We had a double clear round and placed 4th in good company. I feel incredibly lucky.
Home at 9 PM, and out to the pasture for a night of grazing and a well earned rest for our horses, who are such perfect mounts for #oldladieshorseshowing! More next week – showing outside at The St. Louis National Charity…
Pink is a good and flattering color!! Even for a red head.