Spring at last

Double Win for Sebastian and Celebrations at the CHN Performance Awards.

MKEC- Sebastian wins Novice and Elementary.

Rachel and I travelled through rain and sleet yesterday both wondering if this was a good idea but the Sunshine joined the party and the gusts of wind gave me a rather forward Sebastian to ride. In the work in he was more than happy with the loosening phase and was soon swinging along. As I began to ask for more engagement he grew another couple of hands! Counter canter became my new best friend and worked wonders keeping his attention on me.

The tests themselves felt a little fast forward though the shapes were accurate and we created a good impression though perhaps our centre lines and halts need a little more work!
Winning means we have qualified for the Trailblazers Second round in April and I am looking forward to ironing out the halt transitions and hopefully qualifying for Stoneleigh.

Elegance at The Holt

On Saturday evening we attended the CHN 100 issue celebration and performance awards. Editor Barbara wore a beautiful dress the colour was stunning and she looked so elegant. Throughout the evening a slide show of the CHN wall of fame played CHN horses and Jack and I were featured. The photo of us at Hartpury looks fantastic on the big screen!
We came fourth in the Dressage rankings this is two places up on last year and I am pleased with this as Jack had a short competition season in 2008. Perhaps 2009 will promote us to the "medal zone" as Phil suggested to me on Friday? Jack is now back in work and I am aiming to compete before the Central Training Camp in May. Watch this space!