Rusty groom

The last time I was at the Suffolk Show, back in 2019, Buddy and I graced the ring. Today I donned my groom’s hat and grabbed the basket.

This was my charge – the most adorable Ernie. Though I wasn’t loving the early start. 5:30am is definitely not my best time of the day. And who decided that 7:30am was a good time to have a showing class?!

Still they were ready for the ring in good time. And learnt a lot from the experience. I have to admit, I was a little ring rusty. It’s been a while since I groomed at a County Show. Thank god for muscle memory. It really does come back to you.

Maybe next year, I need to bring Buddy out of showing semi-retirement and join the pony party…

Pretty in pink

Today we headed to Easton College for Carlton Riding Club’s Pink Show for Big C. For lots of reasons, we haven’t been out competing recently and it showed. We were a bit rusty.

Still we successfully competed in 70cm (with 12 faults) and 80cm (with 8 faults). No placings today but lots to be pleased with.

I know the faults came from poor lines on my part. Definitely something to work on. Guess we’ll just have to get out more over the winter.

XC at last

Oh my days, it was good to be back at Blackwater and XC schooling. It’s been 6 months since our last trip there.

There have been a few changes. The addition of a new practise jump was not to Buddy’s liking. Resulting in my sharp exit stage right. Slightly winded, I got back onboard and we got over it eventually. What is it about me and practice fences?!

After that he was such a good boy. We were both a bit rusty and it showed. Still there were lots of positives to take away from today.