tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35262421443820362502023-11-16T09:10:25.482-08:00Bryland BlogWelcome to the Bryland Blog, we will be regularly adding updates on all the goings on with Caz and John!
Please subscribe to this blog and you will receive an email to let you know when updates have been added!Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-79039224158129746162013-08-20T03:48:00.002-07:002013-08-20T03:48:32.803-07:00Hendersyde BE100 - it all came together!Hi All<br />
<br />
I posted a couple of weeks ago about my run at Auchinleck when we got a
24.5 dressage for the first time ever. Well my usual scores this year
have been around 38 so to get this was AMAZING!<br />
<br />
having then lead after Dr and SJ we had a stop on the xc which was quite
unusual and I was worried that my horse was backing off after his
Novice runs haven't gone as smoothly as planned. <br />
<br />
Anyway, we went to Hendersyde this weekend to try and replicate our
dressage again, this time deciding to warm up for as little as possible
and ride a quite test. So my warm up consisted of leg yeilding,
walk/trot transitions and a couple of canter transitions to get him off
the leg and light in my hand. <br />
<br />
headed to the arena and set off. the test felt nice but not as good as
Auchinleck, he trotted in the FWLR as i'd been doing almost walk
transitions in the warm up so perhaps not do these next time!!<br />
<br />
Finished Dr and went off to walk the SJ and XC, score went up and we got
a 28!! not bad again, this left us around 10th after DR. <br />
<br />
SJ was a funny arena. Quite undulating and all the jumps had the
fillers on the sides of the fences - which is sometimes worse than being
underneath - but I think this is due to it being windy. The hanging
baskets on all jump wings were flapping in the breeze and the course was
causing lots of issues in the BE90. <br />
<br />
Got tacked up and headed over, J was jumping well in the warm up so
headed in. Got half way round to the first fence and he had a porky at
the crowds and flags! spun round and shot off. Gathered him back up
and trotted past fence 8. circled round thankful that I have 45 seconds
to start, and headed back to fence 1. He popped round lovely, clear
round with a couple of spooky bits but jumped super <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin-new.png" title="Biggrin" /> <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin-new.png" title="Biggrin" /> <br />
<br />
So came out clear, with just the xc to go!<br />
<br />
headed to xc, a bit apprehensive. there were elephants and a skinny
thistle fence that was making me a bit nervous that he would spook. I
even checked out the thistle skinny alternative!! <br />
<br />
Headed off to the first few fences and he flew them, ears pricked
looking for the next fence and boldy taking them on. He did back off
the elephant but I was having none of it and he popped it, then headed
off and flew the bank. I kept a good contact to the thistle fence and
he popped that too and galloped home without an issue. I'm thrilled he
went clear and inside the time. He totally ate the ground up - this year
he has really learnt to gallop. <br />
<br />
And I finished 2nd <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin-new.png" title="Biggrin" /> <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin-new.png" title="Biggrin" /> <br />
<br />
the winner is a lovely rider who has a lot of experience and she
finished 3.5 penalties ahead of me so I'm super chuffed we were only a
few marks off the winner. I checked out our dressage sheet to find I
got a 9 for my halt <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin-new.png" title="Biggrin" />
and a 5 for my walk! so if we hadn't trotted and we work on his walk,
we could almost get those extra marks to put us in contention.<br />
<br />
I am super thrilled that we have really improved this season. and
keeping my fingers crossed that those dressage scores are not a fluke!!<br />
<br />
anyway some piccies:<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/343f599c-d2e8-4348-b4e5-f0a30e375d1e_zps6575036d.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0923_zps7f43190b.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0915_zpsf2f936f1.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0910_zpsfe01eb46.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0876_zps1094928b.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
All pics taken by lovely OH <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin-new.png" title="Biggrin" />Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-69699036356114792052013-08-20T03:47:00.000-07:002013-08-20T03:47:00.570-07:00Late reports sorry! Auchinleck BE100So last weekend I had entered J into the BE100 at Auchinleck, since we
ran at Hopetoun in the Novice I have decided that we are both not quite
ready for that level so it will be BE100’s for the rest of the year. My
times for Auchinleck were pretty late on so didn’t even leave home
until 10am! It was practically a lie-in to not get up before 8am –
although a bit weird!<br />
<br />
Arrived with plenty of time and the sun shining – thankfully it wasn’t
too hot inside the lorry and J was very settled with his water and hay
as we went off to walk the xc. The course was lovely – having only been
to Auchinleck once before a long time ago I couldn’t really remember
what it was like but none of the fences looked to be asking too many
questions and I was hopeful that we would have a nice pop round. <br />
<br />
Arrived back with chief course walker (the lovely Labrador) and John who has twisted his ankle <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown-new.png" title="Frown" />
while walking the course and left them to start getting ready. Left
putting my jacket on until the last minute as it was becoming a scorcher
of a day by this point. Slowly started to melt as I was walking over
to the dressage and got on with warming up. J was warming up even
better after a few pointers from my instructor LL who was judging the
other section of riders and headed over to start my test. <br />
<br />
Then a funny thing happened…..<br />
<br />
We normally start to get tense on the trot around the arena, but after
my chat with LL it has become clear that its not the horse, more the
rider who gets tense and after the small pep talk, I spent the time
focusing on releasing the tension and J went beautifully. Carried on
this plan for the duration of the test and J seemed to be well behaved,
cantering when we were supposed to. The trot, walk, trot transition
first time was a bit iffy as we broke after two strides and I wasn’t
sure if I should do it again or carry on so muffed it a bit. Anyway we
have been working on his canter, doing transitions, moving on and back
and counter canter (as it really makes him sit) and I think it has
started to pay off as his canter was light and on his hocks. He was a
bit worried about the give and retake which I don’t really practice at
home but still managed it, and even his walk wasn’t so bad. <br />
<br />
Came out of the ring feeling that it was a nice test, but as we normally get 38, I was hopeful of a 35 maybe a 33. <br />
<br />
Headed over to the SJ, to find no-one in the warm up, popped over a
couple then went to find out the course. J was jumping nicely and after
our rubbish round at Hopetoun (he had a very unusual stop then two down
in the Novice) I was aiming to get round with no more than one down.
Which is what we achieved! We still had the customary one fence down
but it was a bit of both our errors, I tried in a rubbish way to get him
back for the down hill fence 6, but he was fighting me and when I saw a
stride I just took it rather than really getting him back so we booted
it out. He was a better round than at Hopetoun but I think I was riding
him a bit too strongly as he looked a bit worried over a couple of
fences – still he left them up! Something to work on getting him to
relax again anyway. <br />
<br />
Came back to the lorry to find a text to say we were in the lead on a Dr score of 24.5 <br />
<br />
24.5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I did have a bit of an astonished
and disbelieving look about me for a while before it sunk in that even
after SJ we were still in the lead <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile-new.png" title="Smile" /><br />
<br />
Then I blew it! <br />
<br />
Headed over for the xc, determined to go clear. J has never had a fault
in any xc run up to Novice – his record was only tarnished this year
with the 3 novice runs I did and two of those were numpty jockey errors.
However he was backing off a lot of the Novice so I have decided to
keep him at the 100 for confidence. I wasn’t really expecting it to be a
problem, and set off out of the start box thankful of the wind
whistling past to keep us cool! Jumped the first few fences and he flew
them, backed off a couple later on but still jumped them when asked,
saw some long strides and he took them easily and headed off down to
fence 11. This was a hanging long going into the trees, I knew the
light to dark thing might be a problem so sat down and rode him over him
which he backed off but still jumped when asked. Once landed I turned
and went through the trees to the coffin – roll top, one stride to
ditch, then one stride to log. Popped the first part then to my horror
he spooked at the ditch and ran sideways <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown-new.png" title="Frown" />
the ditch was very long so we hadn’t actually turn away or stepped back
but the hesitation was there and even though we then jumped it, I had
already heard the jump judge shout the ‘first refusal’ so carried on and
finished well but gutted that we had done so badly on the xc!<br />
<br />
<br />
We also picked up 6 time faults which is 15 seconds over the time. I
reckon about 5 seconds was for the ditch so we would still have
collected time faults although we would have been placed as the time was
extremely tight. <br />
<br />
I’m annoyed with myself for assuming he would have popped the ditch,
he’s never been a ditchy horse but looking at the photos John took, there
was a very bright sunny spot coming out of the trees right over the
ditch so maybe that was it? We jumped the next ditch on the way home
fine so I’m hoping that will still have given him some confidence for
his next run at Hendersyde. <br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0805_zps7a3ca370.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
It’s the first time I have ever found myself being so close to doing
really well at an event! I’m now on a mission to make it happen more
often (the dressage, not the abysmal xc!!)
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-80217832802482777352013-08-20T03:44:00.003-07:002013-08-20T03:44:54.971-07:00Late reports sorry! Hopetoun BE NoviceHi all. <br />
<br />
So I was writing for the dressage judge on sat at Hopetoun and then when
finished, went off and walked the 100a and Novice xc course.<br />
<br />
I was originally entered to do the 100 but on walking the xc and hearing
from others who were also walking it, I think they have made the novice
there a bit easier than in previous years as I honestly didn't think
there was anything we couldn't do. <br />
<br />
Put on my brave pants and asked if it would be poss to move classes. Kindly they said I could <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile-new.png" title="Smile" />. Think there was a wait list for the 100. <br />
So on the Sunday I headed over and walked it again. Was still pleased with my decision so tacked up and headed to dressage<br />
<br />
38.5 dr which I know could be better if we could sort the tension but
still no worse than we get at 100 (or at 90, or 80 it would seem!)<br />
<br />
SJ was a disaster. Not the size, mostly muppet jockey who hasn't really
noticed the carnage that the double at fence 6 was causing. My horse is
not spooky at all and we were going clear until then when he stopped at
the first part <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/confused-new.png" title="Confused" />!
This was happening a lot through the day but I hadn't really noticed
this so didn't ride any different and as he's not a spooky horse I just
assumed he'd be fine! Anyway represented and he then jumped it fine, but
the stop had worried him so he then had two down. Ended up with 9 time
also<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown-new.png" title="Frown" />. <br />
<br />
Headed over to xc. He felt really good in the warm up, jumped a couple
of fences one on an angle then headed to the start. I was a little
nervous but a friend was doing the xc stewarding and said all the right
things!<br />
<br />
Set off and flew the first 3. They were log, sticky fence thing, and
roll top. Then the rain came and came!! By the time I was coming to
fence 14 I couldn't see where I was going! <br />
<br />
fence 4 was a box brush, a few strides onto 5abc which was a large
rustic house thing, 3 strides to a ski jump/drop(with huge ditch behind -
rider frightener) then 4 strides to a skinny up a hill. Fence 6 was a
wide white table, and onto a roll top in the trees on an angle and down
to fence 8abc, a hexagonal roll top thing, one stride to a drop, then
three strides to a (very) narrow skinny brush. there was an alternative
to 'c' which was the 100 skinny and was on a much tighter right turn,
but doable. <br />
<br />
Brave little grey jumped his heart out but we collected 20 penalties as
he had a spook on approach to fence 8, we were about 5 strides away and I
hadn't presented but I think it was in the grey area of setting up for
the fence. Anyway not to worry, popped it and went for the tight turn to
the alternative at C which he did easily. carried onto fence 9 another
table which he backed off alot at but still jumped. fence 10 was a
pheasant feeder and flew it - I then went the wrong side of the string <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes-new.png" title="Rolleyes" />
so quick turn round and on the right track - heading for 11ab which was
a narrow pair of kennels on a curve. was worried J would slip out the
side door but he locked on and popped them. then turned right to head
to the owl hole which a few had miss walked. It started a conversation
on the day about whether you count your fences as you ride round - I
always do but lots of people don't. <br />
Anyway, pinged through the owl hole and headed to the water. it was an
upturned boat in, then a small jump in the water - for some reason we
always grind to a trot in water, but he popped it easily from trot and
onto fence 14. this was a branch of a tree, with a whiskey barrel
underneath, 5 strides to fence 15 a wide table. Was an easy line but he
backed off and ended up banking it which was a bit <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek-new.png" title="Eek!" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek-new.png" title="Eek!" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown-new.png" title="Frown" />. He carried on fine, but I was really having to keep leg on and drive at the big fences. <br />
<br />
popped the next viaduct fence, then round to pallisade 17ab, with 'b'
being a skinny on a curve - no problems for him there and onto the last
which was a roll top. <br />
<br />
came through the finish with his ears pricked (helmet cam doesn't lie <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile-new.png" title="Smile" />)
but for me, I feel he is not ready for this level yet - and me as a
rider needs to buck my ideas up and start riding more accurately - I
managed to go the wrong side of the string, and at the last event ended
up jumping the wrong ditch so Jockey needs a telling off!! <br />
<br />
Horse on the other hand, has had plenty of polo mints, hugs, and pats
for having a heart of gold. i am going to stick to 100's now for the
remaining season to boost his confidence. I have no doubt he has the
ability to do it, but i'd rather build on his confidence more and try
again another season. <br />
<br />
Shame about the 20 pens as he doesn't deserve it, but my new plan is to
aim to get our dressage down to the early 30's at 100. fingers crossed! <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile-new.png" title="Smile" /><br />
<br />
Pics (I have permission to post!):<br />
<br />
Fence 5b<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/Hopetoun%20BE%20Novice/photo1_zpsf2c81385.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/ca...81385.jpg.html</a><br />
<br />
Fence 6<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/Hopetoun%20BE%20Novice/photo_zpsec2857db.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/ca...857db.jpg.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Pretty galloping one:<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/Hopetoun%20BE%20Novice/photo2_zpsbf492952.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/ca...92952.jpg.html</a>Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-17842700749805673672013-08-20T03:43:00.003-07:002013-08-20T03:43:58.322-07:00Late reports sorry! - RHS Working Hunter! Hi all<br />
<br />
So last week I was off work for the week to give OH and I plenty of time to get ready for the Royal Highland Show. <br />
<br />
So I was meant to attend a cousins wedding in cumbria on the Friday, unfortunately I came home to find L colicing in the field <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown-new.png" title="Frown" />
ended up taking him through to work and he stayed over night and I
slept in the lorry so I was already there for Friday morning! Was much
easier than going home as it was after midnight before we finished
scanning him. Turns out he had a left sided dorsal entrapment which
thankfully was a partial one and it had resolved through starvation by
Friday – think he just didn’t want to be lunged myself but anyway he
spent the day staring people out in the hope of being fed. So I
unfortunately missed the wedding <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown-new.png" title="Frown" /><br />
<br />
Anyway L came home on Saturday and has been fine ever since, rode him a
couple of times over the last week and he was pretty good – until a jet
plane flew overhead – had a brief moment where I could see it coming, he
jumped on the spot as it went past then stood like a lamb, phew! Set
off to do a bit in walk and trot when he decided to leap sideways and
bronc – totally took me by surprise and I nearly came off! When he
stopped he just calmly carried on quite the thing. Cheeky boy <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin-new.png" title="Biggrin" /> <br />
<br />
Getting onto the RHS:<br />
<br />
The Royal Highland is the first show of the year for us to show our
sheep. Last year we had amazing success with Rudolph winning breed
champion but this year the small number of sheep we have to choose from
didn’t really give us anything we expected to do well with. We have one
tup who is lovely but since fighting over winter he has a scar on his
nose so decided to leave him behind and take the other two shearling
tups. So with two shearling ewes and two tups for the classes we loaded
up and took them to the showfield. <br />
<br />
As I had entered Jack in the working hunter class we also had a look at
the course. Most years the WH course is a bit lower due to the weather
and ground but as the ring had been returfed and the weather was lovely
it was maximum height! <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown-new.png" title="Frown" /><br />
<br />
Having had a glass of pimms when I walked it, I decided to get my brave
pants on and give it a go, cue getting up at 5am to bath, plait and get
to the showfield by 7am. Walked the course again and didn’t feel any
better in the cold light of day! Tacked up with the help of John and Helen
and headed over to warm up. <br />
<br />
At this point I felt better, Jack was jumping well and felt like he had
loads of energy. Went in and jumped an alright round – The first fence
was away from the collecting ring right next to the crowd. Turn back to
a set of planks which several people had sliding stops at it and one
came down, around to the first full up height fence, along the
collecting ring fence (which has a wind proof sheet along it so you can
really only see bobbing heads!). After fence three it was a curved
related line to a treble (two strides each part) and onto another
parallel on a curve which was facing into the grandstand at the top end.
<br />
<br />
Once over that you turn to the middle to jump the 'bushy, treey complex'
which involves a skinny curved gate into a beech tree area, then four
or five strides on a left curved through trees and back out over a
skinny curved gate, turn left and head down a narrow alleyway of bushy
branches (and over a few strategically placed for you to jump over) and
over a style, then three or four strides to some extremely flimsy
planks. right turn over a night upright, then onto a white gate and
down to a double - parallel going in, upright out, and left turn round
to the last fence near the entrance which has a water tray underneath. <br />
<br />
There were alot of problems with half of the class retiring or being
eliminated. in fact there was only one clear round and one on four
faults by the end of the class - sadly I wasn't one of them!<br />
<br />
However we didn't disgrace ourselves too much! we had the skinny gate
going in, the flimsy planks coming out and the white gate, so ended up
on 12 faults. all rider error - I managed to get him too deep to them
all, but he jumped all the big fences and came out of the ring with a
smile on his face. <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile-new.png" title="Smile" /><br />
<br />
Sorry about the photo size - they were given to me by a friend who used a posh camera - not sure how to resize!<br />
<br />
Last part of the treble<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMGL3299_zps64752454.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/ca...52454.jpg.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Style fence<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMGL3313_zpsf8447841.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/ca...47841.jpg.html</a><br />
<br />
First part of the double<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMGL3326_zps6d522d76.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/ca...22d76.jpg.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Last fence - showing the bushy fence decorations!<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMGL3334_zps3bec9b82.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/ca...c9b82.jpg.html</a> <br />
<br />
<br />
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-81077439622568297102013-06-03T08:29:00.000-07:002013-06-04T00:45:17.545-07:00Sack the Jockey! Belsay Novice BE reportHi all<br />
<br />
<br />
Following Floors Castle BE100 double clear we headed down to Belsay on
Saturday afternoon to stable overnight and run in the Novice on Sunday.
<br />
<br />
Trudy (the truck) is feeling back to normal and travelled like a dream,
arriving at the horse trials around 3pm. Walked the xc and it looked
decent. The organisers have built a lovely course making full use of
the hilly ground. I noticed there were also some wider ditches and
ramps which I am guessing is in readiness for an intermediate in the
future perhaps? <br />
<br />
Anyway, went to the stabling and it was really nice, J thankfully knows
how to duck going through doorways as they were a bit low but once in
his stable he was very settled. <br />
<br />
watched Top Gun - what a great film - that night and headed to bed.
Reviewed the course in my head the next day using the photos and did all
my to-do list before loading up to head the 1 mile to the showfield. <br />
<br />
Went over to Dr, ended up on a 41, which i know we could do better so
not too disappointed. Struck off on the wrong leg in canter which
worried him so no medium canter strides shown, halted but went to step
back before the rein back and other bits of tension. I actually warmed
him up for longer (40mins rather than 30) and felt he was in front of my
leg much more than usual - my instructor has told me I need to get
after him more and I thought it worked this time. Just a shame about
the blips but not bad. <br />
<br />
warm up looking pretty (biased I know!)<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0473_zps54133afa.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0473_zps54133afa.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
SJ an hour later, we were 4th to go in the ring and although it had been
rolled from the day before, it was sticky and holding. The warm up was
perfect so it didn't give the horse the feeling of what it would be
like in the ring. Had the first fence <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" />
then I rode too forward. Ended up with two more down as mucked up the
related line and the double. It was a decent track and I should have
jumped him at home in the week but didn't - bad jockey!<br />
<br />
Onto XC, again we were 4th to go, felt like it would be a test for us as
it was our second Novice track, and had already decided to take the
alternative at fence 17 (very large corner!) which would be time wasting
but as I wasn't running for the time, I wasn't bothered. I did wear a
watch for interest although only looked at it once! <br />
<br />
Anyway, set off and up the long uphill stretch over the first 3 fences,
log fence with hedge behind, roll top, another log fence with hedge,
then 180 degree turn back over the hedge - tiger trap with hedge behind
and down the hill over another similar log with hedge fence and 4
strides to a ski jump with ditch - the logs didn't quite cover the ditch
and J had a look just on take off. He was really trying but he did
back off a few fences. Still when asked to jump he jumped so can't have
asked for more. over fence 7 which was up a man-made ramp and over a
pallisade, and a reasonable gallop to a double of offset caravans, took
the direct line and he pinged them:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0507_zps74122d5d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="374" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0507_zps74122d5d.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
sorry its blurry<br />
<br />
Off to fence 9 and 10, uphill skinny brush to a corner and up the hill to fence 11a/b a brush to whiskey barrels (1 stride) <br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0543_zpsa79e4aab.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0543_zpsa79e4aab.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
and down past the castle over a pretend castle fence and off along the
bottom then up round the castle, up the hill over a steeplechase fence
then onto a trakehner (which was fairly meaty if you ask me), then it
all went wrong! headed down the tree line to fence 15 a skinny log pile
which he flew, then a right turn over a log pile/drop fence - which I
got a good stride to but didn't keep a hold of the left rein and he
drifted and jumped the wrong side of the flag (helmet cam has me doing a
very loud 'ooooh' as we go the wrong side!). the problem was the drop
fence was over a wall into a field so getting back meant having to do a
massive loop back through the course and up the hill to the track again.
Re-presented and jumped for fun, headed over to the roll top,
alternative to the corner and off to the water jump. felt him tire a
bit so decided to jump quietly home and popped the water in and out
fences and went straight on to the ditch , then log/hedge fence before
the last two home. SACK THE JOCKEY! Instead of veering slightly left
over the ditch then right back to the hedge, I went straight and jumped
the wrong side of the flags again!!!! <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" />
really annoyed with myself for stuffing it up twice. Poor horse
jumped the wide ditch quite the thing so I decided to call it a day at
this point. He was tired and had jumped everything so got off and
walked him home. <br />
<br />
Totally stuffed it for my horse, I've never gone wrong on the xc with
navigation before so i've learnt my lesson to read the flags in future.
Just a shame my superstar now has a big far R on his record <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /> <br />
<br />
Going to do Hutton 100, Hopetoun 100 and Poss Auchinleck 100 before trying the Novice at Cumwhinton and Richmond I think. <br />
<br />
Totally sack the jockey, happy for a few slaps in the face for my
rubbish riding, but send polo's to the grey pony for putting up with me <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" /><br />
<br />
Interestingly, he was used a week ago for a research study into gastric
ulcers in competition horses. As someone who knows a bit about this
subject I would say he doesn't show any clinical signs and is in a
management system that gives consideration to ulcers (never without
forage etc etc). Yet he has ulcers! Both in his non-gladular and
glandular region and is now on GG treatment with rescoping in a months
time. I did always suspect he might although no clinical symptoms to
show if he does or not so I'm glad I put him forwards for the study!
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-91683997813319588312013-05-28T02:28:00.003-07:002013-05-28T02:28:33.548-07:00A Father's Explanation of Why He Had Horses for His Children (borrowed from a facebook posting)<div class="mbl" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 20px; word-wrap: break-word; zoom: 1;">
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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My daughter turned sixteen
years old today; which is a milestone for most people. Besides looking
at baby photos and childhood trinkets with her, I took time to reflect
on the young woman my daughter had become and the choices she wouldface
in the future.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
As I looked at her I could
see the athlete she was, and determined woman she would soon be. I
started thinking about some of the girls we knew in our town who were
already pregnant, pierced in several places, hair every color under the
sun, drop outs, drug addicts and on the fast track to no-where, seeking
surface identities because they had no inner self esteem. The parents of
these same girls have asked me why I "waste" the money on horses so my
daughter can ride. I'm told she will grow out of it, lose interest,
discover boys and all kinds of things that try to pin the current
genera-tion' s "slacker" label on my child. I don't think it will
happen, I think she will love and have horses all her life.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Because my daughter grew up
with horses she has compassion. She knows that we must take special care
of the very young and the very old. We must make sure those without
voices to speak of their pain are still cared for.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
Because my daughter grew up
with horses she learned responsibility for others than herself. She
learned that regardless of the weather you must still care for those you
have the stewardship of. There are no "days off" just because you don't
feel like being a horse owner that day. She learned that for every hour
of fun you have there are days of hard slogging work you must do first.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
Because my daughter grew up
with horses she learned not to be afraid of getting dirty and that
appearances don't matter to most of the breathing things in the world we
live in. Horses do not care about designer clothes, jewelry, pretty
hairdos or anything else we put on our bodies to try to</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
<br /> impress others. What a
horse cares about are your abilities to work within his natural world,
he doesn't care if you're wearing $80.00 jeans while you do it. -</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
Because my daughter grew up
with horses she understands the value of money. Every dollar can be
translated into bales of hay, bags of feed or farrier visits. Purchasing
non-necessities during lean times can mean the difference between feed
and good care, or neglect and starvation. She has learned to judge the
level of her care against the care she sees provided by others and to
make sure her stan-dards never lower, and only increase as her knowledge
grows.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
Because my daughter grew up
with horses she has learned to learn on her own. She has had teachers
that cannot speak, nor write, nor communicate beyond body language and
reactions. She has had to learn to "read" her surroundings for both safe
and unsafe objects, to look for hazards where others might only see a
pretty meadow. She has learned to judge people as she judg</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
es horses. She looks beyond appearances and trappings to see what is within.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
Because my daughter grew up
with horses she has learned sportsmanship to a high degree. Everyone
that competes fairly is a winner. Trophies and ribbons may prove someone
a winner, but they do not prove someone is a horseman. She has also
learned that some people will do anything to win, regard-less of who it
hurts. She knows that those who will cheat in the show ring will also
cheat in every other aspect of their life and are not to be trusted.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
Because my daughter grew up
with horses she has self-esteem and an engaging personality. She can
talk to anyone she meets with confidence, because she has to express
herself to her horse with more than words. She knows the satisfaction of
controlling and teaching a 1000 pound animal that will yield willingly
to her gentle touch and ignore the more forceful and i</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
nept handling of those
stronger than she is. She holds herself with poise and professionalism
in the company of those far older than herself.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
Because my daughter grew up
with horses she has learned to plan ahead. She knows that choices made
today can effect what happens five years down the road. She knows that
you cannot care for and protect your investments without savings to fall
back on. She knows the value of land and buildings. And that caring for
your vehicle can mean the difference between easy travel or being
stranded on the side of the road with a four horse trailer on a hot day.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px;">
When I look at what she has
learned and what it will help her become, I can honestly say that I
haven't "wasted" a penny on providing her with horses. I only wish that
all children had the same opportunities to learn these lessons from
horses before setting out on the road to adulthood.</div>
</div>
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-75819083025528643722013-05-20T03:52:00.001-07:002013-05-20T03:52:16.479-07:00Floors BE100 report :)Hi All<br />
<br />
<br />
Entered the BE100 with J as a sweetener to his first Novice run at
Burgham. I am hoping to alternate between Novice and BE100 over this
season to keep him feeling positive with the aim that perhaps we could
think about doing Blair CCI 1* next August 2014 <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" />. <br />
<br />
Anyway my aim for Floors was to get inside the time XC, we have always picked up a few time faults. <br />
<br />
Anyway set off in Trudy (the truck who has been sick recently) and she
drove like a dream to get us there in plenty of time before Dressage.
Unfortunately it rained the whole way there, and all day long. Luckily
for me the occasional dry spell happened when I was riding so J and I
were lucky!<br />
<br />
Dr was in front of the beautiful castle, what an awesome venue, and
although I tried to ride more positive we still get a pants score of
39.0 which left us 24th out of 35 after Dr <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/redface.gif" title="Embarrassment" />, there were loads in the early 30's. <br />
<br />
Video here: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151892127218998" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151892127218998</a><br />
<br />
We had a few hours to wait until after Dr so went to walk the XC.
Unfortunately it monsooned it down and despite being in waterproofs i
was soaked to the knickers! The course was a bold galloping track, with
alot of non-portables, due to the rain the water jump was getting
deeper, the BE100 only had a run in and step out so I wasn't worried.<br />
<br />
Went back to the lorry to get changed and ready to do SJ, tacked up and
headed over to find they were running behind and still had a course
walk. Still it stayed dry while I kept him walking around and watched a
few go - didn't walk the course but could see it was slippery on the
turn back to fence 3 and 6, alot of people had major problems on the
course. The warm up was a bit tricky, due to slippery ground so i only
jumped half a dozen times before going in. <br />
<br />
Video here: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151892896423998" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151892896423998</a> <br />
<br />
Fab Hubby took his camera to video me for the Dr and SJ and took some
photees of the XC. He's great considering it was extremely wet and he is
not horsey at all. <br />
<br />
In the SJ I used the corners to stay wide and balanced, very pleased
that we jumped clear but my upper body was like a sack of potatoes, very
cross with myself for that although J jumped well! We normally have
one down when jumping on grass so I was chuffed - perhaps he likes the
wet!<br />
<br />
Off to XC, due to the time delay SJ they were taking people as you
arrived, as it was very soon after SJ didn't need much so as I only had
one before me I popped the warm up a couple of times before heading to
the start box. <br />
<br />
So off we set and what a round, the boy just locked onto every thing and
flew. The hill beyond a fan fence at fence 7 was slippy but I just
asked him to steady and he slowed! came down the hill to pop fence 8
with ease.<br />
<br />
The only slight hitch we had was in the water, we cantered in and he locked onto the intermediate jump <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" /> had to pull him off it to step out - think he would have jumped it for fun though <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />,
flew the last fences to home. It felt faster than normal so I was
hoping we would be inside the time, there wasn't a single problem with
the ground despite the weather and he had his ears forward the whole
time <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> big pats for the grey pony. <br />
<br />
Went to collect Dr sheet which says on forehand for most of it so need
to work on that. End result was 39.0, Clear SJ and Clear
XC........INSIDE THE TIME.... Woop Woop!! We climbed up to 12th place
with our final score so very pleased with that result. <br />
<br />
The beautiful venue<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0375_zpsf8e045da.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0375_zpsf8e045da.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Fence before the coffin - thanks to Grossick Photography<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/JackFloorsBE100_zps6b7a2ab5.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="315" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/JackFloorsBE100_zps6b7a2ab5.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Coffin - pic taken by hubby <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /><br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0446_zps813c3274.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0446_zps813c3274.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0453_zps4a3fd844.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0453_zps4a3fd844.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0456_zps297b635b.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0456_zps297b635b.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-87327362196774699062013-05-13T04:02:00.001-07:002013-05-13T04:02:26.005-07:00We tried our first Novice!Hi all, <br />
<br />
As you know I had planned on running at our first BE Novice. It would
be a first run for both of us so a decent step. I was determined to try
and get ourselves ready for it – last season was a washout so we had
stuck to running at a couple of BE100’s. Early season runs at Eden
Valley BE90, Kirrimuir BE100 and Hunwick 100 meant that I knew we were
fit enough but time faults would be the norm as we always get them! <br />
<br />
Prepared for our first run for Burgham and went to a two day camp at
Park End last Monday/Tuesday and a flatwork lesson on Thursday with my
weekly instructor with the event then on Saturday. Thought we were very
prepared for it and I had planned to work him in for Dr well as his
trot and canter work has come on a lot recently. SJ warm up planned to
get him in front of my leg and going forwards over the practice jumps
making sure we jumped the oxer at full height before going in to get him
in the air. XC warm up was just to get him going forwards and try to
ride him away from the fences properly to save time and my aim was to
try and get into a rhythm before the 3rd fence. <br />
<br />
Anyway Saturday dawned, got up at 5am, fed and plaited him up then
loaded up to leave at 6am. The journey would take 2.5 hours and as my
Dr was late in the section at 10.50 I wanted to get there to walk the xc
before I started. Collected hubby on the way out along with chief
coursewalker (my Lab) and headed off on time for 6am. <br />
<br />
Then disaster struck…..<br />
<br />
About an hour into the journey the EDC light came on and the lorry
dropped to half power. Creeped for 10 mins like this, even stopping and
starting the lorry to reset it but ended up having to give in and turn
for home. <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" />
Called the secretary who said that they could move me to the end of the
section at 11.46 so I worked out that if we got back we probably had 5
minutes to unload, and load everything into the car/trailer we might
just be lucky enough to get there in time but there would be no time for
warm up or to walk xc. I decided I’d worry about that later!<br />
<br />
Cue calling my friend who owned the trailer, she kindly saved us 10mins
by driving to my house, collecting hubby’s car and taking it to the yard
where her trailer was kept – it was 5mins closer for us. We arrived
just as she pulled in, so hitched up, chucked everything over and gave
her a very quick low down on how to drive my lorry back to my house.
Big thanks to L for all her help.<br />
<br />
On the road again, hubby was driving so I could get changed and all tack
ready to have all systems go when we arrived. He also drives the
trailer better than me anyway! Headed down the long road and managed to
get there for 11.46. The secretary called me to say the judge had
kindly agreed to have a break then judge me so I had a small amount of
breathing space. HUGE HUGE thanks to AM the Dr judge. Was also told to
go straight to the SJ warm up as the class finished at 12.30 and they
wouldn’t wait for too long for me. Decided to jump in my dr bridle, and
gave OH his boots, martingale and whip as well as mounting block to
carry over which he left with the secretary while bringing my number bib
over to the DR. <br />
<br />
Anyway warm up was tense and not very good! Poor horse had been in
transport for 5 hours by this point, literally had 10 mins warm up then
into DR for a 41.5 score. Our average Dr score for tests is between
33.5 and 38.5 so not bad for a level up and a rubbish start. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151866767823998" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151866767823998</a> <br />
<br />
Cantered straight to SJ, jumped a few then went straight in. Had two
down but I would say they were pretty unlucky, he was jumping really
well, fence 3 pole rolled inwards and the second part of the second
double was perhaps due to being too forward going in. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151866699208998&set=vb.690193997&type=3&theater" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v...type=3&theater</a> <br />
<br />
Finally poor J managed to have a rest and a drink as I chucked him at
hubby and went off to run the xc. As I was also feeling a bit under the
weather (grumbling cold) I wasn’t looking forward to it, but I then
found out that I only had 20mins to get to xc warm up! When the
organisers found out I hadn’t walked it, they offered to drive me round
so I was given a quick tour of the course and was back at the trailer in
record time! <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <br />
<br />
Hubby had put his XC boots on and changed his bridle so he was ready to
go – with the exception of his studs which I had no time to put in – was
a little worried about this but didn’t need to, the ground was hard but
grippy and he had good footing the whole way round. <br />
<br />
Set off out the startbox and he backed off the first one and needed a
slap of encouragement on the shoulder, headed off to fence two and it
was a similar experience. He then started to become more confident but
still needed lots of positive riding. We came down to fence 5 which was
a jump into water – never having done this before, I wasn’t sure what
to expect but he jumped in beautifully and popped out over the step to
skinny brush – a jumped that shared the intermediate course! Headed off
over the next few single jumps and over to a double of logs which he
flew and onto a tricky skinny tight turn to corner – some riders had had
problems at this and there was an alternative but he did it textbook!
Jumped over the skinny, beautiful 5 curving strides and over the corner.
What a fab pony <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />
off down to the skinny to trochaner, which I rode badly and he really
could have stopped there if he wanted to. We got really deep to the
trochaner with no impulsion but he just popped it and headed off ears
pricked <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" />
onto a skinny before water splash then over to skinny water skinny and
up the the rugby ball skinny to goal post – again flew them without any
issues and onto the 3rd before last. It was such a simple skinny that I
didn’t ride it properly – kept my stick in the wrong hand and reins a
bit long, just as he was about to take off the plant pot on the top
fluttered and he leapt sideways off the fence <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /> boo, 20 penalties, circled round and he popped it perfectly on second attempt and flew the last two home. <br />
<br />
3b - <a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0268_zps09ab849c.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0268_zps09ab849c.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Just out of the last water<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0281_zps2c644596.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0281_zps2c644596.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Skinny after last water:<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/IMG_0280_zps008e8633.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0280_zps008e8633.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
So our XC record now shows penalties but I’m super thrilled by my boy,
I’m totally gushing at how amazing he was after such a rubbish day. We
did end up with 22 time faults, probably only 8 of those were due to
the run out so still too slow but I’m not bothered, lots of time to work
on it. <br />
<br />
Big pats and polos to him and a MAHOOSIVE thanks to the organisers at Burgham for their awesomeness<br />
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-79467412646931439702013-04-15T12:07:00.000-07:002013-04-15T12:07:47.969-07:00Kirrimuir BE100, Mud, Wind and Rain!<div id="post_message_11714281">
Hi all<br />
<br />
As you know I am hoping that we can make the transition up to Novice
this year and have been trying to get J fit for it. Last week I ran him
at Eden Valley in the BE90 to get us a nice start run – this worked as
planned where we got a double clear and inside the time (time is the
thing we don’t get that often and usually have an average of 6-8 tf) so
after a pleasing first run I had entered Kirrimuir BE100. <br />
<br />
In the run up to the event Trudy the truck took a sicky and has another
couple of weeks garage rest before the nice lorry fixer man will return
her all ready and better. Until then I am loaning a friends trailer or H's lorry. Due to the winds forecast H said I could take hers.
<br />
<br />
So up and bathed on Sunday morning, set off at 7am, collected jnhuk on
the way through as she was my groom for the day. Pootled all the way up
there and then realized that I was maybe pushing it for time a wee bit
and put my foot down! <br />
<br />
Arrived on the showfield to find they were towing us on, it had rained
and rained since 4am and the first lorry to arrive had sunk. We didn’t
have long to wait, the tractor guys were pretty good (I hate being
towed), and we were in our spot in a few minutes. Cue a mad dash to get
number, tacked up, studded up and dressed, although at least the rain
had stopped for a spell. <br />
<br />
Got over to the Dr to find the rider after me had been sent in before
me, so a very quick trot and canter and we headed over to start our
test. Was a bit muddy and I rode a quiet test.<br />
<br />
Video here: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sUOKh6if7M" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sUOKh6if7M</a> <br />
<br />
Had a long time between Dr and SJ, so studs out, hay’d, watered J and
put back on the lorry and headed over for a cuppa and xc course walk.
The SJ warm up was just mud but the SJ ring looked a bit better. Spoked
to course builder who said they would be moving to fresher ground once
BE90 finished. Went over to see my dressage score. <br />
<br />
It read 25.5…<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" />…….but only for 10 minutes before they came over and corrected it to 36.5!!!! <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif" title="Stick Out Tongue" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif" title="Stick Out Tongue" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/wink.gif" title="Wink" /><br />
<br />
Ah well, I did have a brief moment of total shock – thankfully my photo I
took of the 25.5 didn’t upload to facebook so I didn’t have the shame
of everyone thinking I’d done well, only to have to say it was a mistake
<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" /><br />
<br />
Anyway I’m pretty pleased with that score. Last week we did a BE90 and
got 37.0, and this week moved up to BE100 and got 0.5 better!<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /><br />
<br />
So we headed out to walk the XC, the ground was getting pretty deep but
the BE100 track was fresh and unused. I decided that I just wanted to
go clear and wasn’t bothered about the time. It was a very hilly track
and I wasn’t sure he’d be fit enough. <br />
<br />
Didn’t get any photos of the course as we were caught in a proper
monsoon, totally soaked right through to my knickers and I was wearing
waterproof trousers! <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" />
The course looked nice, old fashioned but up to height and I only
thought the novice drop looked enormous so I must be getting used to
seeing those now too!<br />
<br />
Headed back to SJ, changed completely and it managed to stay dry for the
rest of the time, the wind however stayed and was very strong. I
warmed up over a couple of jumps but J got stuck in the mud and nearly
fell over them so I decided to just go straight in. <br />
<br />
Popped round lovely, only clocked the audience coming round to fence 3
and he wasn’t really listening to my leg, jumped it a bit worried and
had it down, popped the rest of the course lovely so not bad for our
first time SJ on grass since last September!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sQ-ZiLBpWc" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sQ-ZiLBpWc</a> <br />
<br />
Got changed and headed to XC. Was a bit boggy in the warm up and again
jumped one fence before heading over to start box – it was so windy I
didn’t hear my 1 minute call, and wandered over to chat to the starter
to be told 10 seconds! Oops!<br />
<br />
Set off XC, popped everything but felt tired on the second hill and let
him run at his own pace. Came home clear but with a bucket load of time
faults – 19!! So not placed but clear, and needing to up the fitness if
we have more hilly ones to do. Also didn't take shorter routes as I
tried to stick to good ground so lost loads of time doing this. Had I
been doing the BE90 I would have only got 8 tf so not really too bad
when you add the ground, fitness and extra jump efforts. Just stuff to
work on for next time. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WORh7qg_qpI" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WORh7qg_qpI</a> <br />
<br />
Headed home with a tired pony, Forth Road Bridge closed due to the wind
so had an extra half and hour detour but J tucked into his grub when we
got home and looked relaxed but tired. I’m pleased to report that he
came out of his stable sound without a bit of heat in his legs and
cantered off down to field when I put him out this morning so I’m pretty
happy with that. <br />
<br />
Pic of the xc finish – you can see what the ground was like. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/carolinefox1/media/JackKirri_zpsabdecd8a.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/JackKirri_zpsabdecd8a.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Have to say that it was a good day and the organizers did a brill job to run it after such a downpour. <br />
<br />
Thanks for reading <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" />
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-9060395421480037502013-04-15T12:03:00.001-07:002013-04-15T12:03:17.671-07:00Eden Valley horse trials BE90 reportHi all<br />
<br />
So our event season started yesterday with an entry in the BE90 at Eden
Valley. As you know I am hoping to move to Novice this year and after a
fall, I decided that the 90 was a good starting point as I wanted to
check that I was fit enough to ride and make it an easy run round for J.<br />
<br />
So in the run up to the event I had a week off work to assist hubby with
lambing duties. During the week Trudy (the truck) decided that she
wasn’t feeling very well and had a temperature so I had to admit her to
lorry garage leaving me with no transport to the horse trials!
Thankfully my friends offer the use of their lorry or trailer and as
Hubby still has a 4x4 I opted for the trailer. <br />
<br />
Loaded everything including the dog into the car and headed down at 7am.
The M74 had been closed at one point near Annan due to an accident but
there were no hold ups at all. Got down there with plenty of time and
met up with Mum who had come along for the day to watch, be groom and
look after chief course walker that is my lovely Labrador! <br />
<br />
Walked the XC, was a beautiful day with the sun shining and the ground
absolutely perfect. There were a couple of extra fences but nothing to
worry about at all. I have been trying hard to work on J’s fitness so
for me this was also a test to see how we would get on. <br />
<br />
Tack up and headed over for the Dressage. This is not my strong point
and in my excitement at being at the first event of the year I got on
too early. He warmed up beautifully and for once I felt that our canter
work might actually be good. Sadly it wasn’t to be as I had got him
ready too early and he was switched off by the time we went in. Ended
up with a 37, which I’m pleased about really. The judge said there was a
lot to like. Our sheet had mostly 6’s and 7’s. His walk needs work –
how to do you get a horse that doesn’t like to free walk, to actually
free walk?! Thank goodness the walk wasn’t a x2 score!<br />
<br />
Anyway onto SJ, last year we totally fluffed the first fence and nearly
fell over it – my friend is the judge there and she had had a giggle at
my rubbish riding (and facial expression at it) – thankfully this year
we redeemed ourselves and jumped a lovely clear round. Met some friends on the way out who recognized my
orangyness! Everyone said it was a lovely round – I didn’t get ahead of
his movement and we left everything up <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /><br />
<br />
Headed back to the lorry, chucked in his studs and tacked up for XC.
Hopped on – and headed over. Once we walked into the XC warm up he
totally lit up. I felt like he was going to jump the queue just so he
could get out there on the course <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />
cantered round and jumped a couple of jumps, didn’t feel like we needed
to do anymore at all and headed over to watch the one before me set
off. Had a lovely chat to the steward, and then the
countdown…..5..4..3..2..1 Had to hold J back – I swear he has learnt to
count! <br />
<br />
<br />
We set off with a blast, and flew round to the first hill after fence 6,
took shorter routes to the fences to save time and he took everything
on. Once over 6 we headed up the hill – I thought this would be when I
could find out how fit he was – (when I walked the course in the morning
there were some seriously out of breath horses one of which nearly fell
over the double at the top) and I can say I didn’t need to worry <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />
once at the top he locked onto the double and flew them. Didn’t feel
it was a long two strides at all. Flew the rest of the course and
didn’t slow when going back up the hill. I rode him determined through
the water as I wanted him to keep cantering through it and I needn’t
have worried, he was just brilliant <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /><br />
<br />
So came home clear, and even better inside the time <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> Bagged ourselves a foundation point but just missed out the tickets and finished 12th. <br />
<br />
Big pats to the grey boy, he wasn’t even that puffed when we finished
either and I’m pleased to report that aside from a bit of muscle pain on
Sunday, my legs worked fine too!<br />
<br />
Photos very kindly taken by a friend – many thanks for them – they are brill <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <br />
<br />
Galloping across the countryside!<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="422" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/edvht2_zpsca3b8b23.png" width="640" /><br />
<br />
Splish Splash<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="422" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/evht7_zps4f27e4a9.png" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/evht10_zps36882395.png" width="640" /><br />
<br />
second to last fence <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /><br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/evht2013_zps272be407.png" width="640" />Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-79770040902432935452013-04-03T02:38:00.000-07:002013-04-03T02:39:13.396-07:00Spring is here!!! A brief update.Hi All<br />
<br />
So not a very long update, promise I will write another one very soon.<br />
<br />
So this week I have had time off work to assist my hubby for the lambing
period. We have only 16 ewes and we sponge them to synchronize their
cycle so that they are lambing around the same time. For us it makes it
easier. <br />
<br />
They were all due to start on Easter Sunday. Unfortunately they didn’t
actually start until Tuesday morning when our lovely homebred ewe
Flotsam gave birth to twin girls in the early hours of the morning.
Currently it is Wednesday and only two more have lambed so far. They
both had singles so our lambing percentage currently stands at 125%. It
would be nice if the 13 others would get on with it though! <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> <br />
<br />
My aim for this week had been to finalise my preparation with Jack for
Eden Valley Horse Trials. This started on Sunday with a trip to a local
arena event training session which had both coloured show jumps and
also a working hunter course. It was nice to have a pop round<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="256" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/P1140019_zpsba17b0bb.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="230" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/P1140031_zps5efcbd6f.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Thanks to H for taking the pics and putting the jumps up/down/poo picking! <br />
<br />
<br />
On Monday we did some gallop training, I have been using the heart rate
monitor for his interval training and I think he is reasonably fit. His
recovery rate is very quick – around a minute, so I need to build this
up to include gallop and more hill work to increase the fitness for
Novice (1.10m) BE if we go well enough to move up to this level this
season. If the events I have entered run, then all of these will also
help him. <br />
<br />
We are heading to Eden Valley this Saturday for the BE90 as a schooling
round, with the bad weather up here its been a nightmare to get
anywhere for any gallop/hill work. I have some extremely good hills for
fittening work but it’s been too hard to ride in them and they need
rolling. <br />
<br />
I also have a flatwork lesson planned today, when schooling yesterday I
feel like I’m a bit stiff in my upper body in canter so will try and
sort that before the event! <br />
<br />
Will keep you posted!<br />
<br />
Onto Larry!<br />
<br />
<br />
My plan this week was to start Larry off under saddle. So far his
education has been sporadic and really only includes long reining 4
times, laid over his back once, and ridden once – all of these will
breaks in between due to his kick, mud fever and cellulitis. Now that
has all cleared I had prayed for good weather so I could crack on. <br />
<br />
Luckily for me this week has been perfect so far!<br />
<br />
I started by long reining him on Saturday, which he did at a leisurely
pace! So on Sunday, I did a short spell of long reining and then got my
husband to walk alongside him in a 20m circle both ways before moving
away. After that I only sat on him for a short period, going forwards
into trot and some wobbly steering before giving him lots of pats and
polo’s!<br />
<br />
Steering and trotting:<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/steering_zps270da927.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/trotting_zpsa6d6b2dd.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
The following day, I rode him again for around 20 minutes, repeating the
same thing. Little and often is my plan and he was brilliant, not a
foot wrong. <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <br />
Yesterday I got on him without a person standing by after the first
circle, and repeated this a couple of times while doing some trot/walk
around the school. He took a polo mint from my hand while I was on him,
and even let me take a photo while he enjoyed the view. Lastly after my
other half came and walk with us down to our road end and back. Its
only a couple of hundred metres long but he was foot perfect and didn’t
bat an eyelid at anything new! We did turn before the wheelie bins –
I’ll leave those scary horse-eating-gremlin-bins for another day!!<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Larryears_zps4176e855.jpg" width="300" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Larryhack_zpseeb57cb8.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
So I cannot complain! He has been great, not even looked at the giant
HGV lorries flying past the arena on the main road (my other horse is
scared of them!) and is totally chilled out about everything I ask him
to do. He has even started to jump the steps up out of his field like
an eventer <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> (there are 3 small steps but hey ho if he wants to jump them!<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" />)<br />
<br />
My aim now is to keep is slow and easy, short walk hacks to start with
over the next month or so to get him built up a bit. He’s a big horse
and doesn’t turn 4yo until May so I’d like it to be nice a gentle.
Perhaps an outing planned for August time if we can but nothing too
difficult. <br />
<br />
Big pats to the orange superstar in the making!
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-799567637730523912013-02-26T04:54:00.002-08:002013-02-26T04:54:56.327-08:00BS report :)Hi all<br />
<br />
So after falling off and hitting the arena fencing my bruises are
finally going (3weeks later!) and although a bit sore still (esp left
thigh), the muscles are definitely healing.<br />
<br />
Bruising after 2 weeks:<br />
<br />
Leg 1<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0701_zps40a55e14.jpg" width="238" /><br />
<br />
Leg 2<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="200" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0699_zpse63ad09d.jpg" width="149" /><br />
<br />
I decided I would take J to a BS show at the weekend, I've been jumping
him in 90cm and 1m classes and I'm now at the stage that I should move
out of 90's. However being sensible I decided to stick with the 90cm as
first class due to knee/muscles and see how we got on. <br />
<br />
I planned to get to SNEC for the British Novice (chasing that 4th double
clear) and then do the 1m, but when I arrived, they were still running
the second class of the day and as i couldn't be bothered to wait I just
entered the two 90cms classes (class 3 and 4), 1m class can be jumped
another day!<br />
<br />
It was just after 1.30pm when I tacked up for the first class <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" />.
J is very lucky as he travels with hay and water adlib so he was happy
as anything in the lorry for that length of time. He travels in a
thermatex but it was quite cold so I threw on a couple of woollen rugs
just in case. <br />
<br />
Finally we tacked up, the classes were A7, there were approx. 25 in each class. <br />
<br />
J jumped a lovely clear despite the jockey missing him at a couple of
fences. The jump off was a bit better jockey wise, and again a lovely
clear round. Finished 6th but officially due to riders on tickets, we
finished 4th so qualified for the amateur champs second round. <br />
<br />
British Novice next, and again despite the jockey J jumped another
double clear! Couldn’t believe how well he went. I missed him a couple
of times and normally if I get him too deep he will just boot it out in
front but he was really trying hard not to touch them. Big pats for
the grey Irish hoss. We finished 4th, officially 3rd and bagged our
final double clear needed to qualify for BN second rounds. <br />
<br />
Not that I plan on going to any of the second rounds but its still nice to bag them!<br />
<br />
It was the anniversary of my Dad's death on the same day (2 years ago)
and he was a huge BS fan so I reckon we only managed the double clears
cos he was there in spirit glueing the poles on!! Was nice to do well on
a day like that,<br />
<br />
Photees:<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/ADE_0205_zps4753cc81.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/ADE_0331_zps06f5e68f.jpg" width="266" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/ADE_0459_zpsc1aa987d.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Have permission to post from Sinclair Photography.
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-12930845525367657232013-01-30T08:49:00.002-08:002013-01-30T08:49:58.530-08:00Arena event at Oatridge reportHi All<br />
<br />
I entered the arena event at Snec last weekend. It was a long time ago
when I last competed at one so can't really remember it. Most winters I
have been struggling to keep my horse in work but this year he has had a
bit more on <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /><br />
<br />
Entered two classes - pre novice and novice. In hindsight I should have
just gone for the Novice as the PN class wasn't up to height. Which is
unusual as LS usually builds full up. Maybe due to the weather/middle
of winter but he built a nice course, it was just around 90cm rather
than 1m. <br />
<br />
Anyway I wasn't on till 2.30pm so have a leisurely alarm time. I even turned J out for two hours before getting ready! <br />
Bathed, loaded up and headed over to SNEC only to find they were half an hour behind. <br />
<br />
Watched several go - there were two courses up - first course a SJ
track, with one double, total 8 fences. Once finished you pulled up
then waited for the bell. Both rounds were timed (325mpm for SJ and
350mpm XC). Once gone you went on to jump xc course - which I had hoped
would be over working hunter jumps but they were all SJ again, except
fence 3 was a style, fence 4 a corner (poles) then 3 strides to an
upright, onto a triple bar then round the corner to a bounce, then a
water tray that you jumped across (with a low pole over the top) and
over the last upright to finish. <br />
<br />
We had one down in the first class, he was behind the leg and ended up
not taking longer strides over a couple but all in all a good round.
Felt that it was too small so put him on and walked the course for the
Novice - which was more a 1m05 rather than a 1.10m. however I should
have just gone home after the first class! I decided to get him ahead
of my leg and I think he got a bit worried - that and probably not being
fit enough for the two rounds - we ended up having two fences down in
each round. <br />
<br />
Having watch the video, i rode better in the second class but I think he
was tired and I'm disappointed in myself for pushing him. I should
have just jumped the Novice but I was a bit worried that it would be
mahoosive.<br />
<br />
you live and learn. <br />
<br />
Anyway pic from the Pre Novice<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/JC1_4088_zps50a46f81.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Video:<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=t9khtH1ZOCg" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?featur...&v=t9khtH1ZOCg</a><br />
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-15854341467062838262013-01-19T12:25:00.003-08:002013-01-19T12:25:44.335-08:00Larry update, a BS reportHi all<br />
<br />
So since sitting on Larry he had been slowly recovering on field rest,
in at night. He was a bit stiff in the mornings but that was due to
standing and he walked it off after a couple of strides. When he came
in at night, his swelling was down and he was sound. <br />
<br />
Well, that was until a week last Thursday night. Went to bring in and
he was reluctant to walk up the field. Wandered down to catch him to
find him generally stiff in the leg and his leg was swollen and hot.
Managed to get him in up the easy bit and called work. Discussed with
vet who saw him last time and I decided to take him in as after a 5
minute conversation he was toe touching in walk <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /><br />
<br />
Loaded him up, slowly, and bless him, he went on first time. Such a
nice lad for a just-turned-4yo. Drove through and it turned out he had
cellulitis. We were a bit worried as the swelling was also around the
tendon and he had a pocket of swelling over his joint that had undergone
the flushing so we weren’t taking any chances. He was scanned and
x-rayed then kept in for the weekend. <br />
<br />
It’s a relief that it is cellulitis as its now on its way to being
healed. He was having cold hosing twice daily and 10 min walks out,
then dry legs and Flamazine, but since being home the cold hosing is out
as its all frozen (think he is happy with that though) and its just
simple bathing of legs, drying and slapping the flamazine on. <br />
He is also on anti-b’s (Trimethoprim/Sulfadiazine) and suxibuzone
although the dose for that is quite low. He has to be on normal
turnout. <br />
<br />
He has been home for a few days now, and his leg is back to normal, a
bit swollen in the morning, but down by the evening (with the exception
of the irritating mud fever that caused the cellulitis) but he seems
quite happy to be back. We have had words about him liking it too much
at work (he gets lots of cuddles) and is banned from returning!<br />
The only downside is that all his bald bits were growing back (iv line and his legs) and they are now bald again!!<br />
<br />
Anyway, pics of him home in his travel gear <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> <br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0532_zpsb51be804.jpg" width="298" /><br />
<br />
His leg slapped with Flamazine<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0542_zpsab156fa3.jpg" width="298" /><br />
<br />
I know he doesn’t suit orange but as I love the colour he has to lump it!<br />
<br />
<br />
Now BS report:<br />
<br />
I took J to Kingsbarns just after New Year. Only just got the pics loaded <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> sorry its taken a while.<br />
<br />
Decided to head to KB and jump BN and Discovery – had been able to ride J
over the xmas holidays a bit to feel ok about jumping the two classes
(I’m always worried about fitness with my horses – paranoid even)<br />
<br />
Anyway, I have only been to KB a couple of times now and I like the
place, the warm up is bigger than SNEC and Rowallan and the main arena a
tad smaller perhaps but not too small that it feels tight. I would say
that horses seem to spook more in the KB arena but no idea why.<br />
<br />
Entered BN and warmed up, it was a 2 phase although the schedule said
A7. Went double clear and did some nice turns back and inside so went
into the lead <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />
waited for several riders (think there was about 25 in the class and I
went early on) to finish and was still in the lead (was getting abit
excited as we have often come second/third and I was hoping that this
might be J’s day as we had really jumped off to win rather than just
going for a nice clear). The third last to go went in and had a very
bad fall – I think the horse may have fallen too which is awful but I
saw the horse way fine. She was in a bad way and they called an
ambulance. I put J away at this point having decided that he had gone
well enough in the BN that I would just head home instead of doing the
Disco. It was about 45 mins before the class resumed. The rider was
standing by the time the ambulance arrive so hopefully she wasn’t too
badly hurt – does anyone know??<br />
The class then resumed and the last two went in – and beat me <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif" title="Stick Out Tongue" /> so we came 3rd. We have 2nd/3rd itis but I’m not complaining – at least its consistent <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/ADE_8662a_zps35dbbb30.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/ADE_8664a_zps3b1293b0.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Clever J. A bit more money on his card and a 3rd double clear in BN. As
I got him out of the lorry for the prize giving, I found out that the
course was staying the same for the Discovery and that the first to go
number hadn’t been put on the board so I decided I would just stay and
jump it <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /><br />
<br />
Warmed up and went in, he was very flat in the warm up – adding to my worries that he wasn’t fit enough <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" /> but when I went in he perked up. <br />
<br />
Video was done by a friend who hasn’t video’ed before. <br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCn0APGeidM&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCn0A...ature=youtu.be</a><br />
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-52772110845464414862013-01-14T01:25:00.001-08:002013-01-14T01:25:51.487-08:00Ooops finally managed to write Fox News!Hi all,<br />
<br />
Finally managed to get the newsletter written. Apologies to those who normally receive a Christmas card from us - we never managed to get them out in time this year!<br />
<br />
So here it is.<br />
<br />
<br />
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</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">So another year flies by and we still didn’t manage to get Christmas cards
to you all so it’s a Happy New Year from us!</span></i></b>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">Its been a busy year with ups and downs, so here is a recap on our year!</span></i></b></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVjsP0_uw7Ed_1G1VB0t4AHrf6spoDrjG09x8wJlBpP3-COXxav9d8D-Z7ioWAQLAgsh_pTRk7q27-Ptt89g_7OeSBVE7kPOoY_U0gx5afZUHAjjf2SBvogkTl3LLWInXFOD-PZCXkWV0/s1600/P1070662.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVjsP0_uw7Ed_1G1VB0t4AHrf6spoDrjG09x8wJlBpP3-COXxav9d8D-Z7ioWAQLAgsh_pTRk7q27-Ptt89g_7OeSBVE7kPOoY_U0gx5afZUHAjjf2SBvogkTl3LLWInXFOD-PZCXkWV0/s320/P1070662.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">The new building has been brilliant and it has been
lovely having the horses stabled at night when the wind is howling and the rain
hammering down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also finished
building the wonderful all weather arena which looks and rides amazing, it has
allowed me to have weekly lessons during the season. It has an amazing view but
can be a bit breezy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">Horse update!</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">Earlier in the year I bought a new horse, Charlie, a 6yo
Hannovarian X TB.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was a project to
take eventing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately after 8
weeks Charlie was kicked in the elbow and developed a septic joint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Following surgery we couldn’t fix his injury
and he was put to sleep </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Book Antiqua"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Book Antiqua"; mso-no-proof: yes; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">L</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">. Spock the Shetland
pony joined the Kirkdean Clan to keep Jack company following the loss of
Charlie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spock is a cheeky yearling and
likes to go everywhere quickly!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">Larry also joined us in October, he is a 3yo Irish Sports
Horse who I hope to break in to event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
am aiming for the 5yo qualifiers in 2014 with him, that is if he can keep
himself out of injury.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>History tried to
repeat itself with Larry;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>he too was
kicked, this time in the hock (different horses causing injury) and developed a
septic joint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This time following
surgery the infection was brought under control and he came home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is such a lovely horse and has coped with
weeks of box rest well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spock and the
goats (yes, goats!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More on them later!)
were doing a sterling job to keep him entertained during this time. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRE65rCJqXuygJqXXjJFAEag1rYM4SAonKcPXr8xz3qcHAMmK9elv3Lrm8mDfcwNEvsehOcJ1aWBpk64RHA4WvmfBr8KBEOwATeUg5MIuTJ6hQGzbDKUQiUtrj0cMs_lgx60J052GVI3U/s1600/IMG_8284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRE65rCJqXuygJqXXjJFAEag1rYM4SAonKcPXr8xz3qcHAMmK9elv3Lrm8mDfcwNEvsehOcJ1aWBpk64RHA4WvmfBr8KBEOwATeUg5MIuTJ6hQGzbDKUQiUtrj0cMs_lgx60J052GVI3U/s320/IMG_8284.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">Will keep you posted on his education!</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">Jack has been going well, at the start of the year I had
planned to move him up to Novice (1.10m).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unfortunately the British weather had other ideas and sevon out of
eleven events I had entered were cancelled!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We stuck to BE100 due to this and saw an improvement in our dressage
scores. My aim for 2013 is to get a bit faster and try to make the time cross
country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also registered with British
Showjumping to be able to get out when the events were called off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have had some success at BS shows,
finishing 2<sup>nd</sup> regularly! </span></div>
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been planning the season ahead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fingers
crossed that it stays dry or I may have to emigrate!</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">The SHEEP!</span></b></div>
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champion at the Royal Highland Show then won breed champion again at the Great
Yorkshire Show before it was cancelled due to the bad weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">It was great fun competing at showing the sheep, Goldhammer
our 4-horn tup was also sold at the Stirling show and sale – at the show he won
breed champion which is fantastic as he was our first ever four-horn that we
bred.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had to sell him as he was
related to the rest of the flock so needed to go to a different flock
elsewhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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to buy a shearling but couldn’t afford any!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We headed down to York show and sale but all the tups we liked were out
of our price range by a mile!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Luckily
for us, we managed to purchase Quendale from the breeder – we have run him this
year with a couple of ewes this season to make sure everything is working!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is a lovely looking tup so fingers crossed
he turns out to be as good as Rudolph!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">During our trip to York, there was a multitude of animals for
sale, including some Pygmy Goats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since
visiting a friend recently I had been badgering John to let me get some goats
but he didn’t want them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was
extremely cross with me for registering our goat flock with the local Defra
office – receiving the letter did not go down well!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyway, thankfully I managed to convince John
to have a look at the goats in the sale pen!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They were twin boys (castrated) and after a discussion with the owner
(they hadn’t sold in the sale so we approached the owner afterwards) we bought
them!! John said I should have named them ‘Totally’ and ‘Pointless’ but I
decided that Frank and Eric was much better!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">They now have orange collars on and I’m keeping my
fingers crossed that Santa brings them a nice field shelter for Christmas </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Book Antiqua"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "Book Antiqua"; mso-no-proof: yes; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;"></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">I think that’s it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
have another busy year coming!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eventing
with Jack, some small shows with Larry, show and sales with the sheep and
maybe, if we can fit it in, a short holiday away!</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">Have a great 2013, hope to see you soon.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333399; font-family: "Book Antiqua"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">Lots of love from Caz, John, Islay, Ember, Jock, Jack, Larry,
Spock, Faya, Frank, Eric and all the sheep!</span></div>
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Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-8272220718922105502012-12-28T12:36:00.000-08:002012-12-28T12:36:04.183-08:00Larry update, end of 2012 year report and 2013 goals!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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Hi all<br />
<br />
As the year comes to an end, I thought I would write a report on how the year has been and what my aims for 2013 are. <br />
<br />
So at the start of the year I loaned out my mare Ellie – she is the
mother of the yearling I have (Haggis) and is too small for me (15h) but
a fab temp. Unfortunately she was sent back after 3 months even though
she went on a long-term/forever loan basis!! On her return she kicked
my new horse – more on that later – and I sold her to a lovely lady not
to far from me. She adores her and selling was definitely the right
thing to do! She actually came to buy my IW trailer I was selling and
ended up buying both the trailer and Ellie! <br />
<br />
Early on in the year I bought a lovely project horse, Charlie. He was a
6yo Hannovarian x TB, fab temperament as long as you didn’t rug him
while eating (I received a kick in the knee cap to remind me not to do
this!) but he had lots of potential and my OH loved him. Sadly Ellie
kicked him and as most of you know he developed a septic elbow which
surgery did not fix and was put to sleep. RIP Charlie <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /> <img alt="" border="0" height="396" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/charlie6.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
As our arena was finished at the start of the year I started having
weekly flatwork lessons, which has really helped with Jacks training. <img alt="" border="0" height="298" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/photo-1.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Our dressage scores are slowly improving and one of my goals in 2013 is to achieve a 30 dressage score <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" />
so far we are getting between 33.5 to 38.5 in BE100. I am also hoping
to move him up to novice – which was an aim for the 2012 season but the
weather has been so rubbish I entered 8 events in a row and they were
all cancelled!!! <br />
<br />
As it was so bad, I registered him BS and headed off to BS shows when I
could – he has been reasonably consistent, coming 2nd regularly at BN
and Discovery – we have only been to half a dozen shows so I’m pleased
with that result!<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="279" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/DSC_0143.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="265" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/DSC_0142.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Our best result of the year was 7th at Hutton in the BE100 (dr 33.5, SJ 4
and xc 5.2), we had an annoying fence down in the SJ – something to
work on for 2013 is to practice on grass a lot more as I think this will
help us to get the elusive BE SJ clear round! We are also not quite
fast enough on the xc, I am paranoid that he is not fit enough so don’t
push him round – I’m pretty happy to get time faults if my horse isn’t
exhausted at the end of it, but hopefully if the events run this year we
can get his fitness even higher!<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/EOD3023_zps4a1a5ded.jpg" width="319" /><br />
<br />
<br />
So after losing Charlie, I bought Larry later in the summer, as most of
you know Jack kicked him in the field and he developed a septic joint in
his hock. Thankfully this time surgery was successful and he is
currently out in the field, growing up, eating grass and recuperating.
My goal for him is to starting riding him in springtime with the aim to
take him to a couple of shows in the summer, then to turn away in autumn
and bring him back into work next winter and aim him for the 5yo
qualifier. He is such a lovely boy and put up with box rest extremely
well. I am pleased to report that hubby also approves of him, which is
brilliant!<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_8290.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
He is a big lad is Larry, 16.3, turning 4yo and wears a 7 foot rug, I am
very relieved that he fits in our new horsebox – purchased earlier this
year, you will not miss us at shows as its orange!! Along with my dogs
lead, collar, saddle cloth, stirrup irons, XC colours, velvet collar on
my tweed jacket and bling browband!! Everyone needs a bit of orange in
their life <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <br />
<br />
Even the goats have orange collars:<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="297" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/TheScottishBorders-20121014-00864.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Managed to go and do a bit of Side Saddle this year also, my friend
kindly let me borrow her horse and we took him to a local SS show where
he won the best horse class. He was brilliant and would have done
better in the other classes against the expert horses if that hadn’t
been the 3rd time in a year he had been ridden in the saddle. If I
spent time working on his aids he’d be perfect!<br />
Can’t seem to upload the nice ones so here is one the second time he had ever had the saddle on!<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/179292_409591352418671_100001034281354_1228346_298285982_n_zps98e4104b.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Haggis the hoss went to his first show on his own, he took part in the
yearling/2yo class at Drum show and was initially pulled into first
place after the walk/trot around the arena. Unfortunately he doesn’t
quite move straight enough in front so was moved down to second. He had
a fun day though I think. <br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_3674FB_zps54fc9e85.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_3813FB1_zps7726641c.jpg" width="400" /><br />
On another note – my hubby and I have also shown our Hebridean Sheep
this year at the Royal Highland, Great Yorkshire, Border Union and the
Hebridean National Show. We gained some good placing’s at the national
show and at Border union but our best success was at the GYS and RHS as
we won breed champion with out tup Rudolph! It was amazing to win. Not
sure we can ever top that!!<br />
Note the orange headcollar! <img alt="" border="0" height="298" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_1540.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<br />
My goals for 2013<br />
<br />
J – build fitness up, work on SJ on grass, continue with DR lessons<br />
Move to Novice BE, and jump Newcomers BS. <br />
L – back in spring, take to a couple of shows over summer then turn away<br />
H- There is a chance he may be sold. If not then aim for 3yo in hand. <br />
Spock the Shetland – keep the weight off him!!!<br />
<br />
Take hubby out lots to keep him happy about the amount of horses I have<br />
Watch CBBC in Feb to see what my hubby and I look like on TV!<br />
Complete my university teaching qualification <br />
Write a couple of articles (has always been on my long term list but never get round to it!)<br />
Have lots of lambs at lambing time! Have fun showing the sheep<br />
Save up for arena mirrors!<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading! walkers S&V crisps to all <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-40900817038466196212012-11-27T07:43:00.000-08:002012-11-27T07:43:31.321-08:00Sorry I haven't posted for a while. Just an update on LarryHi all<br />
<br />
Just to fill those in who don't know. Earlier this year I lost Charlie (who I had owned for 8 weeks) to a septic elbow <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" />
- he had been kicked in the field by my mare (who I sold) and after
having the vet out 3 times due to the wound not healing, the infection
penetrated the joint and we couldn't get on top of it even with surgery.
<br />
<br />
Following this, my best friend (Lab) in the world developed
pancreatitis, she was taken into work (I work at a vets) and thankfully
got better but was pretty bad for a few days. <br />
<br />
Then she developed a lump so had this removed - turns out it was a lipoma so hopefully no more will grow. <br />
<br />
Then I bought Larry - my lovely 3yo chestnut gelding who although bought
unseen (vetted though) turned out to have a super temperament and is a
lovely horse to have around. <br />
<br />
Guttingly (if thats a word) he was kicked in the field on Wed night, I
chucked him on the box and took him through to work. The wound was
close to his hock - I wasn't taking any chances. After examining it, it
looked fine so he was bandaged up and kept in overnight - just to be
certain - and re-examined the following morning. <br />
<br />
After reviewing him on Thursday morning, It had developed into a septic tibiotarsal joint. <img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.runemasterstudios.com/graemlins/images/crying.gif" /> Can't really describe how I felt.<br />
<br />
Took to theatre for joint flushing and even though he is a big boy, he
did what we hoped and recovered well from his GA. He's been pumped full
of antibiotics and is behaving impeccably. I went through to see him
again today and he is still sound. He had another tap which came back
with a low cell count so was taken off injectable AntiB’s. He is coming
home tomorrow<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" />.
He'll be on oral AB's for a while, box rest for 10 days until sutures
removed, then box rest for another 10 days, then controlled exercise
building up to full turnout for around 30 days. <br />
<br />
It will be a couple of weeks before we can be absolutely sure that he is better but at least he is on the right road. <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /><br />
<br />
Will be glad when this year ends - this is the 5th insurance claim I have had to put in so I'm guessing my premiums will go up <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" /> I've certainly had my moneys worth this year. <br />
<br />
Couldn't face putting anything on here the other day as have been on
tenterhooks waiting (feeling a bit sick), however I feel a bit more
optimistic now so thought I would share. I’m also knackered as have had
loads of sleepless nights so hopefully I can relax a bit once he is
home. <br />
<br />
Larry:<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="298" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_0113.jpg" width="400" />Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-8740154540221898942012-10-17T02:23:00.000-07:002012-10-17T02:23:00.527-07:00Walking holiday and Larry update :)Hi all, <br />
<br />
So J and I decided to take the lorry and go on a dog walking holiday for
a week round the north east of Scotland! We planned to ‘glampervan’ in
the truck, taking the generator, radiators, heated towel rail and lots
of things to make it a fun week away. <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /><br />
<br />
After shopping for a new walking wardrobe (the old stuff falling apart)
we packed enough clothes to go for 6 nights. Mum came up to spend the
week with her hubby Dapper and look after our large gang of animals –
including the new goatlings – <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_8278.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_8279.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
So we took out the partitions, put a roll of carpet down and made the horse-end quite comfortable <br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Aberdeenshire-20121011-00807.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
We set off on Thurs morning, heading to little chef on the way (I love little chef!<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" />) for breakfast before arriving at Dunotter Castle for a wander round and the dogs went for a swim <br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG-20121011-00795.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Aberdeenshire-20121011-00799.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Aberdeenshire-20121011-00800.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
We then headed over to our first stayover – Bennachie Forest. What a
lovely place, unfortunately we found out that the main car park was
closed for forestry works so had to drive round in the dark hunting for
‘Back’o’Bennachie’ car park – which actually turned out to be an even
better place to stay<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" />. <br />
<br />
Unfortunately the weather was grim<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" />, it rained all night and after heading out for a 3 hour walk the following morning with the dogs, we were absolutely soaked<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" />. <br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG-20121012-00815.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Even the inside of our boots were wet. Cue several hours of radiator, towel rail heat and still our clothes were wet. <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /> <br />
<br />
We did manage to cook nice meals in the truck though<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/wink.gif" title="Wink" />:<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG-20121012-00818.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG-20121011-00808.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
We decided then that we would change our plans and drive somewhere else
but not any further north. We headed over to the Cairngorms and found a
beautiful place ‘Glenmore’ to stay in. We parked on the banks of Loch
Morlich, which has its own beach, and then went for a walk in Glenmore
forest park. <br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG-20121013-00833.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG-20121013-00837.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
It was a lovely walk, but we were wearing wet walking clothes which made
it a bit unpleasant so after returning to yet more rain, we decided to
bail out and come home. <br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG-20121013-00849.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
It was nice to give it a try, and had we ended up with the weather that we then got for the next two days<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" />, we’d have stayed out and travelled but alas it was not to be. <br />
<br />
But…<br />
<br />
That did mean we could come home and dry our walking clothes to get out and go somewhere locally <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />–
went up Trahenna Hill and the Iron Road (4 hour walk) yesterday which
gave 360 degree views at the top of the hill – it was awesome! We had
lovely weather; dry clothes and the dogs loved it!<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="297" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/SouthLanarkshire-20121016-00875.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
My dog resting:<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="297" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/TheScottishBorders-20121015-00871.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
We have decided that we will probably go away in the lorry again, but
next time it will be less ambitious and we’ll only go for long weekends
(maybe in the middle of summer too!)<br />
<br />
I also got to make a start on Larry’s education:<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_8290.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Long reining: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmKof4SlDjQ" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmKof4SlDjQ</a><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_8276.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
Lying over: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51c348PZ7Rk" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51c348PZ7Rk</a> <br />
<br />
He’s only 3 and a half so if the weather prevents me from doing more
then I’ll start him again next spring. If I can get to sit on him
before the year-end that will be perfect!<br />
<br />And to finish off, gave Jack a light school
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QU_aWrHQnA8" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QU_aWrHQnA8</a> <br />
<br />
<br />
All boys coming in for a gallop: think the hill will get Larry’s muscles built up!<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AnCmz-g8J8" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AnCmz-g8J8</a> <br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, We’ve got lots of munchies to offer as we packed enough food to last a month!
Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-73587359084751081232012-10-01T03:48:00.000-07:002012-10-01T03:48:08.513-07:00Aske report and brief Larry update<div id="post_message_11118685">
Hi all<br />
<br />Sorry its taken so long to get an Aske report!</div>
<div id="post_message_11118685">
<br />
I entered Aske and requested an early start time as I was driving down
on the Saturday. I had originally wanted to compete at Burgie (Sat) but
we were taking some sheep along to the Hebridean Show and Sale at
Stirling on the Friday night/Sat morning. We won breed champion at the
sale and our shearling (not the champ) was one of the top ones to sell <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> <br />
<br />
Anyway I headed down to Aske on Sat after Jack was scrubbed clean. My
stable was about 20 minutes away from the venue at a pig farm <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/wink.gif" title="Wink" /> and although I though J would have a porkie at them (excuse the pun <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif" title="Stick Out Tongue" />) he didn't bat an eyelid. <br />
<br />
My friend met me to chauffeur me to the xc course so I could walk it as
my times were close together (thank you). Course looked nice, the BE100 was running
as we went round with some very dodgy stride missers - the one thing
that shocked us was some rider who lost control of their horse on the
way to fence 5, the horse went through the string so they got it under
control and tried to jump the string to get back on course <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" />
even the jump judge said it was dangerous - horse was confused and
eventually at the second attempt jumped it, before heading through to
fence 5, they didn't need to do it, and were cursing loudly. Anyway,
for us it was a bit of a how-not-to-do-it (although I think we knew that
already!)<br />
<br />
I was eyeing the course up for the Novice, and the only fence I could
see that I think J would need so pre-schooling over would be the hedge
jump into water. Need to find an xc course with a proper jump in that I
can school over - any ideas?<br />
<br />
Went back to the truck, tucked J in for the night and turned on the tv. was a lovely evening just me and my dog <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> and even though it was minus 2 we were toasty warm (I love my lorry!) <br />
<br />
Got up early (was the first to be up in the morning) found I had the only stable with rubbish lighting <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /> bathing a grey horse with a head torch is not easy! Plaiting in the dark I can do <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> so was loaded up and leaving as other riders were appearing. <br />
<br />
parked up, tacked up and hopped on, my feet were freezing <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" />
decided to warm up for longer as it was cold but I over cooked J. he
was totally flat by the time I went in, so got a 37. headed over to SJ.
<br />
<br />
The course was on a slope, I thought the ring was nice and J was jumping
well. Went in with a *slight* hope we might break our
4-faultitis-at-BE-events but it was not to be - what a total misser I
got to the 4th fence - to be honest he did well not to have both parts.
Not sure why but my eyes were watering going round - think i need
racing goggles <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /> <br />
<br />
Anyway, happy enough with 4f, as he jumped well. My friend had come
along to watch again so we had a chuckle at my expense and patted the
very good horse for being an honest soul while heading over to start xc.
<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed the course, was a good end of season run, although not
as hard as it had been previously from what I heard. J jumped well,
pinged everything and came home clear with 6 time faults. <br />
<br />
Our tf are getting better, its really me that wants to keep him
continuing to grow in confidence so haven't been chasing the time too
much. Next year we'll do more work on that. Interestingly my friend
who watched (who has done advanced etc) said that she felt I needed to
get him to some gallops next spring as he needs to learn to gallop and
properly open out. She felt that although he could cover the ground
easily, he just wasn't yet doing it. <br />
<br />
So thats a good plan for next year I think. (thats if there are any events to go to!)<br />
<br />
Pics from Aske:<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/ask-23-09-12-0930-1030F_0030.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/ask-23-09-12-0930-1030F_0031.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<br />
And just a quick update with Larry, he has now started his training
slowly due to the weather. He is already bitted so the bridle has been
fitted, breaking roller was ignored so has been introduced to lunging
and a saddle! <br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="476" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/TheScottishBorders-20120926-00700.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/TheScottishBorders-20120930-00721.jpg" width="640" />
</div>
__________________Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-41117727524144149602012-09-20T12:17:00.001-07:002012-09-20T12:19:07.448-07:00Please give a warm welcome to.......Larry <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> <br />
<br />
Following the sad loss of Charlie<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" />,
I have spent the summer sorting out insurance claims and saving up for
another horse. Unfortunately I can’t save up masses of pennies but it
was enough for me to have a looksy around to see if there was anything
that caught my eye. <br />
<br />
I have decided that I’d like to take on an unbroken 3yo, and to aim for 4yo (most likely 5yo) young event horse or BE qualifiers<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" />. <br />
<br />
Anyway, I found Larry<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/cool.gif" title="Cool" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />, he was bought as a 6mo foal from the breeder in Ireland and his last owner has been showing him in-hand as a 2yo and 3yo.<br />
<br />
He is ISH, 3/4TB and 1/4 ID, his mum is a premium graded ISH broodmare
and his dad Golden Lariat (TB). He sailed the vetting and was loaded up
on horse transporter yesterday morning and spent last night in Penrith
before heading up to me. He arrived at 5pm tonight, went into the
field, had a mooch about and came back for his dinner/rugging up and
seems quite happy (although he may also be tired!) <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/wink.gif" title="Wink" /><br />
<br />
I think he will be a nice project. I’d like to back him before winter
but the weather is just on the turn here and is pretty miserable, I’d
prefer to do a concentrated effort then turn him away so there is a
chance I may put him on livery for a couple of weeks so I can ride him
daily. <br />
<br />
Anyway if not, he can have the winter here chilling out, before I back him next spring. <br />
<br />
So pics of Larry the lamb:<br />
<br />
Loading in the transporter:<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/SS103823_zpse0aa0a38.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
I like trucking, I like trucking, I like trucking....<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/SS103828_zps632fe9a8.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" height="532" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/SS103543_zpsf5565168.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty Boy!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Meeting my hubby!
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/TheScottishBorders-20120920-00663_zps258b23f5.jpg" width="640" />Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-46059804500273597532012-09-11T02:39:00.003-07:002012-09-12T04:51:47.734-07:00Hutton BE report<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3IrTPoeXLtr0TcYVCOWo_N5fKevXwrcMdIUwz0DIbGR4S9sb4U29WkzCoAVZzmcH3vG1enX3FmqsT_teBmwueHVmv8Z5mQuOUA6guxLdpaeSEozj6-ZRyYhsSn5DZIpzIXY_I8w96TFE/s1600/CAZ+18X8+email.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3IrTPoeXLtr0TcYVCOWo_N5fKevXwrcMdIUwz0DIbGR4S9sb4U29WkzCoAVZzmcH3vG1enX3FmqsT_teBmwueHVmv8Z5mQuOUA6guxLdpaeSEozj6-ZRyYhsSn5DZIpzIXY_I8w96TFE/s320/CAZ+18X8+email.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Grossick Photography. Isn't it brill!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hi All<br />
<br />
I just wanted to write a quick report. Took J to Hutton on Saturday for
the BE100, as our times were 1pm, 4pm and 4.30pm it wasn't such an
early start for me! <br />
<br />
OH decided to come along too, but he spent the journey listening to his audiobook <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" /><br />
<br />
Bathed, plaited and loaded to be on the road for 9am. arrived at 11.30
as we stopped for fuel. Well laid out venue, lorry park in between the
dressage and jumping. <br />
<br />
Did dressage first, BE102 test. pleased as we got 33.5 which is our best yet.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmSTuRdXAno&feature=share&list=UU2JU33LQR6ePl1Tl6mJ2o6g" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmSTu...6ePl1Tl6mJ2o6g</a><br />
<br />
Still lots to work on - walk transitions <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" /> and canter in general.<br />
<br />
Showjumping was good, ground a bit sticky. had loads of time between
sections so I gave him a feed. As it was hot he drank alot too. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuOs882NY4E&feature=share&list=ULHuOs882NY4E" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuOs8...=ULHuOs882NY4E</a><br />
<br />
One down SJ, really need to break this 4 faultitis-at-events problem!!<br />
<br />
Onto XC, he was brilliant. I tried for the time more than normal, we
still picked up 5 time penalties but better than 12 which is what we
usually get and I felt he was fitter this time. there were a few good
fences, the corner, skinny out of the water and a box brush fence - it
was large - and typically the one fence we stood off a mile from! <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" /><br />
<br />
Anyway, he never backed off or looked at a thing!<br />
<br />
<br />
So pleased we finished 7th :D <br />
<br />
Pro photos to follow once I've bought them!<br />
<br />
Here are hubbys pics:<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_3653.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_3657.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_3660.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG_3668.jpg" width="480" />Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-43781189405562920322012-08-27T05:03:00.000-07:002012-08-27T05:03:07.220-07:00Cumwhinton...... pants. BS....Fun!Well, as I had travelled down to Cumwhinton I thought I'd do a report.......<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
.......It was cancelled! <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif" title="Stick Out Tongue" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So on Friday night, I had booked stabling close to the venue so following a 5pm on-the-dot finish, I shot home and loaded up. <br />
<br />
I was pretty organised so had loaded the lorry in the morning, except
for saddles, and it didn't take long to grab the horse, dog and
remaining tack so was on the road south by 6pm <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/cool.gif" title="Cool" /><br />
<br />
Once arrived I settled him into his stable, and headed off to the pub
for tea. My Mum came up from Cumbria to stay the night and a friend was
also stabling so we all went for a drink/bite to eat. It was really
nice catching up but only after a couple of drinks were we tucked up in
bed <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /><br />
<br />
I had a leisurely morning as dressage wasn't until 12.36 but my friend
was on at 8.30. Got up, fed J and bathed him, it had started to chuck
it down around 3am and didn't stop so I had planned to bath/plait then
head over to the showfield early to check out the ground. Anyway half
way through plaiting, another friend called (pro 'tog) to say they were
an hour behind but there were riders warming up - apparently the
paramedics hadn't arrived<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/confused.gif" title="Confused" /> <br />
So decided I could have an even leisurely wander round the xc now.
finished plaiting, left J in the stable and went to the truck for a
cuppa. Cue another phone call from my friend who had been warming her
horse up - was now soaked and was now untacking as it had been abandoned
<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /><br />
<br />
Ah well... had the cuppa anyway, then took the dog (chief coursewalker) and Mum over to the showfield.<br />
<br />
The lorry park was trashed <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /> they had been towing lorries on and it was already very boggy. Felt v v sorry for the organisers. <br />
<br />
Walked the xc, apart from the surface water, the ground underneath was
absolutely perfect. But due to the water they couldn't run it. <br />
<br />
SJ ground looked brill<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="225" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Untitled00011-32.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="225" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Untitled00001-05.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
XC showing surface water<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="225" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Untitled00004-35.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<br />
So after a wander, and a cuppa I headed home. Poor Jack had a 5 hour round trip for a night in the stable!<br />
<br />
Once home I turned him out - he decided to show me that I wasted my time in bathing him - brought him in after an hour:<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/IMG-20120825-00580.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" /><br />
<br />
<br />
Anyway yesterday I decided that I may as well make use of the weekend
and headed over to Rowallan for the day. They had BS on and as we are
registered I thought it would be useful. <br />
<br />
It was in their outdoor which I have never jumped in, arrived just in
time to do the 90cm amateur qual and the 1m amateur qual. They were both
single phase and Jack jumped the 90cms double clear to come 6th. Was
really pleased with him as he popped round for fun. He was calling alot
when we set off, I even opened the door into the horse end so I could
speak to him - think he was fed up with travelling tbh. Anyway he was
perfectly happy on the way home so I guess he just wanted to get out and
do something! <br />
<br />
Went into the 1m, again a single phase and what a brill round.
Unfortunately I was distracted going in as a rider was bucked off in the
collecting ring and I helped them catch their horse. I should have
popped another fence but went in anyway so stupidly we had the first
fence down <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/redface.gif" title="Embarrassment" /> <br />
the rest of the round was just lovely though. He jumped out of his skin <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> Finished 5th <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="279" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/DSC_0143.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="265" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/DSC_0142.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="284" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/DSC_0110.jpg" width="400" />Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-40346017092973830912012-08-05T11:21:00.002-07:002012-08-05T11:21:27.877-07:00Its been a while (since Apri) finally a BE report!Hello all<br />
<br />
Its been a rubbish summer so far with the events being cancelled. I ran
Jack at Eden Valley in the BE90, then took him to Scone to do the
unaffiliated BE100. since then he has had no events due to
cancellations (Central Scotland, Balcarres, Floors, Oatridge) and when
we did get an entry into an even that ran, he developed an abscess in
his foot <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /> so we had to withdraw! Typical<br />
<br />
Anyway, for various reasons his fitness has slipped as galloping has
been a bit lacking so I set off yesterday to Hendersyde hoping to go
clear XC. Not bothered about time I just wanted to go clear. <br />
<br />
Usually we have Dressage scores of 38, which is something we have been
trying to work on but its a slow process as I'm not a dressage diva, and
J is 'workmanlike <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />', however to start the day we did get a 34 <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" /> <br />
<br />
We even got an 8 for centre line, and 7's until the free walk in the
middle of the test (BE test 106) where he had a fright, leapt forwards
and proceeded to do the rest of the test tense, mainly 5's and 6's.
Pleased though as the canter work has improved as well as the trot.<br />
<br />
Onto SJ. Helen M (big thanks for the tea making/entertaining<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif" title="Smile" />)
came along for the day and we walked the SJ track following collecting
my number. Thankfully she noticed the track had changed later so I
managed to walk the new course (with more fences) so at least I didn't
go wrong <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/wink.gif" title="Wink" />.
Unfortunately for my friends, one jumped the wrong course and the
other missed the last fence, cantered round, pulled up only for someone
to point this out so then picked up, cantered round to pop it - she
jumped clear, with 24 dr and ended up with 37 time faults in sj <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" /> such a shame as she was leading after dr, went clear inside the time xc so would have won.<br />
<br />
Anyway getting back to J, we jumped a nice round - he had a lazy fence
down at number 2 (on video below) and then backed off fence 3 so I
smacked him with my stick, which worried him and we ballsed up fence 4
but managed to leave it and the rest of the course up to finish on 4.
Warm up was very sticky, but the ground was fab apart from that. I
jumped 5 fences in the warm up - 2 cross poles in trot, an upright and
the spread off both reins. didn't want to do any more. <br />
<br />
Oh yes, forgot to mention the rumbles of thunder which made J worried
too - thankfully they stayed away long enough for us to remain dry.
sadly for hendersyde, the rain came down heavy the following morning and
it was abandoned <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /> <br />
<br />
Onto the xc. Well as it was my birthday <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/wink.gif" title="Wink" />
I decided to change my P2 and buy a hybrid. Spent ages looking into it
and P2 were extremely helpful - answered all my questions openly on
Facebook. I felt with my racesafe and P2 I had too much bulk so I am
pleased to say the hybrid is very comfortable. Just waiting for the
orange customised cover to arrive (I'm sure that comes as a big surprise
to you all<img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" title="Roll Eyes (Sarcastic)" /><img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif" title="Stick Out Tongue" />) <br />
<br />
Must also say it was lovely to catch up with Mark and Adam who I haven't seen for YEARS!!! and thanks to Helen for making them coffee (I'm pretty rubbish at it!)<br />
<br />
For the xc, I just wanted to go clear - Jack hasn't had a fault xc (except for his
very first unaff one which we can forgive him for) and I would like it
to stay that way <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif" title="Big Grin" />
but I knew that time would be hard for us to get as we are both a
little out of gallop/xc practice. I had entered hopetoun xc schooling
with David Gatherer but that was also cancelled <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif" title="Frown" /><br />
<br />
the course at Hendersyde is pretty nice, I even thought the novice
course was nice (in preparation for next year) with the exception of the
trochaners <img alt="" border="0" class="inlineimg" src="http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/eek.gif" title="EEK!" /> they are eeenormoous! <br />
Jack jumped round for fun, except he backed off fence 5 - a log at the
top of a hill - as I tried to jump across it to save time. He still
jumped it when asked so no complaints. came home clear with 12 time
penalties. To be honest, he recovered quite quickly once finished so I think lots
of strengthening uphill work would boost his fitness more than just
galloping so from now on its wed night galloping up my fields! <br />
<br />
all in all a good day, lovely to get a run at last - felt a bit rusty,
both of us a bit unfit, its a long time between a noon dressage and
5.30pm xc so Trudy was brilliant to chill out in. I gave Jack a small feed
between sections (recommended by my Mum) and he thought this was pretty
cool. Think he might get demanding if I keep doing it!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/Lt3jE9QclUU" target="_blank">http://youtu.be/Lt3jE9QclUU</a><br />Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-48565229739536866862012-07-27T06:38:00.005-07:002012-07-27T06:45:00.878-07:00Summer - ups and downs<br /><style>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Following on from the Royal Highland Show, we had entered the sheep for the
Great Yorkshire, and John and I were planning on heading down with Trudy the
truck to spend the week on the show ground. More on that later.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Having spend the earlier part of the year focusing on getting Jack fit
enough for eventing, we have so far only managed to compete at Montrave, Eden
Valley and Scone. Having said that, Jack has gone very well each
time. Floors, Balcarres, Central Scotland, and Oatridge all had to
abandon due to the weather, so I waited with my fingers crossed to hear that
Burgham was running - and it was!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Unfortunately I headed over to SNEC to take Jack to a BS show the week
before only to find that he was</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> lame. It turns out he developed an abscess, so poor Mum who was house
sitting during our few days in Barcelona had to poultice his foot every
day - thanks Mum! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Unfortunately we still haven't managed a run since May but I have just
entered Cumwhinton, Drumclog and Hendersyde so everyone keep your fingers
crossed!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The local area side-saddle group ran their summer show recently and Helen
had kindly offered to lend me Mack to ride. The weather was awful and I had
wondered if we should bother going, however it was probably a good job as there
were competitors from Cumbria and Aberdeen there – we had only driven 15
minutes up the road!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Mack was a star, it is his third time with a side saddle on and he went
beautifully. Coming 1<sup>st</sup> in
the novice horse class</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Ready to go:</span><br />
<img alt="" border="0" height="225" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Side%20saddle/eb8a5e5e.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Judging:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span><img alt="" border="0" height="225" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Side%20saddle/8c19bca3.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Afterwards:</span></span></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" height="225" src="http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/carolinefox1/Side%20saddle/d0bc059e.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Video of our show: copy and paste in a new browser - http://youtu.be/gzbewB0kEcw </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Big round of applause for Mack </span><span lang="EN-US"></span><span lang="EN-US"></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">So onto the Great Yorkshire:</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">We loaded up the lorry and headed down.
Managing to squeeze the sheep in the horse end of Trudy. They travelled really well:</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLSHw0GGeDXJ9tiKB5NP8QIXxP2CYsfKgyniklzNXN-XqfM3uMtmw_J6m2YygPnKdlkhfHvUsFOBsNmZFF8SO2hzE2mq8He6TWYMPgVTe5MsNEvxPQcxwozzON4NKxByJf9PT7JM5ps0/s1600/Eden-20120709-00426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLSHw0GGeDXJ9tiKB5NP8QIXxP2CYsfKgyniklzNXN-XqfM3uMtmw_J6m2YygPnKdlkhfHvUsFOBsNmZFF8SO2hzE2mq8He6TWYMPgVTe5MsNEvxPQcxwozzON4NKxByJf9PT7JM5ps0/s320/Eden-20120709-00426.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span><span lang="EN-US"></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Once we arrived and they were settled in
the barn:</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCG0-TBW8xcd8s7bc9boiwS31zwaCBvtAh6o6X9J08LRXQu9tX0LTROEUiBRwNFcpmox7QsNaAAgXQ_oE1-wds6UX2PMiDSUedtkhvekxsULyDSjsG6oWfFBVl3j6HCyLNU1JqzlOZ3rM/s1600/IMG-20120709-00428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCG0-TBW8xcd8s7bc9boiwS31zwaCBvtAh6o6X9J08LRXQu9tX0LTROEUiBRwNFcpmox7QsNaAAgXQ_oE1-wds6UX2PMiDSUedtkhvekxsULyDSjsG6oWfFBVl3j6HCyLNU1JqzlOZ3rM/s320/IMG-20120709-00428.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span><span lang="EN-US"></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">We managed to park the lorry up – amazingly
very close to the sheep so only a short walk to the pens! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">As it was our first time away, it was a
good chance to try out all of the gadgets.
We checked the water heater, the tv, dvd player, oven and grill –
everything works! </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">On Tuesday morning, after a great nights
sleep we got the sheepies ready for showing.
What a fabulous result, Rudolph – our champion at the Royal Highland – was
pulled in to Breed Champion at the Great Yorkshire. I have to admit I was jumping up and down
with excitement. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Sadly following the showing on the Tuesday
the Great Yorkshire organisers had to abandon the rest of the show, so our week
away was shortened to two nights! This
turned out to be a good thing as our poor house sitter had returned from work
on Tuesday evening to find Islay – aka the-best-dog-in-the-world – had been ill and there was vomit
and diarr all over the house. She rushed
her through to the vets school and was admitted with pancreatitis. Poor Islay was very ill and I couldn’t hold
her paw as I was in Yorkshire so after heading up on Wednesday night (had the show not cancelled I
would have headed home anyway) I drove through to see her. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Thankfully she was much brighter and came
home on the Friday to lots of TLC:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">She is a fab dog. :D</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">So now we are heading off to the Border
Union this weekend, and then the national sheep show in a fortnight. Will keep
you posted!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-US">Just before I go, I’d like to introduce you
to Spock. I don’t think I have mentioned
him on here before but I bought Spock as a companion for Jack following the
loss of Charlie. Spock is a yearling and
is very funny! He won’t let me catch him in the field, preferring to follow
Jack into the building, then into his stable!
Apart from that he is a perfect companion (although I think jack would
argue he’s a bit small!) </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3526242144382036250.post-12508820482802690772012-06-28T03:18:00.001-07:002012-06-28T03:18:20.089-07:00Royal Highland Show, what a week!Hi all<br />
<br />
well the weather didn't improve following the cancellation of Balcarres, and on the first day of the RHS i heard that Oatridge Horse Trials had also cancelled (which was a week away) and Hutton in the Forest due to run over the RHS weekend had also had to sadly call a halt to their plans. Such a shame for all organisers. Anyway I am now heading to SNEC for some BS so will have to see how we get on!<br />
<br />
Getting back to the Royal Highland Show I can honestly say despite the weather it was AWESOME!<br />
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We took the sheep through during a quiet time so did not have to fight to get to the pens, this year we had 3 pens with 4 sheep. We had entered Yellabelly Rudolph in the aged tup class, Bryland Carna in the shearling tup and Bryland Magic, with Bryland Twilight both being in the shearling ewe class.<br />
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The show started on Thursday with heavy rain, nearly all day but it was still very busy with visitors and many school parties trying to get lost in the sheep tents. We left the field around 5pm after making sure the sheepies were happy<br />
<br />
Early start on Friday morning to get into the showfield and prep the sheep before showing started at 9am. There were five classes in total: Aged tup, shearling tup, aged ewe and shearling ewe and besst four-horned sheep.<br />
<br />
So John started showing, and was thrilled when Rudolph was awarded first place. Rudolph seemed to love being in the ring, and he certainly loved posing for photos!<br />
Next up was Bryland Carna in the shearling tup class. Although this class was smaller than usual there were still plenty of entries. And we were amazed when Carna was called in first! We have never been placed higher than third so it was fabulous to have won two classes! <br />
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In the shearling class, John asked me to take the larger of the two, Twilight, who after the judge reduced the class and removed John and Magic along with a couple of others, was awarded 2nd place. <br />
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So we were absolutely thrilled to have done so well, we had to take the two tups into the best male judging, Rudolph was award this, which means the tup who came second to him has to come out to challenge for the reserve. I think Carna decided he quite enjoyed the attention as he stood beautifully for the judge to examine him and was awarded reserve :D<br />
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So Rudolph was in the championship against the lovely Shearling ewe that belonged to a friend of ours. We were blown away to be awarded Champion Hebridean with him. <br />
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You get a sash, trophy and lots of frillies. As you can see from the picture, John was thrilled!<br />
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So as you can imagine, despite the weather, we had an AWESOME time at the RHS! <br />
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<br />Caz and Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16617785655555460513noreply@blogger.com0