
The show jumping track was big and square and up to height, I was pleased in many ways that it was a proper jumping test as firstly I’m on real jumpers and secondly it’s the kind of preparation I wanted for Saumur. Hipp was first to go, going a little early out of order, and he jumped a cracking round, he was unlucky to role a pole, rider error really as I got him a little off an oxer when he really prefers to be up to the front rail at all times – he jumped brilliantly and I couldn’t have been more pleased with him.
Coco was up next and he also jumped a cracking round, just tipping the second fence as he annoyingly decided to do a dropping just as we jumped the fence – VERY annoying! However the track caused a lot of problems and there were very few clears and the time was tight. So even with four faults I moved up the order, with Hipp finishing in 6th spot and Coco in 2nd, pipped by just 0.4 by Clayton and Bendigo – will make sure Coco takes care of his business before going in to the ring next time – blasted horse!
All in all, in all seriousness, I am very pleased with how the horses have gone this weekend especially in the jumping phases – I know what I need to work on ahead of Saumur in 10 days time so bring it on.
It’s a mad dash to the ferry this evening and all being well we will be home tomorrow mid morning. I hear its been a beautiful day at home, perfect cross country weather – so frustrating that we weren’t running cross country at Badminton today but such is life.
Cheers,
Bill
Posted 6th May – photo Xavier Boudon/www.pixizone.com