Showing success

[Butkin]

Some of you have been following DD's showing adventures over the last few years. Just to report that we're very proud of her and her 5yo roan 13 hand Show Hunter pony as they qualified for the Royal International today! She was also 2nd on her 12.2 show pony in the RIHS qualifier so just missed out but did get her best rider ticket for BSPS.

Fab! I have a great deal of admiration for anyone who puts the huge amount of work in that showing needs. I used to be at a dressage yard with my show hunter, and they dismissed it as a 'shiny pony contest' compared to their 'proper sport' of dressage, until I became pregnant and I asked them to prep and ride my horse at shows (under strict supervision, or course!) They were stunned that the judge would get on and ride - "but he'll have to be so well schooled for that," they said. Of course!

I've given up on the whole showing thing, (being lazy ) but am hugely proud of DD this month taking part in her first pony race at a point to point meeting (she is 7, she raced her little brother's lead rein pony and we are amazed she actually managed to get him moving at all!) and she completed a 10 mile fun ride with lots of galloping today with me too. Just little things and no prizes to some, but a big step toward me enjoying my hobby with my child for me.

Fab Butkin! I do love your roan SHP, backinthebox- we also did some pony racing with a retired show pony- absolutely heart stopping but loved every moment!

Congratulations all round Butkin - that's a huge achievement. I've looked into showing this little person in hand but have decided that the work involved is too much for me and we'll just practice getting him a bit more mannerly (and bitted for a start!).

Where are you off to next? Do you come over to the 3 Counties - we're local and I'll be going as a spectator only, obviously!?

That's great Backinthebox - I'd love for DD to take an interest in pony racing but she's just mad for showing. Keep us informed of DD's progress..

Frosty we're off to Area 14 this weekend which is Godstone I think. The roan is having a few weeks hacking though as he's been to three shows in the last 3 weeks. He'll be off to South Suffolk next. Sadly 3 Counties is a long way from us although DD has ridden for a producer there.