The Game Plan: Completing His First CCI*

Time always goes so fast during an event, especially at a 3-day event.

Hershey (The Game Plan) was the perfect gentleman on cross country. He did everything EXACTLY as I told him too. Unfortunately, I didn't slow him down enough as I approached a combination and I caused a run-out. It was my fault ... sorry Hershey.

It was jump # 17 (A & B); we were having a great, clean round on the entirely flat course designed by Captain Mark Phillips. 16 of the previous 18 jump efforts on the course were BIG oxers. Not having any terrain or technical issues to negotiate earlier in the course, I got caught up in the moment and the moment got away from me.

It's hard to travel this far to be reminded of the important lesson ... ALWAYS RIDE EVERY JUMP. Preparation for each jump has got to be based upon the obstacles both preceding and following, as well as the terrain. I realized my mistake as soon as we left the ground over 17A, but it was too late to negotiate the turn safely. That is the personal responsibility that we are hearing so much about these days.

We didn't take home a ribbon, but we left happy eventers. Here's why:

1. Hershey (The Game Plan) was willing and fit enough to easily complete this one star event.
2. We got to visit with our old southern eventing friends.
3. We were reminded of the all-important lesson: ride every jump.

As black jack (the newest Great Bay Farm JRT in training) and I head back north for a winter break, Hershey will stay down south to continue working toward the goal of an Intermediate Horse Trial next Spring/Summer.

Until then ... HAVE A GREAT RIDE!

From The Florida Fall International 3-Day Event & H.T.

Hershey (The Game Plan) and I are down in Florida, where the weather is very warm. There are 40+ competitors in the division as we start Hershey's first CCI* event. After dressage, we are sitting in 6th place. He was definitely up for this challenge and we are excited about the cross country phase tomorrow. We'll keep you posted on this blog as the event continues.

5 ... 4 ... 3 ... 2 ... 1 ... HAVE A GREAT RIDE!