We started out on the first day with our dressage, this is
the phase we had focused on the most in terms of training so I was absolutely
thrilled with how it all came together on the day. He was totally submissive
and I rode a really accurate test, this left us in 11th place overnight
and not far at all off the leading score.
After a good night’s sleep (I was remarkable chilled and
content with my first day of competition), we went in to the showjumping phase,
this is usually Alfie’s strongest phase but I always feel that adds to the
pressure as we are expected to go clear. Unfortunately he just had the triple
bar down which I have to say was totally rider error – I need to be more
decisive!!! This was disappointing as it dropped us down quite a few places but
I knew the cross country was proving tough so it was still all to play for.
The cross country course was beautiful, it weaved in and out
of the 4* course and passed right in front of Badminton House. Fence 6 was the
water where we jumped straight into the Badminton Lake in front of all the
marquees which was such a thrill. My ‘support group’ (made up of my brother, my
dad and my fiancé) were at the water jump cheering which was lovely. The
atmosphere on the course was great with at least 20 people at each fence. Alfie
was on top form and jumped round clear with no sticky moments at all, he really
showed his maturity. We ended up clawing our way back up to 11th in
the end which I was over the moon with, there were 65 starters and my aim was
to finish top 20 so 11th was great. I think Mum and I were ready to
sleep for a week afterwards!
Alfie is now entered for this first Novice at Draycot at the
beginning of June which is very exciting so it’s fingers crossed that he will
be up for the challenge.
I am now trying to focus more time on Herbie (our 5 year
old) which is proving fruitful, I took him showjumping training this week and
he was fab, he seems to improve every time out. Fingers crossed he will do his
first event in June – it doesn’t look like things are going to quieten down!!!
For now though, it’s my best friend’s Hen Weekend so I
having a week away from horses to enjoy seeing all my old friends and giving
her the send off into married life that she deserves....!
Love Lucinda (and Team!) xx
