It was an early start for Saturday morning. My only class for Saturday wasnt until 2.30pm, however I had been told that the line for the official measuring can be up to 3 hours long at any one time and I had also been made aware that parking was pretty horrific. So to keep the nerves at bay, an early arrival was essential.
Lucky for getting there early, I walked straight into the measuring box, didnt have to wait in line at the registration office and got a fantastic park (Until I was parked in!)
Paris was pretty tense throughout the morning at the sight of the trotter training on the track next to our parking space, but eventually settled in time for a lesson, shortly followed by my class.
The day ended up maxing 35 degrees, which when surrounded by about 100 horses in a 50 horse capacity space, made for a very hot and stressed out Paris and I. We were very happy to be marshalled for our class and quickly escorted to our ring. My class for the Saturday, was the Working Hunter over 15hh. There was just under 20 in the class and there was definently some very good competition with some lovely horses out there doing their thing. I have to admit that the nerves really set in after a few horses had problems with the 80cm oxer in our class. I had absolute faith in Paris that she would get over the jump, but was praying that she would! Our workout was simple with a trot straight from the judge, canter a half circle to the left, jump the simple straight bar, continue on the left lead to present to the oxer, continue canter for a few strides then break into a hand gallop for the whole ring, come back to canter, trot then long rein walk to the judge, halt and present the horse for a check over of its confirmation.
Paris completed the most amazing workout! Beautiful scope in the jumping without any flatness or speeding up, didnt even think twice about the oxer, did the most amazing gallop (the best for the day according to the judge!) and then continued the rest of the workout with ease. She was the only horse that actually stood still for the judge to have a look at her all over and eventually sneak in a quick pat.
I was one of two riders to complete both jumps without a rail or refusal, but I did forget my long rein walk in the work out and felt that I would be punished for this.
Initially, I was called into the winners line up first, which bought me to tears! However, the look on the judges face was not promising and it was discovered that I should of been placed second. I had tied for first place with the winner, however, on countback she had scored better in the jumping component (Which is the highest scoring component). This placed us in well deserved 2nd place and I couldnt have been happier. I was congratulated by all competitors and was pulled aside often after the class to be congratulated, and asked lots of questions about Paris and why she hasnt been seen before. Still gives me goosebumps to even type this! Im a very lucky girl to have such a super horse!
We then headed back to the float, for congratulatory hugs, tears and more hugs from my amazing support team! I then needed to get organised for the Grand Parade, scheduled for 4.30pm. This was a complete shock to poor Paris system, with all the Hack's appearing like ticking time bombs, I felt like I was riding one. She was NOT impressed.. There was ponies, horses, more ponies, cows, sheep, more cows and horses wearing costumes.. Was entertaining to say the least..
Sunday was much more relaxed as I was only attending for Pony Club classes. Unfortunately, I wasnt called in for the PC rider class, but did place 3rd on the PC pairs class, even after we had been pelted with rain just as we were sent out on the ring. Paris was a great support horse for the young , inexperienced gelding we were riding with, and I think she gave him a good experience.
All-in-all, a super weekend! Now to qualify for Melbourne and Sydney royals next year!
Next competition is Albury-Wodonga ODE! I cant wait!
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