It’s now the end of the 13-week Winter Equestrian Festival stretch. I have had great success and some epic fails. As a former coach continues to tell me – it’s all about the “ing” … the learning, trying, going, forgiving and working.
A lot of great things happened in the last three months. I finished all of my college applications and anxiously await news from each institution so I can make some big decisions about the next four years of my life.
I successfully moved up to the U25 Grand Prix with my amazing mare, Delia B. We never thought she could do it – but she jumps with all of her heart. We finished Top 10 at the U25 Final, an achievement I will always be proud of.
My goal was to win the WEF Equitation Championship, a unique competition held Week 11 and open to any junior rider who earned a blue ribbon in a “big eq” class during the circuit. Riders must prepare, walk the course, warm up and compete without the assistance of a trainer or coach. We are judged in the warmup ring by the steward, able to earn an extra point or two, or have one or two deducted. Out of the original 44 riders, 12 are called back for round 2, and then 4 for a test. I finished 3rd, which is still excellent given the top competition and my congratulations to the top two finishers. There are things I coulda/woulda/shoulda done better. And, I should have taken advantage of the relationship and trust in my horse. It’s a real wake-up to be out there alone without someone reminding you of the sneaky inside turn to take, or the giving you the confidence to “go for it” in the hand gallop. Nonetheless, I am very happy with my horse Cent 15 and very happy for a podium finish! Last year the event was cancelled, and the year prior I did not make the second round. So, that’s progress!
Unlike many of my peers, I have not spent a lifetime of winters at WEF. This was my third season – and only my second full season since last year was cut short. It is surreal that it’s over – my last time at WEF as a junior — and next year at this time, most of my riding friends will be dispersed on college riding teams or campus’ around the country. The parents at Beacon Hill threw a great party in honor of the graduating juniors and suddenly it feels real that the clock is ticking. Here’s a fun video honoring our group:
I depart WEF this year leading the country in WIHS Equitation standings and qualified for the USEF Medal and USET Finals. My sister moved up to the 3’6” equitation and for the first time since pony land – we were competing against each other. She is doing great, especially considering I was still on a large pony at her age. I also helped lease a horse, and a sale horse I was showing is now on trial. I am also bringing along a young jumper that started the season with fear and stops. Today we finished at the top in the high junior jumpers – even beating my Delia B. I am proud this horse will become someone’s heart horse in the future, and that I had a small part in his journey.
Now it’s time for a short break at home in Colorado. I’ll hit the reset button and head to Virginia in a few weeks after the horses have some well-earned rest and turnout in the big green fields. There is much to look forward to – the waiting is the hardest part!