So, I have managed to get through the last few weeks (Regional and National Champs) and am now having to get everything ready for WEG-Ed (Two Sox) leaves tomorrow, no panic! He is definitely up for it and after having gone to the National Champs to do a 'demo' slot he is keen and ready to go! It was actually invaluable as it gave me a feel on what I need to work on for Kentucky-it is very easy to get a false reading at home!
We had 9 horses at the Nationals altogether which I think was more than enough, we had also done a demo at Burghley the previous week as well as the Regional Champs before that, it has been non stop! The Addington Regionals went well although we got absolutely drenched and Burghley was great fun and a perfect outing for the horses, the conditions were super! We were very lucky that the weather continued to hold for the Nationals which was just as well as everyone was rushed of their feet but it was worth it, the horses did us proud! We came back with several good placings and Mike won the Young Horse Supreme Championship with Ruchie (Farouche) which was definitely the highlight of the show. Woodlander Wawavoom was also excellent, the 4 year old stallion which I rode. I was amazed at how well behaved all of the young horses were, with so much space available it would have been very easy for them to take advantage!
U Rockstar improved from the Medium to do a very pleasing Adv Medium-he can be a little bit spooky but having nursed him around the Medium the previous day I felt he had grown in confidence and was willing to trust me. Woodlander Rockstar was excellent, definitely the best Adv Medium he has done to date- I think it helped to have prepared him for the Prix St Georges on the Thurs, the Adv Medium felt easy! Unfortunately his last halt wasn't his usual and because he had stood still I didn't want to correct him which would have meant losing the immobility, there were about 4 of us all on 70%, we could have easily been 2nd instead of 4th, every mark counts!
Mike had good consistent performances from Torino, he was a little tired for the Intermediare 1 Freestyle, bless him he has done a lot this season. Woodlander Dornroschen wasn't on quite her usual form, we suspect she was in season and a little uncomfortable but she is such a trier she keeps going regardless.
Marakov produced the goods for Mike in the Grand Prix, unfortunately Monet didn't compete. The Grand Prix Freestyle went well and was Mike's first showing of his new music based on the Transformers theme, very powerful! Marco coped extremely well and it was obvious how much trust he had in Mike!
So now Mike will hold the fort at home while I go off to WEG- I promise to take some photos! When I return I am in need of a much needed break, as well as every other member of the Eilberg household! I am going to have to go in for another small op on my tummy which will put me out of action for a little while but the best time to do it. Mike might do some more Internationals with Marco and Monty over the winter, we will have to see, it seems to be that I am constantly planning!
