I’ve been swamped the past couple weeks here in Aiken, and I am excited to say that things have been going quite well.
On a not too positive note, I am really worried about Jan Byyny, and I know that she is one tough, brave person who will get better. It still is such a reality check though that our sport can be so taxing at times. Jan and Rebecca Howard are two great riders, and I have always looked up to Jan so much. She has been there for me and is always willing to give advice and have my back, so I cannot wait to see her out doing what she does best soon.
On that safety note, I am exciting to be wearing a Point Two “Pro-Air” vest that I got through SmartPak. I have been using it ever since I first put it on, and I will say that it does make you feel a bit safer when your out there on cross-country. I hope that our sport continues to develop new ways to make it safer, as I think the air vest is definitely a step in the right direction. I am also happy to say that I have remembered to detach it every time I have gotten off, which is kind of a big deal for me because I do not have the best memory at times.
I had a good weekend at Sporting Days with one of Beth Battel’s horses named Chasing Dreams. We finished second in the training level. I also rode a young horse owned by Augie Vettorino in the novice, and I was very impressed with the way this horse is coming around. He ended up fourth in a competitive division. Another young Holsteiner owned by Beth Battel did his second training level this weekend and third event ever, and I am thrilled to say that even though there were some green moments this is going to be a great horse for the future.
Last evening we had the Olympic Gala held at our own Red Oak Farm in Bridle Creek. It was a lovely event, and it was nice to get dolled up and out on the dance floor. Everyone seemed to be having a great time, and I loved some of the moves that I was seeing on the dance floor. Even Phillip and our amazing vet captain Kevin Keane showed us how it’s done!
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This week I look forward to riding with Mark Phillips again in the training sessions and progressing with Cambalda. He is really turning out to be an amazing horse!
I will be in touch and I hope everyone is doing well!
Jennie
P.S. I am including some video of Kevin Keane dancing and Boyd stealing my camera…lol
