Le Pin-au-Haras, France—Aug. 27
It’s 6:45 a.m. and today is Jog Day.
The week so far has been really about getting as comfortable with our surroundings and getting into a routine. The venue is actually quite rural and doesn’t have a World Championship feel but yesterday as I was cantering in the arena with Ingrid Klimke and Michael Jung I knew this was “real.”
Monday afternoon we learned if we were on the team or running as individuals. I got named as an individual. At first I was pretty gutted, given the horse’s record and soundness but I am the only one on the squad without “team experience” so I’m assuming that’s what made the final decision.
ADVERTISEMENT
We have six very strong horses and you could argue for or against any of them; at the end of the day it’s just a gamble. I got some pep talks from my teammates and woke up Tuesday with nothing on my mind but bringing home my personal best for my six-person team and Team USA.
We have ring familiarization this morning as a team and then will head out to walk the course together around 10:15. The order of go will be determined after we get a look at the track. We drew the number 1 country in the order which personally I think is a good thing. The ground is going to be wet and this ensures we will get the best footing in what is going to be a cross-country dominated competition. After walking the course, David will determine the order of go for our team.
Trot up is at 3:00 p.m. in front of the main Stud, which is stunning. Let the games begin. Go Team USA!
