The Herd at Pasture One Morning
September 8 found me judging one of the dressage rings at the Wesley Clover Horse Trials. There were more than a few admirable rides, which is always super to see.
September 14 was the Tay Valley Distance Ride and I entered Ehren in the 14 mile Set Speed Event.
Competitive Trail Riding correlates speed to fitness. The horse is vet-checked before, during and after the event to be sound, hydrated, well-fed and to have an acceptably low heart rate. I wondered about some other shows I’ve been to and how many might have been found in violation! I learned a few techniques to help lower Ehren’s heart rate, and one wise volunteer who was guiding me through the protocol looked at me and said ‘You. Get YOUR heart rate down. Calm down, breathe. You lower your heart rate and he will lower his’ The coincidence struck me as I’ve been studying consciousness and enlightenment this year, including a couple of retreats. Even Eddo back in July spent some time discussing how the rider’s mindset affects the horse. My yoga class card is regularly punched, but I’ve been trying to do EVERYTHING in a more mindful way. Coincidence hardly surprises me any more and I like to think it keeps me pointed in the right direction.
September 14 was the Tay Valley Distance Ride and I entered Ehren in the 14 mile Set Speed Event.
Competitive Trail Riding correlates speed to fitness. The horse is vet-checked before, during and after the event to be sound, hydrated, well-fed and to have an acceptably low heart rate. I wondered about some other shows I’ve been to and how many might have been found in violation! I learned a few techniques to help lower Ehren’s heart rate, and one wise volunteer who was guiding me through the protocol looked at me and said ‘You. Get YOUR heart rate down. Calm down, breathe. You lower your heart rate and he will lower his’ The coincidence struck me as I’ve been studying consciousness and enlightenment this year, including a couple of retreats. Even Eddo back in July spent some time discussing how the rider’s mindset affects the horse. My yoga class card is regularly punched, but I’ve been trying to do EVERYTHING in a more mindful way. Coincidence hardly surprises me any more and I like to think it keeps me pointed in the right direction.
Photo thanks to Wendy Webb Photography
Photo thanks to Wendy Webb Photography
September 18th, 21st and 25th I took Ehren to cap with the first field of the Ottawa Valley Hunt. The 18th and 25th were very interesting 'live' hunts for coyote, and while there was no action, it is endlessly fascinating to watch Antony work with his hounds. The 21st was a wild 'drag' hunt at the Club, and I held on tight to Ehren while we galloped and tried to keep up with Field Master Jen!
September 22 I examined an Equestrian Canada Rider Candidate in Otter Lake, Quebec. A Painted Hilltop, indeed. Congratulations to Charlotte!
September 22 I examined an Equestrian Canada Rider Candidate in Otter Lake, Quebec. A Painted Hilltop, indeed. Congratulations to Charlotte!
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