El Sueno - Part 3 Saturday's First Ride

The good news is that we had a very pleasant and relaxed first test. The bad news is that I don't have any drama llama moments to share with you so this post might get a tad boring. As such, I am keeping it super short and sweet.

Chemaine met me at the warm-up and helped me get Speedy focused and stretching. I will say that with her help, I've learned that Speedy actually needs a longer warm-up than I've been giving him. Normally I ride for 15 - 20 minutes. Chemaine had me walk for 10 minutes working on flexions to the right and left before we even started our trot work. This definitely helped Speedy loosen up through his back. I think 30 minutes is going to be Speedy's best warm-up time: 10 minutes of walking followed by 20 minutes of other exercises.

The test went well, we scored a 64.464% which was good enough for 2nd place out of five riders. Again, we had no 5s on the test, which has become my personal indicator of whether or not we're ready for First Level. We also had a collection of 7s and even a 7.5. 

A second place finish felt good.

Peggy Klump, a former CDS president, was the judge, and I know she is well respected for being fair and consistent. I rode in a clinic with her in 2011 and loved the experience. She's also judged me a time or two in the past, and I've found her comments to be helpful and accurate.

Chemaine and I studied Peggy Klump's further remarks quite closely and worked hard all weekend to address the weaknesses. Peggy wrote, "Smooth? test that needs polish w/clear bend & balance, keeping poll highest point. Develop rounder frame, prepare more for transitions w/poll ⬆ & this talented pair shows potential for brilliant performance."

I think we're nearly finished with Training Level Test 2. We're starting to show some real consistency in the test. I am guessing that by some time next year we can either use this test simply as a warm-up, or leave it behind all together. My score sheet is posted below. More drama tomorrow!

I am quite happy with a 64% especially at a USDF-rated show!

Again, no 5s, and I like the NINE 6.5s - so close to 7s!

"Talented pair shows potential for brilliant performance" - I'll take more of that, please!