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Not-So-Speedy Dressage

From Endurance to Dressage

How to Go Off Course When You Don't

5/15/2012

 
Continued from Part 1

I started the Training Level 2 test and felt that it was going remarkably well especially since I was pretty uncomfortable from the earlier buck off.  We got the first canter transition without bucking and in the right place, but the stretchy trot circle was causing a bad odor.  That's when I heard the whistle blow.  WHAT?  I don't think the judge can whistle you just because you stink, but I stopped and looked over at her from my position at A.  She asked if I could come see her at C.  Speedy and I trotted over obligingly, and she asked if I had missed the canter circle.  I was 100% sure we had completed that movement as I was still happy about the lack of a buck.  After a bit of friendly back and forth, the judge realized that she had gotten a wee bit lost and had whistled me in error.  

This kind of stuff truly doesn't bother me.  In fact, it's happened to me before.  If nothing else, It helps relieves the pressure of the test and illustrates that judges are human just like the rest of us.  She apologized and asked if I wouldn't mind repeating the stretchy trot circle, this time with more reach.  Of course!  I'd like to say it was better, and maybe it was slightly improved, but it still stunk!

A short time after the stretchy trot circle, I heard the whistle blow again.  No, really, I am not kidding!  I am pretty sure this was the longest Training Test ever ridden.  From my position at A, I heard the judge call to me that I had missed my 20 meter circle at E.  Shoot!  I sent Speedy back up the center line, apologized to the judge, and finished the test with no further whistles, bucks, or dirt eaten.  As I saluted the judge from X and approached to offer my thanks, she thanked me for being so patient about the whole thing.  I laughed and thanked her in return for her patience.  I was happy that she didn't deduct points for my error.  I knew the test, but the first whistle blow really did make me lose my concentration.  It was generous of her to recognize that. Score sheets coming later in the week.

All in all, it was a chaotic day, but it is certainly a show I'll remember.  The giant bruise on my elbow, the even larger one on my derriere, and my incredibly stiff neck will definitely keep the day fresh in my mind for at least a few more days!
Judy
5/15/2012 12:21:04 am

I'm just glad you were'nt hurt any worse! This little set back just means your next show will be awesome!

Karen
5/15/2012 09:50:20 am

That's what I said! I am bound to be fabulous in June!!! :0)

Mia
5/15/2012 04:53:47 am

I'm surprised this doesn't happen more often, and am impressed with how well the judges can stay focused for HOURS on end.

I've never been blown for off-course on error, but plenty of times from my stupidity. ;)

Karen
5/15/2012 09:54:15 am

I agree, Mia, but from her sincere apologies, I could tell she felt really bad, and that it probably doesn't happen too often with her. I really just laughed it off. I mean seriously. After getting bucked off in front of everyone, how could a goof on a training level test be anything to cry over? And as I said above, it really just let off any last tension from the day.

Anyone who can't see the humor in my foibles needs to get a better sense of humor. I think the whole thing is rather funny. Well, not the ridiculously HUGE and UGLY bruise that covers my entire butt cheek - that's not funny at all! ;0)


Comments are closed.

    About the Writer and Rider

    ​I am a lifelong rider. 
    I began endurance riding in 1996 where I ultimately completed five, one-day 100 mile races, the 200-mile Death Valley Encounter, and numerous other 50, 65, and 75 mile races. I began showing dressage in 2010.
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    About Speedy G

    ​Speedy went from endurance horse to dressage horse. After helping me earn a USDF Bronze medal in the summer of 2020, he is now semi-retired. Speedy is a 2004, 15'1 hand, purebred Arabian gelding. His Arabian Horse Registry name is G Ima Starr FA.
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    About Izzy

    Izzy was started as a four-year old and then spent the next 18 months in pasture growing up. I bought him as a six-year old, and together, we are showing at the lower levels. He is a 2008, 16'3 hand warmblood gelding. His Rheinland Pfalz-saar International (RPSI) name is Imperioso.
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Among other things, Karen is a Wife, Friend, Reader, Writer, Rider, Traveler, and Dog Lover
Contact her at bakersfielddressage@gmail.com
  • Home
  • About
  • My Horses
    • Horses
    • Imperioso
    • G Ima Starr FA
    • Sunshine
    • Nakota and Gideon
    • Corky
    • Sassy
    • Montoya DSA
    • Mickey Dee
    • Sydney
  • Show Results
    • 2022
    • 2021
    • 2020
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    • 2018
    • 2017
    • 2016
    • 2015
    • 2014
    • 2013
    • 2012
    • 2011
    • 2010
  • Dressage Organizations
    • Dressage Organizations
    • Memberships
    • 2019 Dressage Tests
  • Local
    • Shopping List
  • Home