Last Show of the Year?

I hope so!  It's a been a busy, and expensive, year.  There is a ride-a-test in October being held by the local chapter of CDS, but that would be just for fun and doesn't require any special preparation.

Saturday's show prep went really well.  I gave Sydney's bridle path a quick clip, and then he got some good turn out where he galloped and galloped. I was glad to see that as it (hopefully) reduced some of his excess energy.  I won't need any of that this morning.  

While he was still tired from his morning gallop, I did a quick trailer loading session.  He got an A for loading, but I had to give him a C- for unloading. This is one thing I should have been working on over the last month.  I don't think it will be a problem this morning, but you never know.  

While Sydney was turned out, I hacked Speedy around the neighborhood in order to try out his new bit.  So far, so good.

After the clip, turn out, and trailer loading session, I gave Sydney a brief, under saddle schooling ride focussing solely on relaxation.  I let him trot around on a loose rein focusing on making the turns with my seat and legs. I shortened my reins, worked on some 10 meter turns, and then finished up with a couple of halts.

The rest of the morning was spent cleaning him up and braiding his forelock.  Ineke, RM's house guest, volunteered to braid him last night for me which will save me a lot of time this morning.  Once he was polished up, I finished my morning by giving my tack a quick wipe down before loading everything up in the trailer.

We'll be on the road by 6:30 a.m.  Wish us luck!

Forelock braided, but he wasn't being a very cooperative model. That's okay - I still think he's handsome!