Less Than Perfect

2/7/2018

I am really worrying away at our first show of the season, our debut at Second Level. After some rides, I feel that we might eke out a 60%. Most days though, I know we'll be lucky to get a 58%. Back when we were slogging through Training Level, I never felt ashamed or embarrassed by a sub 60%. I was on a journey, and I knew it was a long one. I felt as though the effort and dedication we were demonstrating counted for just as much as the score.

A very cute 56% at Training Level.

While most of our First Level scores were above 60%, we also had some scores in the 50s. I wasn't happy about them, but I certainly didn't feel embarrassed. They simply reflected where we were at that moment.

Another cute 56%, but at First Level.

Over the weekend, I finally shrugged my shoulders and accepted the fact that we're starting at the bottom once again. We're very likely going to earn a 56% and oh well. I can always choose to simply school at home for the next year until we're more confirmed at the level, but I know that won't work for us. Showing helps me get better. It confirms what we can do and reveals what we can't.

Maybe a 60%?

While I really hope we can earn enough 6s to at least get close to a 60%, I feel a bit of relief that I don't have to knock it out of the park. No one cares more than me, and I am okay with just doing the best we can.

But really, you know I want that 60%!

Mia link

2/7/2018 05:47:40 am

My first attempt at Second Level, I got a 59.85% from a VERY generous schooling show judge, at a show AT the barn I was boarding at (home court advantage), and with a trainer helping at the warm-up. So I had ALL the advantages possible, and I still struggled like mad in the test.

Just focus on having fun!
Good luck!

MIa

2/7/2018 05:51:53 am

Wait, that sounded like I was bragging about my score. I was trying to convey that I *should* have gotten much lower due to how horrible it went, and it was horrible even WITH all the advantages possible. I really should've gotten much closer to a 55% for as crappy as mine was. I lucked out on judges that day.

Bakersfield Dressage link

2/7/2018 06:48:36 am

HAHAHA! You are so funny, Mia! I totally got your point. I cringed at the 59.85% though - that is the WORST score to get. What was that, a HALF point from the 60%? I'd rather have a 56% than a 59%. LOL

Tracy link

2/7/2018 06:34:26 am

Whenever I move up in height or start riding a new horse, I feel like in some ways it's "back to the bottom" and I'm starting over. While that's not really true, it's easy to get down on yourself -- but you know what? Moving up is HARD! You're doing things you've never done before and the fact that you're working hard to improve should make you proud.

As long as you do right by your horse, and try your best, don't be embarrassed by any score.

2/7/2018 06:50:33 am

Thank you, Tracy! It is hard to move up especially after having a relatively successful season last year - several show high points, a regional reserve champion, lots of great scores ... I am preparing for the suckiness of this year. LOL

jenj

2/7/2018 07:29:03 am

Ehhhh, don't worry so much about your score. Get out there and do your best... the first time out at a new level is always a bit rocky. The important thing is that you're DOING it. Smile and have a good time, and tell Speedy he's awesome!

Elinor link

2/7/2018 08:21:27 am

Be proud of where you are!! Moving up to 2nd is such a big step! Nobody should expect fantastic scores off the bat. It's hard training on your own, and not having a super elastic mover etc. Good for you to get out there! I'll do the very same once I feel we've been stuck at 1st level for too long. And yep, I'm prepared for maybe not breaking 60 in the beginning either :)
Have a wonderful time and enjoy your wonderful boy!

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Not-So-Speedy Dressage