Tehachapi - Intro B

Poor Sydney.  This test was pretty bad (50.625%), and I think it was more my fault than anything else.  There was a lot of this:

I think the rider needs to REALX!

He was just really tense, and I couldn't seem to find a way to be softer with my hands.  I should have just let go of the reins and let him travel with a longer frame.  Truthfully, I was so worried about him spooking that I was trying to find a balance between having control and letting him move out.

Marbaskin's Mom, who was there to cheer on the local riders, noted that while he didn't spook in the second test like he had in the first, he wasn't as relaxed either.  It wasn't all bad though.  There were some moments when we were both trying to get it right.

Not great, but we're trying.

When you look at the scores, you'll see a string of 4s.  Rather than fight with him in the 20 meter circle, I just worked on some of his tension by sending him sideways.  He was getting heavier and stiffer at the trot, and I didn't want him to bolt so I asked for lots of halts.  There was no way to disguise it, but It was more important to get him off my leg.

This was certainly not our best dressage work, but I was really pleased with how hard he tried.  I am not disappointed at all.  At least it wasn't a 49%!  Click images to enlarge.