At the Hampton Classic this year, I had a great time. I got 4 in the 2′6 Adult Equitation, and then got dumped in the 3 foot adult amateur division. I got the pleasure of riding Rush Chairman Bill who saved me from a bad distance. I am so fortunate to be able to lease such a beautiful horse and experience riding him and then go into the Hampton Classic with him. Most of the riders have been riding all their lives. It’s a fun hobby for me and I don’t take it for granted. I was really disappointed in myself and the fact that I pushed a horse to a distance that wasn’t there. The sport has taught me humility, shown me incredible athleticism, and shown me the power of commitment. Congratulations to all the riders. I learned a really important lesson: try and try again. Compete with yourself, and have a blast. There is no dress rehearsal.
So, its local day and this year I have the honor of riding Rush Chairman Bill. I have been looking forward to this horse show all year. The Sunday before the Hampton Classic, is a fun day where only locals can ride. I was able to ride in the flat equitation class, and got 4th place. Over fences in the 2′6 equitation class, I (rather Bill for he did all the work) got a 4th place over fences and a 10th place. I am so excited to be at the Hampton Classic. It is a huge honor, and it was such a BLAST!
Woooooooooo can you believe I did so well. I can’t!!!!
Yup, it’s horse show season. Unlike the other uber rich and extremely talented riders, I have two good things going for me. I am athletic, and I leased an incredible horse. Yes, I am so lucky to be able to ride Mary Riva’s horse, RUSH CHAIRMAN BILL.
I am so lucky to have an amazing trainer Babi Herrara. I always look forward to this time of year. I started riding at 26, and once I put my bum in the saddle, I never took it out. Last Saturday, I raced over to Bobby Ginsberg’s farm and hopped on “Bill” and into the flat class( no jumps) which was a disaster. I thought I heard, ‘walk’, when they said, ‘trot.’ I then learned my course, and went into the pre-adult 2′6 equitation class. The jumps are low, but my heart races fast. “Will I crash this horse I have only ridden a couple of times? Will he get his lead changes if I don’t ask correctly? Will I make it down the line in the right amount of strides without PULLING?” Are just some of the questions that race through my head. I finished my three courses and had a lot of complaints on my own performance. I hung out with my little Jack Russel, Bear, till the announcer said my name. Again, something is wrong with my hearing, I heard the announcement for reserve champion, and I gave a high five to the rider who I thought rocked the division. She then looked at me after our hands met, and said, “Congrats, YOU were CHAMPION.”
WOOOOOOOOO
Thank you North Fork Classic, Babi Herrara, Mary Rivas, and to my kiddies for believing in me.
