Imposters at Pony Cup

I have always been curious about the National Dressage Pony Cup. I have heard many good things from various friends, but never really thought I would go because my horse is ... not a pony. Or a small horse.

But this year we said let's do it and entered the open show. And I am so glad I did because now I see why people rave about this show. It was SO fun, such neat prizes, SO MANY CUUUUUTE PONIES, a well-run show and lovely facility (at WEC Ohio). 

Mani/Pedis on site!

The famous ride-through coffee shop

I broke out the shadbelly again and entered Prix St. Georges on Friday. We had a very organized, accurate and workmanlike test. Nothing jaw dropping, but solid enough to win against some NICE horses.

PSG

Just the best guy.
Photos by Winslow Photos

On Saturday we entered the I-1 - probably my favorite of all the tests. I warmed up in my shadbelly but as I was trotting, I started to feel sick and crampy. Then saw stars. Ok, I will walk for a minute and it should pass. It did not. 

Rut ro.

Since I started running, my heat tolerance has not given me an issue in several years but after the summer we have had, it just started to catch up with me. Plus I was in the shadbelly. I literally stripped my coat off at the ingate of the show ring, walked another 5 minutes and went in. Hoping to All Gods Above that I would not 1) puke or 2) pass out or 3) actually pass away in the middle of my test.

Just laugh through the nausea.

Hampton was like "Hmmm, my rider appears to need some assistance today" and pretty much pumped out an I-1 by himself. I was disassociated, lost count in the 2s (he did the right count anyway) and my eyes were stinging from sweat.

What a horse to do that for me. And he didn't do too bad - 66%! One of our top scores at the level! 

Could not have been more proud of him to step right back up to the FEI levels without missing a beat.

I don't think that will be my last time at the show either, really top notch. And so many friends to gossip have intellectual conversation with.

The Sancturary Ring was so pretty.

Meanwhile, we are BOILING here in Kentucky and have been since I dunno, JUNE. It is relentless. Please send help.