First time out BN -- Gush moment. =)

We did it! We survived Beginner Novice! Last year we competed Starter/Elem. There is such a huge difference between those levels and BN. We tanked on dressage, but we didn't leave the arena in one of the corners, though I give him credit for trying every chance he got.

We may have been a bit overfaced when it came to jumping. Due to horrible weather, schooling outdoors has been next to none, so all I've been jumping are 1-3 fences or a grid. But there were no refusals in SJ just 2 poles and only one refusal XC. I'm actually glad he refused on XC because he had stumbled a few strides from fence 3. We would have never made it if he had tried to leap. It didn't seem to phase him and he jumped everything else including into the water like a champ.

We def need to work on our galloping though. I got the comment "Well he was out for a nice sunday canter" after we got passed on XC.

Yes I'm gushing... I nearly cried afterwards cause this horse has been one project after another. And we finally have pictures... I think there are a few here that I will order! =)

PhotoReflect - GRC Photography - Fair Hill ST May 2011

I don't mind any comments anyone has... I know we have a few things to work on. Ok .... a lot, but well that's what riding's all about.

You look great! I've never evented but I did go to a Leslie Law clinic and loved it. Maybe I'll get brave enough to do it one day for real.

Well done, your horse is beautiful. Your dressage description made me giggle! All the best for continued success!

Congrats on a job well done, and great job on moving up! The pics look great, you two make a fabulous team!

You look fantastic!! Wish I had heels like that. Good to hear to you moved up successfully. You guys will do great at BN.

Wow, you guys look amazing!

Thanks guys! I'm very proud of my special ED pony. Now I just need to find a way to keep him from getting rattled before Dressage so we actually have a chance at some ribbons.

Great Job! Your horse is the cutest!

You said you don't mind any tips, so I just wanted to say that you might want to shorten your stirrups 3-4 holes for XC. :)

VB

Yea... I saw that too. Would you believe they are 2 holes shorter than my regular flat (think hunter length) and 4 from my dressage length.

Wow I think you guys looked great! I have a project mare who has been one issue after another and im working on getting into eventing with her so I knwo how you feel about the accomplishment! There were a few rough jumps in there but most were very good and your form is great coming from hunters! Most hunters tend to duck too much and its nice to see you keeping your shoulders back! I agree with the stirrups, although I must say kudos to you for being able to do it with such long stirrups lol. I've ridden jumpers for many years so I ride like a jockey and since I started practicing dressage for eventing I actually strained my calf with lengthened stirrups because Im not used to it hahaha.