Midsummer

Such a beautiful night. It's still 18 degrees and I'm sat outside with a glass of wine amazed by how light it is. Shame the sun turns today. The summer season always passes too quickly.

Must remember to take some time to enjoy it!

Writing and Learning

When Nereide was here the other weekend I voluntered to write for her. As always it was both entertaining and educational.

I passed my judging exam a few months back, but was not all that impressed with the training we got here. It is so complex it would be good to get some more input before being thrown out there.

Which was why I jumped at the chance to spend some time with Nereide in the judges box. When I was working for her back in the day she was always extremely good at asking questions and giving mini-lectures on everything from fitting double bridles to how half pass should look.

She was also always very interested in my opinion on her performance in a test or when she was schooling. Now that gets you thinking - and looking properly.

So I am very grateful for everything she has taught me so far. And besides she is as always a great laugh to have around!

So Much Fun...

Sneaking up on the dogs and then chasing them is excellent fun every time...

Damn It!

And then it was over for this year. Just like that.

Richie has done a tendon. He was scanned on Wednesday and it showed some damage to the superficial digital flexor tendon.

Best case scenario he'll be able to start careful retraining in the autumn and be ready again for next season. Worst case he won't be able to race again.

The only upside to the whole ordeal is that he does not appear to be in much pain. He has hardly been lame and is his usual chirpy self.

I have arranged for him to stay at the place where I keep the young one over the summer. Then if he is ready I'll take him with me to the new place in September and begin the long careful fitness regime that will be needed if he is ever to come back.

Sometimes racing just sucks.