9/7/03 Thuy and I Beginner Novice -
Sidesaddle
We really had a great time. Thuy was a trooper and
there was so much support from the other riders and spectators.
We had saddle slipping issues, the person putting on the event wasn't
sure if it was 'legal' to event sidesaddle, and I overestimated my right leg's
ability to do what I told it to for 5 minutes of cross country running and jumping.
But, in the end we got 3rd out of 10 and had a round of clapping after stadium
that rivaled the little girl who got back on after a fall and finished her round...
video of our stadium round
(I recommend that you right click and save this file and play it off your computer)
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We got a 35 on our dressage test. Lower is better, and we tied for 3rd.

 

New apron off ebay. I don't have a jacket to match, but it's a much better length and fit than my other one.

We had trouble with our left lead canter circle. He ignored my leg and fell in a bit (so you really couldn't call it a circle...) Still, there were 3 8s on the test and we knew the canter would have some issues.

 

The judge was very impressed. She said it'd been twenty years since she'd seen someone ride sidesaddle. She asked if I'd be jumping that way, and was really surprised when I said yes.

Heading into stadium calm and cool.

 

We did a real course.

It wasn't always pretty. He's the most forgiving horse.  Out schooling cross country the day before, I dropped the reins over a fence and he just cantered on steadily til I got them back and told him which way to go.

 

No right leg and only a bat, but he always hit the middle of the fences.

I look at this and say 'how in the world'...

 

And afterwards he's back asleep.

I'm starting to think there is no way to get those stupid elbows in.

 

These were from schooling the day before.  I'm guessing it's pretty hard to look like you've been left behind. Whenever I told my trainer I was left behind, she said I was fine (as long as I slipped the reins-which I frequently did).

It's a secret, but down drops and chip ins are a cinch aside.

 

Up banks aren't bad, but I couldn't lean much more forward with the horns.

We had so much fun just running around and jumping things.

 

Heading out on the course.

Focusing on the first jump.

 

Attacking the first fence.

I've got to develop the strength to stay off his back during the longer canter/gallop times.

 

We were both eager for the finish line. I got off Thuy at the end, and he was only sweating under the tack (compared to most of the others who were sweating and puffing). I also didn't feel dead like I have in the past. I'd guess fox hunting has made us reconsider what is truly a long workout...

Thuy bringing along the next generation of side saddle riders.

 

Thuy the couch horse.  Between phases he just stood wherever he was put  (allowing father to sleep standing up).