Only one week to go now before the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials; the passes have arrived and lists have been written. It’s starting to feel very real and I’m finding myself being more superstitious than ever, saluting at every magpie during my lorry driver training.
In an effort to look as smart as possible, I’ve bought a new pair of jodhpurs, gloves and XC boots. However, after an episode at the pony club championships a few years ago where I fell off at the last fence on the cross-country, then again in the showjumping while sporting new attire, I have already worn them several times, and after a downpour of rain they are not looking quite so pristine.
Last week I took Ben (Master Monarch) for a lesson with Lucinda Green, which was fantastic. With a set of the skinniest jumps I have ever seen, which resembled a dog agility course (see pic top right), our straightness and communication was really put to the test. I am having another lesson this afternoon with both Ben and Highland Leopard for a last minute brush up, and after watching some old Burghley videos, I think I defiantly need it!
With all the anticipation building up, 
I took an afternoon off to go up to London and visit Madam Tussauds, which was great fun, but with train delays and tube crowding I was relieved to get back and see the physio, who gave Ben a once over.
I have been a bit of a wimp and decided to put off breaking the three youngsters until after Burghley, but I have fitted in some teaching this week, which will help with the diesel.
The next time you’ll be reading this I’ll be on the three-and-a-half hour drive up to Burghley (fingers crossed, magpies saluted!!).
Wish me luck!
Georgie
