Straight after my recent international debut as a young rider I took Humus, a five-year-old stallion to complete his novice qualification. He was a really super boy doing everything asked of him in some stormy weather but won both classes with 70% in novice 39 and therefore completing his regional qualification in just two outings.
I hinted in my last blog of some really exciting news. My friend and fellow international dressage rider Erin Williams and her family offered me one of her horses to ride. I was totally amazed as there are so few people willing to loan a horse at Prix St Georges (PSG) level.
We don’t see many horses in the UK competing internationally at junior and young rider level supported by an owner other than a close family member unless you are part of an already established dressage family.
Hummus
Waverly (Lola, pictured top and below) was Erin’s reserve ride for the Junior Europeans and is a 17.1hh mare with a lovely temperament who has been having a break while Erin rides her other horses.
I am so fortunate to have this opportunity. I jumped at the chance and we went to try her and have a lesson with Sonia Baines, Erin’s trainer and then brought her home. She is a delight, she has lovely movement and hacks peacefully. She has bonded with Kaja and all is now well at home.
I took her to Carl Hester’s after two weeks for a lesson, to get some advice on developing our partnership and she was excited but fantastic.
Lola
I have now started my A2 exams and am attempting to focus on them as much as I can but yesterday I took Lola to a local show for her first ever PSG and won the class. I was so thrilled and it was good preparation, giving me some things to work on before we compete at Somerford premier league next week.
I am going to compete both mares in the PSG and also, for Kaja, the PSG freestyle. Somerford is my local show and is great for spectators and riders alike. It is well organised and friendly with a high standard of competition and lots to see and do. It’s very early to be taking Lola as we aren’t established yet but I can’t resist as I love the show.
Continued below…
Read more from Chloe:
Chloe Vell’s dressage blog: Sometimes you just feel like giving up
Chloe Vell’s dressage blog: A question of judging
Chloe Vell’s dressage blog: managing exuberance
The day after Somerford I fly to Italy to model and attend the launch of Cavalleria Toscana’s new range. They are fabulous sponsors with great products and I appreciate their support. Then it will be back to some serious half-term revision before my next lot of exams.
In my next blog I will feature some of the behind the scenes action at the launch and hopefully a successful Somerford premier league outing.
Chloe
