End of the season

Well it's been a quiet month after what was a really exciting 2010 season so I've finally got time to update the blog.

October saw me swap roles as I went to the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky as groom for individual rider Camilla Speirs and Team Ireland. What an amazing experience, it was a privilege to see first hand world class horses in every discipline imaginable, Great Britain win their gold medal and my friend Piggy French complete her first world championship. Another highlight was seeing the great Totillas in action to win yet another gold medal in pure dressage - what a horse. The whole experience was a real inspiration to me to raise my game!

All our horses are still on their well earned rest period, in preparation for a successful 2011 campaign in the Spring. In the meantime I'm doing a lot of teaching, with weekend training events now happening regularly at Newstead. We've had three weekend sessions of clear round showjumping which is proving to be a real hit. Three rounds for £15 with advice from me included too. Do get in touch if you'd like more information about training and teaching opportunities at the yard - I'm about to start a loyalty card scheme for those who come regularly.

I've been asked to act as trainer for both Burghley Pony Club eventing and show jumping teams, so next year's teaching and campaign for success in the summer is launching with dates now scheduled for training in January.

I'll finish by saying a huge well done to my mare, Cody. I bought her in July and she went straight to Piggy French to produce with the aim of selling her after the season. They started at novice level and in just a few months amassed 32 intermediate points, finishing 1st in four of the five competitions they entered. Cody is a really talented prospect for the future.