Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Lesson

Today I had my last lesson before the show this weekend. We basically worked on what we will do at the horse show. We started out with some forward walk and trot work, focusing on getting Werther's back swinging. The Sarah had me gather Werther up into a frame and we worked on bending and using the corners to improve connection on the bit. Then we did some canter transitions so I could get Werther into the nice forward working trot I need for my tests. We took a walk break and we talked a little bit about how everything is going to go. Werther has a tendency to have a lateral walk so that is at 5 or a 6 if I am lucky, but he has an excellent trot and if I can get him forward and going well he could get a 8 or 9. I'm not showing at the canter at this show, but Sarah thinks it is about a 7. For the second half of the tests we worked on the trot outside the ring, establishing the impulsion and rhythm I need to have a really excellent test. 
Some of the little details we work on while I rode my tests: 

under turning to center line, and not cutting my turn at C
Sitting really heavy for the halt while still keeping leg on, and getting right at X
really riding the corners
keeping a slight shoulder fore around the ring to get a smooth bend in the turns
making sure I hit E and B in the 20 m circle and really showing my bend in the circle 
pushing the free walk forward and down
correctly using the space across the diagonal and in the serpentine
Keep a firm outside rein 

They also just posted the ride times and schedule for my show are I'm the only one in my division! I am kind of excited about it because it really takes the pressure off, I can just treat it like a clinic where I get a blue ribbon for not falling off or throwing up. :)

5 comments:

Nina said...

GOOD LUCK!!!!! We want photos and video footage!!!!!

Rebecca White said...

Sounds like you are totally on track for a successful show!

One of the things I like about dressage is that even if you automatically win the class you still get your score sheet so you can still learn from your ride. That was one thing about being in classes alone; I was guaranteed a blue, but how did I DO?

I cannot wait for pictures!

Anonymous said...

Sounds like you had a very productive session - best of luck at the show!

Ellie said...

Thanks guys! I can't wait!

Justaplainsam said...

Good luck!