Awareness of the outside world. Christmas?! Already?!?! Over the weekend, I noticed a massive uptick in red & green commercials and movies. I guess holiday season is now the day after Halloween rather than the day after Thanksgiving. November must be so pissed, A Bitter November. A repeat link from last year, but on point. [The Non-Illustrated Month, November]
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The National Academy Championship Horse Show this year was helmet positive. In Adult WT, 6 of 7 riders wore helmets. In Adult WTC, 4 of 5 riders had helmets. All the academy kids worn helmets. It was required. Adults were highly encouraged.
“HEADGEAR: Safety helmets are the ONLY acceptable headgear. ASTM/SEI Certified helmets are required for children age 17 and under when mounted. Helmets are highly encouraged for all riders.” NACHS: Attire
Woot!
What a change from when I rode in 2014, less than 10 years ago. That year, of the 7 riders in Adult WTC, I was the only one wearing a helmet. I was trailing the pack. It was suggested that my look might go over better without a large, dark blob enveloping my head. To her credit, Coach Courtney didn’t even bother to suggested this to me. We changed my look a different way. [Show Report]
At this year’s show, the suit riders in the Alpha class still wore the tradition saddle seat derby. I don’t know how this correlates with the above rule. Oh well. I’ll take the progress on offer.
Props to EventMixLive for the livestream of National Academy.
Onwards!
Katherine
Virtual Brush Box 
Wahoo! Yay! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Joan
🥳