The Winter Blues You Want, Show Report AWTA 2024-2025 #1

Alabama Winter Tournament Association, 2024-2025 #1
Rocking S Farm
Helena, AL USA
Saturday 14 December 2024

14. Masters Pleasure 50+ – 1st of 2 with Optimus
26. Academy Driving – 1st of 1 with Diego

Thank you to the Gray Family for the outstanding Optimus. Thank you to the Mullins family for the debonair Diego. Thank you to Couch Courtney and the entire Stepping Stone Farm crew.

Riding Optimus

Due to unavoidable errands in the am, I rolled up to the showgrounds right before my first class. Would I ride Optimus instead of the horse I was scheduled to ride? Yes, please. As I helped my chauffeur turn the truck around I looked over to see my saddle already on a familiar black back. Well, okay then. Grabbed helmet. Got on.

I was happy to be on a horse I knew well. I was happy to find out that the old man was also in a good mood. Bring on the horse show!

Got my trot diagonals and canter leads, even had the zip to manage a bit of fancy steering. All of this despite not having been on a horse since November. At one point, Optimus was convinced – convinced I tell you – that the judge was going to ask for a trot in the upcoming corner. No, you have to wait until you actually hear the words. We kept both canters. Go us.

An observer pointed out that Opt may have been feeding off my attitude. He was in a good mood because I was in a good mood. Whatever the reason, a joyous time was had by all.

Driving Diego

A little bit more concern before driving a new-to-me horse, but I knew I would be set up for success. Coach James takes the horse for a spin in the ring, By the time I get in the cart, the question is as easy as it can be. Plus, Diego is a star.

Onwards!
Katherine