a single round against the clock. My number was down first to make sure I didn’t get too competitive by knowing the other times and have a silly fence. I took it steady and we managed a clear, which I was over-the-moon about as it is the biggest track we’ve jumped in competition, and it was rather up-to-height. We were in the lead until the last 3 competitors, who pipped me to the post and pushed me down into 3rd place. It was a slight anti-climax knowing I had been winning all the way through the class, but at least we took home some prize money and a rosette (yes, at the age of 25 I still get excited at the thought of a frilly!). I have also since been show jumping at Markfield (Leices- ter), but Tommy didn’t seem to go as well on their surface, meaning we had a fence down in both the Newcomers and 115. But, you live and learn!
So, from now until the new competition season I’m aim- ing to do some dressage (I’m not all about the jumping, promise...!), a few more BS shows and warm-up for the JAS (Jumping and Style) series that BE run during January and February. Our plans for next season are almost sorted – but what will happen, you’ll just have to check back and see!
Finally, I’d like to thank my lovely and generous sponsors of the 2011 season. Coltsfoot Equestrian, my first sponsor who took a chance on an amateur rider, have been a huge help this year, from rugs to boots, and just someone to have a chat and cup of tea with at a competition! Kan Teq, run by the wonderful Wendy, has been a gem this year. The body protector she provided me with is amazing, so incred- ibly comfortable, and saved my shoulder in the summer during a fall at the water com- plex. Not only that, she’s also entrusted her own business in me by making me her first UK
representative, in which I can’t wait to find out what possibili- ties there are for us! Other thanks go out to Photo Shows Online (
www.photo-
shows.co.uk), Renaissance Ro- settes (renaissancerosettes@
yahoo.co.uk or find them on Facebook), Mortgages Online (
www.mortgages-online.
co.uk), and all the other people who have supported me through a very up and down 2011!
However, an extra special thank you goes to my parents, without whom none of this would ever be possible. My mum, who carts me and the dobbin to every show, lesson and clinic I’ve ever been to, helps me muck out when I’m in a rush, remembers the little things like hoof oil, films and takes photographs through- out the season, and most importantly, supplies me with a Tupperware full of dinner at the end of a long day’s event- ing! My dad, who is behind the scenes, not only has recently very kindly purchased a new trailer for the dobbin, but bought him for me in the first place. I’m sure he had no idea what was to come, but for taking a chance on a young, lanky horse I am eternally grateful! A final thank you goes to my unofficial groom, Sophie Gates. As useless as she can be on early morning starts, she’s always there to help, comes to competitions with me, builds show jumping courses for me at home, and generally is a huge help and a good laugh. Here’s to 2012, Gates!
So, until next time, wrap up warm, don the hi-vis if you’re out hacking, and look forward to having longer days again – Happy New Year, all!
Tor & Tommy xx
www.torheardeventing.co.uk Also find us on Facebook (Tor Heard Eventing) and Youtube (Torabella)
Whitaker Masterclass is “a superb experience”
Stubbing Court Training (SCT) closed its 2011 Masterclass Series with a superb demonstration and training day with young international showjumper Joe Whitaker on 18 November.
Joe himself has taken part in SCT’s highly successful apprenticeship programme. As well as teaching apprentices on the flat and over fences, he gave over a hundred of SCT’s apprentices and employers the chance to watch him work an experienced 1.30m showjumper at Parklands EC near Sheffield.
was extremely helpful, and gave very good tips that are applicable to every horse and rider”.
Chesterfield-based SCT works throughout the horse industry to provide world-class training for young people through the apprenticeship programme, and its highly popular Masterclass Series is exclusive to SCT trainees and employers. These popular events offer a unique opportunity for SCT
Joe Whitaker during the Masterclass
It was one of SCT’s most successful Masterclasses yet. Joe, who is one of Britain’s most exciting international showjumping prospects, is also an accomplished and inspiring teacher.
“The Masterclass was very well organised, brilliant!” commented one attendee, while another said: “Joe was really interesting to listen to and watch. He explained everything very clearly.” Another added: “I thoroughly enjoyed Joe’s input, he
apprentices, employers, their staff and those interested in a career with horses to learn from those who have reached the top of their game. Places are given as a reward for commitment and progress towards achieving the apprenticeship qualification.
www.equestrianlifemagazine.co.uk
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