training level test 2

i didn't dismount between my tests, as there was only about 20 minutes between them. i stood with Ruby in the on-deck area with Megan holding her head while i strstched my aching arm and shoulder. riding one handed dressage is not as easy as it may seem! i was ultimately more confident going into the second one, and put more pressure on myself. at this point my heart was going crazy! i've got to work on the show nerves. the test went well until near the end when i asked for right lead canter. sure enough, Ruby chose to completely blow off my outside aides, and we missed the transition entirely. then i made the mistake of insisting she do it on our 20m circle right, when really i should have brought her back, balanced her and THEN asked. c'est la vie! i was immensely upset afterward and very sullen. i had been sure i'd improve on my first test and we really botched it! but at the end of the day, i only missed first place by 0.4%, and i ended up tied for second. so not too bad after all. we still scored 70.86%, which is satisfactory, and it's only a schooling show and not a rated one. anyhow, there is much to work on and perfect before the next one, and i have this certain feeling that next time i ride Ms. Ruby, there will have been leaps and bounds made. mom said "dressage is a language, and you and Ruby are starting to speak." i think so too! 

the results from the show!

on another note, i spoke to Laureen Johnson, discipline director of the US para-equestrian association, and she inquired if i was intending to compete at next year's World Equestrian Games, to be eld in Normandy, Fr. i responded with a resounding YES!! and now am very much more in need of that special horse to take me there!it felt great to know i have that shot. moving on and up! i'm itching to get back in the saddle and test my theory that Ruby and i are going to have made improvements after the show.