I have included some
pictures of some of the combinations who made an appearance at the 2004
event. They are all stars and made a huge effort with their costume
and presentation. I felt that some riders needed to better
understand the technical principals of good forward riding and the impact
that this has on the horse's attention and obedience. Some riders
were hanging on the curb rein with a very poor impact on the horse's
confidence and preparedness to move freely forward.
I felt that some riders
needed to do some 'soul searching' and make an attempt to improve their
seat, hands and general riding skill rather than to use the advanced
action of a double bridle to jam their horses into an outline which
certainly did not fool any of the knowledgeable eyes on the ground today.
The next pictures are in
alphabetical order of the horse's name.
Best Wishes
and Alix Herbert were not really forward enough to capture the judges with
their showring charisma. He is such a pretty horse and could make an
impact. They scored 32 for riding and 30 for manners and paces, so
this needs to be addressed. Good luck Alix.
Tammy
Graham and Chrystalite Park Versace had it all there. What a pretty
horse and perfect 'show horse' markings. She scored 33 for riding
and the horse 29 for manners and paces - so the judges would have like to
see a performance with more flair and 'showmanship'.
Espinosa and Miss M Witnish - another lovely horse that
would have made an impact if he had have produced a more energetic workout
- good luck !
Above and
below: Miss Rebecca Groen on the elegant bay gelding Gift. He
is by Tarso and is 8 years old. They were 2nd. In the John Lithgow trophy
at this show. They scored 35 for riding and 38 for manners and
paces.
Gift.
Some more
of the lineup ...
