Above and
below: Wemen Jackaroo was nicely presented but not really on the
aids and correctly ridden up to the bridle. Full credit to Kelli
Dickerson for qualifying for the event. Perhaps the curb was not
adjusted correctly as it was horizontal to the ground and not almost on
the vertical. This is either too much curb or (as I suspect) the
curb chain too loose, allowing the bit to rotate in the horse's mouth.
At this level, the correct fitting of equipment is expected and this
would have detracted from a high score for riding and paces.
It is the rider's responsibility to get this right. I hope that
this experience and assessment help for the future ... as it is a
great effort to even get to the Garryowen.
Above and
below: Karen Fisher is a very knowledgeable competitor and this
pretty small hack was a 'charmer. Willowcroft Prescott is by
Urubula Regal Promise and is owned by Karen and Chad Cunliffe.
With this stud prefix, I am guessing that this horse a splash of
riding pony in his blood! The turnout and presentation was perfect
and this petite gelding has very pretty movement and worked 'a treat'
I felt that Karen may have gained a higher mark for both riding (36)
and manners and paces (30) The trot work was so pretty and
forward.
Willowcroft
Prescott
Gayle
Scantleton from Classic Accessories in Somerville in Victoria is a long
time supporter and the main sponsor of the Garryowen. Gayle has a
great sense of style (as you can see) and has dressed many Garryowen
competitors this year ... and in many preceding years.. The
professionals in the horse world are always quick to acknowledge a job
well done and Gayle was first up, to congratulate Caroline Wagner for
her outstanding, winning performance. I am sure that their
business interests provide some moments of friendly competitive rivalry
- and this keeps the standard of work and creative ideas finely tuned
and the customers on the winning end of their quest for excellence.
Steve Peters assisting Caroline Wagner (Wagners
Saddlery) and
WS (Wagner's Saddlery) Black Label.
However, I
felt that is was an 'awkward' oversight to have the long time ring
steward (who does a fantastic job ...) Steve Peters decked out in a
'Wagners Saddlery' saddle blanket, when the sponsor's message should be
the important message, or 'no name' impartiality, RASV or other name on
his saddle cloth. A small criticism ... and I hope it
is taken as the well meaning observation that is intended.
Most spectators do not get the chance to say anything and yet, like me
they notice and form opinions.
It was great
to see Steve here today, as just a few weeks ago his 2004 Royal Show
appearance was under threat when he broke a bone in his hand while out
eventing. Fortunately with modern medicine (or was it superglue??)
he was able to do the job with has made him a legend of the show ring in
September each year.
The Judges make their way to the presentation area
following the performance of the final combination.
The saddle used by Violet Murrell 70 years ago - I
wonder how many riders could maintain a balanced position with effective
use of the aids sitting in the 'armchair' position that this saddle
would encourage. It would be interesting to discuss this with the
expert
saddlery judge Mal Byrne
I think this beaming grin will be on the face of
Caroline Wagner for many days -what an achievement. Winner of the
event on the 60th anniversary and again on the 70th birthday of the
event. Violet Murrell would be smiling down and perhaps she gave
Caroline some extra assistance today. Thanks Violet and Garryowen
for giving us a wonderful occasion to celebrate the skills of Australian
horses and the women who make them special.
So the 'Garry' is over for another year.
ALL of the riders put in a super human effort to be part of the event
and I am sure that almost all of them have a 'support crew' who have
also worked tirelessly to make the event a reality. I feel that a
little too much emphasis is placed on the costume! Times have
changed and I feel that slavishly following the fashion of 70 years ago
as the 'primary' objective is leaving shortcomings in riding skill and
the proper understanding of the function and fitting of equipment.
The horse can only work well if he is comfortable and the saddlery is
fitted and used with subtlety and great expertise. I felt that this was
a missing element in some combinations and of course the horse is the
silent sufferer.
Til next year when we meet again at the
Melbourne Royal Show for the premiere turnout event in the land, happy
reading and happy riding.
