My grandpa wrote in a letter to me in 2000 the following;

“The trouble in life is that when you give a sigh of relief at having climbed one mountain, there always seems to be another one that you have to take on. I suppose it keeps you fit.”

So true for this challenge in more than one way..... so here's the story....

So back in 2010 I bought Jay a now 15.2h Chestnut who was only 3yrs old at the time (and I also had a son on 6/2/10 who is also ginger).  We've been on a journey learning the basics from walking into water, dealing with traffic and tractors on the road and hacking out.  This challenge is not only for a worthy cause but will focus me on the training and goals for Jay and I.  This challenge would be easy on the reliable Mr Tom who I also have at home, but Jay isn't an easy ride and challenges confidence and  trust but is a genuine horse who enjoys his adventures.   For me, dressage has never been something that I would do due to my dyslexia and thus doing a ODE is absolutely terrifying.  I will also need to remember a show jumping round as well as tackle a cross country course all on the same day. Roll on 2017 and having achievements be they big or small.

(ps I'm undertaking this challenge with my friend Katie and we are 'team balls'!

pps. Said son is 7yrs old in 2017 and started pony club in 2016 so the challenge also ensures some 'mummy time'!

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