Must remember to consult the calendar ...
Like most people – I really wish that everyone organised their lives around the Eventing NSW calendar. All too often I’ve had to check the dates of events before accepting invitations to birthday parties or weekends away with friends (well let’s be honest here Kate, there’s only ever been two weekends away – most people have given up asking). But birthday parties for kids – well that’s a different story. And it seems I have been guilty of not considering the eventing calendar when giving birth.
Mucking around on holiday in New Zealand
In February, there are three birthdays. Mine (well I guess that’s my parents fault) and my two daughters, and they are ALL in the week around when SIEC runs. Very poor organisation skills! In the past – what better way to celebrate my birthday than going to an event, it was fabulous! But now I’ve got to put other peoples interests BEFORE mine – goodness me – what a challenge. Despite anguishing over it at 11pm on the close of entries date, I knew I was making the right decision by not going – last year’s experience was still oh so fresh in my mind. Hot cabins, stinking hot weather, a sleepness night, snakes and the painful emptying of the bedding before we could leave, not to mention the price tag financially! For those going – enjoy that, but know that I’d love to be there if it weren’t for a certain soon to be five year old wanting a princess birthday cake!
It was great to catch up with the family ...
... while the children caught up with some sheep
Since my last blog, the family had a quick trip over to see our family in New Zealand. In eight days we drove over 1800km, and with three kids in tow, I can tell you it was more of an endurance test that a holiday. That said it was great to see everyone and be reminded of what an absolutely stunning country it is … and how travelling with kids can suck at times! I even had a go at being a strapper for my sister in law who rides polo. It was fun to see her and her dad playing on the same team, but made the break in between chukkas a little intense! What was worse was the hogging of her pony’s manes and shock horror forelocks … I cringed the entire time.
Polo ponies (pre hogging) and some stunning scenery
Last weekend we started the eventing season, with many other happy riders, at Wallaby Hill. What a paradise and perfect location for an event that is! Thanks to Tina Stafford, my times were brilliant, and I was able to get a few chores done at home before getting Astro sorted out and making our way up to Robertson. Dressage was done and dusted quick smart (probably because I was faffing and couldn’t tie my stock properly) and showjumping went well also. I had been warned in my cross country lesson I’d had with Sam Lyle prior to the event that if I didn’t go clear cross country I was a goose, and I’m pleased to report – I’m NOT a goose (but I suspect I do resemble one far too often). I was clear and under time – and rather chuffed about it too – but sadly I left the SD card out of the sunnies, so no footage this time. I was mid field prior to cross country so we set off home and it was much to my surprise, when I checked the live scores, that we’d moved up into the top ten, and even got a ribbon. Sadly of course I was unable to attend the prizegiving, which is a shame as I like to offer my support and thanks to those who I know have given up so much time to put on such a fabulous event.
Through the Wallaby Hill water and my way to a clear round
As a die-hard dedicated eventer (with a probably more dedicated pit crew) we’re making the journey up to Scone again in March. This is not without some hesitation – driving all that way with Laura isn’t filling me with excitement. If you see a slightly frazzled sleep deprived maniac out there – I’m pretty sure that will be me.
I hope you are all enjoying getting back out there again and being part of this fabulous sport.
Until next time,
Kate
