Does this sound sensible?

[madhector]

I am planning on taking Jerry back to NH on Sunday for the Ride and Relax challenge, the last time we were there was a complete disaster if you remember. But I think we have sorted out that particular problem and want to test it at the same venue, inside to see if he is really improving. What do you think? I have to go anyway as jumping 2 horses for clients so may as well take J too.

My next plan was to then take him to NH on the Thursday after to do a British Novice, and the clear round of course. Is this madness? I know a while ago everyone on here told me to leave it a bit and I have, but think he might be ready now, the canter is loads better and we have sorted our bitting problems out. So what do you think? Does that sound sensible? Or crazy?!


Thanks

 

[BeckyD]

I'd trust yourself on this. Only you know how he feels and whether he's ready for it. It does sound like you've solved the problem.

 

[wizoz]

Can you not just take him but don't do anything with him? I think it would do him good to just go out and not compete as it then doesn't become expected. Maybe get him off the lorry and ride him around a bit but then get off untack and put him back?

 

[madhector]

Thing is I really dont want to go and regret it. Then again I think he may be happier over a BN than a poorly designed unaffiliated course

 

[madhector]

He is fine at shows, just the same as at home (sharp

) so I am not worried about the atmosphere, he also knows NH quite well now.

 

[BeckyD]

Why don't you do the CR and see how he is? I'd imagine a BSJA course is going to be far better built and better distances than an unaff, so it should go more smoothly. But there will be more to look at there potentially? Bigger spreads and fillers perhaps?

Maybe do the CR twice and leave it at that, unless he feels super-confident?

ETS: I'm no expert in these matters! I'm just suggesting a happy medium

 

[madhector]

He isnt spooky, and even when he looks he will jump anyway, it is more the approach and the control I am worried about. But He was so much better the last 2 times showjumping so been thinking we have turned a corner...

I think I am more concerned about making a complete fool of myself at an affiliated comp

 

[BeckyD]

I'm sure you won't do that!!

 

[ajf]

Well reading this is sounds like you've already made ur mind up!!! But I'd say if your reallt confident in him then take him, if hes a bugger, do some more work and test again!!!
Good luck and if we don't here from u for a few months we'll know it didn't go well

 

[Nosey]

Maybe see how the CR goes where there is absolutely no pressure on you to go clear and you can circle or whatever as need be. If all OK you can enter BN or do another CR to perfect the technique??

 

[madhector]

lol!

Think I will aim to take him and do the clear round, then play it by ear, will probably have to go anyway so he may as well come.

 

[welshpony]

Well there's plenty of people who look like fools at aff shows, especially those in the BN on babies! Good luck whatever you decide