Ist Intermediate: ALW or Lt Downham

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Bubblegum

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Easy question : which one would you choose?

Lt Downham is local to us and we feel very confident running there but would consider ALW if recommended.
Horse runs well on firm ground, no major issues with any particular fence but would prefer a low level water jump...

Thank you :)
 
Hey,
Not been to L. downham, but Aston was my first Intermediate- generally I would say its a big Novice. They always (in my experience) tend to the ground best they can. XC jump wise I can't really think of anything that stood out, couple of off-set combinations, angled coffin. There is two waters, first water was a jump few strides before then skinny brush on out. The second water, was a brush drop in, looks tiny from take off, then to a skinny on out. I found it the course rode well.
Sj wise, usually in a arena and can be very up to height- although when I did it, it was more a big Novice course again :) I think Sarah- Jane has pics on her website
x
 
If you prefer an easier water & don't mind travelling a bit further then I would say ALW is def your best bet. I have used it as a 1st run for each level inc Adv as the courses are always set out so well, the ground well prepared and I generally find the stridings spot on. The SJ is always up to height so not ideal if it happens to be a weaker phase but the XC is def a good confidence builder.

As you say, LD courses are always nice but the Int water is alot stiffer so prob not ideal if you are looking for an easier introduction. The course rode very well last year but they did incorporate quite a few of the adv fences in the June event and I would say there are just a few too many questions for a 1st time run at that level. Hope that helps a bit!
 
I did Little Downham as my second Intermediate.

The first water was kind and although the second water is tougher it usually has the alternative of doing the Novice fence (log) in instead if you wish.
 
Thank you all, so much. Very useful information from you all. :)

This has given us lots to think about, and has made us feel more confident about giving it a go too. :D
 
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