Mattingley?

[archoak]

Has anyone done Mattingley as their first Novice and if so what did you think?

 

[ihatework]

Well I haven't done Mattingly Novice but know the course well as it's local to me.

I wouldn't say it was the easiest Novice course around, however it's beautifully built and very inviting and the good thing about Mattingly is they do try and offer alternatives at the more difficult fences.

So as a first Novice it wouldn't be out of the question if you are fairly confident about making the step up.

 

[Jul]

Sorry I can't answer your question Applechaff as I've only done the Intro there, but while you're asking (if you don't mind me hi-jacking your post a bit) what's the PN like for a first time?

 

[eventersrus]

Here are a few things in the novice; owl hole into woods then trakhener out or vice versa decent double of corners on a turn but rides really well decent coffin down hill and water is quite looky,having said that the fences are beautifully built and the going is fab,sj is up to height

 

[lifeslemons]

I think its a bold course that requires positive forward riding, but rewards those who jump well. Nice solid well built fences, and encourages horses to get into a rhythm. Certainly one of the nicest events around in my opinion. Go for it!

 

[gerrygiraffe]

I want to Intro my novice horse there this year with the day ticket I have, I have never looked at the Intro here before (have done the N) is it nice and inviting? (Sorry to hi-jack post).

 

[archoak]

I think we will! Duke is bold xc, never had a BE xc penalty (except for time) and that's the problem I want to keep it that way being a worrying mum

He has no problem with water, corners or anything spooky, however he does like to look into ditches so that might be interesting coming downhill

Jack is very positive (well he shouts a lot) and so far Duke has jumped everything we have asked of him

 

[SteveGG]

Mattingley is a reasonably strong Novice course particularly if you go all the direct routes. There are lots of alternatives, so for example the coffin with the downhill approach does have an alternative "in" which is jumped along the fence line so not downhill at all.
The course is one of my favourites and I try not to miss it.
I think that the SJ is fine there - I have had more clears there than at any other Novice. The arena is almost flat and quite large with trade stands around 2 sides but not too close.
Good Luck