yet another driving question!!

benson21

benson21

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I am interested in going to Normanshurst 2 day event in August, but not sure ponio is fit enough for the marathon. (12k)It has been mentioned I could just do section E, but what does that mean???
I guess its cones, precision and paces, but then what?
 
Then just the final marathon phase, so the obstacles and about 1km for each one (so 6-7km ish) at roughly 4mins15 a km :)
It's the last class on the schedule- you'd go on the Saturday for dressage (dressage rather than P+P though very subtle difference!) straight onto cones. Then axels in and your part of the marathon Sunday :) Often the section E only people will go first.
The dressage test is bhdta novice 80: http://www.britishcarriagedriving.co.uk/reference/dressage_tests/BC_Test_Novice_2013.pdf
 
The organisers are very welcoming and it's a nice course :) If it was a national or regional Id go straight back! Enjoy :)
 
If you do only section E it's obviously less work for Benson.
You get to have a go at the obstacles without the endurance of the full marathon .I started out by doing the full thing the lady who had trained me thought that was best as she wanted me to get on and learn the skills you need to cope with the endurance side and getting the time on the walk section.
I was also driving an experianced horse who was probally better coming to the obstacles settled .
I think it depends on your pony how fit he is and how much preparation you have done.
I train using the cycle meter app on my iPhone it allows me to gauge how fast I am trotting and how far I have gone so I know how many kilometres i have covered that helps me gauge how fit he is.
I also up the trotting of kilometres on grass as he gets fitter as its harder work .
Perhaps ask the man who broke Benson and trained you what he thinks is best for the both of you.
I just love driving marathons it's just the best fun .
 
Ps you have time before August to be ready for the whole thing I would go for it and aim for the full marathon .
 
It would be our first real proper competition! I really want to do it, but not sure its gonna just be too much for our first go!! Think I need a pair of big brave pants!!!
 
You will love it ,
And look at doing one earlier raraoo7 suggests it is fantasic fun I loved it from the first time .
I am in the north so don't know the events .
Someone gave me a book that was a good guide to get me going but I did have a groom who knew what was what and set me off on the right track.
I think the book was Sport DRiving by Amanda Saville but I can find it to check.
I think on the carriage link website they have a good selection of books.
Every one will help you it's really welcoming .
 
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